Nine eager birders gathered this morning at Marine Park in Blaine, under skies that looked a lot better than the dark mass to the south over Bellingham. We had to deal with a chilly wind most of the day but it was that same wind that cleared the sky and gave us bright sunshine by early afternoon.

The early high tide and the wind combined to keep bird numbers down but we were able to locate most of the usual suspects, including three loon species and all the other diving birds you could hope to find in this special place. Toward the end of the day the rafts of Pacific Loons could be located easily on Drayton Harbor by first finding the swarming masses of gulls hovering above their feeding frenzies.

Thanks to all who made the trip up to the north country. We had a good day and a trip highlight for me was an avid, one year-old birder, obviously working on her life list.

Joe Meche
Bellingham