Bohemians Waxwings and Saw-whet Owl 2/1 Ottawa Co.

[michael overway]

Greetings,

Jeremy and I were notified by Liz Notman of the Bohemians found by Francke (Chip, right?) at Hemlock Crossings park today.  We met her out there around 1:45 and followed the directions to the opening. Initially we didn't see anything but the flock quickly flew up into a large tree at the south end of the clearing.  We slowly made our way south and the birds started coming north.  They stayed along the west edge in the mid to upper parts of the taller trees and were coming down to the inside the edge of the opening to feed.  We got within 50'?  and a couple came in to about 20'.  They were up and down and back and forth so much it was difficult to get a count.  We all agreed there were at least 100 birds, perhaps more, and around 85% were Bohemians, 15% Cedars.   

Additionally, Liz picked out a Purple Finch (and perhaps a couple more) among the flock and there were a few robins as well.  Jeremy found a beautiful Northern Shrike at the north end of the same opening.  It stayed for quite awhile before moving on.  It was seen again later that afternoon.

Jeremy and I were headed back from Huff Park in Kent Co. when we got the call for the action in Ottawa Co.  After 2 loops around the park and few self guided trips on the deer trails we gave up on any Bohemians.  Several small flocks of birds circled around us at a distance throughout the 2+ hours but nothing positively id'ed.  We did id a small flock of Cedar Waxings from the parking lot when we were about to leave.

FYI:  Liz also informed us that a Saw-whet Owl was roosting in Grand Haven.  We were fortunate enough to get that as well.  I just got back home and it's late so I'll save the directions.  However, I know several other local birders saw it and the lack of any posting as of yet makes me concerned as to the amount of traffic that the homeowers desired on this one.  I will repost if I hear that it returns and that additional traffic is welcomed.  

thank you to Liz, Chip, Cal and Carolyn for MI lifers 250 and 251,
good birding,
mike overway
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