Tweeters:
Yesterday we ran into a contingent of several birders enjoying
the BURROWING OWL at Scuttlebutt's in the Port of Everett.
As we were leaving, a very dark-mantled adult gull caught my
attention on the first of several rooftops that are apparent just
south of the owl site. Viewed from the entry road (plenty of
parking here), the bird looked simply perfect for an ad. winter
SLATY-BACKED GULL, except that I did not have the time to
watch to see the bird lift its wings for the "string of pearls" view.
The bird seemed to have a bit of black smudge on the lower
mandible, hinting at molt from 3rd-year being completed.
Note on the owl: Kathy Smith, the original observer thatfound this owl, has said that people have been approaching theowl too closely. Keep in mind that this area, while open tothe public, is on Port property. It would be a shame to jeopardize the continued presence of the owl and our relationswith the Port.
Scott Atkinson
Lake Stevens
mail to: scottratkinson at hotmail.com