July 14, 2012 Yaquina Head, Oregon

For working people to get up and out of bed at 6:30 on a weekend morning is absolutely ludicrous. But we had an agenda. This is the morning of the ASLC bird walk at Yaquina Head. Stopping for gas on the way, we arrived at the Visitor Center seeing that others were already out of their cars and were peering through their binoculars and spotting scopes at a young Peregrine Falcon sitting on a stony ledge scanning its territory for anything that moves.

When all 11 birders arrived by 9am, Mark Elliott, or field guide, gathered everyone in a circle having each of us introduce ourselves to all others. After watching the motionless falcon a bit longer, we turned and headed toward the lighthouse. An American Goldfinch sat atop an evergreen brightly singing on this gray, foggy morning.

"Eagle" someone yelled as we saw it fly out of a nearby tree. It drew everyone's attention as it circled very nearby a few times with a squawking Western Gull harassing it in flight. It was a perfect photo op for the photographers in the group, as it kept flying close by before landing in that same nearby tree. Unfortunately, numerous branches and limbs obscured the full profile of the raptor thereafter.

Common Murres still dominated the presence of birds on the bird island just off the coast of the lighthouse. Gulls and Turkey Vultures were also seen in the mix. Gulls carefully scrutinized the periphery of the Murres searching for eggs and/or young birds. Three vultures were doing the same. Below all that activity, Gull nestlings were seen through the spotting scope. The feathers of these young ones were so spotted they nearly blended in with the rocks.

On the way back to the Visitor Center parking lot, Black Oystercatchers were spotted, as well as Caspian Terns, Brown Pelicans, Western Grebes, Surf Scoters, and more. In the parking lot some of the birders saw a falcon fly behind the maintenance building.

That falcon came from behind the building with a bird in its talons and landed in a bush in front of us all. All of a sudden two other falcons came out of nowhere and tried taking the prey from the one falcon. Three falcons were swirling and flying right in front of us . . . I mean to say, right in front of us, maybe 60 feet away!! Those of us who had cameras couldn't take enough shots to record the event. Have you ever heard the sound of a machine gun? That was the sound to the right of us and to the left, as the photographers shot continuous photos of the predators. We just couldn't get enough to satisfy ourselves; after all, how often does one witness such an intimate display of falcons fighting for the same food?!! What an exciting and eventful ending to our bird walk!

Sightings of the Day
Peregrine Falcon

Violet-green Swallow

Barn Swallow
Turkey Vulture

House Sparrow

American Crow
White-crowned Sparrow

American Goldfinch

Pigeon Guillemot
Western Grebe

Surf Scoter

Common Murre

Spotted Towhee
Brown-headed Cowbird

Chestnut-backed Chickadee
Brandt’s Cormorant

Pelagic Cormorant
Black Oystercatcher

Bald Eagle

Brown Pelican
Rhinoceros Auklet

Song Sparrow

Caspian Tern

Western Gull

June 9, 2012 Tamara Quays and Pixieland

ASLC and the US Forest Service hosted more than 27 bird watchers and curious visitors at two major US Forest Service restoration sites in the Salmon River estuary on Saturday, June 9. Trip leaders Mark Elliott (ASLC avid birder) and Michelle Dragoo (USFS wildlife biologist) guided the group through the restored Tamara Quays and Pixieland sites. Michelle, Catherine Pruett of the Salmon Drift Creek Watershed Council (SDCWC), and ASLC led visitors through the restored landscapes as they discussed the efforts to restore natural hydrology and native plants to the former trailer park and amusement center. Dikes, ditches, and old infrastructure were removed at Tamara Quays in 2009 and at Pixieland 2010-2012; however, efforts to eliminate invasive plants and to help native plants out-compete the invasives are on-going, and the SDCWC welcomes volunteers to planting and weed removal work days at these sites. The Pixieland site includes a number of new bird boxes as part of the habitat restoration effort. Birders logged 35 species (see list) and a special find: a bushtit nest and resident bushtit! The Salmon River Estuary is one of Oregon’s "Important Birding Areas." The Tamara Quays site is open now to the public for bird watching. The Pixieland site will be open in the future after removal of the last infrastructure later this year.

