We had the wonderful surprise this month to see that the full ADA pathway was done and open, so we walked on the “birdie” side of Ford’s pond again! (Actually the path was only closed for 2 months, so wasn’t too bad at all!)

We had 7 participants join us. The numbers have been lower since we switched to the summer start of 7 am.  We get that it is harder to get up earlier on a weekend but once there, it is nice to be out in nature to start the day.

We found 30 species of birds, totally 145 individuals. On Ford’s Pond, we again saw the WESTERN X CLARK’S GREBE (Hybrid) and the GREAT-TAILED GRACKLE (picture provided confirmation with Oregon Birding Discord for Douglas County). Other highlights included 4 LEAST SANDPIPERS on the island’s water edge and an OSPREY flying. On Woodruff Pond we had 2 gorgeous views of GREEN HERONS and between Ford’s and Woodruff Ponds, we watched a KILLDEER play its injured wing antics to lure us away (That wing really gets folded over!).

Thank you to the cooperatively led team of Stacy Burleigh, Tracy Maxwell, Lucas Lyle and Sam Denney!

The photo of some the participants provided by Tracy Maxwell. The photo of the Great-tailed Grackle was taken by Sam Denney using his cellphone through a scope.