WESTERN USA 2009 This is a trip report from a family holiday in Western USA. We travelled from San Francisco (July 17) to Seattle (Aug 14). The weather was less stable than we had expected. On most days we had good weather with long daylight hours and temperatures 90-105 °F in the southern part of the trip (CA) and cooler in the northern parts (WA). The week before our holiday started, I visited the symposium of the International Society on Thrombosis and Haemostasis at Boston (MA). During this week I went twice on a whale watching trip from Boston harbour to Stellwagen Bank. In our holiday we visited Monterey (CA), where we took a whale watching trip, Aňo Nuevo State Reserve (CA), Pinnacles National Monument (CA), Kern River Preserve (CA), Giant Forest Sequoia National Park (CA), Kings Canyon National Park (CA), Lassen National Park (CA), Freezeout Lake (MO), the Rocky Mountain Front (several walks near Choteau (MO)), Glacier National Park (MO) and Tongue Point (Olympic Peninsula (WA)). This trip included expected and unexpected highlights. Birds ranged from Black-footed Albatross to Californian Condor, eleven species of Wood Warblers, Harlequin Duck, White-headed Woodpecker, four species of Loon including an immature Yellow-billed Loon, Northern Pygmy Owl, Boreal Chickadee, Pine Grosbeak, Ruffed Grouse, Blue Grouse, a stunning male (‘Franklin’s’) Spruce Grouse, to Tufted Puffins. Mammals were abundant. We had great views of Black Bear and Grizzly Bear, fighting males Northern Elephant Seal, whistling Pika’s, Moose, Snowshoe Hare, a Humpback Whale, three species of Dolpin and Sea Otter. Our timing was perfect to observe the wild flowers of the Rocky Mountain Front and Glacier NP. Landscapes and scenery ranged from the Pacific Coast to high alpine scenery (approx. 3,000 m). We travelled approximately 4,700 miles. Literature • Field guide to the mammals. Burt, W. H. and Grossenheider, R. P. (1978). Peterson Field Guide

Series. Houghton Mifflin Company (ISBN 0-395-24084-0). • The Sibley field guide to birds of Western North America. Sibley, D. A. (2003). Chanticleer Press

(ISBN 0-679-45121-8). • Birding Northern California. Kemper J. (2001). Falcon (ISBN 1-56044-832-6).

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Itinerary July 12 During the ISTH meeting in Boston MA, I joined an afternoon trip with Boston Harbour

Cruises to Stellwagen Bank (14.30-18.45). The weather was beautiful but windy. Great views of Humpback and Fin Whale, Wilson’s Storm-Petrel, Cory’s Shearwater and Greater Shearwater.

July 15 I joined a second tour to Stellwagen Bank (10.00-13.30). Only a single Fin Whale was seen,

but at least 20 breaching and bubble feeding Humpback Whales. Bird migration had started, several small flock of Dowitchers and “peeps”.

July 17 A flight from Boston to San Francisco (American Airlines). Car (full size wagon) rented from

Alamo. Annelien, Wessel and Imie arrived two hours later. Drive to Half Moon Bay (Holiday Inn).

July 18 We rose at 04.00. Left at 08.00, drove to Aňo Nuevo State Reserve en walked to North Point.

At least 150 males Northern Elephant Seal (4,500-5,000 lbs) were seen. Especially their gurgling sounds have to be heard! Also Harbour Seal, Californian Sea Lion, a Sea Otter, Pacific Bottlenose Dolphin and Mule Deer were seen. I dipped on two snakes seen by Imie. Most apparent birds were Song Sparrow, White-crowned Sparrow and Osprey. Overnight stay at the Cypress Garden Inn (Monterey).

July 19 From 09.00 to 13.20 a whale watching tour with Montery Bay Whale Watch. Visibility was

cumbersome during the first part of the trip. Many Risso’s Dolphin and a single Humpback Whale. Birds included Black-footed Albatross, a possible South-polar Skua, Sooty-, Pink-footed and a single Black-vented Shearwater. The sea was not too flat, and Imie and Annelien were sick. Afternoon swim in the pool of the Cypress Garden Inn. Brief stroll along a rather nice trail immediately opposite our motel.

July 20 Awoke at 05.00, prebreakfast tour with Annelien, a.o. Mule Deer and a nice male Wilson’s

Warbler. Bought groceries at the Safeway and visited (10.00-1300) the famous Monterey Aquarium, which is a reconstructed factory –part of the famous Canary Row. Sea-otters could be seen inside as well outside (wild!). Drive via Hwy 1 to Big Sur, where we walked a short trail. Rather foggy during the morning, afternoon blue skies. Picture below: Pinnacles National Monument, July 21.

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July 21 Left 08.30 for Pinnacles National Monument (West side). Drive via G16, a scenic drive but

time consuming road due to the many curves. Arrived at Pinnacles about 11.30, where it was rather warm (99 °F) with a hot wind. We walked the Balconies Trail, which included two “caves”. Despite the heat we saw several good birds, including four distant Californian Condor, Oak Titmouse, Rock Wren, Canyon Wren and a small flock of Wrentit. Imie obtained her first Junior Ranger Badge of the trip. Drive via Soledad and Caolinga to Hwy 5 South, and then to Wasco via 46. Several other birds included Yellow-billed Magpie, Western Meadowlark and Phainopepla. Overnight stay at a Best Western Motel.

July 22 A slow drive, via Bakerfield, along Lake Isabella behind some trucks. Walked from 09.00-

12.00 a trail at the Kern River Valley Preserve. Despite the heat (100+ °F) there were many birds around, including Californian Quails, Black-headed Grosbeaks, a male Scarlet Tanager, Yellow Warbler, Nashville Warbler, Lazuli Bunting, Raven, Oak Titmouse etc. In the afternoon we drove, via Kernville and Fairview, to Giant Sequoia National Monument (Southern Unit), walked the wheelchair accessible Trail of 100 Giants (14.00-16.00). Truly stunning Giant Sequoia’s and Ponderosa Pines. Birds included our first White-headed Woodpecker, Western Bluebird, Yellow-rumped Warbler, etc. Drive to the next Best Western (Exeter).