Sightings of the Day
Cedar Waxwing
Song Sparrow
Ruby-crowned Kinglet
Golden-crowned Kinglet
Swainson’s Thrush
Wilson’s Warbler
Turkey Vulture
Osprey
Cooper’s Hawk
Pacific-slope Flycatcher
Purple Finch
Warbling Vireo
Belted Kingfisher
Great Blue Heron
Barn Swallow
Violet-green Swallow
Tree Swallow
American Crow
Pacific Wren
White-crowned Sparrow
Chestnut-backed Chickadee
Hermit Warbler
Red-tailed Hawk
Anna’s Hummingbird
Rufus Hummingbird
Band-tailed Pigeon
Willow Flycatcher
Western Wood-Pewee
Wood Duck
European Starling
Brown-headed Cowbird
American Goldfinch
Downy Woodpecker
Bushtit
American Robin

May 12, 2012 Cape Meares State Scenic Viewpoint, Oregon

Field Guide Dawn Grafe and ASLC president Jack Doyle

What a beautiful and exciting day it was for eighteen birders! We all met at the Pelican Pub parking lot at 9am to begin our multi-stop caravan up to Cape Meares State Scenic Viewpoint, off coastal Highway 101 in Tillamook County.

Our first stop was at Whalen Island/Clay Meyers Natural Area. As we crossed the bridge to the island we immediately saw three Yellowlegs, amongst Canada Geese, searching the water's shallowness for good things to eat. Violet-green Swallows and Barn Swallows rapidly cut through the air chasing down their brunch, too. In all, we sighted 13 birds. Then we headed north to Whiskey Creek Fish Hatchery where another 17 birds were spotted. Most exciting was the knowledge of birds being expressed by our day's field guide, Dawn Grafe, of U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and Oregon Coast National Wildlife Refuge Complex. "Listen, over there," she would say, "that is the Pacific-slope Flycatcher." Huh? This writer couldn't even hear the sound, never mind ID'ing it!! Next stop, Netarts Bay. On the way, we met up with the Portland Audubon Society caravan as they headed south. We stopped, and after brief chatter, they headed on to their destination(s). At the bay, the tide was low, but we did pencil in viewing 7 species of birds.

Finally reaching our destination, the Cape Meares State Scenic Viewpoint, our token Bald Eagle soared overhead. That is always a "sign" that the viewing is going to be very enjoyable. And, it sure was! One of the highlights at this location was the sighting of a Snow Goose flying with Canada Geese. Although Snow Geese prefer to stay with their own, they do occasionally fly with other geese.

Ahh, the sun was bright and warm, the sky was a brilliantly blue, our sightings were absolutely exciting . . . what more could we ask for?!!! Two of the birders said what would really top off the day is to see whales. Poof! Ask and ye shall receive. Just about the same time, 3 whales appeared in front of us. Two adults, one young one! Yes, the day was smiling on us.

Sightings of the Day

Whalen Island/ Clay Meyers Natural Area
Barn Swallow
Violet-green Swallow
Turkey Vulture
Lesserer Yellowleg
Canada Goose
Great Blue Heron
Great Egret
Double-crested Cormorant
American Crow
Savannah Sparrow
Brewer’s Blackbird
Red-winged Blackbird
White-crowned Sparrow

Whiskey Creek Fish Hatchery
American Robin
Winter/Pacific Wren
Pacific-slope Flycatcher
Wilson’s Warbler
Song Sparrow
Violet-green Swallow
American Goldfinch
European Starling
Brown-headed Cowbird
Mallard
Great Blue Heron
American Wigeon
Belted Kingfisher
Tree Swallow
Rufus Hummingbird
Double-crested Cormorant
Chestnut Chickadee

Netarts Bay
Surf Scoter
Pelagic Cormorant
Ring-necked Duck
Pacific Loon
Greater or Lesser Scaup
Common Loon
Brandt's Cormorant

Cape Meares State Scenic Viewpoint
Cackling Goose
White-crowned Sparrow
Violet-green Swallow
Bald Eagle
Brown Pelican
Oyster Catcher
Pigeon Guillemot
Canada Goose
American Crow
Common Murre
Snow Goose
Brown Creeper
Downy Woodpecker
Wilson’s Warbler
Stellar’s Jay

2 Grey Whales and a calf

April 14, 2012 Siletz Bay National Wildlife Refuge, OR

In contrast to what the weather gurus were saying about the day being bright and warm, the morning we birders grouped together at the Taft wharf, the sky was cloudy and the air was chilly. But, anyone who knows birders knows that inclement weather is just a mere distraction to them. Binoculars and cameras are always at the ready! So there we were, 26 eyes scanning the Siletz Bay for sea birds and otherwise. And, as usual, Bald Eagle made its grand entrance at the start of the walk, as it always does! Down Hwy 101, just a bit further south, we pulled into Keys Place and viewed a mix of birds, those in the brush and more in the water. From there, we headed to the Nature Walk at Salishan. At Salishan, we were courted by a Great Blue Heron that obviously wanted its picture taken from all angles. We succumbed to its beauty and it left the photographers in the group having to go through hundreds of photo files to find the "right one" when they downloaded them to their computers! All in all, it was an enjoyable time, together with friends, new acquaintances, and a surprisingly long list of feathered friends.

