February2006 ermilion FlycatcherVermilion Flycatcher Tucson Audubon Society February 2006 3...
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F lycatcher V ermilion February 2006 T ucson Audubon Society www.tucsonaudubon.org Leaders in Conservation & Education since 1949 Volume 50, Number 5 ISSN 1094-9909 Inside Audubon Afield ..... 12 Birding Travel ........... 22 Calendar ................... 14 Directors Perch ......... 3 Donors ...................... 4 Education News ..... 16 Field Trips ................. 8 Habitat Restoration 14 IBA Program ............ 7 Inst. of Desert Ecol.21 Mason Audubon Ctr.17 Meeting Program .... 24 Membership Info. .. 22 Nature Shops .......... 18 Presidents Message .. 3 Thanks & Wishes ... 23 Urban Birds ............. 13 Volunteer Opps. ....... 2 As part of Tucson Museum of Arts Birdspace: A Post-Audubon Artists Aviary exhibit, 30 birdhouses were given to local artists and organizations to be decorated and then auctioned to raise funds for the museum. These birdhouses were on display at La Encantada during the last two weeks of Janu- ary, and shoppers placed their bids. Donna Jester painted Tucson Audubons con- tribution to this birdhouse fundraiser. Her piece is entitled Shrine to the Holy Grail Bird, The Elusive Ivory- billed Woodpecker. The images she used were directly inspired by a print by John James Audubon. Her artists statement follows: Shrine to the Holy Grail Bird, Shrine to the Holy Grail Bird, Shrine to the Holy Grail Bird, Shrine to the Holy Grail Bird, Shrine to the Holy Grail Bird, The Elusive Ivory-billed Woodpecker The Elusive Ivory-billed Woodpecker The Elusive Ivory-billed Woodpecker The Elusive Ivory-billed Woodpecker The Elusive Ivory-billed Woodpecker The birdhouse I was given to use as my canvas, although an unsuitable home for most birds, and certainly for the Ivory-billed Wood- pecker, reminded me of a church with a steeple. The Ivory-billed Wood- pecker, having been in the news lately, broadcast widely enough for everyone to hear the story of its re- discovery in the swamps of Arkan- sas, came to mind. The bird was so striking and so elusive, the observer would often exclaim Lord God! upon seeing it. This led to the Ivory-billed Woodpecker being called the Lord God Bird by some, and the continued search for it over the years of its reported extinction causing others to call it Grail Bird. At first I thought about putting the birdhouse on a hat to imitate the fashion of bird feathers and stuffed birds on ladies hats in the last century. The Audubon Society was originally formed by people who wanted to save birds from hunters and collec- tors. Saving the habitat of the Ivory-billed Wood- pecker from development was pivotal in the mobi- lizing of the environmental conservation move- ment in our more recent history. A book entitled The Grail Bird, by Tim Gallagher, explains how re- cent environmental conservation efforts (of the sort the Tucson Audubon supports) really are. Dedication and persistence are needed to succeed in both birdwatching and environmental conserva- tion. These qualities are born from a love and awe for the natural world. The recent confir- mation by two qualified observers that the Ivory-billed Woodpecker still lives elicits the thrill of a spiritual vi- sion. It is as though the search itself has brought a re- birth of the spe- cies. At the least it confirms that the power of life to thrive surpasses the shortsightedness of human misconception. Birdspace Exhibit and Birdhouse Fundraiser by Valerie Pullara and Donna Jester Great Backyard Bird Count February 1720 Participate in the Great Backyard Bird Count, spon- sored by the Na- tional Audubon So- ciety and the Cornell Lab of Ornithology. Count all four days or just one, in back- yards, parks or ref- uges. Get instruc- tions, and upload sightings, to the GBBC website at www.birdsource.org/ gbbc. Seventh Annual Ironwood Festival at the Mason Audubon Center Save the date: March 11, 2006, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wildlife presentations, educational activities, cultural performances; see page 15 for more information.
Transcript of February2006 ermilion FlycatcherVermilion Flycatcher Tucson Audubon Society February 2006 3...
FlycatcherVermilionFebruary 2006
Tucson Audubon Society www.tucsonaudubon.org Leaders in Conservation & Education since 1949 Volume 50, Number 5 ISSN 1094-9909
InsideAudubon Afield ..... 12BirdingTravel ........... 22Calendar ................... 14Director�s Perch ......... 3Donors ...................... 4Education News ..... 16Field Trips ................. 8Habitat Restoration 14IBA Program ............ 7Inst. of Desert Ecol.21Mason Audubon Ctr.17Meeting Program .... 24Membership Info. .. 22Nature Shops .......... 18President�s Message .. 3Thanks &Wishes ... 23Urban Birds ............. 13Volunteer Opps. ....... 2
As part of Tucson Museum of Art�s Birdspace:A Post-Audubon Artist�s Aviary exhibit, 30 birdhouseswere given to local artists and organizations to be�decorated� and then auctioned to raise funds forthe museum. These birdhouses were on display atLa Encantada during the last two weeks of Janu-ary, and shoppers placed their bids.Donna Jester painted Tucson Audubon�s con-
tribution to this birdhouse fundraiser. Her piece isentitled Shrine to the Holy Grail Bird, The Elusive Ivory-billed Woodpecker. The images she used were directlyinspired by a print by John James Audubon. Herartist�s statement follows:
Shrine to the Holy Grail Bird,Shrine to the Holy Grail Bird,Shrine to the Holy Grail Bird,Shrine to the Holy Grail Bird,Shrine to the Holy Grail Bird,The Elusive Ivory-billed WoodpeckerThe Elusive Ivory-billed WoodpeckerThe Elusive Ivory-billed WoodpeckerThe Elusive Ivory-billed WoodpeckerThe Elusive Ivory-billed WoodpeckerThe birdhouse I was given to use as my canvas,
although an unsuitable home for most birds, andcertainly for theIvory-billedWood-pecker, remindedme of a churchwith a steeple. TheIvory-billedWood-pecker, havingbeen in the newslately, broadcastwidely enough foreveryone to hearthe story of its re-discovery in theswamps of Arkan-sas, came to mind.The bird was sostriking and so elusive, the observer would oftenexclaim �Lord God!� upon seeing it. This led to
the Ivory-billedWoodpecker being called the �LordGod Bird� by some, and the continued search forit over the years of its reported extinction causingothers to call it Grail Bird.At first I thought about putting the birdhouse
on a hat to imitate the fashion of bird feathers andstuffed birds on ladies� hats in the last century. TheAudubon Society was originally formed by peoplewho wanted to save birds from hunters and collec-tors. Saving the habitat of the Ivory-billed Wood-pecker from development was pivotal in the mobi-lizing of the environmental conservation move-ment in our more recent history. A book entitledThe Grail Bird, by Tim Gallagher, explains how re-cent environmental conservation efforts (of thesort the Tucson Audubon supports) really are.Dedication and persistence are needed to succeed
in both birdwatching and environmental conserva-tion. These qualitiesare born from alove and awe forthe natural world.The recent confir-mation by twoqualified observersthat the Ivory-billedWoodpecker stilllives elicits the thrillof a spiritual vi-sion. It is as thoughthe search itselfhas brought a re-birth of the spe-cies. At the least it
confirms that the power of life to thrive surpassesthe shortsightedness of human misconception.
Birdspace Exhibit and Birdhouse Fundraiserby Valerie Pullara andDonna Jester
Great BackyardBird CountFebruary 17�20Participate in theGreat BackyardBird Count, spon-sored by the Na-tional Audubon So-ciety and the CornellLab of Ornithology.Count all four daysor just one, in back-yards, parks or ref-uges. Get instruc-tions, and uploadsightings, to theGBBC website atwww.birdsource.org/gbbc.
Seventh Annual Ironwood Festival at the Mason Audubon CenterSave the date: March 11, 2006, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Wildlife presentations, educational activities, cultural performances; see page 15 for more information.
2 Vermilion Flycatcher Tucson Audubon Society February 2006
Vermilion FlycatcherThe Vermilion Flycatcher is published monthly
except for combined May-June, July-August, andDecember-January issues. For address changes orsubscription problems call 629-0757, or write toTucson Audubon, 300 E. University Blvd., #120,Tucson, AZ 85705. Submissions for the MarchVermilion Flycatcher are due by February 7. Pleasesend submissions as Microsoft Word documents,RTF documents, or plain text files to the Editor [email protected], and the Layout Editor [email protected], June Scroggin ................................... 546-1381Layout Editor, Kendall Kroesen ................ 628-1730Proofreaders, Jane & Warren Tisdale .......... 749-2139
Tucson Audubon Society300 E. University Blvd. #120
Tucson, AZ 85705622-5622 (voice)623-3476 (fax)
All phone numbers are area code 520.
About Tucson AudubonTucson Audubon Society is dedicated to im-
proving the quality of the environment by provid-ing education, conservation, recreation programs,environmental leadership & information. TucsonAudubon is a non-profit volunteer organizationof people with a common interest in birding &natural history. Tucson Audubon maintains of-fices, a library, & Nature Shops in Tucson, theproceeds of which benefit of its programs.
Board Officers & CommitteesMessages: 622-5622
President, Susan RandolphVice President, Chris McVieSecretary, Julia Gordon
Treasurer, Barbara HeinemanConservation, Chris McVieEducation, Doris EvansDevelopment, (vacant)
Nominating , Peggy WenrickCommunity Presence, Janet HareFinance, Barbara Heineman
Nature ShopsAudubon Nature Shop300 E. University Blvd. #120,
Tucson, AZ 85705Hours: Mon. � Sat. 10 a.m. � 4 p.m.