July 23 Left early for Giant Forest Sequoia National Park. We bought a map at the ranger station and

drove to Crescent Meadow. We walked to Eagle View and returned via Log Meadow. Near Low Meadow we met the first Black Bear of the trip. This bear was so close that we could hear its sniffing. After lunch, we walked to the General Sherman Tree. This tree has the largest estimated volume of 1470 m3 of any tree in the world. The forest was surprisingly rich in mammals and birds: Least and Golden-mantled Squirrels, Chickaree, Yellowbellied Marmot, seven White-headed Woodpecker, House Wren, Western Bluebird, Yellow-rumped and MacGillivray’s Warbler, Raven, Western Tanager, Townsend’s Solitaire, Pacific Slope Flycatcher, Hairy and Acorn Woodpecker. At the end of the afternoon we drove back to Exeter for another night at the Best Western (still 100+ °F). After the pasta, we enjoyed the swimming pool.

July 24 We tried to book another night at the motel, but had to move to the Kaweah Motel. Left

early for Giant Sequoia NP, where we walked from Wolverton to Pear Lake (elevation 2800 m). The weather was great with a crystal clear blue sky. We met our second cinnamon coloured Black Bear, an immature, that was trying to find some food. The birds were

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relatively quiet, but we had good views of Rufous and Calliope Hummingbirds, and again White-headed Woodpecker. Returned to Exeter at 18.30, had cold pasta and a swim.

July 25 After breakfast (cold pasta and crackers), we left again early to drive to King’s Canyon NP via

the 245 North. This road was a straight line on our not too detailed map but proved to have a horrendous number of curves. Although the distance was about 50 miles, it took us about 1.5 hours of tough driving! We walked to Sugar Bowl Grove (10.00-14.30). The weather was beautiful with clear blue skies, the trees were truly giant and the birds were relatively plentiful, including a nice male Black-throated Gray Warbler, Hermit Warbler, Bushtit, Red-tailed Hawk, etc. Since this was a Saturday and King’s Canyon NP is a busy park in summer, we decided to leaf and drive to Los Baňos (Best Western).

July 26 Left at 08.00 and briefly visited the San Luis Refuge Complex, just North of Los Baňos, which

is a famous reserve for wintering birds. Although the timing could have been better, we saw a lot of birds in about 1.5 hours: our only Cattle Egrets of the tour, Great and Snowy Egret, Nuttall’s Woodpecker, Bullocks Oriole, American Goldfinch, etc. For the first time this holiday both Imie and Wessel practiced their driving skills. Drive (99 N) to Chico. Just before Chico we saw at least 100+ White-faced Ibis and our first Swainson’s hawk. Temperature still 100+ °F. Brief views while driving of the only Tricoloured Blackbird of the trip.

July 27 We started early and drove to Lassen National Park. Unexpectedly, a gasoline station was out

of order and we had to return 40 miles to obtain gasoline. As a consequence, we arrived at the visitor centre at noon! Brief drive to the Crag Campground, pitched up our tent and bought meat for a BBQ (another 18 miles single drive). Afternoon walk along scenic Manzanita Lake (16.00-17.30), were we saw Red-breasted Sapsucker, Olive-sided Flycatcher, Hermit- and Orange-crowned Warbler, Buffleheads (common), Pied-billed Grebe. We enjoyed our first BBQ and camping.

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July 28 Walked to Lassen Peak (elevation 3200 m; 07.15-11.45). Beautiful walk with great views. Birds were relatively scarce. Had lunch at King’s Creek (elevation 2200 m; 12.00-14.30), where a little trail along the river proved to be quite productive: a female Evening Grosbeak, Red Crossbill, Pine Siskin, Dipper, etc. We returned early (16.00) to the campground, since a thunderstorm was expected. The campground produced a Red-naped Sapsucker and a White-headed Woodpecker.

July 29 Walked to King’s Creek Falls (07.30-11.30). Good views of Williamson’s Sapsucker, Dipper, a

female (sitting) Calliope Hummingbird, a male and imatures Evening Grosbeak. We enjoyed our lunch again at King’s Creek, and then walked to Bumppass Hell. We had brief views of the mud pools and geysers due to rain and hail showers. Beautiful views of Mountain Bluebirds. We saw (and heard) two rescue helicopters, since two people had become wounded when walking to Lassen Peak. Drive to Shingleton for meat and other groceries.

July 30 Left Crag Campground and started 09.30 with the walk to Cinder Cone. Due to the heat,

especially the trail to the cone proved to be tough; the Cone itself was steep but not too high. The volcanic scenery was scenic, but birdlife was cumbersome. Returned around noon, had a quick lunch and started driving to Lakeview (ORE). Some birds during a brief stop at Modoc National Forest. We enjoyed another overnight stay at a Best Western Motel (Lakeview). Temperature still over 100 °F.

July 31 A travel day. We left 07.30 and arrived about 16.00 (17.00 Mountain Time) at Riggens (IDA).

Passed Lake Albert (395 N), which was crowded with migrating waders and gulls. The whole area is volcanic and due to the sage brush it is very scenic but not much of a tourist trap. During a stop we saw Black-necked Stilt, American Avocet, Franklin’s Gull and our first Pronghorns. For Burns we saw Sandhill Cranes and two Coyotes, of which unfortunately one was shot by a farmer before our eyes. Drove the 20 E to Ontario and then 95 N to Wiggens. Several good birds while driving, including Swainson’s Hawk, Ferruginous Hawk and Common Nighthawk. We slept again in a Best Western Motel. Temperature still over 100 °F.

Aug 1 Again a travel day. Drive –via Grangeville- along the 12 to Missoula. We saw several female

Common Merganser and Mule Deer. Then drove to Freezeout Lake near Choteau. Despite that the water level was high, we saw Wilson’s Phalarope, Baird’s Sandpiper, Greater Yellowleg, several species of Grebes and Ducks (16.00-17.30). Due to the heat (90+ °F) we again decided to search for a motel. We booked two nights at the Stage Stop Inn. The only room available was a room for a disabled person with “only” a double bed. We enjoyed the swimming pool and home-made lentil soup (including a Polish sausage).

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Aug 2 Annelien and I visited Freezeout Lake, starting at the poorly indicated entrance road between mile markers 34 and 35. Saw several Short-eared Owl and waders. Returned to the motel at 10.00 and visited the Rock Shop at Bynum. Lunch at the Eureka Reservoir, then drove to Ear Mountain and we walked the first 1.5 miles of the trail to the top. Great views of a Prairie Falcon. Returned to Choteau at 17.00, enjoyed all a single scoop of local ice cream and decided to skip dinner. At about 18.30 tried to find the dirt road to Egg Mountain. Although we did not find the road, we drove the 89 South and then a little dirt road that started at mile marker 59. While the children again practiced their driving skills, we had our finest hour by having great views of Pronghorn, Coyote, White-tailed Prairiedog, a flying and then perched adult Ferruginous Hawk, Swainson’s and Red-tailed Hawk, Northern Harrier, a female Merlin, Horned Lark, and McCown’s and Chestnut-collared Longspur. Returned to the motel at 20.30 and we all had a good swim.

