Hi Tweeters,

On Saturday, my partner and I enjoyed a fine hike to the Mt. Adams Wilderness Area. We decided to do the easy hike along the Killian Creek Trail and found some nice birds. Birds were far and few but the quality and beautiful scenery made up for it. Some of the lupines were still in full bloom and about a month late.

We started out with a NORTHERN PYGMY OWL at the Trout Lake Ranger Station. BLACK SWIFTS and AMERICAN THREE-TOED WOODPECKERS were along the upper trail. As we ascended and approached the alpine meadows, PINE GROSBEAKS were calling in the distance with one immature, coming in for close looks.

Distant crossbills were heard but not close enough to ID-- I have had WHITE WINGED CROSSBILLS here in the past. Cassin's Finches and Evening Grosbeaks were common. A few raptors were up high including one NORTHERN GOSHAWK and one PRAIRIE FALCON.

Close to sunset, we had a beautiful,adult male SPRUCE GROUSE along the trail; unusually skittish, it quickly scurried away into the brush. I notice this population being quite wary compared to others.

Here are a few new videos:

The skittish, fancy chicken that crossed the trail:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_RLgfHxLoo8


American Three-Toed doing some bonding dance:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QhD4mpgs10o


It was very warm and a beautiful day to be out and about. This scenic area is a nice alternative for those who enjoy a more remote area to explore with less crowds.

Good birding,

www.ktbirding.com

Khanh Tran (Portland, Oregon)