2917 Morrison Road WestUniversity Place, WA 98466

Electronic Service Requested

Nonprofit OrgU.S. Postage

Tacoma, WAPermit No. 177

PAID

In this Issue:

C4ZY0Z0Z

Published by the Tahoma Audubon Society -- connecting people with nature since 1969 Vol. 49 No. 3 September 2018

ABC Field Trip page 1

Executive Director’s Corner page 2

Conservation Matters page 3

Hess Happenings page 4

Bird-a-thon Reflections page 4

Youth Drawing Contest page 5

Education Committee page 7

Bird Name Changes page 9

Member Spotlight page 10

Book Clubs page 11

Field Trips and Events page 12

ABC Field Trip Tracks Down New Speciesby Diane Yorgason-Quinn

Two carloads of the Advanced Birding Club (ABC) members headed east in early July to look for the newly designated species, Cassia Crossbill, in Cassia County, Idaho. Months earlier, Dr. Julie Smith of PLU, one of the researchers who helped solidify species status for this previous subspecies of Red Crossbill, had addressed ABC and got us intensely interested, so when the decision was made to split it off into a new species, we split off to see it for ourselves. We were in the vanguard of a deluge of birders headed that way. Carole Breedlove and her daughter got it the week before and gave us valuable advice, and Marcus Roening and Heather Ballash got it just the day before and stuck around Twin Falls to give us the latest advice.

It all worked! We got into the South Hills of Cassia County early on the morning of July 8th and heard the distinctive “kip-kipping” as soon as we got out of the car at the Porcupine Springs Campground. That constant calling, probably because they had new fledglings, kept us on their trail, and everyone got good looks, although they were high in the trees, so not too great for photography. Many red males, mustard-colored females, and drab streaked fledglings were seen, and we counted

18 on our eBird submission. Other great birds were around, too, including singing Hermit Thrushes and Green-tailed Towhees!

On the way home next day, the two carloads split up. Trip leaders Faye McAdams Hands and I took Carol Smith and Art Wang home by way of Shoshone Falls, Vernita Bridge, and other great stops; while car 2 with Ken Brown, Ed Pullen, Laurel Parshall, and Teri Martine went south, took an extra day, and got that darn Himalayan Snowcock in the Ruby Mountains of Nevada and other great stuff!

Top: Four Willettes were along on the trip, co-leader Diane Y-Q, Laurel Parshall, co-leader Faye McAdams Hands, and Carol Smith (Photo/Art Wang)Bottom: Our triumphant group after getting the Cassia Crossbill (Photo/Diane Y-Q)

Photos for car #1: https://tinyurl.com/y6ubkbdo Photos and report for car #2: https://tinyurl.com/y7kxl2lc

If you’d like to join the birders in the ABC club, it’s part of Tahoma Audubon, so just let us know.

Contact Diane Y-Q at Avosetta@hotmail.com to be put on our e-mail list.

Top: Incredibly up close with singing Hermit Thrushes!Center: Western Screech-owls were seen at Ritter Island, recommended by Marcus Roening, found by car #1. Bottom: Among the many butterflies was a lifer for all, the Weidemeyer’s Admiral. (Photos/Diane Y-Q)

Left: Green-tailed Towhees were singing. (Photo/Diane Y-Q) Center: Male Cassia Crossbill (Photo/Ed Pullen) Right: Car #1 left for Shoshone Falls, one of the spectacular Twin Falls. (Photo/Diane Y-Q)

We’re pleased to honor our visionaries who have named Tahoma Audubon in their estate plans making them members of the Feathered Nest Circle.

Tahoma Audubon Society's

Feathered Nest Circle

Making a gift is easy!If you want to help Tahoma Audubon

connect people with nature for generations to come, consider including Tahoma Audubon Society in your estate plans.

By giving, you can:• Make a generous gift intention without depleting income

• Honor or memorialize a loved one

• Join the Feathered Nest Circle – our legacy society

• Reduce your estate taxes

We are here to help!

Call 253-565-9278

Email emilyk@tahomaaudubon.org

Or Visit tahomaaudubon.org/waystogive

What will your legacy be?

We are deeply grateful for your generosity !

The Pierce County Chapter of The National Audubon Society

Located in University Place's Adriana Hess Wetland Park2917 Morrison Rd W. University Place, WA 98466

253-565-9278 • www.TahomaAudubon.org

Find us on Facebook and Twitter!

Tahoma Audubon Staff

Matt Mega | Executive Director 253-565-9278 mmega@tahomaaudubon.org

Brittany McGrath | Volunteer & Environmental Education Coordinator 253-565-9278

The Towhee is a publication of the Tahoma Audubon Society (TAS).The Tahoma Audubon Society was chartered in 1969. TAS advocates for the

protection of wildlife and promotes conservation through education and activities that enrich its member’s experiences in and with the natural world.

The Towhee is published quarterly. Submissions of articles and photographs of birds, bird lore, natural history, conservation, and environmental education are reviewed and considered for inclusion by the editor. Copy is due by the 15th of the month prior to publication and may be sent by e-mail, disk, or typed.

Editor: Editor@TahomaAudubon.org Mailing: Pam Odegard and other TAS volunteers Design & Layout: Katelynn Manz & Ryan Parlin Printing: Consolidated Press Proofreader: Callie Stoker-Graham Printed on recycled newsprint

New Beginnings from a Solid FoundationBy Matthew Mega, AICP

On my first day at Tahoma Audubon, I spied out my window the laughing, excited and engaged voices of 12 little backyard bird buddies. Between their snacking and exploring they carried eggs on spoons and learned about habitat, nature, and of course, birds. Speaking of birds mixed in with these little campers, cautious birds still found their way to the feeders. Chestnut-backed chickadees, Dark-eyed Juncos and Steller’s Jays went about their business. I also heard a Red-breasted nuthatch off in the distance. Needless to say all this activity made me smile and greatly appreciate my new role as Executive Director of this amazing organization.

My day continued with whirlwind introductions to volunteers, a tour of space and exploration of piles and piles of files. Yes there was quite a bit of a ‘wow’ factor, but everywhere I turned and everyone I met warmly welcomed me. As I settle into this new role and embark on the responsibility of maintaining the strong presence of this organization, I am also excited to take on the challenge of helping TAS increase our reach throughout Pierce County. With a core staff, dedicated Board, volunteers and of course all the members who pledge their support to Tahoma Audubon Society, I am confident we can, together, make our chapter one of the strongest in the State.

Very earlier on I learned that birds were a wonderful gateway into nature. Their ubiquitous presence always gives us a direct connection to nature, and hopefully an ever-growing appreciation of the environment around us. Whether it’s a beginning bird walk, the annual Christmas bird count or the numerous bird-a-thon trips that occur, people having the opportunity to connect with birds and nature is critical function of TAS. While it is a bit early to provide my complete vision for our organization, I can say the foundation of my vision is all the individuals who have decided to make TAS part of their lives. With this strong foundation how can we not improve the lives of birds and make our own lives a little more enjoyable?

By the way, a birder cannot have one favorite bird, so the three that resonant with me are; the Lewis’s Woodpecker,the Great-Horned Owl, and the Belted Kingfisher.