Aug 3 Bought groceries and gasoline in Choteau. Drove to the end of the South Fork Road, and

walked 7 miles (return) to Our Lake (also called Hidden Lake). This area is part of the Rocky Mountain Front and very scenic. Beautiful walk with many flowers. At the parking lot saw a Spotted Sandpiper foraging in the river and a male Townsville Warbler. Drive to Choteau via minor dirt roads.

Aug 4 Our final day in Choteau. Drove to the end of the South Fork Road, and started walking to

Headquarters Pass at 10.00. We saw again many flowers, including several species or Orchids, Golden Eagle, and Pika. We had crippling views of Boreal Chickadee. The weather was still beautiful. We did some shopping in Choteau, had an early dinner (noodles) and Annelien and I went for a post-dinner tour to “Egg Mountain” (287 S, immediately right at the radio transmission tower). We were less successful than the previous evening, but still saw Pronghorns and Northern Harriers. The sky started to change and we expected bad weather.

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Aug 5 A weird day. The weather forecast was cumbersome, but we decided to drive to St. Mary in

Glacier National Park. While travelling to Glacier NP there was fog and rain, but once we were in Glacier the weather improved. We pitched up our tent and walked the Iceberg Lake Trail (13.30-19.00). The trail was extremely productive despite other tourists, and we managed to see a female / juvenile Ruffed Grouse, a male and three chickens of Blue Grouse, several Golden Eagles, a Moose and six Mountain Goats. While returning to our car, a ranger told that they were expecting really poor weather for the coming days, including lots of rain. We decided to break down the tent while Imie and Wessel were delivering Imie’s Junior Ranger Programme at the Visitor Centre. Then drove back to Choteau where we arrived about 22.30. The Stage Stop Inn was full and we stayed overnight at the Montana Big Sky Motel. A great name for a ramshackle but cosy motel.

Aug 6 We slept very well. Annelien and I went shopping at Rex’s Supermarket and bought warm

pizzas and coffee at the gasoline station. We all enjoyed the pizza breakfast. We re-visited the Rock Shop and drove to Logan Pass via St. Mary. We walked the board walk, saw Gray-crowned Rosy Finch, from about 13.30 – 15.00, but then a thunderstorm started. We drove via Lake McDonald and Hungry Horse to Kalispell, where we found a room (Motel 6) at 19.00. The instable weather made our planning difficult.

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Aug 7 Left at 07.00 and arrived at Logan Pass at 09.00. Walked part of the trail and had good views

of a male Townsville Warbler, American Pipit, Swainson’s Thrush, etc. Returned and decided to walk the trail to Grinnell Glacier. Due to some difficulties in finding the starting point of the trail, we ended up by (telescope) views of a foraging Grizzly Bear at Many Glacier. We started the trail to Grinnell Glacier at 14.30, and enjoyed truly stunning views of a close and very tame male Spruce Grouse (Franklin’s form), brief views of a female Pine Grosbeak, Hammond’s Flycatcher and a Goshawk. Despite the predicted (very) poor weather, the weather remained fine. Camped at the St. Mary’s campground.

Aug 8 I rose at 05.00 and enjoyed two pre-breakfast walks (campground - visitor centre): Osprey,

Bald Eagle, White Pelican, Calliope Hummingbird, Willow Flycatcher, a mixed flock of Wood Warblers including two unexpected male American Redstarts, Yellow and Orange-crowned Warbler, an unexpected Catbird, Cassin’s Vireo, Belted Kingfisher, Cedar Waxwing, juveniles Red-naped Sapsucker, etc. Wessel and Imie awoke at 09.00 and we drove to Many Glacier to enjoy a well earned ice-cream (Ben and Jerry). When entering Glacier National Park, an immature Black Bear crossed the road. Walked the Ptarmigan Lake Trail, which was less spectacular than the walk to Grinnell Glacier. Together, we walked a total distance of about 25 km. A bit windy, but otherwise beautiful weather.

Aug 9 Again a brief pre-breakfast walk. Birds included Cooper’s Hawk, Merlin, Osprey and Bald

Eagle. While driving to Logan Pass, we had close views of an adult Black Bear eating berries. Walked the Highline Trail (12 miles), starting at Logan Pass at 10.00 am. At the start it was foggy, but later on the sight improved. We saw Bighorn Sheep, a single Pika (but heard many more), and Columbian Ground Squirrel was common. Birds were tame, but a distant calling Northern Pygmy Owl and a fly-by Pine Grosbeak were true highlights! Returned to Logan Pass by the shuttle bus and arrived in Kalispell (Motel 6) at 20.30. Bought several pizza’s.

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Aug 10 Another travel day (550 miles). From Kalispell along Flathead Lake, Polson, and Hwy 90 to

Tacoma (Motel 6). Briefly visited the Ninepipe Wildlife Reserve, which is part of the National Bison Range, where we saw Trumpeter Swan and a male Wood Duck. We had nice weather, but before Seattle / Tacoma it started raining.

Aug 11 Pouring with rain. After breakfast we decided to drive to Port Angeles. This proved to be a

good strategy, since the weather greatly improved near Tongue Point. Birds were plentiful, including several species of Auks, Common Loon, an immature Yellow-billed Loon (a rarity) and Bald Eagle. Visited the outdoor shop at Port Angeles. While preparing diner with fine views of Juan de Fuca, a close and tame Red-breasted Sapsucker further improved the scenery.

Aug 12 Again an early start (05.30). Pre-breakfast tour with Annelien at the campground produced a

Racoon, Red-necked Grebe and stunning views of a perched adult Bald Eagle. During breakfast I saw three Harbour Porpoise. The weather was nice. Drive to La Push. There were several ‘mixed bird flocks’, including (50-100+) Tufted Puffin, Brown Pelican, several species of gull, Common Murre, Pigeon Guillemot, Clark’s Grebe and Black Scoter, Red-throated Loon, Common Loon and Pacific Loon. We collected firewood and drove to Ediz Hook (Port Angeles), where we saw Harbour Seal and our fist Cassin’s Auklet.

Aug 13 Annelien cleaned the tent. Drive -via Port Angeles (Safeway, outdoor shop and hardware

store) to Dungeness Wildlife Refuge, a sandy peninsula. We walked a part of the trail towards the lighthouse. Lots of gulls, Harbour Seal, a single Parasitic Jaeger, close views of Least and Western Peep, Royal Tern. The weather remained surprisingly good. Drive to Tacoma where we almost dipped on a motel room due to a local dog show.

