Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge Field Trip (4/1/06) Highlights

Highlights were finally finding the Great Horned Owl adult in one tree and a young owl in a nearby tree. An American Bittern gave us excellent views and photo opportunities.

Swallows were numerous all over the refuge with most being Tree and Violet-green swallows. A few Rough-winged and Barn Swallows were also seen.

We saw 14 species of waterfowl, including beautiful pairs of Wood Ducks, Northern Pintail, Green-winged Teal, Hooded and Common Mergansers. Virginia Rails responded to calls. Four Wilson's Snipe were at the Visitor's Center. Marsh Wrens were common and a few Bewick's Wrens showed up.

Yellow-rumped Warblers were common all along the trail - only the Audubon sub-species was seen. A few Brown Creepers were around. A number of Ruby-crowned Kinglets were heard. Golden-crowned Sparrows were feeding at a number of places along the trail and one Dark-eyed Junco was seen.

Rufous Hummingbirds were heard and a few were seen in areas where salmonberry had started to bloom. A Belted Kingfisher was perched on a piling on the shore of the Nisqually River. 12 Birders and  53 Species.