Anonymous (3)Jane BrosiusDick & Terry CarknerTerry* & Bev ConnerRuth Daugherty*Rhona Diehl*Helen EngleBryan FlintThomas GaldabiniJohn Garner & Caroline HarrisPriscil la J. HuberThelma* & Chuck* GilmurMar jorie Griffin*Noel & Bill HagensCami HarrisFrances Heidner*David R. HirstKrystal KyerJohn & Pat LantzPeggy Kopf* & Pat MailDiane J. MaloneJean McCordGuy* & Cecile* MontgomeryGary & Sharon Nestegard Melissa Newell

Donna Cooper Pepos* Barbara Petersen

Marcus Roening & Heather Ballash Sarah C. Sloat*

Beatrice E. Thompson* Darby Veeck & Kristin Lynett

*Deceased

Matt MegaExecutive Director

DIRECTOR’S CORNER

Page 2 www.tahomaaudubon.org Fall 2018

Ione ClagettMichael HassurMichael GarrityBrenda Miller

Maria JostMarjorie Shea

Art Wang

Gary Geddes PresidentNathanael Swecker Vice PresidentJerry Broadus Past PresidentMarsha Williams SecretaryBob Furman Treasurer

Tahoma AudubonBoard of DirectorsTahoma Audubon

Board Officers

CONSERVATION MATTERSI-1631 Invests in Healthy Forests, Bird Habitats, and Reduces Cost of UtilitiesBy Kirk Kirkland

This summer is hotter than normal again, with a hundred wildfires raging in the west. The largest fire in California has been burning for most of July, and has grown to 300,000 acres. In Tacoma, the sunsets are smoggy from fires in Canada and the West. People now understand climate change has arrived and it’s time to take action to slow the increase in temperatures.

An initiative on November’s ballot offers hope. It funds a forest initiatives to reduce forest fires and reduce smoky summers. The climate change inititive, I-1631 is written to benefit people. It’s written by labor unions, tribes and environmental groups, not politicians or power companies. The initiative assigns pollution coststo carbon dioxide and burning fossil fuels. Industry will pay a fee to pollute. The money collected will be invested inclean air alternatives and programs that retain jobs in the industry’s effected by the increase in fees.

This fee would facilitate a change in energy sources from fossil fuels to renewals. Utilities could gain credits for certain types of investments. It also carves out exemptions for some trade-sensitive industries. Investing in clean energy, solar and wind will reduce future cost of utilities and cost of manufacturing. The goal is to reduce carbon emissions by 2035 to 40% lower than they were in 2014. We’re not alone. Already 20 states are implementing the goals set by the Paris

Agreement to stop temperature increase at 3.5 degrees C. This would keep the planet’s habitats healthy without effecting our food supply. Now it’s a race against time.

CONSERVATION MATTERSCONSERVATION MATTERS

An initiative on November’s ballot offers hope. It funds a forest initiatives to reduce forest fires and reduce smoky summers. The climate change inititive, I-1631 is written to benefit people. It’s written by labor unions,

Wildfire in the Pacific Northwest. Photo by the Bureau of Land Management

and used under a Creative Commons license.

Fall 2018 www.tahomaaudubon.org Page 3

When passed, Washington will join California and British Columbia which already put a price on carbon. Our fee on carbon includes automobiles and trucks, which is estimated to add 14 cents to a gallon. The fee is returned to the community with 70% set aside for clean air and clean-energy investments, with 25% for clean water and restoring forests, and 5% for communities. The Petroleum Association will claim 14 cents a gallon is an outrage, despite the industry raising their gas prices by a dollar a gallon over the last several summers. As soon as the initiative was certified for the ballot, five petroleum companies in the Western States donated $250,000 to the “No on 1631” campaign.

The vote this November is definitely against the petroleum industry. It’s also a vote for racial justice, and it’s a vote for investments to lower energy costs for everyone. It helps save bird habitats, tree-lined streams, provides clean air to breath on hot summer days, and is ultimately a vote for our own health.

The Li-Birdy Flies Again!

By Erik Hanberg

When I started at the Audubon in the spring, I was dismayed to see the state of our little freelibrary (affectionately called the Li-Birdy.) It had been vandalized: the door was broken and thewings were on the ground. We put out the call for help, and so many of you answered. Thank you!

One of Tahoma Audubon’s members, Richard Smethurst—a retired cabinet maker—stepped up and volunteered to repair the Li-Birdy. And what a job he did!

The new and improved library has a new door with stronger hinges, a latch, and some new features that will keep water from intruding. Richard even repainted it.

Once it was restored, United Way of Pierce County donated books to fill our library back up.

Take a book or leave a book at the Li-Birdy the next time you’re at Hess!

The wetlands were filling with garbage. It’s the only way to say it. For several months, Hess—abeautiful natural preserve—was marred by garbage that had been thrown over the edge of the platform. Britt McGrath, our volunteer coordinator, arranged for three TCC students to come lend a hand. The Tacoma Nature Center let us borrow three sets of waders, and into the mud our students plunged. They emerged with four bags of garbage… and a chair!

Thanks to their hard work, the wetlands have been looking much better ever since.

From the MuckBy Erik Hanberg

Top Left and Below: The Li-Birdy before and after Richard’s work.

The garbage pulled out of the wetlands by three TCC students.

HESS HAPPENINGSBy Pam Odegard

Hello from Adriana Hess Wetland Park Docents! We want all of you to know that we are here Monday through Friday from 10am to 1pm. Adriana Hess is the home of Tahoma Audubon, where we host classes and bird walks. Docents are also available to answer questions regarding birds and our mission, support-ing conservation, recreation and education. Please come see us and our beautiful grounds. Bring a picnic lunch and be sure and stop inside to say hi!!

We are also always looking for more volunteers to join our team, so please give us a call at 253-565-9278,consult our website at www.tahomaaudubon.orgor email our Volunteer Coordinator Britt McGrathat bmcgrath@tahomaaudubon.orgfor available positions.

We hope to see you soon!!

Page 4 www.tahomaaudubon.org Fall 2018

Thank you for making Birdathon 2018 a big success! Whether you participated as one of our 20 participants (“Birdathoners”) on an expert-led field trip or gave on behalf of a Birdathon participant, we thank you for your support of this fun and unique event. Together we successfully raised over $19,500 this year! Your donation works across Pierce County, educating and connecting people with nature through field trips, programs and classes, as well as engaging our community in habitat restoration, protection and

advocacy for birds, wildlife and future generations.

Birdathon Ref lectionsSave the Date for Birdathon 2019! April 22 to May 31, 2019

by Diane Yorgason-Quinn

As I enjoyed the slide show of all the Birdathon trips at Tahoma Audubon’s July picnic/Birdathon wrap-up meeting, it was like visiting the Green River Watershed all over again. Interestingly, one of the photos from that Birdathon won the photo contest in the Habitat category, showing the metamorphosis of a dead tree forest into specialized nesting habitat for swallows and woodpeckers. What at first looks like a scene from a post-Armageddon world is at second glance teeming with new life.