Aug 14 Apart from reshuffling some of our luggage (one or two bags proved to be too heavy), we

had a good return journey.

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BIRDS GAVIIDAE Red-throated Loon Gavia stellata - A single bird near La Push (Aug 12). Common Loon Gavia immer - Common, seen on 5 days in good numbers (up to 10+/day). Yellow-billed Loon Gavia adamsii - One of the best birds of the tour. A stunning juvenile was present in a mixed flock with several Common Loons at Tongue Point (Aug 11). Pacific Loon Gavia pacifica - Seen on 2 days, most common near La Push (30+ birds, Aug 12). PODICIPEDIDAE Eared Grebe Podiceps nigricollis - At least 20 birds at Freezeout Lake (Aug 1). Red-necked Grebe Podiceps grisegena - Three birds near Tongue Point (Aug 12). Pied-billed Grebe Podilymbus podiceps - Seen in low numbers (1-6/day) on 4 days. Western Grebe Aechmonophorus occidentalis - Seen on 5 days, most common at Feezeout Lake (Aug 1). Clark’s Grebe Aechmophorus clarkia - Two birds at Freezeout Lake (Aug 1) and a single bird at La Push (Aug 12). DIOMEDEIDAE Black-footed Albatross Phoebastria nigripes - About 30+ during the Monterey Bay Whale Watch trip (July 19).

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PROCELLARIIDAE Northern Fulmar Fulmarus glacialis - A single bird (light individual) during the Monterey Bay Whale Watch trip (July 19). Cory’s Shearwater Calonectris diomedea - Much less abundant than Greater Shearwater. Well seen during the two trips from Boston (July 12 and 15), beautiful in flight and resembling a small Albatros in flight.

Greater Shearwater Puffinus gravis - Seen in good numbers (estimated 2,000+ and 300+) during the two whaling trips from Boston (July 12 and 17).

Black-vented Shearwater Puffinus opisthomelas - At least one bird during the Monterey Bay Whale Watch trip (July 19). Sooty Shearwater Puffinus griseus - Seen on both the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. Highest numbers (500+) during the Monterey Bay Whale Watch trip (July 19). Pink-footed Shearwater Puffinus creatopus - Common, at least 100 birds during the Monterey Bay Whale Watch trip (July 19).

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HYDROBATIDAE Wilson’s Storm-Petrel Oceanites oceanicus - Beautiful views of singles and small flocks during both Boston whaling tours on July 12 and 17). About 50+ birds on both trips.

PELECANIDAE Brown Pelican Pelecanus occidentalis - Common near Monterey (July 18-20).

American White Pelican Pelecanus erythrorhynchos - Seen on 7 days. Highest count 100+ birds at Freezeout Lake (Aug 1). PHALACROCORACIDAE Double-crested Cormorant Phalacrocorax auritus - Common, seen on 7 days in good numbers. Pelagic Cormorant Phalacrocorax pelagicus - Common, seen on 6 days. Brandt´s Cormorant Phalacrocorax penicillatus - Common near Monterey (July 18-20). SULIDAE Northern Gannet Morus bassanus - Seen in low numbers during the Boston whaling trips. ARDEIDAE American Bittern Botaurus lentiginosus - A single bird at Freezeout Lake (Aug 1). Possibly heard a single bird at the San Luis Refuge Complex on July 26. Great Blue Heron Ardea herodias - Common, seen on most days. Great Egret Ardea alba - Most common (50+) during a brief visit of the San Luis Refuge Complex (North of Los Baňos; July 26). Snowy Egret Egretta thula - As previous species, also 50+ birds at the San Luis Refuge Complex (July 26).

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Black-crowned Night-Heron Nycticorax nycticorax - A single bird in Bosto. Also seen at Freezeout Lake on Aug 1 and 2. THRESKIORNITHIDAE White-faced Ibis Plegadis chihi - At least 100+ birds at the San Luis Refuge Complex on July 26. Also seen on July 30 and 31.

ANATIDAE Trumpeter Swan Cygnus columbianus - Six birds at the Ninepipe Wildlife Reserve (near National Bison Refuge; Aug 10). Canada Goose Branta canadensis - Common, seen in good numbers throughout the tour. Mallard Anas platyrhynchos - As previous species. Northern Shoveler Anas clypeata - Seen at Freezeout Lake (Aug 1-2). Northern Pintail Anas acuta - A single female on Aug 2 (Freezeout Lake) and 2 birds at the Ninepipe Wildlife Reserve (Aug 10). Cinnamon Teal Anas cyanoptera - Singles at Freezeout Lake and the Ninepipe Wildlife Refuge.

Ring-billed Duck Aythya collaris - Two birds at the Ninepipe Wildlife Reserve (Aug 10). Canvasback Aythya valisineria - A single bird at the Ninepipe Wildlife Reserve (Aug 10). Harlequin Duck Histrionicus histrionicus - Common at Tongue Point, estimated 100+ birds on Aug 11. Common Eider Somateria mollissima - At least 10 birds on both July 12 and 15 (Boston). Surf Scoter Melanitta perspillata - Common at Tongue Point. Black Scoter Melanitta nigra - A single bird on Aug 12. Barrow’s Goldeneye Bucephala islandica - A single female at Glacier NP (Ice Berg Lake, Aug 10). Bufflehead Bucephala albeola - Seen on 2 days, 20+ birds at Manzanita Lake (Lassen NP, July 27). Common Merganser Mergus merganser - Seen on 3 days.

Ruddy Duck Oxyura jamaicensis - Most common at Freezeout Lake (Aug 1-2).

ACCIPITRIDAE Northern Harrier Circus cyaneus - Seen on 5 days, most common in the prairies near Choteau. Sharp-shinned Hawk Accipiter striatus - A single bird on Aug 11. Cooper’s Hawk Accipiter cooperii - Singles on 2 days.

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Northern Goshawk Accipiter gentiles - A single bird flew straight over our heads at the trail to Grinnell Glacier (Aug 7).

