After posting my message about seeing the Pacific Loon, the
second time, on Sunday, on the west end of Hryum reservoir, I read a post from
some very credible Cache Valley birders, Jean Lown, Bryan Dixon, Melanie
Spriggs, Larry Ryel and Ron Ryel who reported Saturday seeing a Red-throated
Loon near the west end of the reservoir. Second summer bird changing into
winter plumage.
This would probably clear up my confusion as to what I actually
saw. I assumed that the Loon I was looking at by the dam was a Pacific. After
looking at Sibleys Guide and thinking back as to what I saw, I guess that I
had really been looking at a Red-throated Loon.
Winter plumage rules!!! I will have to go back and study this
bird even closer.
This group also reported 5 Surf Scoters and 2 White-winged
Scoters on the Northeast portion of the Reservoir.
I need a scope!! If someone is going out to Hyrum Reservoir
this week and has a scope, please call me!
Also reported in Cache Valley this weekend by Sue Drown was
Cattle Egrets at the USU Caine Dairy, confirmation of Surf and White-winged
Scoters, 2 Ross's Geese and a male hooded merganser at Hyrum Reservoir. Also,
3 Long-tailed Ducks and several Bonapartes Gulls at the Logan Sewage
Lagoons.
Peace,
Stephen Peterson
daytime #: (435) 755-4152
nighttime #: (435)
755-5041