(except open to 5 Mon. & Thur.; closed Sun.)629-0510 Fax: 623-3476
Shop Manager, Sara Pike ............................... 622-2230Assist. Shop Manager, Kitty Pokorny .......... 622-2230
Tucson Audubon at Agua CalienteRoy P. Drachman Agua Caliente Park
12325 E. Roger RoadHours: Fri. � Tues., 10 a.m. � 4 p.m.
Shop Manager, Vivian MacKinnon ............ 760-7881
Mich CokerDon EagleJulia GordonJanet HareLisa HarrisCraig Marken
Robert MeridethRobert MestaBill RoeTim SultanHerb TrossmanBob Wenrick
Additional Directors at Large
Programs and ActivitiesField Trips, Darlene Smyth ........................... 297-2315Library, David West/Peggy Smith .......... 629-0510Mailing , Gerald Sweeney ............................ 326-3701Program, Tom DeMoss ................................ 296-2963Rare Bird Alert, Keith Kamper ..................... 798-1005Report Rare Birds ............................................... 798-1005
StaffExecutive Director, Sonja Macys ................. 622-5622Operations Manager, Jessie Shinn ................ 622-5622Bookkeeper, Colleen Sinclair ........................ 629-0757Development Dir., Valerie Pullara ................ 622-5622Membership Coord, Donna Jester .................. 629-0757Education Prog. Mgr., Carrie Dean .............. 622-2230IBA Conservation Biol, Scott Wilbor ........... 628-1730Permaculture Spec, Kendall Kroesen ............ 629-0757Restoration Projs, Ann Phillips ..................... 206-9900Field Supervisor, Rodd Lancaster ................ 256-6909MAC Outreach Asst., Lia Sansom .............. 744-0004Shop Manager, Sara Pike ............................... 622-2230Assist. Shop Manager, Kitty Pokorny .......... 622-2230Agua Caliente, Vivian MacKinnon ............ 760-7881
Birding FieldtripsVolunteer to lead birding fieldtrips. In-structions and help are available. Yes, youcan do it! Call Darlene Smyth, 297-2315.Education ProgramAssist with environmental education pro-grams for children and adults. Call CarrieDean, 622-2230.Habitat RestorationSee pages 14 and 15 for a list of habitatrestoration volunteer opportunities. Con-tact Kendall Kroesen at 629-0757 [email protected] Bird Areas ProgramCollect data about potential IBAs. Sur-vey birds near Tubac, the Rio Rico area,Cienega Creek, Tortolita Fan, or in theCoronado National Forest in Santa CruzCounty. Call Scott Wilbor, 628-1730.Mason Audubon CenterVolunteers needed, especially businesseswith service programs for employees.There are many projects available. CallLia Sansom at 744-0004.
Volunteer at Tucson Audubon!Nature ShopVolunteer one morning or one afternoona week in the downtown Nature Shop.Help customers, answer the phone, andmore. Contact Kitty Pokorny at 622-2230,or [email protected].
Nature Shop at Agua CalienteVolunteer to help out at the new NatureShop at Agua Caliente Park. ContactVivian MacKinnon or Judy Edison at760-7881.
Special EventsHelp organize and plan special eventsfor the Tucson Audubon Society.Contact Valerie Pullara at 622-5622 [email protected].
Join Friends ofTucson AudubonBenefits to members:Subscription to Vermilion Flycatcher10% discount in the Nature ShopConservation bulletinsMonthly membership meetingsAll funds are used locally!Organizational overhead is low
One hundred percent of �Friends�membership dues support TucsonAudubon�s goalsof protecting habi-tat , educatingabout the environ-ment, and sup-porting birding insoutheast Arizona.To become amember, see themembership formon page 19.
Vermilion Flycatcher Tucson Audubon Society February 2006 3
Director�s Perch Sonja Macys, Executive Director
President�s Message Susan Randolph, President
Susan Randolph
KendallK
roesen
Sonja Macys
TASstaff
Vacation DazeAt home when the cock crows, I know
what time it is. On vacation, in anothercountry, there is a window of time in themorning when the sound of squeak,squeak, squeak says, �Get up, you sillygirl.� Great Kiskadees give their slow loudkiskadee call in the early morning. I haveto get up and see such a striking bird, thisbig yellow-bellied, tropical flycatcher.A woman next door tells an exciting
story aboutwatching a hawk steal awaywitha two-week-old puppy. She says the puppy�slegs were sticking straight up in the air. Thelitter of wild-dog babies has grown smallereach day. I wonder if Osprey take puppies?The tourists watch pods of dolphins,
in the company of pelicans, gulls, andBlue-footed Boobies. Look for the birds,and you will find the fish. Look for thebirds, and you will find the dolphins. Whilethe dolphins feed underneath the blueseas, pelicans brown and white dive furi-ously. Twisting and plunging, a Brown
Pelican mutters �What a year! ThatPombo Fat Cat doesn�t realize that I needmy habitat!� Splash!A Great Egret, habituated to people,
looks on lazily and only bothers to fly offwhen I get within a few feet of him. SomePacific Loons gossip about how good thefish is in the Gulf and about how pleasedthey are that Huckster Stevens was un-able to sell out their refuge in Alaska.Frigatebirds float on air as if sus-
pended in space, held by invisible strings.Watching them against a still blue sky givesthe illusion that this day, this time, thisyear of 2005 will never end. A TurkeyVulture soars very close, showing gorgeouswhite-winged expanse, reminding all whosee him that we really are mortal.The Snowy Egrets�I used to get so,
so excited when they would lift their blacklegs to reveal yellow feet, confirming theiridentity. Today there are so many that Ibarely acknowledge them and instead lis-ten intently for theMangroveWarbler that
I know is hidden away in the mangroves.The sky reddens. My bird friends have
brought volume to everyone�s day. Be-cause we have given them meaning, theygive meaning back to us. They becomeour symbols, our tales, our lore, and partof the ebb and flow of each day. Thisday is done�another day, another migra-tion, another year. In a few short hoursof unsilent night, 2006 will arrive!
Happy New Year! In my first weekback, I lunched with our staff and volun-teers every day. We talked about vaca-tion, our families, outings to natural ar-eas, and Tucson�s beautiful weather. But,our conversations inevitably returned toone thing�bathroom humor.Before you begin with accusations of
poor taste, let me explain why it is such aprominent topic. Birders already know.Wastewater treatment plants like the Cityof Tucson�s Sweetwater Wetlands attractloads of birds and birders from all overthe country. Water that flows from ourtoilets and taps is treated at these plants.During the treatment stage, a variety ofshorebirds, waders, and waterfowl use thiswater on their long migrations. But oncetreated, where does that water go?At least some of it is returned to na-
ture to provide water for habitat restora-tion in our critically-endangered riparian(streamside) areas. Discharge of this �ef-fluent� increases available habitat forbirds and other wildlife by sustaining veg-
etation. Vegetation, in turn, provides food,shelter, and cover for between 60�75%of Arizona�s species.Riparian habitat is Tucson Audubon�s
top conservation priority. We are work-ing diligently with multiple jurisdictionsthroughout southeastern Arizona on habi-tat restoration and conservation planningfor riparian areas. A first step towardsintegrating conservation planning andhabitat restoration is the Sonoran DesertConservation Plan.Through this effort, Pima County and
the City of Tucson have worked out anagreement to permanently secure a mini-mum of 5,000 acre-feet of treated efflu-ent per year for riparian restoration. Theamount will rise to 10,000 acre-feet in2005 and successive years (i.e. now). Thisis a first step because the agreement hasyet to be implemented, though it surelywill be upon final passage of the SonoranDesert Conservation Plan.As our community explores questions
about water, wastewater is coming to the
forefront. Everybody is adopting bath-room humor. But the need to resolve ourwater challenges is no joke. As the com-munity wonders where we will get thewater to accommodate Arizona�s explo-sive growth, and how we will accommo-date the increased wastewater fueled bythat growth, we also hope the communitywill wonder at the marvel of riparian habi-tat supported by this wastewater. Join uson a field trip or for a slideshow. You�ll beamazed at what Mother Nature can dowith a little help.
4 Vermilion Flycatcher Tucson Audubon Society February 2006
Thank You For Your Support!We owe a debt of gratitude to the many people who have
supported Tucson Audubon throughout the year. The listingbelow includes financial gifts from the beginning of June 2005
through the end of the year. We offer each and every one ofyou a sincere thank you for making our work possible.
BaldEagles $15,000 to$49,999
William & Alice Roe
Kestrels $5000 to $14,999Don & Carol EagleEvelyn Y. Mc Neill
Wilburforce Foundation
GreenKingfishers$1000 to $4,999Anonymous (2)
Marilyn & John BickingDavid DunfordCharles OldhamCharles Pettis
Lindsey Quesinberry &Nancy Bower
Joan & Bob TweitMary & Skip WalkerPeggy & Bob Wenrick
American Birding AssociationT & E, Inc.
