Port Biologist Blotter - March 2016

22 March 2016​ at 0900

Arrive on-scene at the Engineering Department to investigate report of missing Canada goose eggs. Two distraught project managers (names withheld for their protection) described suspected egg abduction between sobs:

• Subject eggs allegedly laid by nesting Canada geese pair approximately three days prior in a downspout treatment box on balcony outside of Engineering Department.
• PMs observed geese periodically incubating eggs and perching on balcony railing.
• Following a staff meeting, PMs report subject eggs had disappeared.

Investigation revealed a known suspect—the resident river otter—was observed in the area at the time of the alleged abduction. During questioning, the river otter confessed his morning egg breakfast was delicious.

25 March 2016 at 1335

Subsequent investigation revealed subject Canada geese have re-established their nest and are incubating an unknown number of eggs. At this time, subject Canada geese are hindering efforts to approach the nest. Further investigation is suspended.

PMs remain vigilant in nest stewardship and anxiously await arrival of goslings.

Environmental connection

The Port installed several downspout treatment boxes to filter heavy metals and other pollutants from the rainwater coming off the Port Administration Building roof.

These simple, inexpensive stormwater treatment systems mimic the natural environment and remove more than 95 percent of ambient zinc and copper, keeping pollutants from flowing into Commencement Bay.

Apparently, the downspout boxes also make comfortable—though precarious—nesting sites for Canada geese.