Showing posts sorted by date for query for the birds. Sort by relevance Show all posts
Showing posts sorted by date for query for the birds. Sort by relevance Show all posts

Help clean up Washington ocean beaches at the Coastal Cleanup on September 21, 2024

Friday, September 13, 2024

One more event in 2024 will add to the total
Graphic courtesy Washington State Parks Commission

OLYMPIA –As a proud member of the Washington Clean Coast Alliance, the Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission (Parks) will co-host the annual International Coastal Cleanup on Saturday, September 21, 2024.

This year’s event will take place at six state parks: Cape Disappointment, Fort Worden, Grayland Beach, Ocean City, Pacific Beach and Twin Harbors.

In partnership with Washington CoastSavers, Parks puts on three beach cleanup events a year. So far, 145,719 pounds of marine and firework debris have been cleaned off our beaches in 2024. That’s over 12,000 pounds more than last year – with one more cleanup still to be held.

The City of Long Beach, Grassroots Garbage Gang, Lions Clubs International, Olympic Coast National Marine Sanctuary, Olympic Peninsula Chief Petty Officer Association of the US Coast Guard, Port Townsend Marine Science Center and Surfrider Foundation Olympia Chapter all help with this event by hosting a registration site with dedicated volunteers and recruiting volunteers to support marine debris removal efforts.

“If not collected, much of the garbage ends up in the ocean where birds, fish and marine mammals get entangled or ingest this marine debris, and microplastics end up in the food chain,” says Parks’ Volunteer Program Specialist Paul Ruppert. 
“Part of the Washington State Parks mission and core values is to care for Washington’s most treasured lands and waters, and a commitment to stewardship that safeguards high-quality park assets to future generations.”

Volunteers can be a part of that mission by signing up for the International Coastal Cleanup. Visit CoastSavers.org to learn more about the International Coastal Cleanup, view a list of all participating beaches and pre-register for the event.  

On arrival, participants volunteering at a Washington state park will check in at one of these locations:
  • Long Beach: Bolstad Ocean Beach Approach (OBA), Ocean Park OBA
  • Central Coast: Ocean City OBA, Chance A La Mer OBA, Bonge Ave OBA
  • Eastern Strait of Juan de Fuca: Port Townsend Marine Science Center

Volunteers should dress for variable weather conditions, wear sturdy footwear and pack a lunch with plenty of water. Upon check-in, participants will receive supplies to help them pick up debris. 

However, volunteers are encouraged to bring reusable gloves. The check-in station also serves as the dumpster location for marine debris after collection. A Discover Pass is required for vehicle access on state-managed lands on September 21.


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What’s Happening this Week in Shoreline? September 11 - 17, 2024

Wednesday, September 11, 2024

By Kate Ledbetter, Destination Shoreline

What’s Happening this Week in Shoreline?
September 11 - 17


Get ready for an exciting lineup of events in Shoreline this week! From the Recology Store Pop-up at City Hall and a class on reuse and sharing at the Tool Library, to the grand opening of the Kruckeberg Boardwalk and the ever-fun Rainbow Bingo, there's something for everyone. 

Plus, don't miss the Shoreline Farmers Market, a birdwatching workshop, and a business development session for artists. Whether you're looking to learn, connect, or just have fun, Shoreline has you covered!

For more details visit https://www.destinationshoreline.com/calendar.
 
Recology Store Pop-up @ City Hall
Thursday, September 12, 2024
10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Shoreline City Hall
Due to the temporary closure of the Shoreline Recology Store, Recology is hosting small pop-ups for Shoreline residents at City Hall. Check. Visit Recology's website for full details. They will also be offering the option to pay your Recology bill in person.
 
Free Reuse & Sharing in the PNW Class @ Shoreline Tool Library
Thursday, September 12, 2024
6:00 PM - 7:30 PM
Shoreline Tool Library
Join Seattle REconomy Executive Director, Josh Epstein as he presents his TEDx presentation on how new economies of reuse, sharing, and circularity are creating more resilient communities. The presentation will be followed by an inclusive open discussion onthe topic.
 
Talk Time Class
Friday, September 13, 2024
10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Richmond Beach Library
Practice speaking with other English language learners. Learn about American culture and meet people from around the world. Registration not required.
 
