As of the time of this post, there are 16 ELEGANT TERNS at rest on the western breakwater at the Hammond Boat Basin. They are mostly in basic plumage and the ruffed crests were quite visible. The pale orange bill contrasts with the darker orange of the Caspian Terns that are flying around. At least one bird is a juvenile molting into first winter with its pale orange legs.

Hammond Boat Basin is the westernmost boat basin in the greater Astoria area. The western breakwater has an orange triangle on it with an Arabic 2. The birds are loafing among many Heermann's Gulls so they are quickly seen. It was a 4.5 hour drive from Edmonds and I drive under the limit for the most part. It's a very reasonable chase for a life bird. Now back to Pacific Count to start checking for any that would produce a Washington tick.

Carol Riddell
Edmonds, Wa