[birding] dramatic Peregrine, etc.

[Karl Fairchild]

Hi OBOLers,

While my folks and I were counting the myriad swallows in the yard this 
morning, I suddenly spotted a raptor cruising fast into the yard.  
Before I could get my binoculars on it, I heard a big "whoosh" and the 
next thing I saw, a PEREGRINE FALCON was flaring out and slamming into 
an unfortunate STELLER'S JAY, 25 ft. below the height I initially saw 
the falcon.  Feathers flew and we all heard the "thud" of impact, before 
the falcon quickly flew of across the meadow and disappeared into the 
woods with its prize.  A first-ever yard bird for us, and we were able 
to confirm the black mask, eliminating the possibility of Goshawk.  A 
very interesting start to our morning walk!  We followed the trail of 
blue feathers across the meadow for a bit, but were unable to locate the 
falcon again.

Other interesting goodies from our extended hike around the property 
included:

Pileated Woodpecker
a notably large flock of Yellow-rumped Warblers
Wild Turkey (gobbling)
Mountain Quail (crowing)


Good Birding!

Karl Fairchild (and Karan and Jim too)
6 mi SW of Philomath