Ribbon Cutting Ceremony for the Kruckeberg Boardwalk
Friday, September 13, 2024
5:30 PM - 6:30 PM
Kruckeberg Botanic Garden
Come one, come all! It’s time to celebrate this massive achievement of increasing accessibility at Kruckeberg Botanic Garden. Join us for the official Ribbon Cutting Ceremony, boardwalk views, and refreshments! We will recognize the City of Shoreline, Shoreline voters (Parks Bond 2022), Forma Construction & Mithun, and our many supporters and community advocates.
 
Rainbow Bingo
Friday, September 13, 2024
6:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Shoreline-Lake Forest Park Senior Center
It's Talk Like A Pirate Day! Join hostess Sylvia O’Stayformore for ten rousing rounds of bingo, complete with prizes and a few musical numbers! Rainbow jello shots, beer, wine for 21+.  $20 Rainbow Entry – includes nachos and entertainment.  $10 Bingo packet at the door.  Purchase tickets online or call 206-365-1536.
 
Shoreline Farmers Market
Saturday, September 14, 2024
10:00 AM - 2:00 PM
BikeLink Park & Ride
Shoreline's community hub for farm fresh & local foods, flowers, baked goods, local honey, live music, food trucks, kids programming, and so much more. Join us every Saturday through October 5th, located at the BikeLink Park & Ride (corner of 192nd & Aurora, across from Sky Nursery). 
 
Attracting Birds with Native Plants and Garden Habitat with Julie O’Donald
Saturday, September 14, 2024
10:30 AM - 1:30 PM
Kruckeberg Botanic Garden
Did you know that approximately 50 species of birds live at Kruckeberg Botanic Garden throughout the year? In this workshop, join Julie O’Donald in opening your eyes and ears for the autumn migration birds. Outdoor time will include Birding by Ear and landscape examples of Garden Habitat. We will discuss the habitat layers that are preferred by different species of birds and learn which native plants are favored by different species. Classroom time will feature a photo filled visit to garden habitats and examples of native plants that bring gardens to life in each season. Many of these plants will be available for sale after the workshop, in the MsK Nursery. Fee course; registration required.
 
Making a Community Truly Welcoming and Inclusive
Saturday, September 14, 2024
2:00 PM - 3:30 PM
Shoreline Library
Our communities include people of different ages, abilities, gender/sexualities, and backgrounds. Join a discussion on how we can make our neighborhoods genuinely welcoming and inclusive. This event will include Q&A time and share action steps that you can take. Presented by Kevin P. Henry, who has been working in the fields of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, community building and media for over 30 years, in both private and public sectors. Registration not required.
 
Business Development Workshop for Visual Artists
Sunday, September 15, 2024
1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Shoreline City Hall
“Creative Confidence: Selling Your Vision” is designed for visual artists who are ready to boost their sales and impact. If you're dealing with slow sales or struggling to move the needle, this workshop will give you a roadmap to increasing sales, securing public art projects, and building a sustainable, impactful career. Whether you're an emerging artist or aiming to leave a legacy, this program provides the skills and knowledge to succeed in the art world. Avoid common mistakes, effectively scale your business, and sharpen your business acumen. Discover modern marketing techniques to expand your collector base and strategies to stand out in the competitive public art realm. Learn from a panel of experts to gain confidence, sell your vision, and build a sustainable, impactful career.
 
Senior Home Repair Fair
Tuesday, September 17, 2024
1:15 PM - 3:00 PM
Shoreline-Lake Forest Park Senior Center
Join representatives from Habitat for Humanity, Rebuilding Together and Sound Generations to learn how to connect to low-cost and no-cost home repair resources in Shoreline. Programs are set up to support low-income to moderate-income homeowners staying in their homes. Please bring your questions and we’ll work together to match you with the best program for your needs. We look forward to meeting you! Please call the Reception Desk to Register for this free event: 206-365-1536.
 
Reading Buddies at Shoreline Library
Tuesday, September 17, 2024
4:00 PM  6:00 PM
Shoreline Library
Volunteers help students practice reading out loud. Two students are paired by reading level with each volunteer. Book selection focuses on readers in grades K-8 and English language learners in grades K-12. Reading Buddies share eBooks on an iPad. Books selection changes every two weeks. Students may bring a book to share. Look for volunteers wearing the green Reading Buddies t-shirt. Add your name to the sign-up sheet for a 30-minute spot at your reading level.
 
