Hi, Tweeters, I'm forwarding this for a man who lives in Chelan. We'd
sure like some opinions on this bird. He has sent me two sets of photos,
so I'll forward them also. Thanks for your help. Meredith Spencer,
Bridgeport.

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Hi Meredith:
After spending 45 minutes studying the tern at about noon yesterday (June
29), taking 12 photos, and looking up terns in my references at home, I've
come to the conclusion that Beebe had a first year Arctic Tern. It had a
huge white circular area on its forehead drifting back to the top of its
head. The black hood runs down the back of its neck, with a black eyeline
merging with the black bill that matches the black legs. Both bill & legs
seemed rather small for a tern. The back is a uniform light gray that
matches the light gray primaries. The voice was a high-pitched "kee"
which reminded me of Killdeer, and is compatible with Sibley's
description. Overall length was about 12".

Its location was south of the metal blind/Tree Swallow area, in the next
inlet area opposite the bench. It liked to perch on a rock at the inlet
entrance, which was about 100' from the bench. This was my first Arctic
Tern for NCWA. How rare are they for our area?

Steve Easley
682-2318