Elegant Trogans $499to $999
Anonymous (2)Barbara & William BickelDr. Kathleen Moore Bishop
Jacqui CairdMary Kay & Robert Eiermann
Julia & Mark GordonJanine Higgins & Bill Easton
Helen Mac LeodClaire & Don Macha
Polly MillerBarbara & Jeffrey MinkerDoug & Darleen NewtonKatherine OlmsteadPatrick Porter &Barbara ButlerSusan RandolphDr. Cathryn Rose
Pat & Herbert TrossmanDr. Elizabeth Lee Vliet &
Gordon VlietJ David West
Roger Wolf & Cheryl LockhartDr. James Woolfenden
David Yetman
Community Foundation ofSouthern Arizona
Environmental Fund for AZ
Violet-crownedHum-mingbirds $250 to
$499AnonymousWilliam AdlerGail Brandt
Barbara & Stuart CalderPatricia & Richard CarlsonLinda & Will De BoerMary Hope Dillon
JoanDonnelly &David TaylorMike & Kay FaganVeryl FinlayJohnny Gann
Connie & David GreenbergMichele HacherlRichard Hill
Gayle & Frederic JandreyEd & Miriam KirstenDavid & Jan Labiner
RoddLancaster&ChiNakanoCynthia LindquistIna & Jon Lockwood
Eugene Loring & Hal MyersThe Macys Family
CraigMarken&WandaWynneTed & Jane McCreary
Dr. Edward & Lynda RogoffPeterSalomon&PatriciaMorganBryan & Valerie SmithGayle & John Swarbrick
Jacquelyn & Thomas TuckerShirley & Stephen UngerConnie & Jeff Woodman
Dr. Charles& Elizabeth Zukoski
AcornWoodpeckers$100 to $249Marilyn AbrahamBriggs & Pat AckertDelbert AllinderTom Arny
Holly ArvanitesJamesBarr&ElizabethBoeckel
Alyce Christine Beck
Patty & Clark BlakeSpencer & Kerstin BlockJane & Carl Bock
Bob Boehm & Kate BealeHoward BremondWendy BurroughsBonnie & Les CoreyEdward Curley Jr.Dr. Jeffrey DeanDr. Ludwig &
Rosemarie DeppischAnn Dursch
Sandy & Karl ElersLisbet & Robert Esperti
Michael EvansDan Fischer
Diana & David FreshwaterJacque FriedmanLeila GassPaul Gengler
Michal Glines & Michael RacyMary GoodmanSally Greenleaf
Kathleen & Charles GrierDr. Edward Hacskaylo
Diana Hadley & Peter WarshallTina & Terry HaightDr. Melissa Halpern &Charles MacCabeJanet HannestadHomer Hansen
Linda & Ned HarrisDiane & Jim HaysBarbara HeinemanKathryn HeinemanJohn HigginsHolly HopeDr. Grace Hou
Jackie & Oscar HunsakerMark KimbleJ. Boice
Mary KlinkelEddie Jean & Gary KriedemanDiana & Stewart LancasterMarcia & Ries Lindley
Vivian & Aleck MacKinnonSonja Macys
Linda & Michael McNultyRobert MestaGlenn Miller
George & Susan MitchellRobert Modica
Crystal & Franklin Morris Jr.Elizabeth Murfee
Jeni & Michael OcallaghanLinda Ochsenbein
Melissa Owen & T. Mc DanielAnn PhillipsNancy PittDavid Plane
Katharine JacobsSarah & Clark Porter
Dr. Sholem & Carol PostelJean & David RiosDr. Elizabeth Roemer
Carol RoseLaura & Tom RubboAlpha Alice RussellJean Russell
Patricia & Wayne ScheibleGinny Seabrook
Jessie Shinn & Randy GrohmanPatricia & Dan Sims
Susan SmallCurtis Smith
Janet & Linwood SmithPeggy & John SmithDarlene Smyth
Shirley & Joe SpitlerGerry & Jim SullivanBrian SwansonGerald SweeneyRuth Tankersley
Joan & John TedfordCynthia Thomssen & Joe HydeSandra & Charles TownsdinJean & Raymond TurnerArlene & Tom WebsterJoyce & Russell WidnerJeffrey WilliamsonRobin Wolcott
American Express FoundationDavenport & Brei, P.L.C.Gannett FoundationPima County ECAP
VermilionFlycatchers$50 to $99Lee Aitken
Mary Louise & JosephBagnara
Vermilion Flycatcher Tucson Audubon Society February 2006 5
Jean & Guy BatyBetty & Peter BengtsonDavid BertelsenSusan & Bill BirkyAlexia Bivings
Suzanne & Gerald BouwensMargaret Bradshaw
Linda & Christopher BreljeRichard BrooknerWilliam BruniShawn BurkeBarbara Cain
Lynda & John CamburnEliza & Kent CampbellLouise & Charles ConradDr. Dennis & Sevren CoonDr. Charles & Joan Coston
Colleen CrombieKevin Dahl
Johanna DawesCarrie DeanCarol DewaardKim DuffekJoan DukesKaren Dye
Virginia & John EdgertonJudy & Richard Edison
Robert EdisonCarolyn Edwards
Doris & Douglas EvansBetty Feinberg
Hermelinda FigueroaDr. Robert FurmanPauline Fuus
LeslieGalloway&BalfourWalkerFrances Ann GilletteNancy & Ellery Green
Bruce GungleElinor & Gerry Hallowell
Barbara HansonJohn Ware
Billie & David HardyCharlotte & Bob Hassan
Donna & Christopher HelmsDr. Sky & Anne HiltsCynthia Hoyer
Cindy & Gifford HoyerSue Hunt
Helen & James JenningsFreda Johnson
Marge & Norton JohnsonMarianne & Paul KaestleDr. Peter & Melinda Kay
Timothy KeeferMarge & Ben KeslerMargaret Kidwell
Dr. Kristine KlewinRuth & Lawrence Korn
Karen KrebbsKendall Kroesen &Mary Beth Tyndall
Paul & Carolyn KroesenGloria Kuykendall
Elizabeth & Gene LightnerCarolyn & Robert Long
Marilyn LudwigRuth & Joseph Mac Donald
Chris MartinRachel McCaffreyGeorge McCauleyOpal McCauleyJoy McGrew
Nancy-Jo MerrittNancy Mielinis
Barbara & Floyd MillerJanet MooreRay Moucha
DougNoffsinger&Roger FunkAnne Olson-ScribnerHilarie OrmanJoan & Bill PageLorene PaschalJennifer Perry
Kira & Sean PetersC Frank Phillips
Sara & Vincent PikeShirley Piplani
Dr. Thomas & Kathryn PurdonAudrey & Robert RayMrs. Glenn RichardsAudrey & E. L. Robison
Isabelle RohlfsCarla Ziegarelli Rosenlich
Barrie RyanJoan Marie SchaeferWinifred SchillingBarbara SchneidauPam & Roland Shack
Janice & Richard ShaughnessyNorman & Ginny Sherman
Melinda SimonIrene & Walter SivekMargaret SkipperMiriam Smead
Marilyn & Gerard SmithLouis StamlerMark Stevenson
Bonnie & Mark StilesKelly & Jeff StraubDora & Dave ThayerJoanna TouseyDr. F. Ann Walker
Charles WarnerRichard WarrenRobert WatsonCynthia Wicker
Irma & Dick WileyBetty WilfordBarbara Wilson
Lisa & George YoungermanArco Building Materials Inc.Devon Energy CorporationOutdoorAdventures/MelodyKehl
CactusWrens$1-$49Anonymous
Doris & Larry AbramsDr. Janine AllisonJames Ambrose Jr.William Anderson
Kathleen & Jack AtchisonJoyce BaileyLois Jean Baker
Mrs. James BalsigerRichard BarberLarry BarnhillRoger Barthelson
Paula & Michael BauerElizabeth Bernays
Luise & Eric BettertonMichael Bissontz & Kris Walker
Dr. Samuel BlakesleyLois & Timothy Blowers
Janet BoiceDorothy & John BonarOlga BracamonteDr. Clait BraunShirley BreazealeMark BrewerCharles BrownJamie BrownNancy BrownR. C. Brusca
Mr. & Mrs. Donald ButlerMary & Edmund Caldwell
Brian CampbellD. I. CampbellVerna CarellFrances Carter
Barbara & D Gene CaweltiJohn ChaneyKristina ChouRuth Clement
Patricia & Ron CoghlandKenneth Cookson
Shira & Anthony CortigianiFannie CourtlandDon Crawford
William CreachAugusta Davis
Vernita & Joseph De RouenHarvey Deardorff
WilliamDenny&KarenWilliamsJudith & Fred Dippold
George DoddsWilliam DoelleLinda Mayro
Mr. & Mrs. Robin DoidgeJames DoranCynthia Douglas
Dr. Donald and Joan DowlerTim Durnell
Mrs. Charles EdisonElizabeth EdwardsBetty ElasowichM.F. EnglishKenneth FaberLinda Fagan
Ruth & Marvin FailerCass Faux
Marilyn FickettDamian FigueroaMarcello Figueroa
J. Kenneth Fleshman &Victoria MaddoxEileen FoleyJay Fowler
Patricia & Joseph FranneaJudy Ann Fraser
Kevin Gaither-BanchoffJoanne GallaherDr. Hector GarciaTim Genske &Sylvia FerronyalkaBarb Goldman
Elizabeth GoodwinMary GraciaEileen GreenDr. George &
Nancy GreenmanDonald GuntherDorothy GyurkoRobert HaightLiz Harrison
Sarah & William HeedRobert HeinemanThelma Hendricks
Kathy & Gary HendricksonThomas Hicks
Vicki & George HillKenneth Hinkle &Winifred Williams
Marian & Phillip HinkleySidney Hirsh
6 Vermilion Flycatcher Tucson Audubon Society February 2006
Geraldine HoganMuriel HolbenHelen HollidayBarbara HoltzmanNancy HookRobert Hopper
Stella & Phillip HotchkissKathi & Michael Houghtaling
Carol & Jon HoweMarajean & Jack HulingAnne & Ron Hummel
Sally InnesFrances JanssenMarjorie JavetDonna Jester
Therese Jezioro &Thomas Hestwood
Sylvia & John Enoch JohnsonSuzanne JohnsonArthur Jones
Carla & Bill KirchnerJohn KitagawaDennis Kizerian
Bernadine & Jerry KleinNorman Koehler &Marjie Baker
Edwin H. Kohlhepp Jr.Mr. & Mrs. Arthur Kramer
Carl KrekelerRobin Kropp
Norma & Abe LackowJoyce Lahr
Garvin LarsonCherie & David Lazaroff
Donna LermaBetty & David Levinson
Joann LewisClint LiechtyHoward LilleyMarie Lintner
Kathy & Craig LittleJim Logan & Sherry LewisPenny & Daniel LoweJohn MallinsonRuth MandaraDoris Manning
Zakkai & Neil MarkowitzJudith Mason
Haia & Daniel MazuzHolly Mc Carter
Shirley&RobertMcCormackJudy & James Mc Nally
Kayri MealyMary MeridethCharlotte Mesick
Sally MettlerJoseph Miller & familySheila & S. R. Miller
Mark MinerDorothy & Earl Montgomery
Lawrence MorganSandy & Michael MorseDr.Gilbert&BarbaraMueller
Patricia MunsieRichard NagyRichard NgSusan NicholasDavid Niven
James & Iris NotestineMargaret & C. A. Nugent
Marlene ObearMr. & Mrs. Allen OgdenVanessa Olsen D.V.M.
Helen & Joseph OrensteinElaine Padovani
Dr. John & Sarah PalmerCaroline &Georges PechuzalSuzanne & Charles Peters
Linda Phelan &Mort WomackLorel PicciurroMolly Pollock
Jami & Eric PondBrian Powell
Beverley PrenticeArlene & Leonard Pullara
Valerie PullaraParthenia Randolph
Belva & Alan RichardsonMary & James Riley
Irene RitchVirginia RiversMary Ann RoblesJane Rodman
Sylvia & Bob RossAnne & Elmon SappSusan Scalero
Warren SchellhaseKerry Schwartz &Melanie MorrisonDr. Ronnie Sidner
Helga & Robert SmallPat & Bill Smith
Mary Ann & Michael SmithSusan Sotelo
Joan & Richard SpencerArthur Stern
Catherine StetsonJoe StevensBarbara Straub
Jean StromCarol Struble
Margaret & Jay SuchlandJanet SwansonRobert SweatDiane SzollosiWalter TannertBeth Taylor
Karen ThamarusCathy ThwingRonald TownerJohn Trexel
Mary & John TurnerSusan ValdiviaSonya Valentin
Rosemary & Elliott ValentineV. Van OosterhoutRobert VaradyLarry Venable
DianaVidetti & ThomasAldrichSterling Vinson
Dr.NickolasWaser&MaryPriceMargaret WeesnerBetty Whitcavage
Judith & Robert WhitcombDr. L. J. & Laura WickerhamMarilyn & Herbert Winnik
Natasha WinnikJohnny Wise
Mary & Robert WolkMarilyn YeamansGlenda Zahner
AshCanyonBed&BreakfastCastro EngineeringCity of Tucson ECAPPastiche Modern Eatery
ObituaryRobert Scheibe
Robert �Bob� Scheibepassed away December 29,2005. Bob was an avid birderwith a life list of 736 speciesand for many years had beenactive in Tucson Audubon asa field trip leader, board mem-ber, vice president, and com-piler of the Green ValleyChristmas Bird Count. Oursympathy goes out to his wife,Jean and her family.
