May 9, 2026 Eckman Lake

Purple Martins by Ruth Shelly

On Saturday, May 9, leader Liz Laver-Holencik led 23 birders (including 8 for the first time!) on Seven Capes' first bird walk at Eckman Lake near Waldport. We were greeted by nesting Purple Martins and saw Tree and Barn Swallows as well. Mallards, a Wood Duck, and Spotted Sandpipers graced the lake, while Marsh Wrens flitted among the cattails and Belted Kingfishers darted overhead. Quick eyes caught glimpses of the elusive Common Yellowthroat and Western Flycatcher--a first sighting for several participants!

Sightings of the day:

Western Flycatcher by Ronald Breeze

Purple Martin
Tree Swallow
Violet-green Swallow
Barn Swallow
Mallard
Belted Kingfisher
Osprey
Eurasian-collared Dove
Steller's Jay
Red-winged Blackbird
Lesser Scoter
Yellow-rumped Warbler
Song Sparrow
Spotted Sandpiper
Wood Duck
Chestnut-backed Chickadee
American Crow
Turkey Vulture
Marsh Wren
Spotted Towhee
Common Yellowthroat
Western Flycatcher
Canada Goose