Even though we go there every year, thanks to the generosity of Tacoma Water, there’s something new each time. Led by Greg Volkhardt and assisted by Natalie Jones of Tacoma Water, the trip started out at the utility headquarters in Tacoma, where we had to show our official IDs for entry into the restricted area of the watershed, all the better to protect our drinking water. Natalie drove the official van, while Greg educated us about the watershed deep in the woods of southern King County.

The “something new” this year included Black Swifts! Three of them flew over an elk meadow after the elk had already entertained us! Also new this year was a trip into the tunnel through the rock bordering the headwaters, including evidence of bird nests atop the electric lights! Plus we had the hoped-for nesting Common Loons again and heard their wail and yodel! Loon nests in western Washington are becoming extremely rare, and only in a restricted area like this watershed can this happen anymore.

Come on this Birdathon next year and enjoy it for yourself. In the meantime, enjoy our trip photos, including that pas de deux video of the dancing Dippers: https://tinyurl.com/yb8actlo

Our Birdathon group at the Green River waterworks (Photo/Diane Y-Q)

2018 Birdathon Reported Species TotalsHeather Vorobil - Lone Wolf Birdathon: 108 speciesEd Pullen - Tacoma City Limits Birdathon: 76 species

Art Wang & Marcus Roening - Cross-State Birdathon: 124 speciesRosanne Becker & Joann Sims - Meandering Meadowlarks Birdathon: 98 species

Brenda Miller - Bagels & Birds Birdathon: 38 speciesDiane Yorgason-Quinn - Green River Watershed Birdathon: 43 species

Rosanne Becker - Titlow Park Birdathon: 31 speciesAudubon Earth Day Family Walk /Birdathon at Tacoma Nature Center: 10 Species

Left: The waterlogged forest shot that won the “Habitat” Birdathon photo category (Photo/Diane Y-Q)

Black Swifts! A new bird for this site! (Photo/Laurel Parshall)

Raptors Captivate Youth ArtistsYouth Bird Drawing artists captured the Peregrine Falcon, the Red-tailed Hawk, and the American Kestral for the 19th annual contest this spring. The artists, their parents, siblings, and grandparents filled the Tacoma Nature Center gallery on May 30.

Brenda Miller, TAS board member and Education and Outreach Specialist for the Slater Museum, presented specimens and explained hawks and falcons for the enthusiastic audience. Artist and Craftsman Supply of Tacoma provided gift bags. Judy Best framed the art and Dona and Dennis Townsend installed the display. Ione Clagett, Sally Larson, and Marsha Williams served on the committee.

See more photos on the TAS website.

7th & 8th Grade

1st Elisabeth Buchanan Grade 8 Sumner Middle School

2nd Andrea Luna Grade 7 Drum Intermediate

3rd Noah Braun Grade 8 CVA Online School / Homeschool University Place School District

1st Colin Lee Grade 1 CWA

2nd Maya Ghimire Grade 1 CWA

3rd Charlotte Quick Grade 2 Misty Mountain Montessori Puyallup

Honorable Mention Reet Thakur Grade 1 CWA

1st & 2nd Grade

3rd & 4th Grade

1st Kaitlyn Lee Grade 3 CWA

2nd Makayla Rosales Grade 4 CWA

3rd Willa Wang Grade 4 CWA

Honorable Mention Carter Kuluz Grade 3 CWA

5th & 6th Grade

1st Abigail Luna Grade 5 Drum Intermediate

2nd Taylor Cochran Grade 5 CWA Bingham-Rowles

3rd Emy Kissick Grade 5 CWA

Honorable Mention Reese Sabo Grade 5 CWA

YBDC Winners 2018!

Meet CJ, our Summer 2018 Teen Intern

Thank you to your generous contributions, TAS is able to offer a Teen Internship program. CJ has been working with the Tacoma Nature Summer Camps this summer and was also able to spend a week at Adriana Hess Wetland Preserve with our summer camp: Backyard Birding Buddies!

“When I was nine years old my parents told me about a camp at the nature center where I would get to learn about plants and animals. I was really excited about it at first but when I got there I was very scared. I didn’t know anybody there. One thing that helped me to feel more comfortable were the teen volunteers. Through the years of being a camper I found myself being around the teen volunteers more than around the other kids.

At age eleven the staff asked me and the other campers who were turning twelve to apply to be volunteers the next year. To me this was more exciting than being a camper, I wanted to help and educate kids the same way those other teens did for me. So on my last day of camp I got the volunteer paperwork and applied. I did not get accepted that first time around but I appliedagain the following year and was accepted.

This began my five years as a teen volunteer with the nature center. I don’t remember much about that first teen training and my first week as a volunteer wasn’t much better. One of the kids started crying and I didn’t know what to do. My second year as a volunteer would have some very big changes for me. One thing I remember learning from teen training is “I” statements. If you want a child to stop doing something like for example kicking up gravel then you say “I need you to stop kicking up gravel.” By saying you need them to do something than they feel like they are being helpful. In my time as a volunteer I have learned that kids want to be helpful. I used this technique with a camper who was stomping her feet around northwest trek. She was scaring off the animals so to try to get her to stop I said “I need you to stop stomping your feet, you’re scaring the animals” and just like that she stopped. That was the most important experience I’ve ever had as a volunteer. It showed me a better way of talking with campers and increased my confidence as a volunteer. Over the course of the next few years I volunteered more and more. I eventually decided I wanted to be the teen intern.

After that year I was waiting for what felt like forever to get an email from the nature center inviting me to apply for the internship. After getting that email, filling out the paperwork, and submitting it I waited a bit longer for my interview and after that more waiting. I remember getting a call from the nature center telling me I got the internship. After getting the call I was so excited it almost seemed unreal. I kept thinking about all the exciting things I could do and teach.

My first couple of weeks as the intern was a lot fun. By week four I began teaching campers about a subject that I find interesting, marine animal phylums and diversity. It was a lot of teaching kids about arthropods, cnidarians, and other marine phylums. I also got to carry that into our field trip where we went tide pooling. Another time I got to teach was during a camp called Nature Rocks. In that camp we would talk about sciences like geology, space, and my favorite paleontology. I want to be either a zoologist or a paleontologist and this was a big opportunity for me to try and teach it. When I did it I saw how the kids were really interested in what I was teaching them. These experiences showed me that maybe teaching kids either zoology or paleontology is what I should do as a career. I’ve now decided this is what I want to do, this is my passion.”

CJ in his signature fedora, doing what he does best: getting on the kids’ level and teaching

them about the natural world!

CJ helped at Hess with the Backyard Birding Buddies summer camp. The preschool kids had the opportunity to learn about birds and their habitat.

Fall 2018 www.tahomaaudubon.org Page 5

Page 6 www.tahomaaudubon.org Fall 2018

Volunteer Spotlight By Britt McGrath

Tahoma Audubon Society relies heavily on our volunteers to keep things running smoothly. From day to day operations, field trips, classes, stewardship and many other important roles, volunteers and their passion for birds and the environment are at the core of this organization. We would like to show our appreciation to all of our wonderful volunteers - thank you for all that you do!

This volunteer spotlight is on Joe Farkas, a relatively new TAS volunteer with a serious passion for the environment, his community, and birding. Joe is a front desk, social media, and events volunteer, and is always willing to jump in and help and brings amazing positivity to his role at TAS. Thank you Joe!

