While birding at Steptoe Butte State Park today (Whitman County), had 3 flocks of Common Redpolls (and a 4th between Rosalia and Oakesdale). In the 3rd flock was a female-type HOARY REDPOLL, identified by a very small bill, small red poll, limited black in the facial area, very limited and light flank streaking, and clean white undertail coverts (and a white rump). Also of note were BOHEMIAN WAXWINGS, GRAY-CROWNED ROSY FINCHES, BROWN CREEPER, and a BARN OWL, among more typical birds.

The flock with the Hoary was with was approximately 1.2-1.4 miles from the main entrance to Steptoe Butte SP past the last stand are of Pines/Doug Firs where the terrain opens up again.

Photos of the bird are posted on www.flickr.com/photos/isacoff.

Good birding,
Jon Isacoff, Spokane

Jonathan B. Isacoff
Chair, Environmental Studies
Associate Professor, Political Science
Gonzaga University, Box 52
Spokane, WA 99258-0052
isacoff at gonzaga.edu