Date: 6/18/25 3:52 am From: Clayton Will <willcfish...> Subject: [ia-bird] West side of Big Creek Lake, Polk Co.
There are a lot of good birds on the West side of Big Creek Lake, Polk Co.. I was very pleased with the 40+ birds I found at Big Creek State Park yesterday 6/17/2025. Close to a grand slam on Vireos having photographed three types: Bell's, Red-eyed, Warbling with visual/audio files of Yellow-throated Vireos. I tried for a Blue-headed but couldn't find one. On Jolly Boat Lane between "West Boat ln." and "Inland Cat ln". were many species. All viewed and heard from the roads. Highlights were: Yellow-breasted Chat calling from the South near the holding pond. I was able to take a couple of audio files. Many Wood Thrush calling from all directions. Probable nesting. Two Yellow-throated Vireo chasing and calling in the dip on Inland Cat. Likely relating to or nesting in the large cottonwoods West of the road. One Eastern Towhee, many Warbling and Red-eyed Vireo.
North on 100th st. boat ramp access the young Osprey on the communication tower are taking short flights while an adult still arranges the nest which I found interesting. A Northern Bobwhilte was calling from the West prairie. A Bell's Vireo was in the prairie grass just before the cable parking lot going to the boat ramp where the trees start. Also a Pileated Woodpecker calling at that location. It's been a few years since I've heard one there. Willow Flycatchers were just before the Y to the fishing Jetty. Another highlight was a healthy pair of Whitetail Deer fawns that followed Mom into the woods. [image: Deer fawns 01 BC June 17 2025 YBch YTvi 225 - frame at 0m5s.jpg] .
