Early on there was a respite from the heavy overnight rains, but it didn't last. As the morning progressed the rains became progressively more drenching. At least the temps were mild. Some birds seemed to be in hiding while others, not just the ducks, seemed to be oblivious to the gloomy weather. Fox Sparrows were everywhere (several dozen), mostly silent. They were so intent on feeding that on several occasions I almost stumbled on them before they flushed, and even then, they just perched up to watch what I was about.

No owls this morning but at least 3 Virginia Rail were calling, vociferously, from Frog Pond and from the northern Marsh Ponds. Many Killdeer and a Wilson's Snipe were other early callers.

The single Snow Goose was on the lake hanging out with a large flock of Canada Geese, while the group of 5 Greater White-fronted Geese were flying about in their own group. A single male Eurasian Wigeon was in the mix of over 160 American Wigeon.

Early, the swim platform was completely empty, but gulls started to appear after 7:00 until it was standing room only, mostly Mew with a sprinkling of California, Ring-billed and Glaucous-winged. They were joined by a group of Double-crested Cormorants who usually stay out in the water.

Only a single Pine Siskin was calling this morning and only a pair of American Goldfinch. But the usual flock of Audubon's Yellow-rumped Warblers were joined by a Myrtle.

Today's novelty was a Northern Shrike moving about the wetlands, first of year. But, the best sighting of the day was a Red-flowering Currant in full flower, surely a herald of Spring.

For the day, 51 species. With the shrike, my year count is now at 74 species.
Scott Ramos
Seattle