Naturalist Trip - Union Bay Natural Area & Yesler Swamp

It was a great day for getting close looks at bird behaviors such as a Bald Eagle repeatedly strafing a large on-water swarm (flock) of American Coots but unsuccessful in its attempts to capture one. Later, getting an up-close view of one of these plump, chicken-like birds as it preened, showing us its long, unique lobed toes. In another place, once their heads were raised out of the water, elegant grey-colored floating muffs turned out to be Gadwall ducks. The squeaky-toy voices of a group of American Widgeon ducks were heard before being seen. The downpour didn’t faze the Green-winged teal ducks nor disguise their emerald feathers. To fling raindrops, the ruffled-feathered body shake of the Yellow-rumped Warbler provided a clear view of its bright-yellow rump despite its otherwise subdued winter plumage. Despite near record-breaking rainfall, this Naturalist group enjoyed the opportunities to identify 24 different types of birds ranging from raptors to song birds to waterfowl. Many thanks to trip participant, Ian Tenney, for the pictures.