Birds Pictured: Western Gull, Great Blue Heron, Bufflehead,
egg of the Lesser White Dimpler

Sightings of the Day
Bald Eagle
Caspian Tern
Western Gull
Common Loon
Red-throated Loon
American Crow
Brown Pelican
Red-breasted Merganser
Bufflehead
Turkey Vulture
Double-crested Cormorant
Ruddy Duck
Mew Gulls
White-crowned Sparrow
Song Sparrow
Mallard
Canada Geese
Western Grebe
Starling
House Finch
House Sparrow
Chestnut-backed Chickadee
American Robin
Great Blue Heron
Belted Kingfisher
Rufus Hummingbird
Purple Martin
Black-capped Chickadee
Yellow-rumped Warbler
Rock Dove
Steller's Jay
Common Merganser
Common Goldeneye
Anna’s Hummingbird
Marsh Wren
Red-tailed Hawk

March 10, 2012 Neskowin, Oregon

Dressed in raingear, we die-hard birders met at the Neskowin wayside parking lot at 9am. Some folks were still slithering into rainpants by the time all arrived who were going to brave out the weather. Yes, it was raining, but we were thankful there was no wind. Led by Field Guide, Jack Hurt, we followed the trail on the west side of the Neskowin Golf Course and passed by some very quaint and colorful little cottages that posted colorful signs by local kids asking drivers to take slow excursions down their narrow road. As always, our ASLC walk began with the presence of an eagle or two. Today, there were two. Last year, around this time, our field trip brought us to the Nestucca Bay National Wildlife Refuge on a very, very rainy day. We did our sightings from vehicles only. This year, we chose to stand tall and weather out the rain. Interestingly, upon past review, we noticed that more birds were sighted in such rainy conditions than normally seen during dry weather. We still scratch our heads and wonder why. Out there on one of the golf course fairways stood a naked tree covered with Tree Swallows and Violet-Green Swallows. Just in front of us, a Northern Flicker feverishly drilled holes in the earth below searching for grubs and the like. There's a Townsend's Warbler, Yellow-rumped Warblers, Black-capped and Chestnut-backed Chickadees, Ruby-crowned Kinglets, Marsh and Pacific Wrens, all flittering from branch to branch too fast to get a good photograph of them. A hawk flew too fast in front of us to be able to identify it, and a Great Blue Heron rose above the marsh due south. All in all, yes it was a rather damp event but an exciting one nonetheless!

Sightings of the Day
Canada Goose
Spotted Towhee
Wood Duck
Song Sparrow
Eurasian Wigeon
White-crowned Sparrow
American Wigeon
Golden-crowned Sparrow
Mallard
Dark-eyed Junco
Northern Pintail
Green-winged Teal
Bufflehead
Red-winged Blackbird
Common Merganser
Brewer's Blackbird
Red-breasted Merganser
Purple Finch
Great Blue Heron
Great Egret
Bald Eagle
Western Gull
Belted Kingfisher
Northern Flicker
Warbling Vireo
Steller's Jay
American Crow
Tree Swallow
Violet-green Swallow
Black-capped Chickadee
Chestnut-backed Chickadee
Bushtit
Brown Creeper
Pacific Wren
Marsh Wren
Ruby-crowned Kinglet
American Robin
Varied Thrush
European Starling
Yellow-rumped Warbler
Townsend's Warbler
Common Raven

February 11, 2012 Nestucca Bay National Wildlife Refuge • Cloverdale, OR

At 9am, 11 birders gathered under the overcast sky and walked their way up to the observation deck above the information center. With keen ears, Tom, from Portland, identified the sound of the Hutton's Vireo. On the hilltop 2 eagles were spotted, and a raven sat chattering down at the birders as they passed underneath. Many species of small birds flitted from bush to bush. The 2nd part of the walk took place travelling the loop which was on the east side of Hwy 101. With an initial belief that it was a Perregrine Falcon, the Prairie Falcon left its perch high on a snag, flew over the birders and headed south where it was seen performing a rapid, death-defying drop from high above.

