Could your Lincoln Sparrow be a Savannah Sparrow? I think I see yellow above the eyes. Do Lincoln Sparrows breed in Marin County? I don’t see them in San Mateo or Santa Clara Counties in July.

Tom

I disagree with some of your species identification. I think the “Another NRWS juvvie?” is a Violet-green Swallow. The white around the eye makes me think this.

I think the “Northern Pintail” is a male mallard. This is because of the yellow bill.

The “Peeps!” are Least Sandpipers.

Thanks for the closeups that allow me to work on my identification skills.

Tom Goodier

Scienceguy: thank you. Are you set on Merrells? Vasque, Lowa, and Montrail also make very nice outdoor shoes. I currently wear Merrell “Radius” shoes, but they have no ankle support, so probably wouldn’t suit your needs. If you have a REI near you, I would suggest going there and trying various shoes on – their return policy cannot be beat (return them any time, after any amount of use, for a full credit!)

Mary: thanks – busy, and also just not inspired to write much. And I haven’t had a lot to write about, nature-wise.

Bernie: Thanks!