There were 2 LB CURLEWS in the field across Buena Vista Rd from Eagle Marsh
with the shallow ditch running through the middle of it. There is a
shallow pool to the left as you look up the ditch, but know there is also a
depression out there where the birds can disappear so if you do not see
them doesn't mean they aren't there, like some things in Life.
I spent 2 hours this morning in some of our most reliable areas for
Orioles, Willow Flycs, Laz Buntings, YB Chats - the Buell Miller County
Park near Stayton and west of the I-5 Santiam Rest Area, both along the
Santiam River in Linn and Marion Cos. Buell Miller was full of CHATS, at
least a half dozen. The lovely footpath in, about 1/2 mile, was alive with
CHAT, YELLOW WARBLER, YELLOWTHROAT, WILSON'S WARBLER, OC WARBLER,
BLACK-HEADED GROSBEAK, WESTERN TANAGER, and one MACGILLIVRAYS. At the
end, on the outside of a river bend, there are some nice gravelly cliffs
where a colony of NORTHERN ROUGH WINGED SWALLOWS thrive, and at least 8-10
were there, in the Marion Co portion of the park.
After those visits, I can say that neither Willow Flycatcher or Bullock's
Oriole has arrived just yet. Any day now
Roy Gerig, Salem OR
