Over thirty observers were able to find five Le Conte's sparrows at Funk
WA this morning. The site is located by walking a half a mile or more
along the path running south under the viewing platform (signed, off
Funk Rd & 95, Delorme 50:b/c and 1/2), until crossing the first large
ditch. Cross the ditch and walk to the right along it. Before long your
progress will be cut off by another ditch; turn left here, and then
right just where this ditch ends. Two Le Conte's (an imm and an adult
sticking together) were found in the grass on your right about a hundred
yards on. If you follow the contour of the wet area--browner vegetation
with a line of dead trees, on the left, for about 300 yards further,
there were 3 Le Conte's (all adults) found together in similar grass
bordering the browner wetter area on the left.
These birds seemed attracted to pishing and imitations of their songs,
and often perched for great looks as close as ten yards. They were the
third most numerous sparrow on our walk, after swamp and song.
Experienced local observers wondered how many of these birds might have
been present, and noted they frequently appeared in what seem to be
family groups, or at least in small bands.
A flock of 43 sandhill cranes was also in the area at first light. No
Nelson's sparrows, reported from the previous day, were found, despite
determined searching; they'd been reported in the wetter areas.
Bill Whan
Columbus

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