Mile 239 Report
Salishan Spit north, Siletz Bay
December 26, 2007
As usual, began walk at N44'53.
Report Details
As usual, began walk at N44'53.632 and stopped at N44'55.528 to come back along bay side of spit. Found a dead Brandt's cormorant and a dead Common murre. Hit with hail about three times during walk. Rather sparse re wildlife: a small, mixed flock of sanderlings and surfbirds; the usual population of Harbor seals congregating on the leeward side of the spit. Great news! All the huge styrofoam chunks have been removed from the oceanside of spit; Dave and I removed two huge pieces from the bay side (one huge piece remains...we'll get it next time). Another great day for seafoam!
Conditions
Temperature: 43 F. Cloud Cover: Cloudy. Wind Velocity: Strong. Wind Direction: NW.
Human Activities
Number of people: 2. Number of dogs: 1. Walking or running: 2. Slight disturbance of Harbor seals at northeast end of spit; a few seals fled into water; one tail-slapped water as warning.
Concerns
Litter
Disturbances: Disturbance/harassment of marine mammals
Notable Wildlife
Sanderlings and Surfbirds foraging along seafoam; Bull kelp washed up; Harbor seals congregating on leeward side of spit.
Beached Birds
Total dead birds: 2. One dead Brandt's cormorant and one dead Common murre; no leg bands noted.
Driftline Content
Seaweeds and seagrass, Ocean-based debris (from fishing boats, ship trash, etc.), Styrofoam, Wood pieces.
Report Images
Shafer
CoastWatcher
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