Sightings of the Day
Sharp-shinned Hawk
American Robin
American Crow
Purple Finch
Townsend Warbler
Hutton’s Vireo
Chestnut-backed Chickadee
Mallard
Yellow-rumped Warbler (Myrtle)
Ruby-crowned Kinglet
Bald Eagle
Common Raven
Lincoln's Sparrow
Fox Sparrow
Red-tailed Hawk
Spotted Towhee
Bewick’s Wren
Song Sparrow
Pacific Wren
Northern Pintail
Dusky Geese
Great Blue Heron
Red-wing Blackbird
European Starling
Prairie Falcon
Canada Goose
Cackling Goose
American Coot
Lesser Scaup
Ring-necked Duck
Bufflehead
Stellar's Jay
Green-winged Teal
Gadwall
Black Phoebe
Dark-eyed Junco
White-crowned Sparrow
Gold-crowned Sparrow
Belted Kingfisher
American Kestrel
Northern Flicker
Northern Shrike
Common Goldeneye
Common Merganser
Western Meadowlark
Northern Harrier

January 14, 2012 OSU Hatfield Marine Science Center Nature Trail • Newport, Oregon

As we gathered in the parking lot of the Hatfield Marine Science Center in Newport, we whipped our heads to the right to view a large flock of ducks flying above the water. "Look over there, the Bald Eagle is spooking them," said our field guide Mark Elliott. A Bald Eagle! Thinking back at all the field trips this writer has made with ASLC, there was only one birdwalk that didn't start with the appearance of a Bald Eagle. Interesting, eh?!! As we readied our binoculars and cameras to witness the local birdlife in front of us, we viewed American Coots, Surf Scoters, Common Loons, Hooded Mergansers and Ring-necked Ducks. At the start, the weather was dry and in the high 40s but grew progressively worse as time flew by. When we turned the corner around the Science Center, we saw flocks of Northern Pintails, Blue-winged Teal, and American Wigeons. To escape the wind and rain, we tucked ourselves in a little shelter building on the nature trail. The Belted Kingfisher that hovered over the water disappeared in a flash when some of us were getting set to take its picture! European Starlings, American Crows, and Rock Doves passed overhead.

California Gulls were entertaining us with their acts of attempting to break clam shells by crashing them to the earth below from the sky up above. They must have been youngsters 'cause they were dropping them on sand rather than on harder surfaces. A hummingbird silently whizzed by. I thought I heard a couple of birders say they also saw a Northern Shoveler out on one of the sandbars in the bay. Eagle made one more appearance and then disappeared. A House Finch was grabbing as much seed as it could from the Science Center's birdfeeder. Making the loop back to our cars, we then headed for the south jetty of Yaquina Bay. Mark said we'd see a Harlequin Duck there, and sure enough there it was! It even climbed on a rock where it posed for all the photographers. By now, the rain was falling faster and the wind and cold chilled us to the bone.

Brrr, it was time to go. Some went back north to join up for the day's last sightings at 51st St in the Taft area of Lincoln City, and the rest went their separate ways. All in all, we made the best of a damp, winter day and were warmed with contentment with the birdlife we witnessed.

Sightings of the Day
White-crowned Sparrow
Western Gull
Double-crested Cormorant
Bufflehead
Coot
Surf Scoter
Lesser Scaup
Common Loon
Bald Eagle
Hooded Merganser
Belted Kingfisher
Song Sparrow
European Starling

American Crow
Northern Pintail
American Wigeon
Great Blue Heron
Pacific Loon
Black-capped Chickadee
Gold-crowned Sparrow
Purple Finch
Dark-eyed Junco
Anna’s Hummingbird
Harlequin
Horned Grebe
Glaucous Gull
Pelagic Cormorant

October 8, 2011 Boiler Bay, Rocky Creek State Park, Cape Foul Weather/Otter Crest Loop, and Devil's Punch Bowl

The morning started out with a few showers but that did not stop 16 birders that met at Boiler Bay. The ocean waves were strong and we managed to see a nice variety of birds. With migration in progress it was an eventful outing. Clouds started to clear and the sun came out as we drove to Rocky Creek State Park, Cape Foul Weather/Otter Crest Loop, and on to Devil's Punch Bowl. The last stop was especially exciting as we were able to see a migrating gray whale perform for us.

Sightings of the Day
Brown Pelicans
Heermann's Gull
Mew Gull
Pelagic Cormorant
Common Murre
Song Sparrow
Western Grebe
Black Oystercatcher
White-winged Scoter
Horned Grebes
Red-necked Phalarope
Brewers Blackbird
American Crow
Surf Scoters
Western Gull
Double-crested Cormorant
Surfbird
California Gull
Peregrine Falcon
Harlequin Duck
Ring-billed Gull
Whales

September 10, 2011 Beaver Creek State Natural Area, Oregon

Here in Oregon, when soaring temperatures blister the inner valley areas, the inversion effect of sea fog rolls in with the waves along the coastline. That is the way the day began driving south to Beaver Creek State Natural Area which is locate between Newport and Waldport. But the sky was absolutely clear when the birders arrived at Beaver Creek. Eighteen birders, one living as far away as Utah, nestled in their kayaks and canoes and headed upstream with binoculars and cameras at the ready. Interestingly, although the creek flows out to the ocean, it is affected little, if at all, by the changing of the tides.

