Hi Tweeters: Based on this past weekend's results, the Okanogan looks quite promising for winter birding compared to last's year. It was quite challenging to bird as we endured heavy rains, high winds (ranging from 5-20 MPH), and frigid cold temps (at one point it was -11 F). But somehow, we were lucky and managed to find some good birds and had fun! You can never have a bad time up in the Okanogan.
It was great to see these special birds again and it was probably the coldest temperatures (-8F) that I endured to see a GREAT GRAY OWL hunt and dive in the snow---but, it was well, worth it!
These were are the main highlights from the trip!Sharp tailed Grouse (Mary Ann Creek Rd)-A couple of birds Ruffed Grouse (Mary Ann Creek Rd)-A couple of birdsGray Partridge ( Cameron Lake Rd, Chesaw Rd near town)--Several conveys totaling 20 plusGreat Gray Owl (Havillah Rd)-A magnificent bird hunting at first lightShort Eared Owl (Havillah Rd)--one bird hunting near dusk and flew right above the moon roof of our car!Long Eared Owl (Hwy 20 East above Tonasket)Great Horned Owl (Havillah Rd)Northern Pygmy Owl (Nealey and Havillah Rd)-Two birdsBohemian Waxwings (near Malott old Hwy 20)-Several small flocks Snow Buntings (Cameron Lake Rd)-Small flocksPine Grosbeaks (Nealey Rd)-up to 5 birdsGray-crowned Rosy-finches (feeder hopping at Grange and Hungry Hollow Rd)-up to 30 birdsCommon Redpolls (Bolster Rd and Mary Ann Creek Rd)-Several small flocksIt has been a while since I posted so enjoy the variety of photos including: birds of Neah Bay, White tailed Ptarmigans in many different plumage, and OWLS (including Boreal, Great Gray, Western Screech, and Northern Pygmy Owls). It has been a banner year for owls.
Hope everyone had a nice Thanksgiving with family, friends, and loved ones.
Photos can been seen here: https://www.flickr.com/photos/23662496 at N02/Peace, Love and good birding, Khanh Tran
www.ktbirding.com