New class of Mason Audubon Center Naturalists (see story on page 16)
DorisE
vans
Vermilion Flycatcher Tucson Audubon Society February 2006 7
Heroic? Yes! The need for critical in-formation on birds and wildlife, plants,water resources, and the health ofArizona�s ecosystems is at an all-time high.In 2006, major decisions regarding whichlands get conserved and how land is tobe developed will be made across Ari-zona. Decisions on which Arizona StateTrust Lands will be conserved may soonbe made by voters, so sign the petition toget State Trust Land Reform on the bal-lot. In Pima County, decisions regardingland purchases under the SonoranDesert Conservation Plan will continueto be made.In northern Arizona, decisions regard-
ing the management and restoration ofthe Verde River, Fossil Creek, and Ander-sonMesawill be decided. In PhoenixValleyand beyond, decisions on how to restoreand best manage the Salt and Gila Riverswill continue to bemade in 2006. In south-ern Arizona, issues regarding ecosystemhealth and the conservation of key landswill be keenly focused on the San Pedroand the Santa Cruz Rivers and their mostwatered tributaries�Arivaipa, Cienega,Sabino/Bear, Aqua Caliente, TanqueVerde, Sonoita, and Tumacacori highlanddrainages, and other key oases in theCatalina, Rincon, Santa Rita, Huachuca,Chiricahua and Galiuro Mountain ranges.Audubon is uniquely situated with its
Important Bird Areas Program to iden-tify the most important sites for birds,provide scientifically sound avian data,and to advance site protection and habi-tat conservation through its partnershipswith landowners and management agen-cies. Audubon�s birders are the key to theIBA Program. They are the volunteerswho are exploring new areas, following astandard scientific protocol, documentingthe occurrence of species of conserva-tion concern, avian community diversity,species breeding status, habitat use, andrelative abundance.In southern Arizona, Audubon IBA
Teams have collected important data atthe San Pedro Riparian National Conser-
Important Bird Areas ProgramLooks for a few Heroic Birders!by Scott Wilbor, Important Bird Areas Program Conservation Biologist
vation Area, Sabino/Bear Creeks IBA,Kino Ecosystem Restoration Project(KERP), and along the Upper Santa Cruzat Esperanza, Tubac, Sonoita Creek, andin the Tumacacori highlands.In 2006, we need still more heroic
birders to explore sites that are rarelybirded, some quite remote, and many withlimited access and no developed trails�an adventure surely awaits. Key sites ofinterest include tracts of riparian habitatalong the Santa Cruz River near Tubac,Tumacacori, Rio Rico, and further south.Our work in the Tumacacori highlands isjust beginning andwe need intrepid birdersto explore this most promising potentialImportant Bird Area. Key drainages inthe Patagonia area comprise an additionalarea of interest. There are also areas inand around metro Tucson of interest,including ongoing surveys at the KERPsite (A.K.A. Sam Lena Park), TanqueVerde Creek, along the Santa Cruz River,and at the Avra Valley Wastewater Treat-ment Plant. Desert sites of interest lienotably within the Tortolita fan. We arelooking for IBA Teams of 2�3 people toconduct a minimum of three surveysduring the year, with more visits to moreaccessible sites. We are also planning somelarger �IBA group surveys� (one-timecommitments) along the Lower SanPedro, Cienega Creek, and AravaipaCreeks (and possibly elsewhere), so keepan eye out for announcements of thesesurveys.New survey routes are now being
planned for 2006! Our first round ofsurveys should begin in mid-March. Tobe part of Arizona�s IBA Bird SurveyTeams, give us a call at Tucson Audubon�sIBA office (628-1730). We will have aninformal training session in the Tubac-Tumacacori area on Saturday morning,February 18, to go over in-field bird sur-vey techniques and data collection. Callfor more details. Now is the time to makeyour heroic contribution to the conserva-tion of Arizona�s birds and Audubon�sImportant Bird Areas Program.
ReinventingYour Passion for
GivingWith a new year upon us, many people
begin to take a look at planning their yearlydonations to their favorite non-profit or-ganizations. This planning process helpsindividuals and families decide whatorganization(s) match their personal pas-sions. Tucson Audubon would like to helpyou better leverage your giving spiritthrough fulfilling and effective ways ofdonating to Tucson Audubon.There are many ways for individuals,
families and groups to benefit from a pro-active giving program. Tucson Audubonhas different giving programs that canstrengthen personal giving goals and canbe used in concert with friends and fam-ily giving plans. It is our hope that througha series of articles called �The Passionfor Giving,� Tucson Audubon can helpyou create a new giving style that will buildbonds to those you love, provide educa-tion to your family and reinforce yourconnection to Tucson Audubon. Pleasewatch for these informative articles inupcoming Vermilion Flycatchers.
TucsonAudubon
History ProjectTucson Audubon celebrated its 57th
birthday on January 6! An effort is under-way to publish Tucson Audubon�s history.Please help us illustrate our history bysearching for photos, slides, and memora-bilia of bygone days at Tucson Audubon.We would like material covering any Tuc-son Audubon event. We can receive ma-terials for review by mail or by e-mail (inJPEG and no larger than 800x600 pixels).We will return original materials within onemonth if you include a stamped, self-ad-dressed envelope. Send to Doris Evans,5006 Placita de los Vientos, Tucson, AZ85745 or [email protected].
8 Vermilion Flycatcher Tucson Audubon Society February 2006
Field Trips Compiled by Darlene Smyth, Field Trip Coordinator
January 31 � Tuesday, 6:30 a.m.Patagonia Lake State ParkLook for wintering rarities, gnatcatchers, flycatchers andwaterbirds. Be prepared to walk a couple of miles over mostlylevel trails that may be wet and muddy in places. Wear appropri-ate footgear, dress for the weather, and bring water and lunch.Bring a scope if you have one. Note: There is a fee for entryinto the park. Be at the Central Tucson carpooling site for a6:30 a.m. departure or at the Green Valley McDonald�s (Conti-nental Road Exit) before 7 a.m. (140 miles roundtrip)Leader: Diane Touret (299-7490 or [email protected])
February 4 � Saturday, 6 a.m.San Pedro River InnCome join the proprietor of this bird-filled property as he leadsthis bird walk. In recent weeks, the walks have produced asmany as 55 species, including a White-tailed Kite, Wilson�s Snipe,Eastern Phoebe, Gray Flycatcher, and Ruddy Ground-Doves.Vermilion Flycatchers have also been over-wintering. Dress forthe weather, bring water and lunch. There are picnic facilities onthe grounds and coffee and tea will be provided for you. Meetat Houghton and I-10 at 6 a.m. (leader not present), or in SierraVista at the Mesquite Tree Restaurant (on the right side of Hwy.92 next to the junction with Carr Canyon Rd.) at 7:45 a.m.(leader present here). Please contact the leader so he will beaware you are meeting him. (Approx. 180 miles round trip)Leader: Michael Marsden (366-5532 [email protected])
February 4 � Saturday, 6 to 9 p.m.Star Party at the Top of CampbellTime to use those daytime binoculars for collecting starlight andmoonlight! We will have an 8-inch telescope available to viewsome of the winter sky objects�the Moon, Saturn, Orion�snebula, Andromeda Galaxy, M35 and M41. Don�t know whatthe last two are? Then it�s worth showing up and learning aboutthem! The bright stars of winter will all be visible, a great timeto easily learn your way around the sky. If weather permits, wewill meet at the top of Campbell Ave. (about 1 mile north ofSkyline). Parking is available. (Local)Leader: Michael Smith (299-0122 or [email protected])
February 7 � Tuesday, 7 a.m.Catalina State ParkCatalina State Park has a variety of habitats and many birdsthat can be hard to find elsewhere. We�ll hope for Crissal Thrasherand Rufous-winged Sparrow and perhaps even an owl. Bringwater, lunch and sunscreen, and dress for the weather. There isa fee for entrance to the park. Meet at the Central Tucsoncarpooling site for a 7 a.m. departure or at the Northwest Tuc-son meeting spot (Ina and Via Ponte) before 7:30 a.m. (Local)Leader: Jim Hays (903-1634 or [email protected])
February 8 � Wednesday, 6:30 a.m.North Simpson Habitat Restoration SiteLook for residents and winter visitors at this site along the lowerSanta Cruz River near Marana. We�ll stop to see burrowing owlrelocation sites, walk about 1.5 miles along the river corridor,and then do an optional trip to the Pinal Airpark Pecan Grove.Bring water, snack, good walking shoes, and dress in layers. Scopeuseful. Meet for a 6:30 a.m. departure from the Jack-in-the-Boxon Ina Road just east of I-10. Done by noon. (40 miles round trip.)Leader: Kendall Kroesen (884-4308 [email protected])
February 11 � Saturday, 8 a.m.Agua Caliente Park in NE TucsonIn celebration of Tucson Audubon�s Membership AppreciationDay, come and explore Tucson�s very own hidden desert oasis.With a crystal clear warm spring, a small creek, ponds and fruittrees surrounded by Sonoran Desert, Agua Caliente Park is abirders� paradise. This is a good trip for beginners and the walk-ing is easy. Bring binoculars, a scope if you have one, water, sunprotection, snacks/lunch and money if you want to take advan-tage of the 20% off for Friends of Tucson Audubon Membersat the Tucson Audubon Nature Shop at Agua Caliente Park.Meet at McDonald�s on the NE corner of Tanque Verde andCatalina Highway at 8 a.m. (Leader present) or at the MainRanch House in Agua Caliente Park at 8:30 a.m. Done by 11a.m. so you can get back to the main Nature Shop for the DonStap book-signing event!Leaders: Vivian MacKinnon and Jeff Babson (323-6452 [email protected])
February 12 � Sunday, 6:30 a.m.Esperanza Ranch, Upper Santa Cruz RiverBirding at this 300-acre conservation easement along the SantaCruz River between Amado and Tubac should improve steadilyas habitat restoration efforts proceed. Already over 100 specieshave been identified. We�ll walk a total of 2�3 miles along theriver corridor and other areas. Bring water, snack, good walkingshoes, and dress in layers. Scope useful. Meet for a 6:30 a.m.departure from Fry�s parking lot on Irvington just east of I-10or a 7 a.m. departure from MacDonald�s on Continental Roadin Green Valley. Group size limited to 12; contact leader to signup after February 1. (Round trip 75 miles.)Leader: Kendall Kroesen (884-4308 [email protected])
February 14 � Tuesday, 4:30 a.m.BuckeyeSee Le Conte�s Thrasher and other thrasher species in the nar-row seasonal window when they tend to be perched up andsinging! Sage Sparrows are also likely. The early start is requiredbecause the drive to Buckeye is long, and the birds sing mostly
Vermilion Flycatcher Tucson Audubon Society February 2006 9
in the early morning. We�ll visit Cobble Ponds and other Phoenixarea hot spots afterward, returning to Tucson in the late after-noon.Walking throughmostly level fields plus some birding alongthe roads. Bring water, lunch, and a scope if you have one. Beat the Central Tucson carpooling site before 4:30 a.m. Plan tocarpool if at all possible, since the drive is quite long. (330 milesroundtrip.)Leader: Melody Kehl (885-6362 or [email protected])
February 18 � Saturday, 7 a.m.Sulphur Springs ValleyCome and say good-bye to the wintering ducks, raptors andSandhill Cranes before they move back north. We will drive 250miles to check out Whitewater Draw, the farm fields near Elfridaand Sunizona, the Willcox ponds and the AEPCO power plantviewing area. Be ready for wet, cold and windy weather. Beready to drive on muddy dirt roads. Bring lunch, apple pie money,scope, and a walkie-talkie if you have one. Meet at HoughtonRoad just north of I-10. Carpooling is encouraged. Back by 5p.m. No need to sign up but call leader if you have questions. Alittle walking but only on flat roads. A good trip for someone
who is new to birding or winter birding in southeast Arizona.Leader: John Higgins (578-1830 or [email protected])
February 21 � Tuesday, 8 a.m.Honeybee CanyonWe will bird the upper canyon past an old dam and up to somepetroglyphs. Great Horned Owls, Black-throated Sparrows, Rockand Canyon Wrens, towhees, and woodpeckers are among thepossible species to be seen. If time permits, a walk into thelower canyon may find Phainopeplas, Pyrrhuloxias, Gilded Flick-ers, Rufous-winged Sparrows, kinglets and gnatcatchers. Meetat the park on Rancho Vistoso Blvd. at 8 a.m. Plan for luncharound noon. Picnic tables, restrooms, and water are availablein the park. Honeybee Canyon is located 3 miles west of OracleRoad on Rancho Vistoso Blvd. in Oro Valley. The park andparking lot are on the south side (left) of Rancho Vistoso Blvd.There are no signs into the park. After crossing the bridge overHoneybee Canyon, make a U-turn at the first interchange andproceed back over the bridge into the parking lot. (Local)Leader: Dick Sauer ([email protected])
A star party is a viewing of the night sky hosted by one ormore amateur astronomers with appropriate optics ranging froma 1-power eyeball to a large telescope. There are a lot of nicethings about star parties. First, the stars don�t fly away just asyou focus your binoculars. Second, a star is a star. You don�thave to worry about the color of the leg or the eye, and thestars don�t change in the winter. Finally, you can ask lots ofquestions that you think are dumb without worrying that youwill be recognized because it is dark! Astronomers are a lot likebirders. We�ve heard it all before. We are also curious and wantto learn as much as we can and to show the night sky, which isfree to those who will look. Unfortunately, star parties aren�tvery good on cloudy nights.Michael Smith has watched the night sky off and on for well
What is a Star Party?over 50 years (and birded for a lot less). He wrote �Under DarkSkies� for the Arizona Daily Star from 1984 to 2004. A pureobserver, he has done work in measuring brightness of dozensof variable stars, has seen 2,000 double stars, 500 galaxies, anda smattering of comets and other objects. He is an avid solareclipse chaser, having taken 15 trips to six continents for 8 totaland 4 annular solar eclipses. Regardless of how the eclipse turnsout (note that 8 + 4 did not equal 15), he always does somebirding. He has been lucky enough to run into some good birderswho put up with his dumb questions! He is retired from neurol-ogy but is active in tutoring high school students in math, and isa freelance writer who occasionally gets published. Michael willbe hosting a Star Party for Tucson Audubon on Saturday, Feb-ruary 4. See details under field trip listings.
