Just north of the little town of Plush, OR, is Hart Bar, a small interpretive site at the southern end of the Warner Wetlands Area of Critical Environmental Concern (Birding Oregon p. 21). A short trail leads through the marsh, providing views of shorebirds and waterfowl. The parking area has a primitive toilet and several interpretive signs. On the day of my recent visit, the wind was quite strong, making it difficult to hold optics steady but also protecting me from the clouds of mosquitoes that can be a problem here.
White-faced Ibis feed in the grassy areas near the water. I think the tall grasses provided them with shelter from the wind.
American Avocets and Black-necked Stilts are two common nesting species in this area. Willets are also common, but proved to be a little shy.
Blue-winged Teal is always a good find in Oregon. Gadwall and Cinnamon Teal are more plentiful here.
Yellow-headed Blackbirds share the marsh with Brewer’s Blackbirds.
There are gravel roads running through the Warner Valley. But Hart Bar is easily accessed from paved Hogback Road, and provides a nice variety of wetland species. It is definitely worth a stop on your way to Hart Mountain National Antelope Refuge.
Those avocet are gorgeous. Can’t wait to hear about the trip!