Red-tailed Hawk Buteo jamaicensis - One of the most common raptors seen during the tour, seen almost daily. Red-shouldered Hawk Buteo lineatus - A few singles seen during the first week. Swainson’s Hawk Buteo swainsoni - Seen on 6 days, most common at the prairies (Choteau). Ferruginous Hawk Buteo regalis - Four singles seen, including a beautiful adult near Choteau. Osprey Pandion haliaetus - As always, surprisingly common. Seen on 13 days, up to 8 birds/day. Golden Eagle Aquila chrysaetos - Seen on 3 days. Bald Eagle Haliaeetus leucocephalus - Relatively common at the Olympic Peninsula. Stunning views of an adult perched in a tree at Tongue Point (Aug 12). Picture below: left: Osprey; right: Bald Eagle.

CATHARTIDAE California Condor Gymnogyps californianus - Four distant flying adults at Pinnacles Natl. Monument (July 21).

Turkey Vulture Cathartes aura - Seen on most days in good numbers. FALCONIDAE Merlin Falco columbarius - Singles on 3 days. We had stunning views of a female trying to catch (probably) a Longspur near Choteau (Aug 2). American Kestrel Falco sparverius - Seen on many days, 1-3 birds/day. Prairie Falcon Falco mexicanus - Two singles seen when we walked to Ear Mountain (Aug 2). A single bird was also seen on Aug 3.

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PHASIANIDAE California Quail Callipepla californica - Common during the first half of the tour. By far the highest count (at least 100+) at Kern River Valley Reserve (July 22). All birds flew off when I let a rather loud fart. Blue Grouse Dendragapus obscurus - Yes! When walking to Ice Berg Lake (Aug 5), Wessel discovered an adult bird, probably a male, with at least 3 juveniles. The adult was seen well, including its yellow ‘eyebrow’. Spruce Grouse Falcipennis canadensis - Crippling views of an adult male (‘Franklin’s’ type), again found by Wessel, at very close range when walking to Grinnell Glacier (Aug 7). Surprisingly tame.

Ruffed Grouse Bonasa umbellus - Again found by Wessel. A single female / immature crossed the path when walking to Ice Berg Lake (Aug 5).

GRUIDAE Sandhill Crane Grus canadensis - Seen on 2 days, highest count of 8 birds on July 31. RALLIDAE American Coot Fulica americana - Most common at Freezeout Lake (1000+ birds on Aug 2). Common Moorhen Gallinula chloropus - A single bird on July 18. CHARADRIIDAE Killdeer Charadrius vociferous - Seen on 5 days (1-2 birds/day). HAEMATOPODIDAE Black Oystercatcher Haematopus bachmani - Seen at the West Coast, both near Monterey and Tongue Point. Pied Oystercatcher Haematopus palliates - About 10 birds near Boston harbour (July 12).

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RECURVIROSTRIDAE American Avocet Recurvirostra americna - Seen at Lake Albert (300+; July 31) and Freezeout Lake (Aug 1-2). Black-necked Stilt Himantopus mexicanus - Seen on 3 days, most common at Lake Albert (July 31). SCOLOPACIDAE Lesser Yellowlegs Tringa flavipes - Four birds seen at Freezeout Lake (Aug 2). Solitary Sandpiper Tringa solitaria - Seen at Freezeout Lake on Aug 1 and 2. Spotted Sandpiper Actitis macularia - Seen on 3 days, 1-2 birds/day. Long-billed Curlew Numenius americanus - Seen on 3 days, small flocks mixed with Marbled Godwit at Freezeout Lake. Marbled Godwit Limosa fedoa - See previous species.

Sanderling Calidris alba - Seen 3 birds at La Push (Aug 12). Baird’s Sandpiper Calidris bairdii - A single bird seen at Freezeout Lake (Aug 1). Western Sandpiper Calidris mauri - Seen at Freezeout Lake (Aug 2) and Dungeness Wildlife Refuge (Aug 13). Least Sandpiper Calidris minutilla - As previous species. Red Knot Calidris canutus - Two birds at Dungeness Wildlife Refuge (Aug 13). Long-billed Dowitcher Limnodromus scolopaceus - Seen at Freezeout Lake (Aug 1-2). Short-billed Dowitcher Limnodromus griseus - A small migrating flock seen during the whale watching trip from Boston (July 12). Wilson’s Snipe Gallinago delicate - A single bird at Freezeout Lake (Aug 2). Wilson’s Phalarope Phalaropus tricolour - Seen at Freezeout Lake on Aug 1 and 2. Red Phalarope Phalaropus fulicaria - A single bird seen during the whale watching trip (Monterey, Aug 19).

Red-necked Phalarope Phalaropus labatus - A single bird could be identified at Freezeout Lake (Aug 2). LARIDAE Parasitic Jaeger Stercorarius parasiticus - A single bird was chasing a Caspian Tern at Dungeness Wildlife Refuge (Aug 13).

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South Polar Skua Stercorarius maccormicki - A single bird seen during the Monterey whale watching trip (Aug 19). California Gull Larus californicus - Common at the West coast. Bonaparte’s Gull Larus Philadelphia - A single bird during the Boston whale watching trip (July 12). Franklin’s Gull Larus pipixcan - Very common at Lake Albert (July 31) and Freezeout Lake (Aug 1 and 2). Laughing Gull Larus atricilla - Common during the Boston whale watching trips (July 12 and 15).

Ring-billed Gull Larus delawarensis - A few birds in Boston, but more common at Lake Albert (July 31) and at the Olympic Peninsula. Western Gull Larus occidentalis - Common at the West coast. Herring Gull Larus argentatus - As previous species. Glaucous-winged Gull Larus glaucescens - Common at the Olympic Peninsula. Heerman’s Gull Larus heermanni - Common at the West coast. Lesser Black-backed Gull Larus fuscus - Seen during the Boston whale watching trips. Great Black-backed Gull Larus marinus - See previous species. Black Tern Chlidonias niger - At least ten birds at Lake Albert (July 31). Caspian Tern Sterna caspia - Seen on 5 days, most common at Dungeness Wildlife Refuge (Aug 13). Common Tern Sterna hirundo - Seen at Lake Albert (July 31) and Freezeout Lake (Aug 2). Foster’s Tern Sterna forsteri - A single bird during the Boston whale watching trip (July 12). ALCIDAE Common Murre Uria aalge - Common at Monterey and the Olympic Peninsula. Pigeon Guillemot Cepphus columba - As previous species, but lower numbers. Marbled Murrelet Brachyramphus marmoratus - A single bird during the Monterey whale watching tour (July 19) and several birds at Tongue Point (Olympic Peninsula). Cassin’s Auklet Ptychoramphus aleuticus - As previous species. Rhinoceros Auklet Cerorhinca monocerata - Common at the Olympic Peninsula. Tufted Puffin Fratercula cirrhata - At least 50 birds in mixed flocks of sea birds near La Push (Aug 12).

