I took a client to Jackson Bottom Wetlands Reserve in Hillsboro (Birding Oregon p. 60). Continuing restoration efforts at that site are creating some nice habitat, and the birds are responding.
Cinnamon Teal were actively courting.
There was lots of head bobbing and chasing of rival males.
taking a break
Jackson Bottom is swarming with swallows. Tree Swallows claim most of the many nest boxes.
Cliff Swallow
Restoration work has created shallow ponds and open mud, which is attractive to migrant shorebirds like these Western Sandpipers.
Three Dunlins in various states of molt. The front bird is least advanced, while the bird in back is in full breeding plumage.
Two Dunlins on the left, Western Sandpipers on the right.
Western Sandpiper, with Dunlin in the background
Least Sandpipers
This Solitary Sandpiper was a nice surprise. They are an uncommon spring migrant.
The resident Canada Geese have already hatched their broods.
Ethical Birder 