[redcliffs] Long-tailed Jaeger at Quail Creek S.P. 10/26

[Rick Fridell]

Hello Everyone,

Well, I guess I wrong about needing to hurry to see the Long-tailed Jaeger
at Quail Creek State Park (Washington Co.).  It's still hanging out (since
10/18), and must be collecting enough small fish to get by.  I noticed it
this morning (10/26) while scanning the reservoir. Every once in a while a
Peregrine Falcon would make a pass at it and chase it for a while, but it
seemed to elude the falcon fairly easily.  I decided to run home and get a
kayak and try and get some closer photos. This worked very well, and at
times I was within ten feet of the bird while it was sitting on the water.
It's always amazing to me how close a person can get to wildlife in a canoe
or a quiet boat.  Other than the jaeger it was a rather quiet day at the
reservoir with a Common Loon, Western, Clark's, Pied-billed, Horned, and
Eared Grebes on the water.

If anyone is considering making a drive to Quail Creek S.P. for the jaeger
this weekend, and would like me to know if it's still there in the morning,
let me know and I can check and give you a call.

Regards,

Rick Fridell
Hurricane, UT