Two photos of Baird's Sandpipers at Rankin Bottoms in Cocke county, from yesterday- http://www.pbase.com/sylvafoto/image/146020074 http://www.pbase.com/sylvafoto/image/146020213 Shorebird numbers were much lower than usual for this time of year when we were out in the canoe, but two flocks returned to the area after Rick & I had packed up to leave. Viewing conditions from shore are improving (lake elevation currently 980.7 ft) and should be optimal by this weekend, with the old RR grade across the floodplain becoming drivable. Michael Sledjeski Del Rio TN