WEST SEATTLE BIRDS: Mystery sighting, plus 6 other views

| West Seattle news | Wildlife

We start this bird gallery with a sighting northeast of The Junction. We heard about those birds from two people this week, including Ian, who sent the photos.

Brought back memories of The West Seattle Turkey, though online matching suggests these are probably Guinea Fowl – perhaps with a home nearby, because the sightings were in the same general area.

Other recent photos (thanks for everyone who continues sending bird pics) start with two charming Steller’s Jay views by Jerry Simmons:

Two more backyard birds – a Northern Flicker, photographed by Samantha Wren:

And a Red-breasted Nuthatch, from Jon Anderson:

And two waterfowl – a Western Sandpiper, photographed by James Tilley:

And Gene Pavola‘s photo of a Great Blue Heron:

Thanks again to everyone who shares photos, from birds to breaking news – if not urgent, email is the best way, westseattleblog@gmail.com, but otherwise, you can also text us 24/7 at 206-293-6302.

Spencer September 3, 2023 (6:23 pm)

Hot dang, another great bird column. Those Guinea Fowls are totally rad! How the heck did they even get here, haha!

Brynneth September 3, 2023 (10:11 pm)

They’re popular as pets and meat birds, but they’re also pretty notorious for wandering off and going feral or just finding new coops if they’re not contained. They’re apparently also very good for eating ticks and other nuisance critters around a property.

Eileen September 3, 2023 (7:33 pm)

Love the stellar jay photos! Thanks for sharing

1994 September 3, 2023 (10:58 pm)

I agree! The jay on the camera is pretty cute!

Can’t get enough WSB bird photos September 3, 2023 (8:08 pm)

I just love all of the photos that readers post. These are great. And I couldn’t be more excited about the flock (or is it a murder?) of Guinea Fowl in town.

Mellow Kitty September 4, 2023 (9:15 am)

Here’s a link to information about guinea fowl. They’re really neat birds.https://animalia.bio/helmeted-guineafowl

Barba Kutzner September 5, 2023 (6:58 am)

Guinea hens as they’re referred to by farmers are African in origin and are used as meat birds in this country. Any chicken that doesn’t have it’s flight feathers clipped can fly. They’re probably escaped fron someone’s backyard.

PLa J September 5, 2023 (12:23 pm)

I am encouraged by seeing so many beautiful species in our area. Its a coincidence also that there was recent bird news about an extinct variety recently placed back into the wild of South New Zealand https://www.goodnewsnetwork.org/prehistoric-bird-once-thought-to-be-extinct-returns-to-new-zealand-wild/