Free Basic Bike Maintenance Class @ Shoreline Tool Library
Tuesday, September 17, 2024
6:00 PM - 8:30 PM
Shoreline Tool Library
Spend an evening at the Shoreline Tool Library learning the basics of maintaining your bike – adjusting gears and brakes, fixing a flat, cleaning, and being sure it (and your helmet) fit. Register online here.
 
Menopause 101: Navigating Change with Confidence
Tuesday, September 17, 2024
6:30 PM - 7:30 PM
Shoreline Library
Empower yourself with knowledge! Learn about common symptoms, self-care practices and evidence-based interventions to make your journey through perimenopause and menopause smoother. Presented by Vanessa Weiland, Board-Certified Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner. Registration not required.
 
For more information and more upcoming events, visit the Shoreline events calendar on https://www.destinationshoreline.com/calendar
To have your event included please email DestinationShoreline@gmail.com.

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For the Birds: Hummers in Fall Mode

Monday, September 2, 2024

Male Rufus Hummingbird passing through
By Christine Southwick

Gone are the lazy days of summer where two or three hummingbirds could sip at the feeder at the same time.

Male Anna’s Hummingbirds are aggressively guarding their chosen feeders again, after being mostly low-key during the hot summer, letting females and juvies drink a while before running them off.

Male Anna's Hummingbird by Craig Kerns
Note how only part of gorget is reflecting
that gorgeous rose color
This is a sign that the season is really changing toward fall—maybe even a time to think about how you are going to keep hummingbird feeders liquid in the winter. 

Cold weather feeding is more important than feeding them during the summer - but summer feeding is so fun to watch.

We have Anna’s Hummingbirds all year long - they have adapted to our many flowering plants, tiny bugs, and our usually mild winters. 

The males are now claiming feeders for their winter feeding, only letting others feed if there are two or more feeders a distance apart so that male has to fly back and forth to defend them all, thus allowing the females to sneak in while he is at the other feeder.

Female Rufus by Craig Kerns
rusty looking sides with white-ish neck margin
You might be seeing (and hearing) Rufus Hummingbirds as they pass through on their way southward. 

Their tails make kind of a toy-boat vibration noise, whereas the Anna’s are detected by their buzzy song.

Male Rufus are dramatic with their rufus sides, bronze gorget and black-tipped tail feathers. 

They are often not seen as they only stop for a quick power drink then fly on. 

The female and juvies are less dramatic with only a little rufus on their sides and will often stay at a good feeder for a week or so, stocking up on needed fuel before continuing to travel southward.

Female Anna's by Craig Kerns

Right now it may be hard to tell the Anna’s females from the Rufus females. 

Here’s what I do. First, I watch my feeders as much as possible. I look for rusty sides - the Anna’s only have grayish green sides. 

 I also look for a thin white margin around their necks - Anna’s females don’t have that margin - their necks are gray green like most of their body.

Hummingbirds have iridescent feathers (mostly in their gorgets) which reflect the sun. 

Gorgets can boldly shine or look black depending on where you are in relation to sunlight bouncing off those feathers. 

That’s why a courting male will face the female with the sun on his throat so that she can see his gorgeousness.

Read previous For The Birds articles here



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"For the Birds" Concert September 22, 2024 (but not OUR For the Birds)

Monday, August 26, 2024


"For the Birds" Concert, for members of the general public, will be held at Edmonds United Methodist Church Sanctuary on Sunday, September 22, 2024 from 4:00 to 5:30pm. 828 Caspers St, Edmonds WA 

This concert is hosted by Interfaith Climate Action and it is more than just a concert. The performance engages the power of artistic expression -- live music, spoken words, images, and poetry - to connect audiences deeply and emotionally to the scientific realities of climate change.

Ultimately a story of hope, individuals leave the performance feeling empowered to take meaningful action. 

Why Birds? Birds are a part of our daily life experience, and an inspiring connection to the natural world. But climate change is having a significant and alarming impact on many bird species, and this should be a wake-up call for all of us.

Tickets are $10 and $20, children under 12 are free as are students in environmental clubs and climate committees in area middle and high schools. We are in the process of securing child care for children too young to enjoy the performance.

Purchase tickets here  

Various individuals and organizations are being approached for donations in order to keep the prices low so everyone can attend. The performers are the Nelda Swiggett Band, well known in Seattle. Nelda is the composer and her quintet will be performing this debut concert.


