I led a Cape Arago Audubon trip to Coquille this AM. Rain showers with a
bit of sunshine hear and there.
We started at Sturdivant Park which was closed from the flood waters the
past few days. The park was filled with Great Egrets instead of people and
a GB Heron or two. Also a flock of Canada Geese with a few domestics and
two GREATER WHITE-FRONTED GEESE. While birding from the gate there we had
maybe ten TREE SWALLOWS overhead.
From there we drove to Johnson Mill Pond. The gate has been closed all
winter which makes it perfect for birding. We walked in and over the pond
found lots of swallows- probably 50 TREES, 6 BARN SWALLOWS, and at least 2
VIOLENT-GREENS. Not many ducks but 3 SWAMP SPARROWS, none of which was very
cooperative. Also 20+ American Goldfinch and we counted either 12 or 13
Black Phoebes, several of which were very vocal. Lotsa rumps and a singing
RC Kinglet too. Two TVs, a few RS Hawks, a harrier, and a young Bald Eagle
raptor-wise.
From there we stopped at the Winter Lake overlook along Hwy 42. Lots of
water- no fences visible. Not many ducks either but a good assortment
including 6 REDHEADS. More swallows high overhead here also.
Back at home we have multiple Rufous now and a female which I assume is a
Rufous. I haven't looked for the Allens today but it could be still around.
Could hear the Eurasian Wigeon calling in the park from my yard so it is
still around also.
Pretty day!
Enjoy,
Tim Rodenkirk
Coos Bay
