Chilliwack Black-crowned Night Heron?

[tmanson]

Hi Fellow Fraser Valley Birders: This afternoon, I had a second hand report of a Black crowned Night Heron at the mouth of the Vedder River. I am not even sure where that is, but I am sure Gord, Jason, and other Chiliwack birders do. I am also not sure whether the observer was an experienced birder, but the fact that he knows what a Black crowned Night Heron is, tells me something.
Today, it was quite active at Hope Airport, despite the rain, and blustery wind. Jack Delair and I both saw a first of the season American Kestrel at the western end of the airport. It will give the Northern Shrike(s), which Jack saw on his property today, some competition. At the north western corner of the airport perimeter road, across from the airport property, were 7 Mountain Bluebirds; ( 4 male, and 3 female ). It was interesting watching their feeding behaviour, hovering in the air, searching for insects in/on the ground. Later, I ran into Mac, and Dorothy there, who also saw these birds. By then I was soaked, and my glasses were fogged over, so, there might have even been more.
At Sucker Creek pond today were Hooded Mergansers, ( male and female ), and a pair of Wood Ducks, and lots of Red winged Blackbirds. Cheers, Thor

Thor Manson
Hope, B.C.

[Gord]

Good birds in Hope Thor!

That's a good sounding report on the night-heron as well. The area where the Vedder River meets the Sumas River (which empties into the Fraser) consists of rather slow moving water with thick tree cover that grows right down to the water (especially now with higher water). To me, excellent night-heron habitat. There are several viewing opportunities from the dyke below the highway #1 bridge on both sides of the river. Do you have any more details as to where it was and when? I think these guys are rather consistent with where they like to roost so finding a fairly exact location would be an excellent place to start.

[Gord]

Thor spoke to the person who saw the night heron. First off, the bird was well identified by someone who knows great blue herons. Key features were mentioned that point to black-crowned night-heron. Awesome sighting!!!

The bird was seen about 10 days ago though. The location was on the dyke just past where it goes under the highway bridge. It was perched in the first cottonwoods on the Chilliwack side of the Vedder/Sumas River.

Thanks for looking in to it Thor! I may try for a look tomorrow if the weather holds.