Here is a little more about Joe, in his own words:

“After graduating with a degree in Landscape Architecture and Design, I moved here from my home country, Romania, and started looking for ways to connect with the surrounding environment and community. Searching through many of the volunteer programs that Pierce County has to offer, I came across the Tahoma Audubon Society, which focused primarily on birding, a field that is new to me. My many hobbies and passions include gardening, hiking, painting wildlife and landscapes. Joining TAS sounded like an exciting opportunity! I decided to volunteer with and join in order to further the work and do what I can to be of help and service to TAS.

Four months later, I can say that joining TAS in bringing people closer to nature is the most rewarding experience I have ever been through. It re-shaped my whole perspective on how I see nature and birds in particular: their habitat, lifespan, and patterns. Being closer to nature has taught me the valuable lessons about listening to nature. It also helped me to combine the practicality and beauty of nature to inspire me to open my own Edible Landscape Design business that will focus on using edible species in yards and gardens in an effort to teach people to grow their own food.

Last but not least, I would like to thank everyone who’s part of the Audubon, especially Britt and Sarah for this amazing opportunity and making me feel like home, even though home is thousands of miles away. I would also like to welcome and congratulate Matt as our new Director. I look forward to working with him and seeing what direction his role takes us!”

A Visit to “Maxine G”Through birding trips, volunteer work events, and Second Sundays many Towhee readers are already familiar with the Morse Wildlife Preserve (MWP) in Graham. They may not be acquainted, however, with its sister-preserve, the Maxine G. Morse Nature Conservancy (Maxine G.). This densely wooded 50 acre preserve is located some miles southwest of MWP and was a special gift in 2008 from Lloyd Morse in memory of his wife, Maxine. A small perennial brook flows across the property and drains towards South (Muck) Creek in the Nisqually watershed.

The forest was last logged in 1906. Wind-blown trees and snags provide microhabitats for mammals, watery depressions for amphibian and reptiles, nesting cavities for birds, and rotting logs for soil nutrients. This mature, undeveloped forest with mature firs, cedars, and hemlocks, surrounded by farm fields and private homes, creates an island-refuge for various wildlife and plant species. Elk and deer commonly roam and bed-down here.

While the Maxine G. was set aside for wildlife habitat and environmental education–same as the larger, more developed MWP–it feels more like a private preserve, as it honors family members by way of a number of memorial benches. Taking just a few steps from the small parking area makes you feel as if you’re stepping back in time…to something simpler.

There is a trail system which includes a series of small bridge-like structures called “puncheons” to keep your feet out of the mud during the wet season. Maps are available to guide walkers around the approximate two miles of trail. To get driving directions and to set up a visit please get in touch with Tahoma Audubon Society or send a request by email to morsewildlifepreserve@gmail.com

Veteran birders Nell & Ken Batker, and Art Gee along the trail at Maxine G.

Fall 2018 www.tahomaaudubon.org Page 7

EDUCATION COMMITTEE REPORTBy Britt McGrath

Environmental Education efforts geared towards little birders have been growing leaps and bounds during the summer months. In July, Tahoma Audubon in partnership with Tacoma Nature Center, hosted a preschool summer camp: Backyard Birding Buddies. Twenty-one little campers attended and were engaged in birding and immersed them in the outdoor wonders that Adriana Hess Wetland Preserve has to offer. Backyard Birding Buddies enjoyed two guest lessons: Outdoor Animal Yoga, led by local yoga instructor Anna Sullivan and a Little Stewards lesson led by our very own Sally Larson! Thank you so much to the volunteer instructors! Tahoma Audubon was also able to engage our Teen intern CJ this summer as a co-teacher - thank you so much CJ, we look forward to seeing where you environmental education path leads you!

Looking forward into Fall, TAS will continue to offer Little Sprouts on Monday mornings at the Tacoma Nature Center. This program features story-time, sensory-based activities, songs and outside time all focused on the natural world. Please sign up your little sprout and join us this year, all lessons have a STEM focus!

The committee is pleased to announce that TAS has added new programming! Explore the Salish Sea is an elementary school program focused on watershed stewardship as it connects to the Salish Sea. TAS was awarded grants through the Chambers-Clover Creek Watershed Council and Tacoma’s Make a Splash in order to offer this program at no cost! This program is positioned to reach 500 elementary school students, with the intent on engaging, informing and creating interest about conservation and stewardship in the next generation. The tireless efforts of the volunteer Thelma Gilmur Education Committee is inspiring and committed to TAS efforts to connect people to nature through environmental education. There are many ways to get involved in these efforts!

Please contact chair Britt McGrath, Environmental Education Coordinator, at bmcgrath@tahomaaudubon.org to volunteering with us!

Wildlife Agency Faces Chronic Budget Shortfallby Kirk Kirkland

The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) is facing a chronic budget shortfall. The deficit for next two year’s budget is $30 million. But to protect all habitats and provide species restoration, an additional $28 million is needed to conserve species before they become threatened and endangered. The Department staff is still adjusting these estimates and determining cuts.

“To fulfill the department’s mission, the WDFW urgently needs greater support and engagement from the public to help pass this budget,” said Denis DeSilvis, Tahoma Audubon’s representative to the WDFW Wildlife Diversity Advisory Council. DeSilvis is also concerned with long-term funding. “I see the 2019-21 budget as an opportunity to transition WDFW toward a new paradigm — a wildlife agency that focuses broadly on conserving all species and habitats, and on boosting fish and wildlife recreation.”

Hunter and angler participation numbers are declining, while other outdoor recreation activities such as bird watching, hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding grows in popularity. This budget crisis is of such proportions that the department cannot be maintained by putting a priority on fish and hunting license fees.

Cause of Chronic Shortfall

Legislature has not adjusted the department’s budget to reflect 10 years of cost increases in salaries and operating costs. WDFW’s general fund contribution is less now than it was in 2008, Hunting and recreational fishing license fees have not increased in ten years. The Discover Pass fee has not increased since it was established. WDFW receives just 8% of the fee or $3.6 million of the $24 million collected each year. General fund contribution has not kept up with increase in state population. Prior to recession, the budget was $55 million annually. By 2017 it only partially recovered. If budget was adjusted for Inflation over 10 years the current proposal would stand at $60 million instead of the current $48 million.

New Funding Sources

Ninety-five percent of the species in Washington are neither hunted nor fished. Programs to preserve these species before extension are critical for the generations to come. The Budget and Policy Advisory Group has made suggestions for new funding sources that draws more equitably from all outdoor enthusiasts to protect all species.

In 17 other states real estate and sales taxes supplement most General Fund contributions. Four states use lottery funds, one state collects sporting good tax. Supplemental taxes range from a high of $117 Million to $16 M in smaller states. In summary, the current budget proposal

is only a temporary fix. Audubon chapters should support WDFW’s immediate budget proposal. The bottom line, however, is that the Fish and Wildlife Commission needs to decide which new tax or fee will increase the continual shortage in State General Fund contribution.

How Can You Help?

TAS Conservation Committee has developed a legislative strategy to meet with our local legislators and the governor to increase the budget. In addition, we are asking other Audubon chapters to join with Audubon Washington to coordinate our legislative advocacy to accomplish this goal.

