In 2013 fall shorebird migration started at the Edmonds marsh on June 29th with the appearance of one Least Sandpiper. It started on June 26th this year when Ted Peterson saw four Leasts. There have been no more sightings until this morning when we saw four Leasts and one Western Sandpiper. I briefly saw a Rufous Hummingbird near the observation platform by the Harbor Square tennis courts. I couldn't be certain whether it was a female or just a young bird on the move. There have been a few sightings of a female Hooded Merganser but, for the most part, Mallards are the most numerous ducks (often 30 or more) followed by several Gadwalls. Near the Willow Creek Hatchery there was a Black-headed Grosbeak with lots of bugs in its bill so there must be a nest near there.

The waterfront population of Heermann's Gulls is increasing. The most reliable place to see them is from the public pier looking to the marina's south breakwater where they roost. We are at 156 species for the year.

Carol Riddell
Edmonds, Wa