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U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Healy arrives in Seattle following scientific research, onboard fire

Sunday, August 25, 2024

U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Healy (WAGB 20) arrives in Seattle
Photo courtesy USCG Pacific Area

SEATTLE — U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Healy (WAGB 20) arrived in Seattle Friday, August 23, 2024 after conducting scientific research in the Pacific sector of the Arctic Ocean in support of the Arctic Observing Network, funded by the U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF). 

Healy’s crew and embarked researchers conducted more than 150 conductivity, temperature, and depth (CTD) casts to investigate the circulation and properties of the water, monitored for signs of harmful algal blooms, and collected observations on marine mammals and birds in the Bering, Chukchi, and Beaufort Seas.

It takes 14 crew members to handle the buoy
Photo courtesy USCG Pacific Area

Additionally, two subsurface moorings were deployed that are equipped with multiple sensors collecting oceanographic data on the physical, chemical, and biological state of the Arctic Ocean. This year’s work builds on more than two decades of research to improve understanding of the Pacific Arctic ecosystem in a changing climate.

On July 25, 2024, while underway in the vicinity of Banks Island, Northwest Territories, Canada, Healy experienced an electrical fire on a transformer impacting one of the ship’s two main propulsion motors. The crew swiftly extinguished the fire with no personnel casualties. 

Healy’s crew and contractors restored power to the affected motor. However, out of abundance of caution, the cutter returned to Seattle to ensure all redundant systems are fully operational before returning to the Arctic.

“Healy’s crew and scientific researchers completed valuable data collection throughout the Bering Sea and the eastern Beaufort Sea in support of the Arctic Observing Network,” said Capt. Michele Schallip, Healy’s commanding officer. 
“While transiting to a collection site, we suffered a fire on a transformer. I am immensely proud of the crew for quickly extinguishing the fire and limiting damage to that equipment. In the Arctic, there are few rescue resources, and ice-covered waters make it difficult for rescue assets. 
"Crews operating in polar waters must be well-trained for emergency response, and responsible operation includes addressing any system degradation on a vessel before continuing operation in the high latitudes.”

Polar bear on roadside ice
Photo courtesy USCG Pacific

Healy is the United States' largest polar icebreaker and the Coast Guard’s only icebreaker designed and equipped with scientific instrumentation by the NSF to support Arctic research. The platform is ideally specialized for scientific missions, providing access to the most remote reaches of the Arctic Ocean. Healy is designed to break 4.5 feet of ice continuously at three knots and can operate in temperatures as low as -50 degrees Fahrenheit.


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Echo Lake Closed due to Algae Bloom

Thursday, August 22, 2024

File photo from previous algae bloom in Echo Lake
Photo by Ann Michel

Echo Lake is to remain closed due to high fecal bacteria levels. 

The City recommends that people and pets do not swim, wade, fish, or engage in other activities that would cause contact with water. 

Please do not allow pets to drink the lake water. For water quality updates, visit www.shorelinewa.gov/waterquality and kingcounty.gov/swimbeach.

The City will continue to monitor and sample the lake weekly for both bacteria and algae concentrations and we are working with King County Public Health to reopen the lake as soon as it is safe to do so.

As a general reminder, please help us prevent high fecal bacteria levels by:
  • Keeping dogs on leash and picking up pet waste.
  • Not feeding water birds in the area. Ducks & geese poop where they are fed and, when fed on the beach, their droppings can cause fecal bacteria levels to spike.
The previously scheduled cattail pulling parties have been cancelled.


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Designing the Northwest Garden - free class from North City Water September 18, 2024

Wednesday, August 21, 2024

Whether you are starting with a bare yard or trying to give your existing landscape a northwest vibe, this class has all sorts of advice and tips for you.

Designing the Northwest Garden
Wednesday, September 18, 2024
6:30–8:00 pm
at North City Water District
1519 NE 177th Street in Shoreline
FREE

Northwest native plants—ranging from vine maple, flowering currants, oregon grape, and salal, to sword ferns, oxalis, and wild strawberries—require less care and are amazing for attracting wildlife, birds, and pollinators. This class will focus on sustainable landscapes that are people and wildlife friendly, and help you learn how to "plan it before you plant it."

Class is free, but you must register to attend.

Contact in advance by email to customerservice@northcitywater.org or call the office at 206-362-8100.