Attend our October 2, 2018 committee meeting. Learn how you can help write letters, coordinate with other chapters, research budget progress, and meet with legislators.

These campaigns are fun! Join us at the next TAS Conservation Committee on October 2 at 6.30 p.m. at University of Puget Sound, Thompson Hall Room 294

Page 8 www.tahomaaudubon.org Fall 2018

September 27 – Feathers: Form & Function, Chris Maynard

Chris Maynard carves feathers into intricate art. He combines his artistic sense and scientific knowledge into an extraordinary new art form. Chris uses surgery tools to carve the feathers while striving to respect their form. He sets them apart from the background so their shapes are enhanced as they cast shadows. He keeps the natural colors and patterns of each feather.

Since feathers can represent flight, transformation, and a bridge between our present lives and our dreams, Chris is grateful that his art has hit a soft-spot in the hearts of many people and cultures. His work is in museums and private collections in North America, Asia, Europe, and Australia and has been featured in print and online around the world. His recent book, Feathers Form and Function, highlights his art while informing us about what feathers are, how they grow, what they do for birds, and what they mean to us.

See his work at www.featherfolio.com and under Featherfolio on social media sites. Books will be available for purchase at the program.

October 25 – Collage as Nature’s Medium, Maria Jost

Maria Jost is a science-inspired artist and science educator living in Tacoma, Washington. She firstmoved to the Pacific Northwest to study biology at the University of Puget Sound, and has lived here, at first sporadically but now more permanently, since. Maria finds the natural world’s patterns andprocesses to be complex and beautiful, and is continuously inspired to observe deeply in order tounderstand the world scientifically and capture its wonder artistically.

Her media of choice are watercolor, ink and collage (paper and digital). She creates intricate original illustrations and print series based on organisms and scientific topics of interest, and has recently stretched her practice to include larger public art projects. This summer she installed a mural in the Touch Tank Zone of the new Point Defiance Aquarium, her largest piece to date.

In her program, Maria will examine the processes, both ecological and artistic, that inform her paintings and installations. Specifically, she will highlight and discuss the use of collage as a medium within her work. Attendees will have the option to participate in an interactive demonstration during the program.

November 15 – Sideways Look at Clouds, Maria Mudd Ruth

Maria Mudd Ruth is the author of more than a dozen books on natural history topics for young readers, general audiences, and accidental naturalists as herself.

Her latest book, A Sideways Look at Clouds, published by Mountaineers Books, is a work of narrative nonfiction which blends science, wonder, and humor to take lay readers on a scenic route through the clouds.

Maria’s other published books include Rare Bird: Pursuing the Mystery of the Marbled Murrelet (Rodale Press 2006, Mountaineers Books reissue, 2013 ) for the general (adult) reader. Titles for young adults and children include The Ultimate Ocean Book, The Butterfly, The Beetle (3-D portfolios); Hawks and Owls, Snakes, The Pacific Coast, The Tundra, The Southwest Deserts, The Mississippi River.

Maria’s range of subjects reflect her “attention surplus disorder” and interest in restoring our awe in the natural world. She is a member of the Black Hills Audubon Society Conservation Committee, an active advocate for marbled murrelet conservation, a volunteer pigeon guillemot surveyor, a supporter of Olympia city parks, and a United Way reading buddy, along with other involvements.

Maria lives under clouds 228 days a year in Olympia, Washington with her husband--mapmaker, Geographic Information Systems (GIS) professor, and enthusiast Mike Ruth. Find out more at www.mariaruthbooks.net. Books will be available for purchase at the program.

by Margie Shea

See and hear how the natural world has inspired a variety of creative thought and artistic expression

from our guest speakers! Free and open to the public.

Programs are held in the auditorium of the Tacoma Nature Center, 1919 S. Tyler St. Doors

open at 6:30 pm for socializing and refreshments; programs are 7:00-8:00 pm.

Fall Speaker Series: NaturallyInspired

Fall 2018 www.tahomaaudubon.org Page 9

Bird Name Changes Over the YearsCompiled by Helen Engle & Diane Yorgason-Quinn

In 1942 Earl J. Larrison, a young biologist at UW, made a list of birds he saw at the Washington Park Arboretum in Seattle. He listed 79 land birds and 54 water birds. Over the decades since then many major changes have taken place – Seattle’s population has doubled; the Union Bay area has been modified drastically, a huge sanitary waste fill was covered over; plus new species of birds (exotics as well as native species) have settled here. Most of the species Larrison saw over 80 years ago can still be seen in and around the Arboretum. Here are the new names of a large percentage of the species described by Earl Larrison as being in Seattle in 1941, so we can assume it would be similar for most of the Puget trough. (Earl Larrison was the UW natural science professor who camped with us at the Wenas Campout every Memorial Day weekend for 50 years!)

Once you get away from the Puget Sound trough, it’s even worse. The Canada Jay was changed to Gray Jay, but now it’s being changed back again! Everything old is new again.

SOURCES:Larrison, 1941, quoted in UW Arboretum historical pamphlet;Larrison, Washington Birds – Their Location and Identification, 1968;R.T. Peterson, A Field Guide to the Birds, 1934;Birds of America, edited by Pearson & Burroughs, 1917;

Current Names Old NamesRed-necked Grebe Holboell GrebeAmerican Wigeon Widgeon, BaldpateLong-tailed Duck OldsquawTundra Swan Whistling SwanNorthern Harrier Marsh HawkKestrel Sparrow HawkMerlin Pigeon Hawk

Peregrine Falcon Duck HawkDunlin Red-backed SandpiperRed-breasted Sapsucker

Yellow-bellied Sapsucker

Pacific-slope Flycatcher Western FlycatcherWillow Flycatcher Trail’s Flycatcher

Cassin’s Vireo Solitary VireoBewick’s Wren Seattle WrenPacific Wren Winter Wren

Swainson’s Thrush Russet-backed Thrush

Common Yellowthroat Black Dominoed Yellow-throat Warbler

Wilson’s Warbler Black-capped Pileolated Warbler

Yellow-rumped Warbler

Audubon’s Warbler or Myrtle’s Warbler

Spotted Towhee Red-eyed Towhee or Rufous-sided Towhee

Farewell to MikBy Fred Matthaei

On Monday, June 25, Mikulas Rimanek (Mik) returned home to his native Czech Republic after logging 222 species in WA state during his Rotary exchange year. The warm hospitality extended to him by Tahoma Audubon and the ABC Bird Club gave Mik this wonderful birding year. Thank you to all of you who encouraged Mik and shared our wonderful Northwest environment with him!

Mik is an enthusiastic and talented young birder from the Czech Republic. His training before coming to Tacoma had been formal and scientific. You showed him how birding can be a fun activity that can introduce a larger population to our natural world. I have personally encouraged Mik to take home and introduce aspects of “American Birding,” especially the Christmas Bird Count, to his fellow Czech Birders.