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COLUMBIDAE Mourning Dove Zenaida macroura - Very common, seen on most days. Eurasian Collared Dove Streptopelia decaocto (I) - Single birds on Aug 7 and Aug 9. Rock Dove Columba livia (I) - Seen on various days. Band-tailed Pigeon Columbina fasciata - A single bird at Big Sur (July 20). STRIGIDAE Northern Pygmy Owl Glaucidium gnoma - One of the best birds of the trip. A single calling bird seen along the Highline Trail (Glacier NP, Aug 9). Short-eared Owl Asia flammeus - A total of 3 birds at Freezeout Lake (Aug 2). CAPRIMULGIDAE Common Nighthawk Chordeiles minor - Seen on 5 days during the second half of the tour. At least 100 birds on Aug 9. APODIDAE White-throated Swift Aeronautes saxatalis - A single bird at King’s Canyon (July 25). Vaux’s Swift Chaetura vauxi - At least 10 birds (July 31). Black Swift Cypseloides niger - Three birds at Manzanita Lake (Lassen NP, July 27). TROCHILIDAE Calliope Hummingbird Stellula calliope - Seen on 6 days, most often single birds at alpine meadows.

Black-chinned Hummingbird Archilochus alexandri - At least 10 birds at the Kern River Valley Preserve (July 22). Anna’s Hummingbird Calypte anna - As previous species. Rufous Hummingbird Selasphorus rufus - Two birds at Pear Lake (July 24). ALCEDINIDAE Belted Kingfisher Ceryle alcyon - Common, seen on 8 days during the second half of the tour. PICIDAE Acorn Woodpecker Melanerpes formicivorus - Common at Northern California (July 19-23).

Williamson’s Sapsucker Sphyrapicus thyroideus - Seen in Lassen NP on July 29 (male and female) and July 30 (female).

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Red-breasted Sapsucker Sphyrapicus rubber - A single male (July 27) and two birds at Tongue Point (Aug 11 and 12). Red-naped Sapsucker Sphyrapicus nuchalis - Seen on 4 days. Three immature birds near the campground at St. Mary’s (Glacier NP, Aug 8). Hairy Woodpecker Picoides villosus - Single birds at Giant Sequoia NP (July 23 and 24). Nuttall’s Woodpecker Picoides nuttallii - A single bird at the San Luis Refuge complex (July 26). White-headed Woodpecker Picoides albolarvatus - Seen at 5 days. First bird seen was a single male at the Trail of the 100 Giants (Giant Sequoia NP, July 22). Rather common at Giant Sequoia NP, small flocks of 3-4 birds on July 23. Northern Flicker Colaptes auratus - Seen on 6 days, 1-2 birds/day. TYRANNIDAE Olive-sided Flycatcher Contopus cooperi - Seen on 3 days, first (2 birds) at Lake Manzanita (Lassen NP) on July 27. Western Wood Peewee Contopus sordidulus - Seen or heard during the trip (5 days). Dusky Flycatcher Empidonax oberholseri - Seen at Monterey (July 19) and Big Sur (July 20). Willow Flycatcher Empidonax traillii - A single bird near St. Mary’s campground (Glacier NP, Aug 8). Hammond’s Flycatcher Empidonax hammondii - Seen on 3 days, e.g. 2 birds along the Sugar Bowl Grove (King’s Canyon NP, July 25). Cordilleran Flycatcher Empidonax occidentalis - A single bird on Aug 4 (walk to Headquarters Pass near Choteau). Black Phoebe Sayornis nigricans - Seen on 3 days in California. Ash-throated Flycatcher Myiarchus cinerascens - At least 10 birds at the San Luis Refuge Complex (July 26). Western Kingbird Tyrannus verticalis - Seen on 2 days, most common (20+ birds) at the Kern River Valley Preserve (July 27). Eastern Kingbird Tyrannus tyrannus - Seen on 5 days, most common (20+ birds) at Freezeout lake (Aug 2).

LANIIDAE Loggerhead Shrike Lanius exubitor - Three birds at the San Luis Refuge Complex (July 26).

VIREONIDAE Cassin’s Vireo Vireo cassinii - Beautiful views of a single bird in a mixed flock with several wood warblers near St. Mary’s campground (Glacier NP, Aug 8).

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CORVIDAE Steller’s Jay Cyanocitta stelleri - Common, seen on 11 days in low numbers (1-3 birds/day). Western Scrub Jay Aphelocoma californica - Common in California. Gray Jay Perisoreus canadensis - Uncommon, 3 birds at Lassen NP (July 27), a single bird on Aug 4. Clark’s Nutcracker Nucifraga columbiana - Seen on 7 days. Black-billed (American) Magpie Pica hudsonia - Common during the second half of the trip. Yellow-billed Magpie Pica nuttallii - Only 8 birds when travelling to Pinnacles National Monument (July 21). American Crow Corvus brachyrhynchos - Common, seen on most days. Common Raven Corvus corax - Common, seen or heard on most days. Northwestern Crow Corvus caurinus - Common at the Olympic Peninsula. ALAUDIDAE Horned Lark Eremophila alpestris - Seen near Choteau (Freezeout Lake, prairies). HIRUNDINIDAE Violet-green Swallow Tachycineta thalassina - Seen on 2 days. Northern Rough-winged Swallow Stelgidopteryx serrinpennis - By far the most common swallow seen. Bank Swallow Riparia riparia - Two birds at the Ninepipe Wildlife Reserve (Aug 10). Barn Swallow Hirundo rustica - Seen on 5 days during the tour. Cliff Swallow Petrochelidon pyrrhonota - Common, seen on 7 days in fair numbers. PARIDAE Oak Titmouse Baeolophus inornatus - Singles on 3 days, first bird seen at Pinnacles National Monument (July 21). Black-capped Chickadee Poecile atricapilla - Two birds (Aug 1). Mountain Chickadee Poecile gambeli - Common, seen or heard on 9 days. Chestnut-backed Chickadee Poeceli rufescens - Seen on 5 days. Boreal Chickadee Poecile hudsonica - Good views of 2 foraging birds when walking to Headquarters Pass (Aug 3).

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AEGITHALIDAE Bushtit Psaltriparus minimus - Rather common in small flocks when walking to Sugar Bowl Grove (King’s Canyon NP, July 25). CERTHIIDAE Brown Creeper Certhia Americana - A single bird on July 19. A total of 3 birds at Sugar Bowl Grove (King’s Canyon NP, July 25). SITTIDAE Red-breasted Nuthatch Sitta Canadensis - Common, seen on 7 days. White-breasted Nuthatch Sitta carolinensis - Common, seen on 6 days. Pygmy Nuthatch Sitta pygmaea - A single bird at Aňo Nuevo State Reserve (July 18).