As we paddled very casually upstream, we were all exclaiming how gentle and peaceful the ride was and were in awe of the beauty that surrounded us. A kayaker from another group who was paddling in the opposite direction got wind that we were Audubon members and said that she saw a Green Heron further upstream. That got our juices going and our eyes and ears primed for whatever feathered friends were moving about in our vicinity.

"Ah, look to the left, there's a Double-crested Cormorant," shouted our field guide, Mark Elliott, so all could hear. It was standing on a surfaced limb of a submerged tree. Those of us who had cameras wanted to get closer for this fortuitous "photo op." Surprisingly, that Cormorant was not a timid or bashful sort . . . in fact, it didn't budge until nearly knocked over by one of our canoes! Roosting in a tree was seen a Great Blue Heron. Atop an old snag, further upstream, sat a Raven just above an Osprey, perhaps waiting for the chance to harass it.

One of our kayakers loved to explore the more narrow veins of the creek to see what he would find. Because his curiosity flushed up many birds we might not have seen otherwise, he was bestowed the nickname of "Bird Dog." He spooked up a Great Blue Heron and a couple of Great Egrets. Speaking about those birds, further upstream we saw the strangest sight . . . a Great Egret being followed by a Great Blue Heron, looking as if they were partners. When the egret landed on a snag tree, the blue heron perched on another very close by. The Great Egret flew off. The Great Blue Heron followed close behind. What was that all about? A few years back, there was a story about a moose back east that was very attracted to a cow. Could this be the same kind of event?!!!

In all, 17 birds were sighted this day. We all had a great time and new friendships were made. That's the joy of birding the Oregon coast!

Sightings of the Day
Belted Kingfisher
Stellar Jay
Band-tailed Pigeon
Eared Grebe
Turkey Vulture
Great Blue Heron
Common Raven
Osprey
Barn Swallow
Song Sparrow
Mallards
Great Egret
Doubled-crested Cormorant
Red-tailed Hawk
Cooper's Hawk
Rufus Hummingbird
Merlin

August 13, 2011 Bayocean Spit, Oregon

Twenty-two birders gathered at the Bayocean Spit, west of Tillamook, for the ASLC event starting at 1pm. The dusty road didn't dissuade folks from starting the Audubon Society of Lincoln City birdwalk, with binoculars, field guides, and cameras in hand. As has been a regular, opening sight in our birding events, Bald Eagle welcomed us as it sat watching our forward progress toward the end of the Bayocean Spit. Sparrows and Chickadees flittered in the brush, and Great Blue Herons were spotted roosting in the evergreens above. Chattering Kingfishers were seen hovering over the water and periodically diving to snatch small minnow snacks. The Marbled Godwit gave all photographers amongst us a rare opportunity to capture its portrait in very close range. We walked very carefully under a very large Yellow Jacket bee's nest which hung just above the path.After walking only about a third of the way to the Spit's end, we turned around. The tide was lower now and there the orchestrated flight of the Sandpipers as they moved from one mud flat to another. There is so much beauty watching them fly in uncanny unison in quick, short flights.

Sightings of the Day
Western Gull
California Gull
Marbled Godwit
Ring-billed Gull
Song Sparrow
Bald Eagle
American Robin
Great Blue Heron
White-winged Scoter
Pelagic Cormorant
Chestnut-backed Chickadee
Wilson’s Warbler
Red-necked Grebe
Turkey Vulture
Western Sandpiper
Least Sandpiper
Savannah Sparrow
Semipalmated Sandpiper
Baird Sandpiper
Peregrine Falcon
Greater Yellowlegs
Red-tailed Hawk
Tree Swallow
American Crow
White Crowned Sparrow
Northern Harrier
Wrentit
Double-crested Cormorant
Black-throated Grey Warbler

July 9, 2011 Clay Meyer Natural Area, Whalen Island, Oregon

This ASLC Bird Walk began on-cue with a well-timed sighting of a mature Bald Eagle. A perfect day for the 1.4 mile loop walk led by field guide, Mark Elliott. Amongst the 16 birders, a young family from Portland joined locals from Lincoln City and Otis to wander the sandy woodland trail for a couple hours in the dappled sunshine. We saw several species including the Orange-crowned Warbler and House Wren, and heard the calls and songs of many others. But the most frequent sound was laughter from the jovial birders. The group was delighted by the feeding antics of Chestnut-backed Chickadee parents as they carried plump, green worms into their hungry babies just a few feet from the trail. The tide was very low, and we did see a few shorebirds, including Caspian Terns and Western Gulls. Even without the birds, this is a prime spot for a day of beach and forest rambling.

