Eight birders joined leader Andy McCormick for a field trip to Robinson Canyon in Kittitas County on Saturday, May 11. The weather was clear and warm with temperatures in the low 80s. Begining at 8:00 a.m. we walked an alternate trail above Robinson Creek to avoid a washout area and had a wonderful day of birding seeing 43 species within the canyon area. As we approached on Robinson Canyon Rd. we saw two Long-billed Curlews in a plowed field. Other highlights included two Sooty Grouse that flushed out and flew in view of the group, a very secretive MacGillivray's Warbler that with persistence and patience was seen by all members of the group, excellent looks a several Nashville Warblers, singing Wilson's and Yellow Warblers, many Chipping Sparrows, Cassin's Finches, a pair of Lazuli Buntings, a Black-headed Grosbeak, a Townsend Solitaire, a Western Tanager, several Hammond's Flycatchers, and a Calliope Hummingbird, seen at close range by all and a life bird for many.
Enjoy birding.
Andy McCormick
Bellevue, WA