copyright 2003 Shearwater Journeys

The bulk of the Red-necked Phalarope migration has indeed passed, but there are still some passing through or lingering in the area. Offshore, RED PHALAROPES have replaced Red-necked as the dominant species.

For County Listers/record keepers, I should report that yesterday's (Sunday) TUFTED PUFFIN was found in Santa Cruz County waters from the Makaira (Shearwater Journeys). All the boat trips are starting to run into each other for me at this point, but I believe at least one of Saturday's SOUTH POLAR SKUA's were in SCZ waters. Also, BLACK-FOOTED ALBATROSS (not expected after mid-Sept) were seen both days in SCZ (only one on Sunday, about five on Saturday). Saturday had two ASHY STORM-PETRELS, one in each county. NORTHERN FULMAR numbers increased dramatically this week, going from single digits all fall to being in view almost constantly both days. SHORT-TAILED SHEARWATERS have also arrived, with several confirmed identifications in both counties yesterday among the few remaining Sooties. Blue Whale numbers seem to have decreased significantly. BAIRD'S BEAKED WHALES were seen on Saturday.
Clay Kempf

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