Sage Thrasher Fallout

[mvjo...@gmail.com]

With the Monte Vista area receiving 6 inches of wet snow yesterday, it made for interesting birding. There was an apparent fallout of Sage Thrashers in our area, with 12 birds at the 8S turnout seen by myself as they fed on rose hips and other berries. Other San Luis Valley birders saw Sage Thrashers in unusual places, at feeders, and reported them as well. In the wetlands that were not snow covered, I observed 2 Savannah Sparrows, an early date for this species. Really made for some excellent photography conditions, with Sandhill Cranes having snow on their backs. Today, blue skies have returned....

John Rawinski

Monte Vista, CO