The Stakeout and The Big Sit

Recently a good many birding enthusiasts were drawn to a spot at Halibut Point where an unusual sighting was reported several days in a row, at precisely the same place. This led to frequent gatherings of hopefuls who wanted a lifetime glimpse, or maybe extended communion with a rare treasure.

Western Tanager

The subject of desire was this Western Tanager. The bird was not always easy to see. Sharp eyes and patience were premium qualities. The observers waiting at this singular place were on a Stakeout. 

American Robin

A Stakeout is not so different from a Big Sit, except that it has a specific central character. Once rooted to the spot an alert observer may enjoy a variety of species passing through.

Cedar Waxwing

There in the same cedar tree a small flock of Waxwings stopped to forage berries. A photographer already set up in the Stakeout was better prepared to capture the moment.

Fox Sparrow

Meanwhile an elusive Fox Sparrow emerged from the wood line, tolerating the presence of several still figures on Stakeout.

Song Sparrow

The full appreciation of bird life meant keeping on eye on the adjacent meadow during the Tanager Stakeout. This Song Sparrow was emboldened to come up in the canopy of spent flower stalks for a look around.

Hermit Thrush

Stillness also encouraged a pair of Hermit Thrushes from their secret foraging in the tall grass.

American Goldfinches

Peripheral vision sometimes detects the motion of birds on the fringes of the Stakeout area. 

Yellow-bellied Sapsucker

At that first signal we can pivot to (try to) focus on the details of another (unwitting) subject for admiration.

Bald Eagle

A Stakeout becomes a Big Sit when scanning and swiveling extend to the whole sphere of observation.