Manning Park June 22- N. Waterthrush

[tmanson]

Hi all: Brent and Carolynn Schmor, and myself, attempted to hike Skyline Trail in Manning Prov. Park today. Weather was great for hiking, and we made it about halfway up, when snow obscured the trail. There was also snow further down, but the trail was still obvious, and it was okay to walk on. It looks like another 3 weeks or so before the snow to the top will be gone.
Still a great day was had by all, and the birding was pretty good.
Right at the parking lot for Skyline, we had a Three-toed Woodpecker, and back at the Lodge, and, later, near the East Gate, Red-naped Sapusucker were clearly observed. Red-breasted was also about, as was Pileated Woodpecker.
Highlight bird was probably a Northern Waterthrush, found across the highway from East Gate and along the Similkameen riverbank. We actually had to ford the flooded part of the stream to reach the point where it was seen, but it was singing lustily away, and gave us great views. Brent and Carolynn have had good luck seeing this species here on 2 out of 3 tries, and, after today, 3 out 4.





Many other warblers were heard, or seen, and it is always great to see Townsend's Warblers in good numbers.
We also hiked in about 2.5 km along the Skagit by Sumallo Grove, and it was very birdy in here, as well.
We tried for Boreal Chickadee along Skyline, but think we only heard Mountain.
Cheers, Thor

Thor Manson
Hope, B.C.

[Dave]

Thanks for sharing your day, Thor. I really enjoy reading these reports.

Northern Waterthrush...now that would look real good on my life list. I am counting on Gord finding one next to the Island 22 mud pond, but so far my phone has been silent.

Good selection of woodpeckers as well. Any Grouse?

Dave

[tmanson]

Dave: No grouse, which, maybe, was a bit surprising. Thor

Thor Manson
Hope, B.C.

[Gord]

You sure that's not Island 22? I seem to recognize that branch...

...but then I noticed the lack of mosquitoes buzzing around in the picture so it can't be Island 22 (Yes, it's pretty ugly there at the moment) ;D ;D ;D

Nice report, Thor. Great find on the waterthrushes and good shots. Obviously they breed there.

I wonder if the grouse, especially the Blues, will be late this year with breeding. The snow will slow things down a lot. Also, the wet and cold weather is tough on chicks.