For the list of optional, self-service carpooling locations that ran in the lastissue, see www.tucsonaudubon.org/birding/carpool.htm.
Tucson Audubon owes a debt of gratitude to volunteer fieldtrip leader Jim Hays. For the past six years, Jim has coordinated theTuesday birding field trips. At the end of January he stepped downto be �just� a field trip leader. As coordinator, Jim worked hard torecruit new trip leaders, expand the Tuesday trips, and set the barhigh for the birding experiences we offer members and the public.We are very proud of our volunteer-run field trip program,
Many Thanks to JimHaysand often brag about the 125-plus free field trips we offer eachyear. The free field trips are a great way for members to con-nect, bringing new people into the Tucson Audubon community,and they give us the opportunity to show off the spectacularhabitat, birds and scenery of our state (sewage ponds aside).Many thanks to Jim Hays for the invaluable role he has playedin making the program as strong as it is today!
FIELDTRIPS, continued on page 10
10 Vermilion Flycatcher Tucson Audubon Society February 2006
Tucson Area BirdingMason Audubon Center �Beginning Birding Walks�2nd Wednesday & 3rd Saturday of the month, 8 a.m. (starting inMarch, walks will begin at 7:30 a.m.)Walks are designed for beginning birders of all ages. For more information,contact Lia Sansom at 744-0004 or [email protected].
Wake Up with the Birds at Agua Caliente ParkTuesdays in February, 8:30 a.m. (starting in March, walks will be-gin at 7:45 a.m.)Pima County Natural Resources, Parks & Recreation offers guided birdwalks especially for beginning bird watchers. Binoculars will be available foruse during the walk. Location: Roy P. Drachman Agua Caliente Park, 12325E. Roger Road; meet at the Visitor Center. For information, call 877-6112.
Kino Ecological Restoration Project �Urban Bird Walks�4th Saturday of the month at 8 a.m.Walk around Sam Lena Park looking into the flood control basins thatPima County has re-contoured and planted with extensive native vegeta-tion. Contact Kendall Kroesen at 629-0757, or [email protected].
Arizona-Sonora Desert MuseumBirdwalks every day at 8:30 a.m., Oct. � April, at museum entrance. 883-2702. Free with admission.
Catalina State ParkOpen daily 5 a.m. � 10 p.m.; fee. Fall/winter bird walks on Fridays, 8-10 a.m.at the first picnic area. Call 628-5798 for information about birding walks.
Sabino CanyonBirding and nature hikes. Parking fee. Call 749-8700.
Saguaro National ParkCall 733-5153 (East) and 733-5158 (West) for schedules of bird andnature walks.
Tohono Chul Park8 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. Birding walks at 8:30 a.m. Monday, Wednesday &Saturday. Entrance fee (free 1st Tuesday of every month). 575-8468.
Tucson Botanical Gardens8:30 a.m. � 4:30 p.m. Entrance fee. 326-9686.
Other AreasArizona State Parks � Birding and other walks; www.pr.state.az.us. Fee.(602) 542-4174.
Buenos Aires NWR � Refuge & Arivaca Cienega open 24 hours daily.Arivaca Cienega bird walks at 8 a.m. Saturdays, Nov. � Apr. 823-4251 x116.
Boyce Thompson Arboretum � Open 8�4 daily (except Dec.25). Birdsightings posted at ag.arizona.edu/BTA/events/birdwalks.html. 689-2811.
Patagonia-Sonoita Creek Preserve � Open 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Oct. 1� Mar. 31. Closed Mon. & Tues. Fee. 394-2400.
Ramsey Canyon Preserve � Open daily 9 � 5. Fee; kids free. 378-2785.Southern Arizona Bird Observatory � Hawk and crane tours on Sat-urdays and Sundays, fee. 432-1388 www.sabo.org.
February 25 � Saturday, 9 a.m.Sweetwater Wetlands/Santa CruzFor beginning birdwatchers or anyone in-terested in a mid-morning adventure. Wewill visit Sweetwater Wetlands in westTucson in search of early spring migrantsand lingering winter waterfowl (includingthe Least Grebe). From there, we willtravel north along the Santa Cruz Riverto look for shorebirds and riparian spe-cies. This will be a 3- to 4-hour trip. Bringwater, sunscreen, and snacks. Meet at 9a.m. at the Sweetwater Wetlands parkinglot. (Local)Leader: Robert Payne (867-0490 [email protected])
February 28 � Tuesday, 7:30 a.m.Santa Cruz FlatsVarious species of raptors have been win-tering in this area in good numbers thisyear. We will check out the farms in thisvicinity for these raptors and scan thefields and surrounding areas for sparrowsand other wintering species. We will bebirding in close proximity to our vehicles.Bring water and a lunch that can be eatenin the cars. Meet at the Central Tucsonsite at 7:30 a.m. or at the Northwest Tuc-son site (Ina/Via Ponte) at 8 a.m. (Approx.150 miles roundtrip.)Leader : Denis Wright (405-6864 [email protected])
March 4 � Saturday, 8:30 a.m.Madera CanyonThe feeders at the Santa Rita Lodgehave been hopping. We will have a lei-surely time enjoying the birds at thesefeeders after we check out the activityin the Proctor Road area. If there isstill a bit of water in the stream, wemay get to watch several species taketheir baths. Bring lunch, water, a fold-ing stool if you have one, and dress forthe weather. Meet at Fry�s parking lotat I-19 and Irvington at 8:30 a.m. or atthe Green Valley, Continental Rd.McDonald�s at 9 a.m. (Approx. 65 milesroundtrip.)Leader: Darlene Smyth (297-2315 [email protected])
FIELDTRIPS, continued frompage 9
Vermilion Flycatcher Tucson Audubon Society February 2006 11
Field Trips for DisabledBirders in Maine
The American Birding Association (ABA) has become awareof the need for modified field trips designed for birders withlimited mobility or limited endurance. Therefore, for the firsttime ever, the 2006 ABA convention in Bangor, Maine, throughthe Physical Limitations Track, will offer three such trips. Twoof these trips will focus on land birds that can be found inaccessible �hot spots� near Bangor and in the stunning AcadiaNational Park. The leaders for these trips will include VictorEmanuel and Barry Lyon from Victor Emanuel Nature Toursand Rick Wright of Aimophila Adventures. The disabled birderswill join the rest of the ABA group for the third trip which will be aboat trip to the waters surrounding Petit Manan, a breeding islandused by Atlantic Puffins and other seabirds. During this trip, we willhave the expertise of Wayne Peterson of Field Guides Incorpo-rated and Massachusetts Audubon to guide our smaller group.For detailed information about this June 19�25, 2006, Bangor,
Maine, convention, please visit the official website atwww.americanbirding.org (click on Bangor convention, then fieldtrips, then scroll down to the Physical Limitations Track), orcontact me, Darlene Smyth at [email protected] or 1-520-297-2315. I hope to see you there!
Tucson Valley ChristmasCount Results
The results of the Tucson Valley Christmas Bird Count (CBC)are complete and can be found at www.tucsonaudubon.org. Therewere 64 participants that found 136 species on December 18,2005. A Hermit Warbler, a new species for the Tucson ValleyCBC, that had been lingering at Tohono Chul Park was foundby Ed Moll, Stan Walker, and Marjorie Flory. A Zone-tailedHawk and Virginia Rail were found during the count week (CW).Species with high counts were Mallard 581, Blue-winged Teal13, Northern Shoveler 1,425, Green Heron 16, Vermilion Fly-catcher 67, and Lesser Goldfinch 995. Many thanks to all theparticipants for a successful count. If you have any questionsabout the Tucson Valley CBC, please contact Susan Birky [email protected] or 743-9390.