TROGLODYTIDAE Bewick’s Wren Thryomanes bewickii - Two birds at the Trail of the 100 Giants (Sequoia NP, July 22). Marsh Wren Cistothorus palustris - Common at Freezeout Lake (Aug 1-2). House Wren Troglodytes aedon - Several singles seen. Rock Wren Salpinctes obloletus - A single bird seen at Pinnacles National Monument (July 21). Canyon Wren Catherpes mexicanus - A total of 5 birds at Pinnacles National Monument (July 21). CINCLIDAE American Dipper Cinclus mexicanus - Seen at Lassen NP on July 28 (2 birds) and July 29 (3 birds). SYLVIIDAE Wrentit Chamaea fasciata - A small flock of 3 birds at Pinnacles National Monument (July 21). REGULIDAE Golden-crowned Kinglet Regulus satrapa - A total of 6 birds along the Pear Lake Trail (July 24). Also 2 birds on Aug 4. TURDIDAE Mountain Bluebird Sialia currucoides - Common, seen on 4 days (3-10+ birds/day)..

Western Bluebird Sialia Mexicana - Also common, seen on 5 days. Townsend’s Solitaire Myadestes townsendi - Seen on 9-10 days, typically 1-3 birds/day. American Robin Turdus migratorius - The most common thrush of the tour, seen on most days.

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Swainson’s Thrush Catharus ustulatus - A single bird at Logan Pass (Glacier NP, Aug 7). Hermit Thrush Catharus guttatus - A single bird at Lassen NP (Aug 27). MIMIDAE Northern Mockingbird Mimus polyglottus - Seen on 5 days, 1-10+ birds/day. Gray Catbird Dumetella carolinensis - A surprise. At least 2 birds near St. Mary’s campground (Glacier NP, Aug 8). California Thrasher Toxostoma redivivum - Two single birds on July 21 (Pinnacles National Monument). Sage Thrasher Oreoscoptes montanus - A total of 3 birds near the Lake Albert region (July 31). STURNIDAE European Starling Sturnus vulgaris (I) - Common. MOTACILLIDAE American Pipit Anthus rubescens – Common. Spraque’s Pipit Anthus spragueii - Two birds near Freezeout Lake (Aug 1). OTILOGONATIDAE Phainopepla Phainopepla nitens - More than 10 singles seen while travelling on July 31. BOMBYCILLIDAE Cedar Waxwing Bombycilla garrulous - Common during the second half of the tour. More than 100 birds at the beginning of the Highline Trail (Glacier NP, Aug 9). PARULIDAE Nashville Warbler Vermivora ruficapilla - A single female at Kern River Valley Preserve (July 22). Orange-crowned Warbler Vermivora celata - Seen on 4 days, 1-2 birds/day. Townsend’s Warbler Dendroica townsendi - Good views of single males on Aug 3 (trail to Our Lake) and Aug 7 (Logan Pass, Glacier NP).

Hermit Warbler Dendroica occidentalis - Seen on 3 days, first a female along the Trail of the 100 Giants (Giant Sequoia National Monument; July 22). Also seen on July 25 and 27. Yellow Warbler Dendroica petechia - Seen on 5 days throughout the tour. Black-throated Gray Warbler Dendroica nigrescens - Nice views of two birds at the Sugar Bowl Grove trail in King’s Canyon National Park (July 22).

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Yellow-rumped Warbler Dendroica coronata - The most common warbler. Surprisingly high numbers (estimated 200+) at Lassen NP (July 28). MacGillivray’s Warbler Oporornis tolmiei - This “mountain warbler” seen in Giant Sequoia National Monument (July23-24) and in Glacier NP (Aug 8-9). Common Yellowthroat Geothlypis trichas - A single male when leaving Kern River Valley Preserve (July 22). Wilson’s Warbler Wilsonia pusilla - Single males at Monterey (July 20) and Glacier NP (Aug 8). American Redstart Setophaga ruticilla - A surprise. Great views of two males in a mixed flock at St. Mary’s Campground (Glacier NP, Aug 8). CARDINALIDAE Black-headed Grosbeak Pheucticus melanocephalus - Seen on 2 days, male and female at the Kern River Valley Preserve (July 22).

Blue Grosbeak Guiraca caerulea - Four single birds at the San Luis Refuge Complex (July 26). Lazuli Bunting Passerina cyanea - A single male at the Kern River Valley Preserve (July 22). THRAUPIDAE Summer Tanager Piranga rubra - A single male at the Kern River Valley Preserve (July 22). Western Tanager Piranga ludoviciana - Common, seen on 7 days. EMBERIZIDAE Spotted Towhee Pipilo maculates - Seen on 3 days during the first half of the tour. California Towhee Pipilo crissalis - Two birds on July 25 (King’s Canyon NP). Chipping Sparrow Spizella passerine - Most common at Modoc National Forest (July 30).

Lark Sparrow Chondestes grammacus - Seen on two days, most common (10+) at Kern River Valley Preserve (July 22). Vesper Sparrow Pooecetes gramineus - Most common near Freezeout lake and the Choteau area (Aug 1-4). Grasshopper Sparrow Ammodramus savannarum - A single bird near the St. Mary’s campground (Glacier NP, Aug 8). Baird’s Sparrow Ammodramus bairdii - A single bird in a “mixed sparrow flock” at Freezeout Lake (Aug 2). Fox Sparrow Passerella iliaca - Seen on 6 days. Brewer’s Sparrow Spizella breweri - At least 10 birds at Freezeout Lake (Aug 2).

