Seward, Alaska
At high tide today, the FORK-TAILED STORM-PETRELS swooped and paddled close to shore for excellent views by the cannery on Lowell Point Road. Ten tiny tubenoses pirouetted, landed lightly, pecked at the smooth water, and then left watery footprints as they leapt into flight. Raindrops glistened on their waterproof feathers like glass beads.
An AMERICAN CROW briefly tried to attack a Storm-petrel as it slowly paddled along. Fortunately, the seabird quickly took flight and easily out-maneuvered the pesky land lubber. Danger lurked everywhere, even in seemingly peaceful surroundings.
The number of BLACK-LEGGED KITTIWAKES was significantly reduced from yesterday, resulting in a somewhat quieter backdrop for the silent sprites zipping among them.
An enormous Steller Sea Lion exhaled explosively, took a deep breath and dove as he leisurely swam back and forth along the shore. Another slightly smaller one followed, their rhythmic breathing punctuating the air. What a thrill to see and hear these powerful sea mammals so close!
Happy Birding!
Carol Griswold
Seward Sporadic Bird Report Reporter
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