Mik had never experienced birding as a “social” experience going out with a group of fiends for a day or more and seeing what birds they can observe. He absolutely loved the adventure. Hopefully, his fellow countrymen will as well. Mik told me more than once this type of birding would be looked down upon at home because it was only for the self-gratification of the birder and did not contribute to scientific knowledge. But like much of the world and our own country, Mik understands how people need to be introduced the wonders of nature before they will be willing to preserve it. Mik is going to try.

On the flip side, I was impressed how Mik’s scientific grounding gave him the skill to quickly learn and identify our NW birds which were entirely new to him. He would continually note the finer points of differentiation of a European species from our North American version.

We are all significantly richer for Mik’s exchange year in Tacoma.

Go birding and make a difference!Are seabirds in the southern Salish Sea increasing or decreasing in numbers? Which species are changing their range? Help us find out. The Puget Sound Seabird Survey (PSSS) is a community and citizen science project managed by Seattle Audubon that empowers volunteer birdwatchers to gather valuable data on wintering seabird populations across the southern Salish Sea.

This season we will be expanding the project, yet again, this time north to the Canadian border and the San Juan Islands. We received funding from the EPA’s National Estuary Program through the WA Dept. of Fish & Wildlife to add 15 - 30 new survey sites, develop an oil spill plan and train volunteers on how to react to a spill.

You can contribute to this vital seabird science by joining the twelfth season of this exciting project. We are now recruiting enthusiastic and dedicated volunteers to help us monitor the status of our local wintering seabirds. Training on survey methodology will be provided at a location near you in September and early October. Volunteers should ideally be able to identify Puget Sound’s seabird species and be available on the first Saturday of each month, October through April, to conduct a 30-minute survey. If determining between Lesser and Greater Scaup is a challenge, we’ll team you up with more knowledgeable surveyors.

To help us determine each volunteer’s seabird identification skills, visit www.seabirdsurvey.com to take our quick, fun Seabird ID quiz.

Learn more, including training dates, at www.seabirdsurvey.org Email Toby Ross, Senior Science Manager, at tobyr@seattleaudubon.org if you would like more information, or to take part.

Page 10 www.tahomaaudubon.org Fall 2018

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT: LALENIA MARIAWritten by Margie Shea Lalenia Maria, aka “Lanes”, joined Tahoma Audubon after she started volunteering with the membership committee in March of this year. She grew up in Trinidad, Colorado, and lived there until she joined the

military in 1995. She was stationed at Joint Base Lewis-McChord twice during her 20 year career, and like many others who got a taste of life in the Pacific Northwest, she decided to return to this area after she retired. She now lives in Lakewood, near Fort Steilacoom Park.

“The first birds that caught my attention when I moved here were the Steller’s Jays,” she said., “They are so beautiful and my favorite color of blue. I was surprised how loud they are. It wasn’t until recently that I finally saw an owl, but I remember the first time I heard them at night. I consider Steilacoom Park my backyard, so I hear them loud and clear.”

Lanes has always enjoyed birds. “I raised a turkey as a pet when I was a child and he was fascinating and a good companion. There is an abundance of Magpies in my hometown and they are such characters. I was so excited the day I recognized a Towhee here. I know I had seen one before, but was unaware of its name until I became associated with Tahoma Audubon, and I also had to learn how to pronounce it. Now I am actively attempting to learn all of the native birds.”

Lanes likes keeping an eye on the birds in her yard. There are Cooper’s Hawks that hang out on her roof and back deck. She also keeps a bird bath in her flower garden, saying “I fill it daily and crows bring dinner rolls and soak them in the water. Somebody nearby has been feeding them dinner rolls for a few years now. I also feed hummingbirds with feeders and I have plants that attract them. Sometimes they land on the feeder as I’m hanging it. I have a sprinkler that has a misting feature and they really enjoy that.”

Lanes first heard of Tahoma Audubon through VolunteerMatch. She was already a community volunteer pulling invasive plants with Partners for Parks of Lakewood and mentioned it to another volunteer, Doris Johnson. Lanes learned that Doris is a TAS charter member and was encouraged by Doris to join. Lanes was then convinced she’d like to serve as a volunteer when she met the people of the TAS Membership Committee. “I am so glad to be able to be a part of a team that contributes ideas, resources, and support” she said. Margie Shea, the chair of the committee, quickly knew that Lanes would fit in well. “Lanes brings her own perspective as a new member that leads to good questions, fresh ideas, and a willingness to jump in and volunteer. We were in need of someone for the job of Program Chair of the monthly Speaker Series and Lanes took it on without hesitation. She is organized and has a keen eye for details, which may be from her military background. It certainly helps in planning programs and events for Tahoma Audubon members.” Adds Margie, “she is a real pleasure to work with.”

One aspect of Tahoma Audubon that Lanes has come to appreciate is the strong commitment to conservation of its members and staff. “I am not science-based and I do not have any experience with conservation other than cleaning up parks, but I feel like I have finally found a greater network of people that I can associate with that are interested in protecting the Earth. I was surprised to learn that there is the Tacoma Nature Center and how TAS is involved. I also learned about other local parks and the history of some of the TAS pioneers and their efforts to pave the way for future generations.”

“I love our parks and the Pacific Northwest” said Lanes

on why she is glad to be a member of Tahoma Audubon,

“I want to do more to preserve them. I also like the people

this organization attracts. Birds of a feather flock together!”

New MembersPaul S Darby, James O’Donnell, Alberta McGuire, Barbara Petersen, Christine Henricksen, Diana Frick, Janis Hager, John & Colleen O. Herzog, Warren C. Woodard, Dugald Stewart, Laure Bayer, Terri Harley, Elise Harnois*, Dan Weiss, Dina Scheel, Paula Meyer, Kathleen Arbak, David B. Hastings, Douglas Wheeler, Suzanne H. Wohlford, Gary Graff, Jingzhen LiMcGinnis, Rick Sanborn, Charlotte Quick, Kirk Musselman, Gergo S. Farkas, A. Adams, Mary E. Marshall, Lalenia Maria

Returning Members

Al Schmauder, Albert & Linda Bird, Allen Clark, Ann & Arthur Green, Ann Elliston, Ann Reinhart, Anthony Chen, Art Wang & Nancy Norton**, Athena Brewer, Barbara D. Beaver, Boon Goh, Bradley & Sil Underwood, Bruce LaBar, Bryan Hanson, Byron Blount, Cam Foreman, Cheryl White, Chris E. Nighswonger, Chris J. Arbak, Christine A. Giannini, Cornelia Cross, Craig A. Rone, David Batker**, Debra D Grady, Denise McDermott, Diana & Jim Noviello, Diane Kerlin, Diane Nason, Dolores & David Leister, Don W Butler, Dorothy McBride & Curt Lewin*, Dorothy W. Hudson,

