Last year I splurged on an on-water birding platform - a 9' Zodiac with an air keel and an ePropulsion electric outboard. I can have it on the water in 15 minutes, off in five. The outboard is super, pretty good range esp at 2 knots, and totally quiet. Yesterday's early afternoon flat water was perfect.

Gratified to get up close with a number of birds - going slow, indirect, and quiet lets you get within 40' or so without them being apparently troubled (ie eye contact and swimming away). Had nice visits with three Marbled Murrelet couples + one lonely single, an absolutely gorgeous pair of mature Rhinos, with full on streamers, and three first years, and I was gratified to see many Surf Scoters moving out on their way north. Also, a lovely group of about 30 Brant right off West Point.

Spring is here! Fun transitional time.

Brad Liljequist
Phinney Ridge, Seattle, WA