[obol] Sandy River Delta, and my finch

[Andy Frank]

At Sandy River Delta today, there are at least 2 and possibly 3 YELLOW-BREASTED CHATS.  The first was seen and heard about 20 yards past the first red-and-white tower, and a second was heard a little more distantly.  About 200 yards further down the path there was another CHAT.  Also along that path were RED-EYED VIREO and many WILLOW FLYCATCHERS.

In the fields were one WESTERN KINGBIRD and 5 singing male LAZULI BUNTINGS (just beautiful!).  I didn't see any Eastern Kingbirds but they have sometimes hung out by the far towers which are now not accessible due to very high water.

Thanks to Dave Irons for his comments on my finch, and to others that responded privately.  What I saw would be consistent with either an out-of-range Cassin's, or an early immature Purple Finch.  BOGR notes that Purple Finch nest building and egg laying recorded 8 May to 6 Jul west of the Cascades, so this would be early for a bird to be out on its own.  I realize this would not determine what my bird was, but would be interested in learning if anyone else has seen any immature Purple Finches out on their own yet.  

Andy Frank
Portland
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