Update from Castle's Corner

here's a SUPER-DUPER fast update from the "castle's corner" gas station in Carey, ID.


some highlights and photos:


-we finished our time in Hailey near the Big Wood River, and ended up with a special treat on our last day there. Jay and I had split up when I got a phone call from Jay saying that he had found a male Chestnut-sided Warbler!! of course I made it over there as soon as I could, and we were both able to get some great looks at the little dude, and listen to him sing! how cute!!! (we also had to contend with some very big and angry bulls in that field!!)

the chestnut-sided warbler!

-we left Hailey and headed to our next survey job at Laidlaw Park near Craters of the Moon.

Greg and Jay on our first night at the campsite

Highlights there were our first Nighthawk of the year. Tons of Loggerhead Shrikes (I'd only seen 2 before going to laidlaw, and now I've seen a gazillion!) a Veery (lifer!) we saw when we took a trip into civilization and stopped along the little wood river. And just last night, an adorable and proudly-singing Grasshopper Sparrow! (lifer!)

oh, and while waiting out the heat of the day after surveys yesterday, Jay and I scouted out a nice lava tube to hang out in. It made for a great office! but...soon the thunderstorms hit, and it got a little wet (not good for laptops!)

Jay at the entrance of our office

Jay taking shelter from the rain with his computer (and watching his office buddy the Black Widow slurping a crane fly :)