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Mike, As to the lack of reports from Missouri’s big “lakes”: Have you been to the Lake of the Ozarks? This utility-built (the former Union Electric) artificial impoundment has few areas with undisturbed habitat favored by most birds. A few areas that would qualify are difficult to access--miles of roads to get from one cove (privately owned) to another--equally privately owned. Very few areas are devoid of the monstrous-motored crafts zipping along at a gazillion knots, often piloted by the sotted who get kicks out of aiming at any group of coots in the way. Other Missouri "lakes", CofE wonders of three-use (flood control, power production, recreation--all contradictory in water management) are also difficult to access in more than a few places, although there are public access points. Top that with the local pride and Corps policy of a manicured shoreline--no brush touches the lake water, no siree! What habitat? And remember, these are not ponds. They are very large impoundments with miles of water along flooded former water courses. Few birders have boats capable of searching these waters the way we can do land areas with vehicles. There are far fewer reports from the "lakes" than the St. Louis area because there are very few birders per square mile in these areas, and there are very many miles--most of it very unproductive in habitat. There are loon populations in the winter--the most famous was the Yellow-billed that frequented Table Rock in the 90s--Common Loons are often at the State Park. Stockton "Lake" often has a good wintering population of loons, grebes, etc. Ever been there? Probably not. It's a fair piece from just about anywhere--probably not a birder living within 30 miles, maybe 50. Not the greatest roads, especially in winter. It's a major outing, even from Springfield, to get to the deep water part. I try to get there at least once a winter--wish I could manage it more often--others should go. There is a description of the area and directions to it in ASM's birdfinding guide. Edge Wade Columbia, MO [log in to unmask] __________________________________________________ * Audubon Society of Missouri's * * Wild Bird Discussion Forum * *------------------------------------------------* * To unsubscribe send the message * * SIGNOFF MOBIRDS-L * * to [log in to unmask] * * To subscribe send the message * * SUBSCRIBE MOBIRDS-L your name * * to [log in to unmask] * *------------------------------------------------* * To access the list archives from July 2002 on: * * http://po.missouri.edu/archives/mobirds-l.html * ##################################################