Bashas� CampaignWhen you shop at Bashas�, please remember to useyour Thank You Card. As a Bashas� customer, youcan link our Group Number 27286 to your Thank YouCard and Bashas� will donate one percent of the total saleslinked to our ID number, up to a $2,500 donation. To getstarted please go to www.bashas.com/charity to sign upand shop, shop and shop!
Close Encounters of aBird KindByKarenMcBride
Our flight from Brisbane, Australia was smooth and followeda white sandy beach two hours northward to Cairns. Once wefinally connected with the rental van, we drove through thistropical resort town which looks like Miami Beach probably didabout 50 years ago�before too many people and condos. TheGreat Dividing Range rises steeply to the west and our roadwound its way upward through theKarundi Range to the AthertonTablelands and the official Outback border. Sitting on top, nestledin cool tropical rainforest, is Cassowary House where we wouldbase-camp for several nights.Our first instructions here were all about Cassowaries and
what to do if we should encounter one. Our hostess mentionedthat a two-year-old male she calls Harry likes to feed under thefruit feeder and that an older female, Missy does not want Harryaround. She cautioned us never to come between the two as wemight literally be mowed down by the 130-pound female.Within our first hour here, we heard a grounds keeper shout,
��Cassowary coming!� and found the five-foot-tall Harry plod-ding down the pathway toward us. We quickly backed away andlet him go by. Very quietly, we sneaked around the corner of thehouse and took photos as he fed under the veranda. Out of thecorner of my eye, I caught movement and saw a huge blackshape moving uphill toward Harry. I whispered, �Here comesthe big one.� As Missy�s six-foot hulk came up the slope, wemarveled at the huge, deadly feet with toenails like daggers, theneon blue head, the absolutely prehistoric veloci-raptor tower-ing over us. All of a sudden, Missy spied Harry and all hellbroke loose. The much larger female literally ripped the ground,tearing after poor Harry. Harry panicked and ran around ourcorner with Missy in hot pursuit. We flattened ourselves againstthe wall and quit breathing as the spectacle unfolded and werealized that we had indeed come between Missy and her target.They only missed us by a foot or so. Hearts pounding and kneesshaking, we retreated in nervous laughter to our rooms. Thatwas too close for comfort!
Missy, the cassowary
Karen
McBride
12 Vermilion Flycatcher Tucson Audubon Society February 2006
Tucson Audubon Afield Keith Kamper, Rare Bird Alert Compiler
Keith Kamper is the Southeast Arizona Rare Bird Alert Com-piler and a field trip leader for Tucson Audubon.
By what criteria do birders judge the success of a day in thefield? Some might suggest that tallying a high number of speciesor discovering a rarity would qualify. For others, observing largenumbers of individual birds would be a very special day. An up-close study of a common backyard bird might satisfy many.The opportunity to sort through large assemblages of sparrowsor gulls (an unlikely scenario for the latter in southeast Arizona!)affords determined birders with an enjoyable day. Incrediblescenery, like the towering spires of the Chiricahua Mountains, ablazing field of poppies, or the deli-cate beauty of butterflies congregat-ing at �puddle parties� can�t be over-looked. Good company and meetingnew and interesting people is a prior-ity for many. The discussion of thatwhich makes a trip a success couldgo on; others could add much addi-tional criteria by which we could judgean outing. If any (or all!) of the afore-mentioned appeals to you, then theregularly scheduled Tucson Audubonfieldtrips are right for you. Newbirders are especially welcome.The year of 2005 might have
wound down, but year-end birding certainly did not. Large num-bers of waterfowl (yes waterfowl!), raptors and sparrows com-mand birders� attention at this season. Wandering migrants andvagrants add spice to the mix. Christmas Bird Counts affordparticipants the opportunity to make a contribution to citizenscience.On the waterfowl front, the discovery of a Fulvous Whis-
tling-Duck at Patagonia Lake State Park December 3 causedmuch excitement. A flock(!) of 18 of these handsome birds inGreen Valley was unprecedented. Birders who joined JohnHiggins� always popular trip to Sulphur Springs Valley on De-cember 10 were treated to Ross�s, Snow and Canada Geese anda CommonGoldeneye. Other sightings include Bald Eagle, PrairieFalcon and Ferruginous Hawk, along with the many SandhillCranes and the ghostly Barn Owl. Brian Nicholas� northeastTucson trip netted Ross�s Goose, HoodedMerganser and SwampSparrow. An up-close encounter with a bobcat provided addi-tional excitement. Extended views of Redheads and Canvas-backs enlivened Sheryl Forte�s trip to Sweetwater Wetlands onNovember 11. Passerines were cowed after a Cooper�s Hawktore through. While not a duck, the Least Grebe also made anappearance during this outing. The Least Grebe reappeared attheKinoEnvironmental Restoration Project onKendall Kroesen�sNovember 26 trip.The sighting of an Aplomado Falcon in the San Rafael Val-
ley seemed well-timed: Gavin Bieber was scheduled to lead atrip there the following day! While the falcon was not seen again,the graceful flight of two White-tailed Kites, two Prairie Falcons
and a Merlin were savored by all. The normally elusive Baird�sSparrow perched on a fence wire and the discovery of a rareGolden-crowned Sparrow rounded out the day. A perched Mer-lin, one of the first birds of the day on Dick Palmer�s Trip toArivaca Cienega, was enjoyed by all. The �cuddling� SpottedOwls were certainly the highpoint of Scott Shuette�s trip toScheelite Canyon. A yawning, stretching Prairie Falcon capti-vated participants on Rick Wright�s trip to Sabino Canyon. AMerlin was noted snacking on prey at the San Pedro House on
Erika Wilson�s December 6 trip there.Good numbers of raptors, PaintedRedstart and Townsend�s Warbler wereenjoyed on Bev Postmus� trip toMadera Canyon and Green Valley.Diane Touret�s trip to southeast
California November 29 � December1 produced Oak Titmouse, Wrentit,Nuttal�s Woodpecker, and CaliforniaQuail. Gavin Bieber�s December 3Santa Cruz River trip found a Yellow-bellied Sapsucker. Black-capped Gnat-catchers at this location were far northof the now �traditional� sites.A plethora of �Eastern� species
were found during November and December. The OrchardOriole returned to Jeri Ogden�s Tucson backyard for the thirdconsecutive winter. Black-throated Blue Warblers were found atSweetwater Wetlands, Prison Camp, San Pedro House, and Saw-mill Canyon. Tennessee Warblers were detected at SweetwaterWetlands and Sabino Canyon. Ovenbirds were seen at Reid Parkand the Desert Survivors Plant Nursery. A Magnolia Warblermade a brief appearance at Rio Rico. A Chestnut-sided Warblerwas found at the Pinal Pecan Grove. A Wood Thrush was anexceptional find in the Chiricahuas. A Common Grackle at theCave Creek Ranch was a solid sighting.The wintering Rose-throated Becard at Patagonia Lake State
Park caused much excitement. Other rarities at the popular parkinclude Horned Grebe, Black-capped Gnatcatchers, LouisianaWaterthrush and Worm-eating Warbler. A Rufous-capped War-bler was observed again in rugged Sycamore Canyon. VariedThrushes appeared at the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum andin Scheelite Canyon. AGroove-billed Ani and a Little Blue Heronat Whitewater Draw was an interesting combination.I wish to take this opportunity to thank Rick Wright, the
former writer of this column, for his excellent work and dedica-tion. His clear and informative presentation and attention todetail will be remembered. If you haven�t yet run into Rick inthe field, I am sure you soon will as he is usually birding.
Common Goldeneye
RobertShantz
Vermilion Flycatcher Tucson Audubon Society February 2006 13
Urban Birds/Aves Urbanas Kendall Kroesen, Communications & Permaculture Specialist
Our great appreciation to Eva Pennington for help with theSpanish translation.
Fort Lowell Park is another of the many good urban birdingopportunities in Tucson. It is located east of Craycroft and northof Glenn, with access off Craycroft between Glenn and FortLowell, or off Glenn east of Craycroft.On a visit there in early January I was greeted by a male
Vermilion Flycatcher before I even got out of my car. A femalewas there too, in the oak trees along the west side of the park.A walk past the ruins of the historic adobe fort yielded some
good habitat, and the line of cottonwood trees just south of theruins should be good for canopy birds like Yellow-rumped War-blers in the winter, and other migratory and nesting songbirdsthe rest of the year.A small pond in the north-center of the park has occasion-
ally had rarities like Common Goldeneye, as well as more usualwinter visitors such as Northern Shoveler and AmericanWigeon.On my January visita Belted Kingfisherwas making its cack-ling noise from aperch near the pond.The park�s lawns
and trees should be agood place towork ontelling apart black-birds, grackles, cow-birds and Starlings.Check shrubs andtrees for HouseFinches, Verdins andperhaps other moreunusual speciesdrawn by the park�sgreenery.Going east from
the pond to the north-east corner of the park, one encounters good woodpecker andsapsucker habitat in a grove of pecans and native mesquites.Lewis�s Woodpecker has been seen sometimes in winter. Followa small wash north and you will find yourself in creosotes andother plants of the Sonoran Desert scrub community. If you gofar enough, you reach the Pantano Wash.Anywhere you go, look for raptors. Harris�s, Cooper�s and
Red-tailed Hawks could all show up here. In the winter alsolook for Sharp-shinned Hawks, and a variety of falcons includ-ing Merlins.
Fort Lowell Park es otro de los muchos locales buenisimosde la ciudad de Tucson para observadores de pájaros. Estáubicado al este de Craycroft y al norte de Glenn, y se puedeentrar al estacionamiento por cualquier de las dos calles.Durante una visita al parque en los primeros días de enero,
me saludó un Mosquero Cardenalito macho antes de que salieradel vehículo. Una hembra estaba también, en los robles al ladooeste del parque.En un paseo a través las ruinas de la fortaleza histórica uno
llega a un buen hábitat para pájaros, y una línea de álamos al surde las ruinas sería buena para Chipe de Rabadilla Amarilla du-rante el invierno, y otros aves canoras migratorias o residentes.Un charco pequeño en la parte norte-central del parque de
vez en cuando tiene rarezas como Pato Chillón de Ojos Dorados,tanto como huéspedes invernales comunes como Pato Cucharón
Norteño y Pato Chalcúan. Du-rante mi visita en enero, unMartínPescador Norteño hizo sucarcajada desde un perche cercadel charcoLos prados y árboles del
parque son buenos lugares parapracticar la identificación dezanates, tordos y estorninos, loscuales pueden ser difíciles. Busquedentro de los árboles y arbustospor Pinzónes Mexicanos,Baloncillos y de vez en cuandouna especie más rara atraída alverdor del parque.Al este del charco, en la
esquina noreste del parque, seencuentra un buen hábitat paracarpinteros en una arboleda denueces y mesquites. Carpintero de
Lewis ha sido visto aquí durante algunos inviernos. Siguiendo unarroyo pequeño al norte, se encuentra rodeada por gobernadorasy otros arbustos del Desierto Sonora. Más allá descubres el Ar-royo Pantano.En cualquier parte de esta área, busque aves de rapaz como
Aguililla de Harris, Gavilán de Cooper, y Aguililla Cola Roja.Durante el invierno, busque también el Gavilán de Pecho Rufo,y una variedad de halcones, incluso Halcón Esmerejón.Acuérdese que hay un buen guía de campo a las aves titulada
Guía de Campo a las Aves de Norteamérica, por Kenn Kaufman(traducida por Patricia Manzano Fischer). Se vende en las tiendasde Tucson Audubon (University Blvd., esquina de 5th St., o enel Agua Caliente Park). Nombres comunes de aves utilizados eneste artículo están tomados de este guía.
