For the third time I tried for Joe's crossbills, and again no joy.  I stood around the entrance from 2:30-3:30, intersecting the times of the past two days' sightings, and aside from some juncos..... Went back at 4:00 for one last check, and again nothing.

In the meantime, I met Brad Lanning, who toodled around the park looking at other conifers, who likewise came up dry.  I ran into him again as I walked to the boat ramp to check out waterfowl.  He alerted me that TWO Greater Scaup males were present.  And indeed they were.  Classic head shape, and I could even make out the huge black nail on the bill.   The heads were even green in that light!  

So I feel better about my putative Greater females on Tuesday, but will still have to reserve judgement.  If anybody wants to see my photos of those roosting gals, and is willing to give an opinion, let me know.

There were also Canvasback and Hooded Mergansers present (at keast 5 each),  Ring-necked Ducks, and one each Ruddy Duck and Bufflehead.  A small group of Eastern Bluebirds were present on the hill to the right as you head to the boat ramp.

Thanks, Brad!

Kurt Schwarz
HowCo
goawaybird at verizon dot net