We recently learned of a sighting of two Cinnamon Teals (code 3) in the Edmonds marsh on October 4th. It is the only sighting that we are aware of for this year. Dunlins (code 3), in small numbers, have been seen regularly in the marsh since October 27th. This is a local curiosity because they are usually seen on the waterfront, but saltwater marsh is one of the known habitats for this species. Two Brewer's Blackbirds (code 3) were in the marsh on November 2nd. Two days later they were seen at the Senior Center on the waterfront. A Greater Yellowlegs (code 3) put in a late appearance on November 8th. There was a first-of-fall Varied Thrush on November 9th. A Northern Shrike (code 3) and a Western Meadowlark (code 4) were seen on November 10th. A first-of-fall Townsend's Warbler was at the marsh on November 12th, as was a single Ring-necked Duck (code 3). As of this afternoon, a couple of Purple Finches (code 3) had returned to the marsh environs. They have been absent for about a year.

Winter birds are back on the waterfront. The Surf Scoter flock numbers over 100. The small flock of Black Scoters is at 13. White-winged Scoters fly by from time to time. Buffleheads, Red-breasted Mergansers, Common and Barrow's Goldeneyes can be seen on the water. Scaup and Northern Pintails have been flying by. There have been a couple of sightings of Long-tailed and Harlequin Ducks. Horned and Red-necked Grebes are around in good numbers. I recently counted the Western Grebe flock from the Stamm Overlook Park, on a morning of excellent visibility, when the birds were spread out over a mile or so. I reached the grand total of 2126 birds, give or take a few. Heermann's Gull numbers are diminishing with the cold weather. Bonaparte's and Mew Gulls are regulars. Although they are not being seen daily, there are steady reports of Ancient Murrelets. Now, with the good light and visibility, is a good time to be scoping for them from the public pier. Pacific Loons are back in residence and we've had several Red-throated Loon fly-bys. The most notable waterfront sightings were the two Brown Pelicans (code 4) on October 31st and a Rough-legged Hawk (code 5) on November 5th.

Pine Siskins have returned to Edmonds. There is at least one flock, and possibly more, of 60 birds. It has been seen at the marsh and in several neighborhoods. A Common Raven (code 3) has been seen multiple times in a south Edmonds neighborhood. In October, that same neighborhood enjoyed the only Turkey Vulture (code 3) sighting of the year, that we know of.

We are at 182 species for the year.

Carol Riddell
Edmonds, Wa