Pecans and wash at northeast corner of the parkInset: American Wigeon on the pond
KendallK
roesen
14 Vermilion Flycatcher Tucson Audubon Society February 2006
Calendar FebruarySaturday, February 4, 8:30�10:30 a.m.Saguaros and Ironwoods Public Tour, Mason AudubonCenter�freeNothing says the Sonoran Desert like the giant saguaro! And didyou know approximately 680 species of plants and animals de-pend on the ironwood tree? Come to the Mason Audubon Cen-ter and learn all about these two stately species and their adapta-tions and relation to their Sonoran Desert home. Space is limitedto ensure a quality experience. Therefore, reservations are required by call-ing Lia Sansom, Community Outreach Assistant at 744-0004.
Wednesday, February 8, and Saturday, February 18Beginning Bird Watching Walk, Mason Audubon Center,8�10 a.m.�freeDo you ever wonder what birds you�re seeing in the Tucsonarea? Are you interested in watching birds, but you�re not surehow to get started? If so, then join us at the Mason AudubonCenter for a Beginning Bird Watching Walk and discover foryourself how much fun it can be! Learn about field marks, callsand songs of common desert birds, as well as how to use bin-oculars and much more. Reservations are not required. TheMason Audubon Center is on the southwest corner of Hardyand Thornydale Roads (8751 N. Thornydale Road). Please comeprepared with field guide (if you have one) and binoculars (wehave pairs to loan if need be), a water bottle, hat and sunscreen.For more information, contact Lia Sansom, Community Out-reach Assistant at 744-0004.
Saturday, February 11, 10 a.m. � 4 p.m.Membership Appreciation Day at Audubon Nature ShopsMembers get 20% off all purchases (excluding optics). At theAgua Caliente shop, celebrate with a special, free bird walk at8:30 a.m. At the University Blvd. shop, there will be a 1 p.m.presentation and booksigning by Don Stap, author of Birdsong.
Saturday, February 11, noon�Desert Adaptations,� Mason Audubon Center VolunteerNaturalist Presentation at Barnes & NobleLearn how desert plants and animals survive in the hot, drySonoran Desert. We will talk about the many adaptations thathelp critters and plants not only survive, but thrive, in our deserthome. Bring the kids and join Mason Audubon Center Volun-teer Naturalists for free presentations at the Foothills Mall Barnes& Noble store, 7325 N. La Cholla Boulevard. Each presenta-tion begins at noon in the second-floor children�s area.
Saturday, February 18, 9 a.m.Volunteer Day at Esperanza RanchSeeding, tamarisk removal, digging rainwater harvestingearthworks, and cleanup are all tasks on the agenda for thespring. You must sign up. Contact us for updates and to reservea spot. Kendall Kroesen, 629-0757, [email protected].
Saturday, February 18, 9:30 a.m.Tucson Audubon Green Valley Membership MeetingPresentation on hummingbirds�see back cover for details. Comeat 9:30 a.m. for cookies; presentation at 10 a.m.
Saturday, February 25, noon�A Bird�s Tool Kit,� Mason Audubon Center VolunteerNaturalist Presentations at Barnes & NobleNot all birds have the same beaks, feet, eyes and wings. Havingspecific �tools� helps birds find and get their food. Using house-hold items, we will investigate the different types of food birdseat and how they eat that food. Bring the kids and join MasonAudubon Center Volunteer Naturalists for free presentations atthe Foothills Mall Barnes & Noble store, 7325 N. La ChollaBoulevard. Each presentation begins at noon in the second-floorchildren�s area.
Saturday, March 4, 9 a.m.Volunteer Day at Esperanza RanchSeeding, tamarisk removal, digging rainwater harvestingearthworks, and cleanup are all tasks on the agenda for thespring. You must sign up. Contact us for updates and to reservea spot. Kendall Kroesen, 629-0757, [email protected].
Habitat Restoration Program UpdateThe winter and spring schedule of habitat restora-
tion volunteer days and other events has changed a littlesince the last time it was published in the Flycatcher. Therewill be events at the new Esperanza Ranch conserva-tion easement (south of Amado along the Santa CruzRiver) as well as the North Simpson site on the lowerSanta Cruz near Marana.Here is the revised schedule for the next few months.
Contact Kendall Kroesen at 629-0757 [email protected] for more information orto sign up for any of these events.
Wednesday, February 8: North Simpson birding fieldtrip (more information on page 8)Sunday, February 12: Esperanza Ranch birding fieldtrip (more information on page 8)Saturday, February 18: Esperanza Ranch public tourand volunteer work daySaturday, March 4: Esperanza Ranch volunteer workdaySaturday, April 1: North Simpson birding field tripSaturday, April 8: Esperanza Ranch birding fieldtrip
Vermilion Flycatcher Tucson Audubon Society February 2006 15
2006 Permaculture Design CourseFebruary andMarch 2006
Dan Dorsey and instructors from the SonoranPermaculture Guild will teach a five-weekend courseon Permaculture Design in February and March. Thecourse leads to a permaculture certificate and coversall aspects of permaculture design in drylands. Lastyear�s class was completely full, so register early. Togive a high-quality educational experience, we limitthe size of the class to 15 participants. Cost is $650.Call Dan Dorsey, 624-8030.
Sonoran Arthropod Studies Institute (SASI) www.sasionline.orgKite Flying FestivalSaturday, March 18, 2006, 10 a.m. � to 4 p.m.Please join us at Christopher Columbus Park as we celebrate 20years of education and conservation work. Join us for a fun-filled day of kite flying for the entire family. Participants cancreate and fly butterfly, wildflower, or other nature kites.SASI Open Houses2nd Saturdays, 9:30 a.m. � 1 p.m.: SASI�s Butterfly GardenGuild (BGG) is a newly-formed group. We study SASI�s collec-tions (living and pinned), garden in SASI�s outdoor classroom,go on field trips, and invite special guest speakers who share ourenthusiasm for Lepidoptera! We also share a potluck lunch andencourage plant/seed swaps.3rd Saturdays:Habitat restoration work with the SonoranDesertWeedwackers who are protecting biodiversity in Tucson Moun-tain Park by removing invasive plants like buffelgrass and foun-tain grass. Please call Skye 429-7777 for seasonal meeting timesand information.4th Saturdays (except December), 9 a.m.�3 p.m.: SASI�sCommunity Days., In SASI�s classroom, we display and inter-pret our living collection, including tarantulas, scorpions, beetles,vinegaroons, centipedes, millipedes, and other arthropods.
An Invitation for Tucson AudubonMembers
Upcoming Friends of Buenos AiresNational Wildlife Refuge Events
February 4 � 5Meditation in Nature: Dennie WorkCome experience the peace and quiet of the natural world inBrown Canyon. This workshop introduces meditation as a wayto connect with our natural ability to be present and cultivatepeace. Simple techniques of sitting and walking will be sharedalong with a time for discussion to reach our goal of being fullyawake as we make connections through nature. This workshopis intended for entry-level meditators or those who are just plaincurious. It is suggested that participants bring an item with per-sonal meaning that may be shared with the group. Dennie Workholds a Master�s degree in Clinical Psychology and is a licensedcounselor through the Arizona Board of Behavior Health Ex-aminers. She has worked in the field of addictions for over 30years, also using meditation and poetry which allows time forexploring other aspects of life. (Sat. 2 p.m.�Sun. 2 p.m.; $78non-members; $68 members.)
March 25 � 26Amazing World of Insects: Carl OlsonCome enjoy the micro-world of insects and their relatives as wechange our viewing perspective to encounter the driving forcein our natural world. Share life with the greatest fauna known toman, learn about the incredible feats of these dainty creaturesand how they positively affect your life. We will walk the canyonespying the myriad wonders in the insect world. At night, we�llset up ultraviolet lights to see what goes on after dark. Sundaymorning we�ll continue our trek in the canyon, seeing whetherdifferent times of day mean that new critters abound. Carl Olsonhas lived and worked in Arizona the last 31 years, serving asAssociate Curator of the Insect Research Collection at the Uni-versity of Arizona. Carl received his B.A. in Zoology, a M.S. inBiology, and worked in biological control with Rincon-Vitova inCalifornia before arriving in Tucson. Carl co-authored LearningAbout and Living with Insects of the Southwest with Floyd Werner,mentor and colleague. His most recent book 50 Common Insectsof the Southwest was published in 2004. (Sat. 2 p.m.�Sun. 2 p.m.;$78 non-members; $68members.)
16 Vermilion Flycatcher Tucson Audubon Society February 2006
Education News Carrie Dean, Education Program Manager
Introducing New Mason Audubon CenterNaturalists! (see photo on page 6)Doris Evans again led the training sessions, imparting her
extensive knowledge, and we were also privileged to have threeadditional presenters. Carl Olson, Associate Curator of Ento-mology at the U of A, brought his expertise and fantastic hu-mor to his arthropod lecture. Wendy Burroughs, EnvironmentalEducation Program Manager for Pima County Natural Re-sources, Parks and Recreation, and her live raptors illustratedsome specifics of bird behavior. Ed Moll, a retired professor ofzoology gave a wonderful presentation and DVD show aboutherps! Thank you to all the instructors who made the trainingfun and informative. And thank you graduates for perseveringthrough seven weeks of training and immediately delving intoMason Center activities. Our newest Volunteer Naturalists are:Amy Alexander, currently pursuing a Bachelor�s Degree in
Ecology at the U of A and striving to spend more �time withmy hands in the mud� in an integrated learning environment;Christopher Clay with a B.S. in Psychology and presently aPark Ranger for the Ironwood Forest National Monument; SheaCogswell with a B.S. in Life Science and Anthropology andworking on getting her Wildlife Rehabilitation license;Mary KayEiermann, a retired social worker who enjoys traveling, par-ticularly participation in birding trips, and a member of the South-eastern Arizona Butterfly Association; Carol Gawrychowski,with a B.S. in Zoology from Duke University who has workedas a Science Educator and Wilderness Trip Leader among manyother fascinating occupations;Meredith Hartwell, looking for-ward to working as a naturalist, to do more on-the-ground workwith the public and to inspire them as well as encourage moregrassroots efforts to protect the environment; Emily Hertz,holding a B.S.S. in Psychology and currently working as a con-servation intern for the Bureau of Land Management, TucsonField Office;Holly Hilburn�s education is in geology and LatinAmerica, moving to Tucson from California to be closer toMexico; Therese Jezioro, retired, former Master Gardener andNaturalist/Docent at Patuxent Wildlife Refuge, both in Mary-land, and Docent at Kitt Peak National Observatory; CarolMadeheim, who taught Spanish and ESL in the Sahuarita SchoolDistrict for 20 years and has been a docent and staff at theArizona-Sonora Desert Museum; Ed Marquis, retired fromArizona Public Service as a utility electrician, has volunteeredwith the Yavapai County Sheriff �s Department in the MountedSearch and Rescue Posse; Fran Raffone, who taught secondgrade in Connecticut for 27 years. She has been interested inbirds and natural history since childhood; Frank Roth, retiredas a Lieutenant Colonel in the USAF after 22 years of serviceand worked nine years with UBS-Investment Banking; LiaSansom, a Prescott College graduate with a degree in Sustain-able Community Development. Currently Community OutreachAssistant at the Mason Center, Lia previously was an intern forTucson Audubon�s restoration program.