About The Presenter

Greg Rabourn’s passion for native plants collided with his dislike of mowing many years ago. He has been practicing and promoting native plant and low maintenance landscaping techniques ever since. 

Greg was a weekly guest for the Greendays Gardening Panel, on KUOW, 94.9 FM. He was also co-host of KCTV's natural yard care TV show. 

Greg currently works for King County's Department of Natural Resources and Parks as a Community Stewardship Specialist and Project Program Manager for Watershed Stewardship.

Learn More about Native Gardening


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Backyard Birds: Fence sitter

Photo by Lee Wolfe

This little one enjoyed a convenient perch for reaching the blossoms. Hummingbirds have been very busy in our garden recently.

--Lee Wolfe


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For the Birds: Help Your Local Birds

Wednesday, August 7, 2024

Black-capped Chickadee really into its cooling bath.
Photo by Craig Kerns

By Christine Southwick

Water is probably the most important item you can provide - clean and cool in the summer, liquid in the winter. Water can be as simple as a large dish, or it can become a dramatic yard feature. Running water, like a fountain or mini stream will draw in more resident birds and even migrants flying over, needing a refreshing stop.

Black-headed Grosbeak, male
Photo by Craig Kerns
Plant trees and native bushes for food, roosting, and hiding places for most of our local birds. 

Keep large trees (dead trees made-into-snags are vital for larger cavity birds) for nesting sites, and plant native serviceberry trees and/or crabapple trees, or other fruiting native trees like Indian Plum and bushes like Snowberries. 

By planting native vegetation, local insects, which birds need to survive, will be found and controlled by our native birds. Birds are great pollinators which help fruits and even flowers.

Think about creating your yard as a Certified Wildlife Habitat to help compensate for major habitat loss—the most dangerous cause of loss of birds—both in numbers and in species.

Golden-crowned Kinglet juvie note the gape coloring
Photo by Craig Kerns

If you have insects that are eating some of your plants too fast, spray them off with water, hand pick, or buy beneficial insects, and attract more insect-eating birds into your yard with water and habitat. That will make both you and local birds happy.

Pesticides kill an estimated 72 million birds each year! So don’t use pesticides. They aren’t good for birds, kids, dogs, cats, or the environment.

Western Tanager, breeding male just passing through, stopping for a much needed drink
Photo by Craig Kerns
And please, watch for cats. Spray them with water if they come into your yard. They will learn to go elsewhere, at least when they see you.

Cats are an invasive species which kill approximately 2.4 billion birds EACH year!

As a cat owner, I love my cat(s). Most cats will easily adjust to watching birds through windows, and chatter away and swish their tails. I had one cat that really wanted outside. I built a successful small enclosed outside area with a cat door access so it could go in and out of the house unassisted. 

My cats and I are happy and the birds are safe. So, for the few cats that insist on going outside, that is a do-able solution that also keeps cats safe from our neighborhood coyotes, cat fights, and being hit by cars. (There are fancy catios available if you prefer.)

Seed and suet also help birds and make bird watching a delight. Suet can be used all year around and helps provide protein when the bugs are sparse—especially welcome while hungry fledglings are learning to hunt bugs.

Previous For the Birds columns here


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For the Birds: House Finch or Purple Finch?

Monday, July 8, 2024

House Finch pair note white on wings
Photo by Chris Southwick
By Christine Southwick

So you have a reddish bird on your feeder. What is it?

In our area it will be either a House Finch or a Purple Finch (Cassin’s Finches are higher up in the mountains).

Firstly, both birds are reddish tinted—to my eye there is no purple in a Purple Finch—raspberry coloring yes, but definitely not purple.

The house finch, especially in early spring can be bright red, and can be easily confused with the Purple Finch at first glance.

Lucky for us there are some distinct differences.

House Finch males have brownish wings with white wing bars and no red on their shoulders or wing edges. (Note: depending on food, some House Finches can be orangish, but that is not common.) House Finches of both sexes have streaking from their breast all the way to their tail.

Purple Finch pair note clear belly on female.
Photo by Chris Southwick
Purple Hinch males have a delightful raspberry red coloring over most of their body, except for their clear white underbellies. 

Their wings have a brownish undertone, but the raspberry wing bars and edges dominate. 

Their bellies, and those of the females are clear white, without streaking. Both House Finches and Purple Finches have reddish coloring on their tails.

