Avian Findings for June 2005

I conducted a one day survey on Monday, June 13, 2005. The flooded areas of the sanctuary had receded and I was able to walk the entire perimeter without wading through 2-3 feet of water. I was also able to succesfully navigate the west side of the area, which had been under 3 feet of water in parts. Skies were clear, temps in the mid-60's, no wind and no precipitation.

A single Western Kingbird was the only new species to report for the year in the area. The usual birds were there, including many Marsh Wrens, that were observed and heard on the southwest corner of the sanctuary. I was able to locate 2 marsh wren nests in this area, which I was able to get some good pics of. Savannah Sparrows remain prevalent throughout the sanctuary, chasing each other and perching on tall grasses giving their high, thin buzzy call. A single Forster's Tern was seen repeatedly, flying above the slough. I observed a couple of Black-necked Stilts feigning a broken wing as I approached. Other stilts would fly around me, giving an incessant chirping alarm call, alerting others to my presence. Three other stilts were observed crouching low to the ground, within the reeds, keeping as still as can be. I would assume that there must be at least three black-necked stilt nests in this area, based off of their behavior.

Wilson's Phalaropes were still in the area, counting fifteen individual birds. Number of American Coots were down, but I observed six young coots, keeping close to two adult birds, swimming away from me when I approached the area they were in. Canada Geese were absent and numbers of American Avocets were down.
- Stephen Peterson 6/22/05

(Refer to June 2005 survey data for complete species list)

Marsh Wren nest on southwest corner -- ------Wilson's Phalarope in northwest corner