The goldeneye flock at Kilowatt has swelled by one bird since yesterday to 15 and is right now across from the peninsula at Kilowatt South. The 2 females that many of us believe are Barrow’s (orangish-yellow bills, steeply sloping foreheads, flatter crowns) are still present and always close to one another, sometimes a bit separated from the rest of the flock. 

Although the birds are somewhat closer than they were at Kilowatt North yesterday, viewing them is more challenging. They are actively feeding and constantly diving, with any one bird rarely on the surface for more than 8-10 seconds. There is some wind, so conditions are less calm. 

Again, it would be great if any of the accomplished photographers among us could come up with some good photos of these birds, especially in juxtaposition to the obvious Commons. At least one experienced birder has suggested these 2 birds might be Common/Barrow’s hybrids (based on Eleanor Ray’s photos on eBird). I find it hard to believe that 2 hybrids would show up simultaneously, but anything is possible...

Hoping to hear others chime in on these baffling birds!

Chris 

Sent from my iPhone

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