An adult (pretty certain) NORTHERN SHRIKE was seen Nov 3 at 10 am and again at
11 am in the vicinity of Pintail Pond. First seen perched high in the ash
trees on the east side of the pond. Later seen perched low on rose bushes and
pipes at the NW corner of the pond before it flew across pond to east side
berm, where it perched on dead stalks of poison hemlock. A group of birders
reported one on 10/15 as well but this is the first re-sighting that I know of.
In other news, recent rains have created discontinuous patches of water over a
portion of Pintail Pond. Salamander Slough (formerly Experimental Wetlands on
east side of preserve) has significant water and is attracting waterfowl -
geese, mallards, shovelers, green-winged teal, northern pintail. Wapato Marsh
(central part of preserve east of main N/S trail) is still bone dry and
relatively birdless except for American Kestrels and two Northern Harriers
(adult male and female) seen flying close together in what looked like a
friendly manner.
Oak Island Marsh (north end) has the most water and is hosting hundreds of
Cackling Geese and quite a few pintail, teal, mallard, shoveler and lesser
numbers of ring-necked duck, double-crested cormorants and gadwall. Two adult
bald eagles are regularly in the vicinity of their nest east of Oak Island
Marsh.
Red-shouldered hawk, peregrine falcon, sharp-shinned hawk, Cooper's hawk and
red-tailed hawk have all been seen recently at different points around the
preserve.
A few great egrets and great blue herons are around.
The access gate located at the shelter at the north end of the Preserve will be
locked beginning this month through roughly March due to anticipation of winter
flooding, soft trail conditions, and to give the waterfowl there some rest.
All other trail access points are open.
Steve Engel, Jackson Bottom Wetlands Preserve, Hillsboro
Steve Engel, Nature Program Supervisor
Jackson Bottom Wetlands Preserve | Parks and Recreation Department
phone 503-681-6283 |fax 503-681-6277
web www.hillsboro-oregon.gov/ParksRec |Twitter @hillsboroparks |Facebook
A CAPRA Nationally Accredited Park and Recreation Agency
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