Dr. & Mrs. Robert & Rosemary Lenigan , Dugald & Norita Stewart*, Ed Burrough, Elizabeth & Douglas Wheeler, Ellen & Mitch Kohjima, Frederick & Dianne Matthaei, Gary & Debbie Geddes*, Geoffrey & Margo Lawrence**, Grace Eubanks, Greg Cole**, Heidi Erdmann, Ian Shelley**, Jean Gillmer, Jerry Broadus & Clarice Clark**, Jo Ann & Bruce Jones, Joan G Harris, Joann Sims, Joe & Linda Krutenat, Joel Chang & Jenne Borman**, John & Cathy Bunger, John & Karen Parks, Joseph & Alberta McGuire, Joy Dworkin, Judith Lewis, Julia A. Payne, June M. Coloff**, Karen & Terry Gillis**, Kathleen Donehower, Kathleen L. Miller, Kathleen McCarver, Ken & Judy Austin, Ken & Rachel Brown, Kenneth & Nell Batker, Kenneth Luthy & Sara Siemens-Luthy**, Kevin P Schoenfelder**, Kirsten & Joseph Quinn**, Kristi & Roger Anderson**, Kristin Davis & Geoff Piper**, Lawrence P. Bradley, Linda Livingston, Lisa Pedersen, Liz Collins**, Louise Schumock, Lynn Arthur & Galen Stark, Lynn Cawthra, Marguerite Marsh, Maria Jost, Mark & Peggy Bubenik**, Marsha & Lloyd Williams**,

Marshall Wilson, Mary McCarthy, Mel & Judy Urschel, Michael Garrity, Mike & Jodi Walker, Myrna Rucker**, Nancy & Don Pearson, Nancy Hellyer, Nancy Iams, Noel & Bill Hagens*, Pam Odegard & Frank Sinkula, Patricia Berger, Patricia Gessler, Paul & Leslie Brantner, Paul Winebrenner, Paula Larson, Polly & Victor Brown, Rachael & Ranae DeSouza,

Rebecca Long**, Richard & Caroline Perdue, Richard & Marlene Myking**, Richard McGinnis, Robert & Judith Schuler, Robert Husted, Robin Partington, Roger & Rita Indrebo, Roger & Rosalyn Lueck-Mammen*, Rosanne Becker, Roxy, William & Winfield Giddings, Sally & Donald Nesheim, Sally Palm-Larson & Wayne Larson*, Sandra Dunning, Shana Osmer, Silvia Fradkin, Steve Marek & Patricia Ness Marek*, Steven J Russell, Sue Hanna, Susan E Boynton, Susan Eidenschink**, Susan LaFantasie, Taylor & Emilie Reynolds**, Teri & Jim Wiseman-Kuhlman, Teri Martine, Terry & Deborah Puskas, Thomas Barocan, Thomas Galdabini & Colleen Waterhouse*, Vivian Jacqmin, Walter Croshaw & Joann Merrill, Wayne Jackson, Wilhelmine Erickson, Yvonne Zubalik

*Canopy-level member**Monthly canopy-level member

Tahoma Audubon is the Pierce County Chapter of National Audubon. As an Introductory Member of TAS, you will receive a joint membership with National and Tahoma Audubon and receive Audubon Magazine for one year. Renewing your chapter membership ensures that we can collectively continue to do our work in Pierce County. At all levels, Tahoma Audubon members will receive a discount for classes and workshops where fees are paid; a 10% discount in our Nature Shop; support of Important Bird Areas (IBA) and state and national conservation agendas; a newsletter (the Towhee) mailed to their home, unless they opt for an electronic notification; free participation in field trips; free family events; recognition in our newsletter; and invitations to special events and volunteer opportunities. Oak, Cedar, and Fir membership levels will receive additional invitations to exclusive events. All membership fees are 100% tax deductible.

For questions about membership, call 253-565-9278 or email info@tahomaaudubon.org.

Membership

C9ZY

020Z

Member(s) Name: ________________________________________________

Address: _______________________________________________________

City: ____________________________________ Zip__________________

Phone: ____________________ Email: ______________________________

Message: _______________________________________________________

__ Introductory Membership $20 All new members receive a joint membership with National and Tahoma Audubon for 1 year, including the Audubon Magazine and the Towhee mailed to your home.

Checks payable to: Tahoma Audubon 2917 Morrison Rd. W. University Place, 98466 Tahoma Audubon Society, established in 1969, is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Donations are tax deductible.

You may also join or renew online at: www.tahomaaudubon.org/membershipWe also encourage you to support National Audubon Society by renewing directly with them.

HOUSEHOLD LEVELS ___ Oak $600yr or $50/mo. online___ Cedar $300yr or $25/mo. online___ Fir $144yr or $12/mo. online___ Family/Dual Senior $40 ___ Military (active & retired) $35

*Tip: If you have more than one senior in your household and would like to both be members and receive full ben-efits, consider joining at one of the household levels, which would cost less than 2 senior memberships.

INDIVIDUAL LEVELS ___ Individual Renewal $30___ Senior Individual* (65y.o.+) $25___ Student/Jr. Audubon $15

(Under 18 and/or college students)

New Chapter Membership Levels:

New Members

WELCOME NEW & RETURNING MEMBERS!

Special thanks to our canopy-level members for their sustaining support!

Apr. 15 - Aug. 14, 2018

Fall 2018 www.tahomaaudubon.org Page 11

Exploring Nature Book ClubThe Exploring Nature Book Club begins meetings in September after summer vacation.

Our book selection for September 4th is “The Snoring Bird, My Family’s Journey Through a Century of Biology” by Berend Heinrich. Bob and Faye McAdams-Hand will facilitate the meeting.

The Exploring Nature Book Club and The Night Owl Book Club members are invited toa Pot Luck Luncheon on September 25th at noon at Marsha Williams home to selectfuture book choices.

Remember to check how many copies of your book choices are available in Public Libraries.

The Exploring Nature Book Club meets on the first Tuesday of the month at Adriana Hess Audubon Center at 1:30 pmin University Place.

Future reads are posted on the Tahoma Audubon Website.

Eco Habit: Bottle your own water.

Night Owl Book Club

Future Book Choices

September 4th and 8th: “The Snoring Bird, My Family’s Journey Through a Century of Biology”by Berend Heinrich facilitated by Bob and Faye McAdams-Hands.

October 2nd and 16th: “Two in the Far North” by Margaret Murie, facilitated by StephanieOstmann.

The Night Owl Book Club will be reading the same selections as the Exploring NatureBook Club.

The evening club resumes after summer vacation on September 8th, and meets at King’s Book Store at 7 pm, 218 St Helen’s Ave, Tacoma.

Book Club members from the day and evening clubs who purchase the book selectionsat King’s will receive a discount.

Fall 2018 www.tahomaaudubon.org Page 12

If you would like to be notified as new field trips are offered, send an email address to bhagens@net-venture.com. You can cancel at any time. For the most up-to-date listings, please see the calendar at tahomaaudubon.org.

SeptemberSaturday, September 8thSwift Night Out4 - 9 PM

A true festival with food, vendors, fun stuff, docents, AND SWIFTS! Sign up is not required. Meet at Wagner High School, 639 West Main St, Monroe, WA

Sunday, September 9thSecond Sunday at Morse 10 AM - 5 PMAn invitation for the public to visit Morse Wildlife Preserve on second Sundays from April through October. Walk the traditional trails to appreciate the forest and prairie, take a close look at wetlands habitat by way of an extraordinary boardwalk, then explore the extended trail loops and newly-accessible habitats beyond. Friends of the Morse Wildlife Preserve are actively seeking volunteers to help greet and direct visitors who come to the preserve on Second Sunday and, on other days, joining work parties to keep the preserve in good shape, cleaning up the trails and keeping invasive weeds at bay. Morse Wildlife Preserve is located at 25415 70th Ave E, Graham, WA. For directions or more information call 253-565-9278 Mon-Fri or visit the TAS website.

