[EBB Sightings] Lake Merrit, Female Tufted Duck 11.20.04

Hi all:

I got the chance to swing by Lake Merrit in Oakland
today and saw the female Tufted Duck, in her
traditional position adjacent to the visitor center at
the northeast end of the Lake.  This is the third year
for me and this bird (assuming it's the same female).
Anyone have the complete history?  How many years /
first arrival?  She's almost like our own Laysan
Albatross; except for the difference in species and
location.... but you know what I mean.  Probably has
lattes with the Cattle Egret after dark and talks
about old times. Maybe not.
No sign at the east end of the reported male Tufted
Duck. Did not search the channel.

Golden-eyes were out in force w/at least 6 male
Barrow's and 4 female Barrow's, all at the east end of
the lake and easily viewed from at or near the visitor
center.

There was also a Cackling Canada goose on the lawn in
the Neast corner closest to Grand Lake Theater. (Thank
you nice couple at the visitor center; that was a neat
study bird). And 4 Bonaparte's Gulls in that same end
of the lake. 

Good Birding,
Bob Power
Oakland, CA