This note is being sent to the Richmond listserv with permission of Dave Pardoe. See Brian Patteson's webpage for additional details: http://www.patteson.com/ Discounts are given to groups. --------- Forwarded message ---------- From: "David H. Pardoe" <dhpardoe@xxxxxxxxxxx> Date: Mon, 04 Feb 2008 08:38:50 -0500 Subject: Seabirds Caroline & Larry, The Richmond birders might be interested in an update on Brian Patteson's seabird trips from Hatteras. He has a new boat, Stormy Petrel II, that is very comfortable and provides great viewing. The assisting crew are superb, great at spotting birds, they know the birds, and they are very helpful in making sure everyone gets to see the birds. The PA system works very well and kept everyone informed of what was being seen and where. I was out with them on Saturday, and we had an awesome day. I could not imagine a boat engulfed in Gannets! We were surrounded by them on either side, front, back, and overhead---totally amazing. I was looking for Dovekie and Razorbill, and we had a number of each. I did not expect Iceland Gull, but we had that too and right up close behind the boat. There were several N. Fulmar, both light & dark; 3 Little Gulls, several Lesser Black-backed Gulls, Atlantic Puffins, Phalaropes, etc. We chased a Great Skua that Brian spotted, but we did not get close enough for me to count it. Beyond that we had a delightful race with several Common Dolphins right up against the bow of the boat. It is amazing how fast they can go. While it was cool, it was not by any means bitter cold, especially if you were dressed well. A truly great experience. You should treat yourselves to an adventure! Best to you! Dave Pardoe You are subscribed to VA-Richmond-General. To unsubscribe, send email to va-richmond-general-request@xxxxxxxxxxxxx with 'unsubscribe' in the Subject field. To adjust other settings (vacation, digest, etc.) please visit, //www.freelists.org/list/va-richmond-general.