Monday, September 10thBeginning Bird Walk at the Audubon Center 10 - 11:30 AM Not a morning person, but want to enjoy birds? Join us for a late morning guided bird walk at our home, the Adriana Hess Wetland Park and Audubon Center. This walk is great for beginners and intermediate birders alike. The gravel trails provide an easy, short loop, and are accessible by wheelchairs or strollers. This walk has much more stopping, looking, and listening than walking! The Center will be open, as well. Bring your binoculars or borrow ours. We are happy to show you how to use them. This walk is led by volunteers Rosanne Becker and/or Russ Smith. All are welcome. (Maybe canceled in case of heavy rain or wind.)

Wednesday, September 12thBilly Frank Jr. Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge(Non-TAS Sponsored Events)8 - 11 AM Join Phil Kelley on his weekly bird walks as he counts the birds at Nisqually NWR. The group walks over to an area near the visitor’s center to view the entry road estuary, and then takes the boardwalk/trail loop out to the Twin Barns and the Nisqually overlook area. From there, the group walks the dike and back to the Riparian Forest. Some may choose to continue on the new estuary boardwalk extension, which goes out toward the mouth of McAlister Creek. It has benches and covered viewing areas. The walk totals 2.0 miles roundtrip to the estuary boardwalk extension, which is an additional 2 miles. Bring: Good walking shoes or boots, rain gear, water, snacks, and $3 for entry fee, unless you have a pass.Scopes are welcome.

Thursday, September 13thTheler Wetlands Bird Walk8 - 11 AM, Belfair, WAJoin leaders Faye Hands and John Riegsecker of the ABC Club of Tahoma Audubon for a walk through this great estuary on the Union River in Belfair. For questions, contact Faye at zest4parus@hotmail.com Sunday, September 16thJBLM Swift Night6 - 9 PMYou will need to find a friend with base privileges to bring you. Meet at JBLM Building: 2068. Contact Diane for directions at Avosetta@hotmail.com

Wednesday, September 19thBilly Frank Jr. Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge 8 - 11 AM (See Above Description)

Thursday, September 20thBirding at Eagle’s Pride Golf Course at JBLM8 - 11 AMEagle’s Pride Golf Course has many acres of undeveloped ponds, meadow, and conifer and deciduous forest, just one-half mile from the Nisqually River. Over 96 species of birds have been documented so far. This trip will be from 1-3 miles long on relatively level ground, and explore coniferous/deciduous forests, ponds, and open area species. No security passes are required. Trip starts promptly at 8:00 a.m. at the golf course driving range parking lot. End time varies.Location: Exit 116 (Mounts Road), turn north, turn rightinto Eagle’s Pride Golf Course clubhouse parking area, go down ramp and make an immediate, hard left onto driving range access road (narrow road). Proceed to driving range parking area.For questions, contact David Wienecke at 253-606-1398 (cell) or david.l.wienecke.naf@mail.mil Wednesday, September 26thBilly Frank Jr. Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge8 - 11 AM (See Above Description)

Thursday, September 27thTheler Wetlands Bird Walk8 - 11 AM, Belfair, WA(See Above Description)

October

November

FIELD TRIPS & EVENTS

Tuesday, October 2ndFort Steilacoom Park8 - 11 AMLakewood’s 342 acre park offers a diversity of habitat ranging from open meadows, brushy areas, hillsides, deciduous groves, coniferous woodland, and Waughop Lake. There are numerous foot trails throughout the park making excellent access for birding that has included over 150 species identified within the park. Every season in the park has its birding rewards. A monthly guided walk is being offered. Join Russ Smith and/or other co-leaders rain or shine (unless torren-tial). Contact Russ at wrsmith@msn.com if you need further info. Reservations are not needed.Birders of all ages and skill levels are welcome. Bring binoculars and a field guide if you have them. Wear footwear and clothing appropriate for the weather.

Duration: dependent on desires of birders present but will include a loop around the lake as well as some of the surrounding meadows and woodlands at a leisurely pace, estimated to be 2 to 3 miles and several hours. Month to month may experience different routes through the park dependent on best estimates of optimizing seasonal variances in bird species and their preferred habitat. Birders may leave at any time.

Meeting Location: newly paved parking lot between barns and Waughop Lake, west end of lot nearest lake. Enter Ft Steilacoom Park off Steilacoom Blvd, turn south at the traffic light at the northeast corner of the park at the intersection with 87th Ave SW, then turn right into the park and immediately left around the south side of the playfields, proceed to end of Dresden Lane to paved parking lot past barns. Russ Smith 253-565-1603

Wednesday, October 3rdSehmel Homestead Park - Field Trip8 - 10 AMJoin Melissa Sherwood as she leads one of her bird walks through the Sehmel Homestead Park. Wear appropriate clothing. There may be some muddy areas that need to be negotiated on the trails. If available, bring field glasses. Directions: Enter, turn right at the baseball fields and head south to the Heritage and Masters Gardens, past the Pavilion and the Master Gardener’s yard. Call Me-lissa (253-851-7230) to register for the walk. (She tends to cancel the trip during heavy windstorms)

Wednesday, October 3rdBilly Frank Jr. Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge8 - 11 AM(See Above Description)

Monday, October 8thBeginning Bird Walk at the Audubon Center 10 - 11:30 AM (See Above Description)

Wednesday October 10thBilly Frank Jr. Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge8 - 11 AM(See Above Description)

Thursday, October 11thTheler Wetlands Bird Walk 8 - 11 AM, Belfair, WA(See Above Description)

Sunday, October 14thSecond Sunday at Morse 10 AM - 5 PM(See Above Description)

Wednesday, October 17thBilly Frank Jr. Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge8 - 11 AM(See Above Description)

Thursday, October 18thBirding at Eagle’s Pride Golf Course at JBLM8 - 11 AM(See Above Description) Wednesday, October 24thBilly Frank Jr. Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge8 - 11 AM(See Above Description)

Thursday, October 25thTheler Wetlands Bird Walk8 - 11 AM, Belfair, WA(See Above Description)

Wednesday, October 31stBilly Frank Jr. Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge8 - 11 AM(See Above Description)

Tuesday, November 6thFort Steilacoom Park8 - 11 AM(See Above Description)

Wednesday, November 7thBilly Frank Jr. Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge8 - 11 AM(See Above Description)

Thursday, November 8thTheler Wetlands Bird Walk8 - 11 AM, Belfair, WA(See Above Description)

Monday, November 12thBeginning Bird Walk at the Audubon Center 10 - 11:30 AM (See Above Description)

Wednesday, November 14thBilly Frank Jr. Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge8 - 11 AM(See Above Description)

Thursday, November 15thBirding at Eagle’s Pride Golf Course at JBLM8 - 11 AM(See Above Description)

Wednesday, November 21stBilly Frank Jr. Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge8 - 11 AM(See Above Description) Wednesday, November 28thBilly Frank Jr. Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge8 - 11 AM(See Above Description)