I had the opportunity to search for the Pomarine Jaeger late this afternoon (successfully) at Chatfield Reservoir. A second-cycle Glaucous Gull was still present also. The highlight however were two pale-bellied (“Atlantic”) Brant in the southwest corner, feeding on short grass with many American Wigeon. Photos taken in low light (hence poor quality) can be viewed at http://www.pbase.com/quetzal/atlanticbrant11302011. Brant breed in the high Arctic, and are extremely rare in Colorado, occurring in winter. “Black” Brant from the Pacific slope outnumber “Atlantic” Brant by about 10-1 in Colorado. Hopefully these guys will weather the impending winter storm, and give others a chance to see them. To find them, park in the lot just west of the Kingfisher Bridge (which spans the South Platte River) near the southwest corner of Chatfield Reservoir. Hike northward (about 5 minutes) towards the reservoir. Watch for the birds on the spongy grassy shoreline where the view opens up of the whole reservoir (I call this Kingfisher Point). If the Brant are on the close shoreline, no telescope is needed. If they fly to the opposite shore of the lagoon, a scope would be handy. State Park Pass is required (daily fee is $8.)
Unfortunately, these birds were discovered after sunset, so no posting til now. I was able to track down Joey Kellner who lives nearby and he was able to see these birds just before total darkness. Nick Komar Fort Collins CO www.pbase.com/quetzal -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Colorado Birds" group. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com. To unsubscribe from this group, send email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. For more options, visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/cobirds?hl=en.
