15Feb ? (1254-1530hrs) -- Welcome warm afternoon sun and cloudless skies
once the dense morning fog burned out at noon. No Redpolls could be found
anywhere during my afternoon outing, nor seen by the 10-15 other birders
seeking such, although they were present during the morning, in the FOG, in
the SE birch grove west and seen by birders gathered at that time, not
including me. Flock was reported to be at least 30, perhaps even more, and
possibly including but not 100% for the Hoary.
Otherwise, the walk was surprisingly passerine and raptor quiet given the
welcome sun and warmth (57F). Notables included a Wilson?s Snipe that flew
out of the NE field at SE 16th, went high and south across SE 16th.
Virginia Rail called unprovoked once from the marsh edge north of the
observation deck at Phantom Lake while a new season high 52 Ruddy Ducks were counted
south of the deck in line with the large south shore lawn. Pine Siskins
heard in some noisy enough significant number in a couple spots but not
seen, and Red Crossbills were missed again, maybe largely done there for now.
The hybrid male Eurasian X American Wigeon was along the north shore of
Larsen Lake with 20-25 American Wigeon, later south shore. 2.6hrs, 39 species.
Richard Rowlett
Bellevue (Eastgate), WA
Pterodroma AT aol.com