One of the easiest physical differences is that Purple Finches have an exaggerated eyebrow—white on the female, raspberry on the male-just lighter than the rest of his head.

Females of both finches are brownish with no red at all. The best way to tell the adult female Purple Finch from the adult female Purple Finch is to look for that eyebrow. Purple Finches have shorter tails than House Finches, but that usually doesn’t help me.

House Finch female Photo by Craig Kerns
Not all brown-colored finches in the summer are females. 

Young males of both House Finches and Purple Finches are without any red until their second year, when they molt into their adult plumage.

For me, the easiest way to identify Purple Finches is to hear them singing their rich melodious song that end with clear notes. 

The House Finch’s song usually ends more quickly and with muted notes. 

Purple Finches appear chunkier that the House Finches which often appear thinner. 

Then I look for those other diagnostic clues.

Male Purple Finch note eyebrow
Photo by Chris Southwick
Enjoy these year-round birds. Often you will have only a couple of Purple Finches, but if you have House Finches there will usually be several.

Purple and House Finches nest in trees, usually evergreen, but do not use nest boxes. 

Their favorite birdseed is sunflower seeds—with or without shells. Water, especially this hot summer, will help bring them in.


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Gloria's Birds: Darn GPS messed up again!, said the junco

Tuesday, June 11, 2024

 
Photo copyright Gloria Z. Nagler

Gotta hightail it to the next block...

(Dark-eyed Junco late for his appointment:)

--Gloria Z. Nagler



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For the Birds: Bugs Beware – Nuthatches on Duty

Sunday, June 9, 2024

Nuthatch on fountain. Photo by Christine Southwick

By Christine Southwick

If you see an energetic small bluish bird with a black eyestripe zig-zagging headfirst down your trees, your trees are being gleaned of bugs and protected by Red-breasted Nuthatches.

Red-breasted Nuthatches eat beetles, spiders, ants, caterpillars, earwigs, and other tasties and feed these to their nestlings. They actively devour spruce budworm. These delightful birds readily come to feeders for peanuts, sunflower seeds and suet. In the winter they also eat conifer seeds, and any of those seeds/peanuts that they cached earlier.

Note: The theme for this year’s International Migratory Day is “Protect Insects - Protect Birds”.

Photo by Christine Southwick
These nuthatches build their nests in softer wood, especially in dead or dying trees, trees with dead tops or even just a softer space under a dying branch. They prefer conifer forests. They especially like cottonwood and alder that are near pines, firs, or cedars.

It is unusual for a non-woodpecker to excavate a nest hole, but both the female and male Red-breasted Nuthatches do this excavating. After they have lined the nest, they smear pine resin around their entrance hole, a unique practice to deter predators. The parents fly directly into the hole to avoid that goo.

Both feed their young 18-21 days in the nest, and then for two weeks after they fledge. She may have up to eight eggs and stays silent while on the eggs. The male feeds her while she is on the nest.

When these nestlings fledge you can track where they are by their loud tin-horn sounding “Yank, Yank.” Red-Breasted Nuthatches don’t have a song per se, their contact calls resemble something like a tin horn, which makes them easy to locate.

Nuthatch photo by Christine Southwick

They prefer to make their own nest holes, but they occasionally use nest boxes. They are fussy about sizing and aging (a preferred nest box mimics their deep, often 8-inch cavity) so it is better to put a nestbox up over the winter, which also offers shelter for local birds.

Save snag trees for the birds. Loss of habitat includes suitable trees for all kinds of cavity nesters.

When you hear their “Yank, yank” calls, especially if a brood has fledged, look for these delightful birds learning to use your suet.


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Attention fishermen: Three nearby lakes stocked with fish

Friday, May 10, 2024

Osprey and salmon photo by Jan Hansen

Perhaps I should say Attention: Fishing birds. All three of these lakes are shallow with many bird nests in the vicinity.

Echo Lake is in Shoreline. Bitter Lake and Haller Lake are just south of us in north Seattle. All three lakes are surrounded by housing, so this could be a boon for lakeside residents with fishing poles.

Each has a small public access area but no boat launch.

Bitter Lake (King County) May 7, 2024 - 1500 Rainbow @ 0.4lbs


Echo Lake (King County) May 7, 2024 - 1000 Rainbow @ 0.4lbs


Haller Lake (King County) May 7, 2024 - 1300 Rainbow @ 0.4lbs


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For the Birds: Yellow Birds - Oh So Pretty!

