West Seattle (and vicinity) scenes: Ferries to feathers

| Seen at sea | Transportation | Wildlife

WSB photojournalist Christopher Boffoli shares two views of the Washington State Ferries vessel Issaquah, usually on the Fauntleroy-Vashon-Southworth run but currently in drydock at Todd Shipyards:

Also along the West Seattle waterfront: David Hutchinson provides a new view of one of this spring’s most famous local families:

David writes:

There are currently 24 goslings being tended by 2 pairs of adult geese. You can see them roaming the lawns between Salty’s and the Don Armeni boat ramp each day and then leaving in a group after sunset for the beaches of Jack Block Park to spend the night. By the end of July, they will have grown to near adult size and will have learned to fly.

We closely followed the development of last year’s group of goslings and found it very fascinating. Hopefully, despite their controversial status, people will take advantage of this opportunity to see nature close up and will be tolerant of their presence over the next several months. Sadly, last year we observed individuals setting their dogs on groups of adult geese with goslings and quite a few kids seemed think that it was amusing to throw rocks at them as they swam by.

For more information about Canada Geese, check www.canadageese.org/faq.html

We received another goose-family photo today from Manuel:

P.S. Not West Seattle-specific, but if you too are a bird fan, you might enjoy reading the latest on Seattle’s urban peregrines (they’re not mentioned so far this year, but some have been known to nest under The Bridge).

lina April 11, 2009 (9:12 pm)

awesome pics. those goslings are too cute. i cant wait to see them!

Cheryl April 11, 2009 (11:21 pm)

I took a bunch of pictures of them too (4/10). Will post them on my blog soon. Can’t believe people set their dogs on any kind of wildlife, or their kids for that matter. I’d probably toss them AND their kids/dogs into the bay. What gross disregard for life in general.

Thanks for posting these pics, including the ferry in dry dock. Fascinating!

David Hutchinson April 12, 2009 (12:51 am)

Just want to add that most folks with dogs that I’ve observed over the years do have them on a leash and do keep a respectful distance once they notice any goslings. The problems were caused by the few who have done this deliberately because they didn’t want the geese in the Park, those who seemed to enjoy watching the geese scatter and run, or individuals who are simply letting their dog run off leash.

jeannie April 12, 2009 (1:02 am)

I saw the feathered families the other day – very sweet. The adults circled around the babies to protect them – like a modern-day circle of wagons protecting the pioneers! Anyone who harasses these animals, or allows their dog/kids to, is pathetic. Yes, goose poop is unpleasant, but just watch your step.

loveit April 12, 2009 (8:08 am)

Love that picture of the baby geese in mom’s feathers! GREAT SHOT thanks for sharing!

Super Joe April 12, 2009 (12:38 pm)

The welder in the picture is one of Todd’s most senior workers. Mick Rooney has been with the shipyard more than 35 years now and still talks about going at least another year before retirment. It has been my honor to work beside this man for more than 32 years myself. When you look out at the many vessels that ply the waters of Puget Sound and ride the many ferries. Remember that Mick and the people who work with him will keep the boats repaired and in service just for you.

Thanx

WSB April 12, 2009 (2:15 pm)

Thanks for sharing that, Joe, and as a longtime ferry rider, thanks to you two and your co-workers for what you do – TR

Christopher Boffoli April 12, 2009 (11:15 pm)

Super Joe: If you’ll drop me an email at cjboffoli@gmail.com with Mr. Rooney’s mailing address I’d be happy to send him a couple of prints of those images.

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