Friday, July 26, 2019

Purple Martins on patrol!

The Western Snowy Plover is a threatened bird species, due to loss of habitat, that lives on the Oregon coast.


In an effort to help the plovers survive, the Federal government has created nesting habitat in several areas along the coast. Their numbers are improving and there are now hundreds of the birds rather than just a few dozen. With the increase in numbers comes and increase in predators such as crows, ravens, coyotes and Norther Harriers. The Harriers are a raptor that feeds on small birds, mammals and reptiles. The government employs people and volunteers to assist in defending the bird habitat. This year they have added a new line of defense in the Purple Martin. Martins are very aggressive birds and when it comes to defending their nesting territory, the size of the intruder does not matter!  Martin nesting boxes have been added to the plover nesting areas in hopes that the Martins will drive predators, like the Northern Harrier, off.


I was very lucky to observe this idea in action. As I was taking pictures of the nesting boxes, a male Northern Harrier flew past me squawking with a Purple Martin repeatedly diving at him! They may not keep them completely out of the area but they will certainly make hunting difficult!

Thursday, July 18, 2019

Sweet Creek Trail

I am a little slow in getting this posted as I hiked the Sweet Creek Trail over a week ago! I have been wanting to hike the trail and check out all the waterfalls for some time but have always put it off but when my friend Rolf asked about a hike, I decided now was the time. I met Rolf and his wife Tanya at Waxmyrtle campground several years ago. They travel from Germany almost every year and spend a month camping in Oregon. He is a Forester and outdoorsman so we have plenty to talk about. The Sweet Creek trail is an easy 2 mile round trip hike. It is known for all the waterfalls along the way. Here is some of the scenery!




The trailhead is about 10 miles down river from Mapleton on the south side of the Siuslaw! If you get a chance I recommend you go!

Monday, July 1, 2019

Link Creek Campground at Suttle Lake

I am now at Link Creek campground by Suttle lake just 15 miles west of Sisters, OR. It is beautiful and one of 3 lake shore campgrounds on the lake.



It has potable water, a fish cleaning station, boat ramps and pit toilets. The facilities are run by a concessionaire and are well maintained. It is $18 per night for a campsite with 1/2 of the sites reserve-able and 1./2 first come first serve. They accept my senior discount which is always a plus! I wanted to find a place to stay thru the fourth and this looks like a good choice. It was recommended by my friends, Jim and Jeanette Scott! I have taken several birding walks and spotted flycatchers,


spotted sandpipers


and some beautiful lillies!


I am looking forward to more hikes and birding!

Twin Lakes, Bridgeport, CA

 Spent 3 days at a beautiful creek side campsite at Twin Lakes! Surrounded by large pine trees and a crystal clear stream running along a ba...