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Savannah Sparrow Passerculus sandwichensis - Seen on 4 days, most common near Freezeout Lake (Aug 1-2). Song Sparrow Melospiza melodia - Seen on 7 days, common. Lincoln’s Sparrow Melospiza lincolnii - Seen on 3 days, most common (10+) at Lassen NP (July 28). Dark-eyed Junco Junco hyemalis (div. ssp) - Common, seen on most days in good numbers up to 100+ birds/day. White-crowned Sparrow Zonotrichia leucophrys - Most common at Aňo Nuevo State Reserve (July 18). Common at Glacier NP (Aug 5-9). McCown’s Longspur Calcarius mccownii - Common near Choteau (Aug 2-3). Chestnut-collared Longspur Calcarius ornatus - As previous species, but less common. ICTERIDAE Bullock’s Oriole Icterus bullockii - A single female at the San Luis Refuge Complex (July 26). Western Meadowlark Sturnella neglecta - Common at Freezeout Lake and in the Choteau area. Red-winged Blackbird Agelaius phoeniceus - Common, seen on many days in good numbers. Tricolored Blackbird Agelaius tricolour - Brief views of a single bird near Chico on July 26. Yellow-headed Blackbird Xanthocephalus xanthocephalus - Common in Freezeout Lake (Aug 1-2). Brewer’s Blackbird Euphagus cyanocephalus - Common during the first half of the tour. Great-tailed Crackle Quiscalus mexicanus - A single bird on July 22 (Exeter). Brown-headed Cowbird Melothrus ater - Seen on only two days, underrecorded. FRINGILLIDAE Red Crossbill Loxia curvirostra - Good views of four single birds at King’s Creek in Lassen NP (July 28), heard on July 29 and a single bird in Glacier NP (Aug 12). Evening Grosbeak Coccothraustes vespertinus - One or two female birds along King’s Creek (Lassen NP, July 28). One adult bird and 3 or 4 immatures at King’s Creek Falls on July 29. Gray-crowned Rosy-Finch Leucosticte tephrocotis - Seen at Logan Pass (Glacier NP) on Aug 6 and 7. House Finch Carpodacus mexicanus - Seen on only two days. Most common on July 18. Purple Finch Carpodacus purpureus - Only 2 birds at Modoc National Forest on July 30. Cassin’s Finch Carpodacus cassinii - Seen on 3 days, most common at Lassen NP.

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Lesser Goldfinch Carduelis psaltria - Seen on 4 days, abundant (20+ birds) at the Kern River Valley Preserve (July 22). American Goldfinch Carduelis tristis - Seen on 8 days. Pine Siskin Cardualis pinus - Seen at both Lassen NP and in Glacier NP in low numbers. Pine Grosbeak Pinicola enucleator - One of the biggest surprises of the tour. A single female, perched in a tree, almost at the end of the trail to Grinnell Glacier (Glacier NP, Aug 7). A second bird briefly seen at the Highline Trail (Glacier NP, Aug 8). PASSERIDAE House Sparrow Passer domesticus (I) - Common, seen on many days.

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MAMMALS URSIDAE Black Bear Ursus americanus - Our first close encounter was an adult Black Bear at the Crescent Meadow Trail (Giant Sequoia NP, July 23). Actually, the bear was so close that we could hear it sniffing! Also on July 24 we had great views of a foraging immature Black Bear (brownish yellowish) along the Pear Lake Trail (Giant Sequoia NP). On Aug 8 we all briefly saw an immature Black Bear crossing and on Aug 9 we had close car views of an adult Black Bear eating berries (Glacier NP). Grizzly Bear Ursus horribilis - Stunning scope views of an adult Grizzly Bear at ManyGlacier (Glacier NP, Aug 7). The bear was foraging on a mountain slope and turning stones while looking for edible items.

PROCYONIDAE Raccoon Procyon lotor – An adult at Tongue Point (Aug 12). MUSTELIDAE Sea Otter Enhydra lutris - Seen near and in Monterey on July 18-20. Given the fact that this species was highly threatened and almost extinct only 15-20 years ago, the otters were surprisingly easy to find and observe. CANIDIAE Coyote Canis latrans - Two seen near Burns (July 31), of which one was shot before our eyes by a farmer… Another Coyote seen near Choteau (Aug 2).

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PINNIPEDIA California Sea Lion Zalophus californianus - Common near Monterey. PHOCIDAE Harbor Seal Phoca vitulina - As previous species, but less common. Northern Elephant Seal Mirounga angustirostris - At least 150+ males at Aňo Nuevo State Reserve (July 18).

SCIURIDAE Yellowbelly Marmot Marmota flaviventris - Several seen at Giant Sequoia NP (July 23-24).

Hoary Marmot Marmota caligata - Seen on 3 days in Glacier NP. Whitetail Prairie Dog Cynomys gunnisoni - A single animal near Choteau (Aug 2). Golden-mantled Squirrel Citellus lateralis - Common during the first half of the tour.

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Columbian Ground Squirrel Citellus columbianus - Common in Glacier NP (Aug 4-9).

Least Chipmunk Eutamias minimus - Common during the first half of the tour. Red Squirrel Tamiasciurus hudsonicus - Several seen during the second half of the tour (Glacier NP and Olympic Peninsula). Chickaree Tamiasciurus douglasi - Seen on 5 days during the first half of the trip. Eastern Gray Squirrel Sciurus carolinensis - Common in Boston. OCHOTONIDAE Pika Ochotona princeps - Two seen on Aug 4 and a single on Aug 9. Many more hear, a very characteristic sound.

LEPORIDAE Snowshoe Hare Lepus americanus - Seen on 2 days in the Rocky Mountain Front near Choteau (Aug 3 and 4). Dessert Cottontail Sylvilagus auduboni - Two on July 23. CERVIDAE Elk Cervus canadensis - A single animal near Choteau.

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Mule (Blacktail) Deer Odocoileus hemionus - Common during the first half of the trip. Whitetail Deer Odocoileus virginianus - Seen on various days in low numbers. Moose Alces alces - Nice views of a male along the Iceberg Lake Trail (Glacier NP, Aug 5). Brief views of a single animal while driving (Aug 10). ANTILOCAPRIDAE Pronghorn Antilocapra americana - About 10 animals near Lake Albert (July 31). Also several seen near Choteau. BOVIDAE Bighorn Sheep Ovis canadensis - Common in Glacier NP, e.g. 20+ at the Highline Trail (Aug 9).

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Mountain Goat Oreamnos americanus - Like previous species, common in Glacier NP. DELPHINIDAE Harbor porpoise Phocoena phocoena - Seen from the campground at Tongue Point (Aug 12-13). Pacific Bottlenose Dolphin Tursiops gilli - Three animals at Aňo Nuevo State Reserve (July 18). Risso’s Dolpin Grampus griseus - Common (50+) during the whale watching trip from Monterey (July 19).

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BALAENOPTERIDAE Humpback Whale Megaptera novaeangliae - Six animals during the first whale watching tour from Boston and at least 20 during the second tour. Stunning views. A single animal during the whale watching tour from Monterey. Pictures below and page 32.

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Fin Whale Balaenoptera physalus - Three animals during the first trip from Boston and one during the second trip.

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