Birding Today #2

Great-blue Heron flying under the 11th Street Bridge, Tacoma, WA I like the reflection in the water.

Today after church I decided to stop in an area known for having both American and Lesser Goldfinch in the breeding season, and as I opened my car to get out my optics I was shocked to find my spotting scope missing. I suddenly realized that I'd left it behind at my last stop yesterday, a pull-out on a busy road, and was sure I'd never see my Kowa 85 again. I raced to the spot, and sure enough no scope there. I went to a dollar store, bought a package of two white gift boxes, push pins, and a marker and made two signs.

I push-pinned these to posts visible from the road where I'd left the scope. I had little hope that I'd ever hear about or see my Kowa again.
After lunch I headed out to one more time try to find an American Goldfinch or a Wilson's Snipe, two species I've not seen in Pierce County yet this year at Gog-li-hi-te. You can read about the Wilson's Snipe search on a prior SteepShot, but no luck with the goldfinch. Overall except for the snipe no unusual birds, but pretty good light conditions for reasonable photos.

Female Red-breasted Merganser

Male Red-breasted Merganser

Male and female Mallards, I like the view from above showing the bright orange feet under the water as the ducks swim.

Best part of the day though was a phone call from a woman who noted my scope yesterday, was concerned it was stolen or lost and brought it to the Steilacom Police Department. She declined the reward and wished me well. I hope to pick up the scope tomorrow. How great to have a Good Samaritan step up and help me out. Thanks you honest woman!

Good birding. Steem on!