Tweets, Monday evening I saw/heard more than one SWAMP SPARROW as
previously reported at the end of Mounts Rd (I-5 exit 116) which leads to
the east border of Nisqually WLR. I arrived around 4:15 and immediately
heard one out in the marsh but the birds were mostly quiet over the next 30
min. As the sun was setting (5-5:15 window) the sparrows became more active
and the Swamp Sparrow(s) called with greater frequency, mostly in a brief
series. I finally sighted one near the road, tracking its call to a spot
next to the last utility pole on the west side. From there it flew
southward. The bird seemed to prefer the reed patches over the grassy
patches. I noted that the call notes carried well but sounded further away
than they actually were -- but nearby freeway noise may have made judging
distance more difficult. Good birding!
-- Paul Hicks / Tenino / phicks AT accessgrace DOT org