Sage Thrasher and Swainson's Hawk April 29, 2016

[Gord]

A midday visit to a very windy Hope Airport was surprisingly productive in the wind.

Around on the north side at the east end a Sage Thrasher was sitting on the fence between going down to feed in the grass.



This is just the third record we have for the checklist area for this species and second from the Hope Airport.


Out on the runway was a Swainson's Hawk sitting on the ground. Soon some crows pestered it enough and it flew up into the trees.








I shot a little video of it as well. The light isn't very nice, unfortunately.

www.youtube.com/watch?v=PA6L0KF2zFo&feature=youtu.be


A quick peek at Harrison produced several Horned Grebes in breeding colours and a Eared Grebe in similar apparel. A flock of 31 Bonaparte's Gulls flew past as well. Like Kevin already said, what a great time of year it is!

[murraybrown]

Those are great finds Gord. Ever since I saw a Swainson's Hawk at the airport in May several years ago, I always check for another one but the best I have been able to find is a couple of T. Vultures sitting out on the runway.

The thrasher is a very rare bird anywhere in the province, even up in the grasslands they aren't at all common.

Keep your eyes peeled for a White-cheeked Starling as I hear they are headed our way!

[Chris]

Nice work Gord! Always a great idea to check Hope Airport when the weather turns.

[ian]

Couple of outstanding finds Gord!
We are heading for the Oliver again this weekend and will keep our eyes open for possible Sage Thrashers up there!

[cherfst]

Awesome birds Gord. It bugs me into wanting to take a look around and see what is where.

[butterfly]

Awesome find and photos, what a day! Bruce and Joanne