[Birdtalk] Park Valley Raptors and Odds and Ends

[STEPHEN T CARLILE]

It's hot and not much happening.  However, on the way to Burley, Idaho last Thursday to visit my in-laws I took the Park Valley detour off I-84 (Exit 5 to highway 30) to see if the alfalfa cutting had begun and if the raptors were doing their gathering for the annul rabbit/rodent smorgasbord.  The "cutting" has just started, so the number of birds was not as large as it it will be later, but I did see Ferruginous Hawk (3), Red-tailed Hawk, (4), and a Golden Eagle (1) on the telephone poles along the road.  Very good, close looks. Also, lots of buteo blobs off in the distance.  There should be greater numbers and variety (e.g., Swainson's Hawk) this week and next as the alfalfa cutting gets into full swing.  Also saw Common Raven (12+), Western Kingbird (3), Western Meadowlark (2), and Horned Lark (2).

Nothing else that exciting, but around my backyard bird feeders 1 Rufous Hummingbird (first for the year - aggressive little bounders), plus my "resident" Black-chinned Hummingbirds, Barn Swallows, American Robins, American Goldfinches, Mourning Doves, Bullock's Orioles, and House Finches.

Maybe next week I can do some shore-birding.

Thanks,

Stephen
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