Wednesday, May 8, 2024

Orange-crowned Warbler
Phoro by Dan Streiffert

By Christine Southwick

How many local insect-eating yellow birds can you identify?

Townsend's Warbler
Photo by Craig Kerns
Townsend's Warbler can be found here all year. They prefer evergreen forests, but in winter will use deciduous forests as well. Birdbaths and suet will draw them into your yard.

Yellow-Rumped Warbler can be found all year long, though less common here in the summer since they go north to breed. They love to eat bugs in flowering trees.

Orange-crowned Warbler—olive yellowish green above with yellow below, with a small erectable orange crown on males. Found here from late March thru usually September.

Wilson’s Warbler usually arrive here about April and leave September-ish. They prefer willow and alder stands in dense moist areas. Fountains and bird baths will likely lure them into your yard.

Wilson's Warbler
Photo by Elaine Chuang
Western Tanager
fly through our area during migration in late April-May. The breeding males have bright red heads, and brilliant yellow with back wings. 

They usually perch in trees with yellow tints (like willows) during migration which makes them hard to see. 

They can be found locally in high forested areas of Washington, especially in Ponderosa-pine and Douglas-fir forests (like Roslyn). 

The sound of fountains often attracts them to yards while migrating.

American Goldfinch are mainly in our area from May through Oct, with some wintering flocks staying and searching for local food. Basically seed-eaters, these finches prefer open areas, and will not come to feeders under branches. They use thistle down to line their nests so nest later than all our other local birds,

Yellow Warbler, male,
Photo by Tony Varela
Yellow Warbler
arrive here in May and are usually gone by September. They are most often found in deciduous habitat near streams. Running water could attract them to your yard.

Pine Siskin intermittently can be here all year long, often in numbers. They are finches with narrow bills, and yellow streaks on flanks and tails.

Evening Grosbeak can be seen intermittently all year. They arrive at feeders in numbers, with the males being a bright yellow and black, the females being brownish gray with a dark head and yellow underwing coloring. They love spruce budworm. Their large bills are indeed gross beaks.

Golden-crowned Kinglet a small yellow-tinged, fluttering insect-eating bird frequently near human habitat. Usually high in the canopies during the summer they come down lower during the winter when they may join mixed flocks.

Common Yellowthroat can be heard (witchity, witchity), and maybe seen, in wet marshy areas from early April through September.

Save birds by saving insects!

Previous columns by Christine Southwick can be viewed here.



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Two gems of the Echo Lake Neighborhood on display Saturday April 27, 2024: Densmore Pathway and Echo Lake

Wednesday, April 24, 2024

Entrance to the Densmore Pathway
Photo by Jeanne Monger

You could potentially get to both events on Saturday April 27, 2024 as the Echo Lake Neighborhood celebrates Earth Day by showing the work that has been done for two of its green spaces.

Saturday, April 27, 10am, at Densmore Pathway (NE 188th between Ashworth and Densmore) Marla Tullio will lead a walking tour, discussing the "Birds and plants of Shoreline's Densmore Pathway".

The Pathway is a reclaimed space, formerly a neglected Right Of Way, which because of the work of many near neighbors, has been turned into a peaceful walk from Ashworth to Densmore.

A meandering gravel pathway lined with a variety of plants, art pieces peek through the grasses and hang overhead.

A bench, little free library, and kiosk mark the entrance on Ashworth, almost hidden behind the rain gardens which line the street. Meet there at 10an.

Parking is on-street and very limited; please be mindful of neighbors' driveways.

View from Echo Lake Park
Photo by Gidget Terpstra

Saturday, April 27, 11am, at Echo Lake Park 19901 Ashworth Ave N, Ann Michel will discuss the “Flora, Fauna and Rainwater: The Future of Echo Lake”.

ELNA volunteers have been monitoring the health of the lake and working to keep the park groomed for 25 years. Ann and the Friends of Echo Lake are working intensively to keep the lake healthy and replace invasive plants with native species.

Meet by the lake while Ann shares her extensive knowledge of this small gem.

After either event, if you wish to participate in the BioBlitz after the presentation, full information is here. Registration is encouraged but not required.


