Nevada Valley Birding
The Nevada Valley (from Helmville to Ovando) received good snow this winter, so there should be good birding for waterfowl and shorebirds in the upcoming weeks. As of 14 April about two-thirds of the ponds along Cut-off Road still were ice bound. On the remaining open water there were approximately 8 species of waterfowl in moderate numbers. There are also many Red-tailed Hawks, immature Bald Eagles, Sandhill Cranes, a very few Long-billed Curlews, and at least two Rough-legged Hawks still in the area.
On the river, from Aunt Molly to Cedar Meadow there were a few ducks–Mallards, Green-winged Teal, a pair of Hooded Mergansers, Wood Ducks, and many Canada Geese. There were lots of Song Sparrows, many courting Northern Flickers. The Great Blue Heron heronry looks to be strong again this year.
The waterfowl and shorebirds peak in this area approximately the third week in April, although it could be a bit later this year. There was still a fair amount of snow in parts of the valley, and along the river. If you have questions about how to get there, or where to go, call Jim Greene at 495-9270