Sightings of the Day
Bald Eagle
Great Blue Heron
American Crow
American Goldfinch
White-crowned Sparrow
Northern Flicker
Double-crested Cormorant
Barn Swallow
Song Sparrow
Cedar Waxwing
Orange-crowned Warbler
Rufus Hummingbird
Gold-crowned Sparrow
Black-capped Chickadee
Chestnut-backed Chickadee
House Wren
Swainson's Thrush
Olive-sided Flycatcher
Golden-crowned Kinglet
European Starlings
Caspian Terns
Western Gull
Belted Kingfisher
Turkey Vulture

June 11, 2011 Yaquina Head, Newport, Oregon

Great bird walk at the Yaquina Lighthouse led by Mark Elliot. Thirty-one people came out, from as far as Sacramento, Bend, Seattle and Portland. The weather started to look like it was going to be a typical spring Oregon day but changed its mind and we had bright sunshine. We were told the Eagle had already had a Murre breakfast, and just as we were leaving it had lunch. I had a good lesson in Cormorant identification. Dick Demarest has tried to teach me in the past but the lesson never took. We saw both the Pelagic and the Brandt's Cormorants. I had no idea how colorful these birds are . . . always thought they were just big black birds that feast on Salmon smolts.
-Cheers, Jack

Sightings of the Day
House Sparrow
American Crow
Pigeon Guillemot
Brown Pelican
Brandt's Cormorant
Black Oystercatcher
Brown-headed Cowbird

Rufus Hummingbird
Barn Swallow
Bald Eagle
Turkey Vulture
White Crowned Sparrow
Violet Green Swallow
American Goldfinch

Pelagic Cormorant
Common Murre
Song Sparrow
Band-tailed Pigeon
Surf Scoter
Western Gull

May 14, 2011 Bird and Photographic Walk at the Salmon River Estuary

About 20 birders gathered at Knight Park in Otis, OR, along the Salmon River estuary. There, ASLC leader Jack Doyle introduced all to the IBA (Important Bird Area) and briefly discussed bird photography. Splitting into 2 groups one remained in and around Knight Park, the other crossed Three Rocks Road and began birding the Crowley Creek meadow. After about 1/2 hour, the groups switched locations. The morning was filled with bird sightings and enjoyed by all.

Sightings of the Day
Rufous Hummingbird
Wilson's Warbler
Brandt's Cormorant
American Crow
American Robin
Bald Eagle (mature and immature)
Chestnut-backed Chickadee
Western Gull
Turkey Vulture
Song Sparrow
White Crowned Sparrow
Peregrine Falcon
American Goldfinch
Swallows (Tree or Violet Green)
Great Blue Heron
Western Wood Pewee
Fox Sparrow
Belted Kingfisher
Downy Woodpecker
Red-tailed Hawk
Common Raven
Whimbrel
Black-headed Grosbeak
Steller's Jay
Canada Goose
Band-tailed Pigeon

April 9, 2011 Salishan Nature Trail, Gleneden Beach, Oregon

The clouds were thick and threatening, the tide was low. Yet, 21 birders gathered at the Salishan parking lot, in Gleneden Beach, for the April birdwalk along a nature trail bordering the golf course. ASLC leader Caren Willoughby welcomed new birders and handed out binoculars and field guides to those without them. She informed all that ASLC bird walks always happen, come rain or shine. We were lucky. Rain stayed away during the whole trip. Our local bird expert and field guide, Dick Demarist, led us along the trail identifying the birds we saw and those we heard. What a great resource of knowledge!

One of the first birds spotted was a Bald Eagle perched on a beached stump out in the bay. But before Dick could set up his spotting scope to give everyone a chance to see it close up, the eagle flew away from us. Meanwhile, a Great Blue Heron flew right toward us and landed in the marsh grass up ahead. Interestingly, it allowed us to approach quite close to it which gave some good photographic opportunities. As we reached the Pacific shoreline, we focused our lenses out to sea to see what we could see. In the far distance, a flock of Cormorants were flying north in their typical irregular flight formation but were too far away to be able to identify the correct species. Not seeing any nearby water birds, we headed back. That's when we saw the eagle back on the same stump out in the bay. Dick set up his spotting scope and gave many of the birders a chance to see not one but two eagles on that stump!

Back at the parking lot, Dick stated how unfortunate it was that our walk took place during low tide. Any other tide would have seen many, many more birds and waterfowl in the bay waters. He mentioned to all who would be interested that we'll meet in Taft near Mo's restaurant to see what other species of birds may be present. Those who stuck it out were rewarded with views of Horned Grebes, Surf Scoters, White-winged Scoters, Buffleheads, Caspian Terns, and a few other species.

