The Mew Gull was NOT seen as of 4 p.m. today despite intensive searching by numerous observers.
The TOWNSEND'S SOLITAIRE along the West River Parkway on Grand Island, NY was seen early and again around noon. At noon it was seen directly opposite Sunset Drive, right by the river. The bird has been seen between Bedell and Sunset. The NORTHERN GANNET was seen all day just below the control gates, where it was seen yesterday. This bird flys into the massive feeding flocks of large gulls, even doing short dives. It will float down river to some rapids, then fly back toward the control gates and repeat the process. It is usually within sight though can be difficult to see among the mass of gulls, as it frequently has its head under the water. The usual adult CALIFORNIA GULL (the one that has very little if any red on the bill and likes to roost near the "point") was seen at the power plants most of the day. This bird likes to sit from the point (where the shoreline makes a 90 degree bend) to the "corner", i.e. where the shoreline meets the NY power dam. The BLACK-HEADED GULL in the Queenston narrows (a little upriver from the Queenston Boat Ramp) was seen by at least one observer (around noon?). The first-winter GLAUCOUS GULL was seen below the control gates. 11 species of gulls were found today. The number of large gulls between the control gates and the barge was particularly impressive today, making the search for the Mew Gull seem like looking for a needle in a haystack. A hybrid Canada X Greater White-fronted Goose was reported at Buckhorn Island S.P., next to the caretaker's residence (east edge of the park). Good birding! Willie -------------- Willie D'Anna Betsy Potter Niagara Falls, N.Y. [EMAIL PROTECTED] "Willie D'Anna & Betsy Potter" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> Visit http://www.ofo.ca/ontbirdsguide.htm for information on leaving and joining the list. As well as general information and content guidelines.
