North Coast Diaries

Tropical Kingbirds --- Monday, November 9, 2009

Last week, Steve Warner found a Tropical Kingbird at the Pizza Castle in Seaside.  The area between the Wahanna River mouth (where the Pizza Castle is) and 12th Street seems to be a good spot for Tropical Kingbirds.  8-10 have been seen in that general area over the last few years,  sometimes multiple birds hanging out together. Another kingbird hotspot is the area along the back edge of Youngs Bay in Astoria.  Kingbirds have been found from Astoria High School to Wireless Rd, at least 6 altogether, including one today along Wireless Rd. Tropical Kingbirds are well known for their "reverse" migration, heading north in the fall before turning south again to spend the winter in proper tropical climes.  Birds that stick around for more than one day are usually associated with holly trees and may eat the holly berries.  They make good use of the termite flights that occur after fall rains and have an amazing knack for find wasp nests. Other spots in Clatsop County where Tropical Kingbirds have appeared include the Warrenton Sewage Ponds and Svensen Island.

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