Sightings of the Day

Bald Eagle
Great Blue Heron
Spotted Towhee
American Crow
House Finch
Chestnut-backed Chickadee
Red-winged Blackbird
Pacific Loon
Oregon Junco
Purple Finch
Fox Sparrow
Red-breasted Merganser
Varied Thrush
Red-tailed HawkRufous Hummingbird
American Robin
Raven
Caspian Tern
Western Gull
Mallard
Marsh Wren
Savannah Sparrow
Glaucaus-winged Gull
Bufflehead
White-winged Scoter
Surf Scoter
Horned Grebe
Great Egret

January 8, 2011 Yaquina Bay, Newport OR

The morning began with a heavy rain as eighteen birders made their way to the OSU Hatfield Marine Science Center parking lot. Some drove up from Yachats, others traveled from as far north as Tigard and as far east as Salem and Albany. Not surprisingly, all donned rain gear in case those dark, moisture-laden clouds decided to dump on them. Like good scouts, they were all well-prepared. Field Guide, Dick Demarest, gathered the group together and began birding the shoreline of the Hatfield Center. Beginners and the more knowledgeable searched the bay with binoculars in hand, and then ID'd their sightings with the use of loaned ASLC field guides. In all, the group was not disappointed by the weather or the number of birds for all to see. Thanks to the waterfowl and birds in the bush, it proved to be a fun-filled morning.

Photos by Ernie Rose, Jack Doyle, and Jody Picconi

Sightings of the Day
White-winged Scoter
Surf Scoter
Common Golden-eye
Brandt's Cormorant
Pelagic Cormorant
Hooded Merganser
Buffle Head
Horned Grebe
Northern Pintail
California Gull
Western Gull
Mew Gull
Brant Geese
Greater Scaup
Great Blue Heron
American Wigeon
American Crow
Red-breasted Merganser
Savannah Sparrow
Northern Flicker
European Starling
Red-winged Blackbird
Oregon Junco
Fox Sparrow
Red-shouldered Hawk
American Robin
Belted Kingfisher
Yellow-rumped Warbler
Song Sparrow
House Finch
Ruby-crowned Kinglet
White-crowned Sparrow
Gold-crowned Sparrow
Black-Capped Chickadee
Red-necked Grebe
Harlequin Duck
Common Loon

December 11, 2010 Nestucca Bay National Wildlife Refuge (IBA)

Whew, the day was definitely for the ducks . . . with gusting winds and sheets of rain showering the land, drenching every square inch of any surface exposed to the elements. A perfect day to stay indoors, sitting by the fire, comfortably content reading a book and sipping tea or hot chocolate. Ah yes! But . . . oh no . . . eight diehard birders from Otis and Lincoln City climbed in their chariots and headed to the Nestucca Wildlife Refuge in Cloverdale. Meeting at the parking lot, they climbed into 2 vehicles (4 in each) to begin their morning of bird watching. First stop was at the top of the observation hill. To the north above the treeline flew a raven. Actually, we thought it was being tossed around by the wind . . . either that or it ate some craziweed. Its flight was anything but graceful! "Look there, on the southern ridge. Three cowbirds!" The birders turned around so fast, you'd swear they would have all fallen with whiplash. Kidding . . . they're just three cows!" That's pretty much how the rest of the morning progressed. Lots of laughter yet, surprisingly, many bird sightings! In fact, by the time we finished driving around the neighborhood of the local dairy farms, frequently clambering out of the cars to get better, wetter, views of the numerous winged ones, and stopping at the Grateful Bread Restaurant for brunch, we had a count of 36 species of birds who were crazy enough to be flapping around in such wild weather! Go figure!! (Sorry, readers, but no photos were taken, for obvious reasons!!) If you'd like to learn more about the Nestucca Bay National Wildlife Refuge, click here.

Birds seen at NWR, Little Nestucca, and surrounding area:

Sightings of the Day

Song Sparrow
Dark-eyed Junco
American Robin
Varied Thrush
Common Raven
Canada Geese
Cackling Geese
Hermit Thrush
Steller Jay
Spotted Towhee
Bufflehead
Northern Flicker
House Finch
Purple Finch
Great Egret
Great Blue Heron
American Robin
European StarlingBrewer's Blackbird
Red-winged Blackbird
American Coot
Ring-necked Duck
Red-tailed Hawk
Chestnut-backed Chickadee
Mallard
Northern Harrier
American Wigeon
Northern Pintail
Immature Bald Eagle
Western Gull
American Crow
House Sparrow
American Kestrel
Surf Scoter
Golden-crowned Sparrow

November 9, 2010 Siletz Bay (IBA)

The weather was cold and slightly windy but 17 birders braved the elements for an exciting morning of birding.
We started at the Taft dock, moved to Cutler City and finally ended on the Nature Trail at Salishan.

