[EBB Sightings] Lapland Longspur, Winton Ave fide Peter Dramer

Hi all:

My apologies for a late post.  Peter Dramer called me yesterday and I picked up the message today. Lapland Longspur seen along the paved trail leading from outside the entrance to the Winton Ave staging area to the bay. The Longspur was coming down to and perching on one of those rolled grass erosion control thingees.  As a side note, close friends know the way to get my attention via my cell-phone is to take it out of my pocket and hit me with it. I'm sure Peter will clarify any misconstruance of directions. Really sorry for those looking for a Longspur.

At Mt. View Cemetery in Oakland (NE end of Piedmont Ave) there was a male Taiga-type Merlin in the center of the facility at the Cogswell monument. I think it's the first Merlin I've seen in county this fall.

For those with big year totals to report, please zap them to Bob at wingbeats.org. With one month to go, just a friendly reminder to all east bay birders that timely reporting of bird sightings is very much appreciated. And EVERYONE is invited to the Jan. 13th, 2-county big year celebration.
When in doubt about whether to report a bird sighting or not, just call 1-800BigYear. Ask for one of the Bobs. There's about 7 of us.

Good birding,

Bob Power
Oakland, CA