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Favorite Tree: "Eagle tree" falls at Ronald Bog

The "Eagle Tree" standing tall in 2008

Story and photos by Martin DeGrazie

It seems everyone in their life has a favorite tree. As a kid our family had a beautiful large Rainier cherry tree that adorned our front yard.

The tree was visibly leaning. 

As an adult my favorite tree lived across Ronald Bog from us. I learned to look at the tree as soon as I came out of our back door, sometimes missing the eagle right above my head in my own yard. 

I frequently took pictures of the tree, especially when I could capture its reflection in the still waters. 

Eagles built a nest but didn't stay

Birds would always flock to this tree. In 2023 I had mixed emotions when the Eagles started to build a nest in it. I considered purchasing a better camera to take pictures of baby eaglets but I was concerned for the other wildlife on Ronald Bog. I love all the critters in the water and did not want to see them disappear. 

Alas, my concerns were unfounded, as the eagles abandoned the nest. Canadian geese would enter the nest every now and then. This spring they were up there so much, I was afraid they would sit on eggs up there themselves. 

The tree is now lying in the water

This past weekend while I was out of town this beautiful tree fell into the water. 

I can't tell you how many times I looked over there and wondered if it was leaning more. We've had three trees fall into the water from our lot on the other side of Ronald Bog.

The stump was shattered

The silver lining is the tree in the water is a nice landing spot for other critters in the bog. Eagles, otters, turtles and other animals will all use it. But, I will miss it. 

I haven't been to that side of the bog in a long time and I am really impressed at all the new growth trees. They have really shot up. I expect we will see much more wildlife at Ronald Bog in the coming years. The end of an era, but a new one is on the way.


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Echo Lake Neighborhood celebrates Earth Day with five events over three days

Friday, April 12, 2024

The Echo Lake Neighborhood Association (ELNA) is going all out for Earth Day. 

They have cancelled their usual 3rd Tuesday Zoom meeting this month.

Instead, for this year’s Earth Day weekend, ELNA is hosting five interactive events, each consisting of a featured speaker followed by a "Bioblitz" gathering.

A Bioblitz? What’s that?

A bioblitz is a communal citizen-science effort to record as many species within a designated location and time period as possible. The first BioBlitz was held in Washington, D.C. in 1996. Approximately 1000 species were identified at this first event.

Download the iNaturalist app (not the Seek option; 'Connect with Nature' on iPhone) to your phone (you can do that now) and set up an account if you do not already have one. Our local events are part of the "City Nature Challenge 2024 - Seattle-Tacoma" project. (There are helpful hints on the Registration page)

When you are in one of the parks choose a plant and take a photo, following instructions on the app. 

The schedule is as follows:

Friday, April 26, 11am, at Shoreline Park, 9030 1st Ave NE

Joy Wood of Green Shoreline Partnership,
"Forest Health and Ecological Restoration"

Saturday, April 27, 10am, at Densmore Pathway (188th between Ashworth and Densmore)

Marla Tullio, 
"Birds and plants of Shoreline's Densmore Pathway"

Saturday, April 27, 11am, at Echo Lake Park 19901 Ashworth Ave N

Ann Michel, 
“Flora, Fauna and Rainwater: the Future of Echo Lake”

Sunday, April 28, 10am, at Shoreline Park, 9030 1st Ave NE

Sara Cammeresi, 
"Native and Invasive Plants at Shoreline Park"

Sunday, April 28, 1:30pm at Midvale Gardens (southeast of 192nd & Midvale)

Derek Creisler,
"Workshop on Weeds - the Midvale Gardens project, its history, and where do we go from here"


In addition:
  • Light refreshments will be available
  • Rain - cancels / does not cancel please check each event listing for details in the link below
  • Everyone is welcome
Benefits:
  • An after-covid in-person community gathering with no covid threat due to it being held outdoors
  • A reason to get outdoors, connect with nature, and connect with members of our local community
  • Learn about plants and animals in our local community
  • Work in pairs, in small groups, or individually to gather photos (a wonderful way for a family to spend time together)
  • Differently-abled (wheelchair, walkers, etc.) individuals can participate as the activity is not athletic. All locations are near paved city trails and have paved trails within the site (Densmore Pathway has a gravel path).
  • You will be helping to create records of the biodiversity in our area
Register and get more information here

We look forward to celebrating Earth Day weekend with our community at these events!


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