Sightings of the Day
Double-crested Cormorant
Western Gull
Mew Gull
Common Loon
Pacific Loon
Red-throated Loon
Red-breasted Merganser
Surf Scoter
White-winged Scoter
Red-necked Grebe
Red-tailed Hawk
Horned Grebe
Great Blue Heron
Bufflehead
Mallard
Tundra Swan
Green-winged Teal
Great Egret
Northern Harrier
Belted Kingfisher
American Kestrel
European Starling
Ruby-crowned Kinglet
Golden-crowned Kinglet
Chestnut-backed Chickadee
Yellow-rumped Warbler
American Wigeon
Northern Pintail
American Crow
Bald Eagle
Peregrine Falcon
Pacific Wren

September 11, 2010 Salmon River Estuary (IBA)

What a wonderful start to a fun morning of birding . . . the sky was blue, crystal clear, and sunny. Except for the noisy activity of fishermen trucking their boats to the dock at river's edge in Knight Park, the air was still, the water was calm. Seventeen birders gathered around the kayaks and canoes which they would later ride but first they were interested in what guest speaker, Mary Coolidge, had to say about her conservation work with the Portland Audubon Society. Shortly after, local bird expert Dick Demarest led the group around Knight Park to get glimpses of nearby bird activities. The silence was cut by the chattering of Kingfishers and the chirps of Chestnut-backed Chickadees and Golden-crowned Kinglets. Easily seen with the naked eye were close to a dozen Turkey Vultures, seven on one side of the river, five on the other. Taking in the sights sat Western Gulls on the mudflats of the estuary. Close to 11am, the adventurous members of the group climbed in the canoes while others cautiously entered the snug-fitting kayaks. With the tide coming in, it was a bit of a chore paddling toward the mouth of the Salmon River. The trip was very peaceful, very rewarding.

Mary Coolidge

Sightings of the Day
Belted Kingfisher
Turkey Vulture (mature and immature)
Double-crested Cormorant
Western Gull
American Crow
Great Blue Heron
American Robin
Tree Swallow
Stellar's Jay
Chestnut-backed Chickadee
Song Sparrow
Red-shafted Flicker
Northern Harrier
Pacific Wren
Golden-crowned Kinglet
Brown Pelican
Gray Jay

June 12, 2010 Yaquina Head Bird Walk

Almost 20 ASLC birders turned out on a beautiful Saturday morning to observe birds at the Yaquina Head Lighthouse Outstanding Natural Area just north of Newport. With sunshine and almost no wind, this was a great day to enjoy the fabulous Oregon coast scenery and to get close to birds during the breeding season. Birders stopped first at the visitor center to view swallows, sparrows, and other perching birds. At the lighthouse viewpoint, birders focused on seabirds and shorebirds. It is a great time of year to see cormorants in their breeding plumage, Brandt's Cormorants with their azure blue throat pouches and Pelagic Cormorants with white flank patches. From a single vantage point at this site, birders were able to turn south to observe a pair of Black Oystercatchers who seemed to be scouting out a potential nest site and then turn north to watch an American Bald Eagle in a tree near the parking lot who seemed to be scouting out the Common Murre colony on the adjacent rocks.

Sightings of the Day
Barn Swallow
Tree Swallow
Violet-green Swallow
House Sparrow
American Crow
Starling (immature)
Pacific Slope Flycatcher
Swainson's Thrush
Turkey Vulture
White-crowned Sparrow
Brandt's Cormorant
Pelagic Cormorant
Double-crested Cormorant
Pigeon Guillemot
Western Gull
Western Grebe
Clark's Grebe
Cowbird
Bald Eagle
Black Oystercatcher
American Goldfinch
Common Murre
Red-tailed Hawk

May 8, 2010 Bird Photography Talk and Walk

What a beautiful, welcoming morning on the coast! We all met at Knight Park in Otis around 9am . . . about 15 of us bird watchers. We saw some amazing birds and met some nice people. The tide was low but high above us we saw the Turkey Vultures stretching their wings on their roosts and catch the thermals to wherever they chose to head this fine morning. Bald Eagles were also seen taking the high road to wherever! Meanwhile throughout the rest of the morning we saw:

Sightings of the Day
Common Merganser
Canada Geese
Great Blue Heron
Long-Billed Dowitchers (flock)
Whimbrels (flock)
Turkey Vulture
Bald Eagle
Barn Swallow
Tree Swallow
Least Sandpipers
Song Sparrow
White-winged Scoters
Hairy Woodpecker
Rufus Hummingbird
American Robin
American Crow
Wilson's Warbler
White-crowned Sparrow
Red Crossbill
Olive-sided Flycatcher
Starlings
Black-capped Chickadee
Sandhill Crane
Pelagic Cormorants
Western Gull
Raven
Red-tailed Hawk

. . . and we heard frogs that sounded very much like the Sandhill Crane!