Citizen Stewardship Phoenix ZooBy Jeff Williamson, President and CEO, the Phoenix ZooZoos have had many lives. In ancient times and cultures,
exotic wildlife was possessed by elites. Their menageries werestatus symbols, founded in dominion over wildlife and the pos-session of the unique. In the 18th and 19th centuries, collectionswere often turned over to the public and began to be municipalstatus symbols.In the 20th century, particularly post WWII with the advent
of broadcast technology, people acquired remote access to ex-otic places. They began to question the appropriateness of zoos.Responding to this, zoos began to develop nature-centered edu-cation programs often focused on single species, usually exotics.In the 1960s and 1970s, with a growing awareness that hu-
man activity was endangering wildlife, zoos became active incaptive breeding for exhibition, conservation and introductionof extirpated species to the wild. Again, what became known asSpecies Survival Programs (SSPs) were very focused on indi-vidual biology. It wasn�t until the late 1980s or early 1990s thaturban zoos began to promote habitat conservation plans and todwell on the relationship of human industry to the well being ofentire landscapes.As we enter the 21st century, it is obvious that human interest
is an inextricable link to the wellbeing of nature. But we are alsoincreasingly urban, a part of a world economy where the conse-quence of consumerism is less obvious. We are isolated by tech-nology which makes the world available without the inconve-nience of outdoor experiences. Richard Louv addresses thisemerging norm in his book Last Child in the Woods.This new world view has consequences for zoos. It is no longer
sufficient to house exotic curios for passive urban consumption.Viewing traditional exhibits cannot compete with virtual experi-ences where participants manipulate and influence outcomes.Zoos remain popular places of social convening. That is par-
ticularly true with young children and their caregivers. How dowe use that popularity to engage and involve our audiences inmeaningful ways? How do we encourage active participation incaring for life? How do we build esteem through the celebrationof effective stewardship? How do we encourage livingsustainably with a willingness to accept responsibility for thewellbeing of the commons? We are not sure, but we are prettycertain that there�s not one right answer or one size that fits all.That is why we are joining with both traditional and non-
traditional partners in an exploration that we hope will lead to asuitcase full of engaging opportunities for multiple generations.We want them to be involved in lifelong informal learning andmonitoring that specifically promotes the ability to live well andsustainably through stewardship of our shared environments.Our dream is to one day host a zoo without walls, moats,
cages or enclosures: one that is fully integrated throughout ourcommunities, evident in citizen stewardship activities that inviteus all to care for nature.
Vermilion Flycatcher Tucson Audubon Society February 2006 17
Mason Audubon Center News Lia Sansom, Community Outreach Assistant
New Residents at the Mason AudubonCenterThere are currently nine new residents at the Mason Audubon
Center and, unfortu-nately, we cannotcharge them rent. SixMadagascar hissingcockroaches, two mil-lipedes, and one taran-tula are now housed inthe Mason Center of-fice for use in some ofour educational pro-grams and publictours. We hope tosoon have a gophersnake as well. Natural-ist Doris Evans kindlydonated the milli-pedes, naturalist KathyLloyd of TUSD�s Coo-per EnvironmentalScience Campus do-nated the tarantula,and Carl Olsen of theUniversity of ArizonaInsect Departmentdonated the cockroaches. Upon their arrival at Tucson AudubonSociety, one of the cockroaches almost immediately gave birthto five babies, who have since been living underground in theirterrarium. So we may have up to 11 Madagascar hissing cock-roaches.Live animals such as these have been used in many past
classes and presentations at the Mason Audubon Center but italways took extra effort to borrow them, transport them, etc.Having these animals here will greatly benefit our programs byadding a little convenience, so we are very thankful to havethem around. However, my mother will probably never visit meas long as I am living in this house with them.
Call for VolunteersThe Seventh Annual Ironwood Festival at the Mason Center
is just around the corner! The Festival will be held on Saturday,March 11 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. and we are looking for volun-teers to lend a hand! If you would like to help, call Lia Sansomat 744-0004 or email her at [email protected].
Yard Sale a Success!The Mason Audubon Center yard sale that was held in late
November was a great success and earned more money for theMason Center than any other yard sale held here. Thank you toeveryone who donated items for this event!
This sale was so successful that we have decided to make itan annual event that will always be held the Saturday after
Thanksgiving. So, throughout the year, please consider savingunwanted items for the Mason Center yard sale and hopefullywe will do even better next year!
Mason Center Avian Research ProjectWe have new protocols for the Mason Center Bird Survey
developed by Dr. Mannan and his graduate student, with inputfrom Jamie Brown and Peggy Wenrick. The purpose will be toobserve changes in bird populations in an area as it is devel-oped. This survey has two parts�a nest search and a series ofobservation stations and transects. Locations of these compo-nents will be sited with a GPS unit. Aerial photos will be used toshow changes in development in the northwest area. The sur-veys are conducted twice a month in April, May and June. Forconsistency, the survey should be done by a committed pairof observers who perform the survey each time (with abackup pair, if needed). If you are interested in being on thisresearch team, contact Lia Sansom at 744-0004 [email protected].
Hissing coackroaches in a new educational display at the Mason Audubon Center
LiaSansom
18 Vermilion Flycatcher Tucson Audubon Society February 2006
Mail OrderAvailable
If you are unable to get into the shop or if you liveout of town, we can mailmerchandise to you. Needa gift for the nature loverin your life? Just call us at(520) 629-0510.
Audubon Nature Shops
Finding Birds in South-east Arizona, 6th Edi-tion, was published inMarch, 2004. Theprice is $24.95. Thiscomprehensively re-vised edit ion waswritten and pub-l ished by TucsonAudubon. It is avail-able now from theTucson AudubonNature Shop�call(520) 629-0510.
February is a month when many of us put a lot of effortinto our relationships with significant others. February might bea good month for us all to consider our relationship with nature,as well. Although we as humans are a part of nature, I�m refer-ring to nature in this sense as the natural environment aroundus. Are you in love with nature? Do you get excited to see abeautifully painted sunrise or sunset, to see the blooming of awildflower or hear the song of the oh-so-common House Finch?Do you think nature loves you back? I know, nature cannotphysically show love or verbally speak of love, but when youstop and consider what nature provides to you, and what youcan provide back to nature, a different sort of relationship forms.This relationship involves respect, caring, and sometimes sheerawe at the beauty of it all, and this can easily turn into a lovingrelationship. In some ways, this is like a relationship with anotherhuman being, and in other ways it is different. Both ways can bevery rewarding and inspiring.I recently read a book titled The Earth Speaks, a collection of
poems, quotes and short essays, and it caused me to ponder myrelationship with nature. I began to notice how nature is �speak-ing� to me. What am I being told when I see rain clouds formabove me, when I see leaves dropping from an ironwood tree,or when I see a coyote trying to cross a busy street?I will include below a few quotes from this very special book,
a favorite of mine. I hope you enjoy them, and I hope you takea moment this month to consider your relationship with nature,and how nature is �speaking� to you.�And forget not that the earth delights to feel your bare feet
and the wind longs to play with your hair.� �Kahlil Gibran, theprophet.�We must learn to love ourselves less and the earth more.
This will not be an easy task for we live in the age of nonsense.Bombarded with thousands of messages each day that proclaimhow to be loved instead of how to be loving�we need to reachout and embrace new life. Yes, to hug a tree, to play with the
wind, to wear a new costume, to whisper secrets to a flower, toseek beauty in life�s becoming.� �Steve Van MatreThe Earth Speaks is available at both of our Nature Shops
for just $12.95. Stop by the shop to pick up a copy, or call andwe can hold one for you.
Sara Pike, University Blvd. Shop ManagerVivian MacKinnon, Agua Caliente Shop Manager
Vermilion Flycatcher Tucson Audubon Society February 2006 19
Main Shop Parking: There is 1-hour parking directlyin front of the Shop. There is also parking on 5th Avenuenorth of University Boulevard or on the north side ofUniversity (residential permit parking, but you can parkhere 9-5 weekdays). You can also park on University justwest of 5th Avenue or in the alley east of the building.
Main Shop Hours: 10 � 4 Monday through Saturday(10 � 5 Monday & Thursday). Closed Sunday.
MembershipAppreciation DayFebruary 11
8:30 a.m.�Free! Beginners bird walk at AguaCaliente Park, meet in front of the Nature Shopat the park (binoculars available for loan)
1 p.m.�Special presentation and book signingat the main Nature Shop on University Blvd.:Birdsong by Dr. Don Stap (book will be availablefor purchase).
All day�members take 20% off all purchasesat both shops (excluding optics, seed and coffee)
Agua Caliente Park Nature Shop�Just another day in paradise� is a phrase heard daily at Agua
Caliente Park. The staff and volunteers at the new shop canoften be found prowling the grounds before the shop openshoping to be the one to add yet another bird to our monthly list.The new birders� checklist for the park is free and available inour Nature Shop in the old Ranch House.Since May, we have observed over 118 species of birds in
the park! Some of our favorites include the Louisiana Water-thrush found in July, a Baird�s Sandpiper in August, the Blue-throated Hummingbird in September (a one-day wonder), andmy favorite, the White-faced Ibis flyover in November.On December 17, one-dozen eager volunteers gathered to
count the birds of Agua Caliente Park for the annual CatalinaCircle of the Christmas Bird Count. Together we counted over45 species of birds and more than 600 individuals!To help celebrate Tucson Audubon�s Membership Apprecia-
tion Day on February 11, the Agua Caliente Shop will host aspecial birding field trip in the park. This is the perfect walk forfamilies and beginning birders, and we will have loaner binocu-lars available. We�ll gather in front of the Nature Shop at 8:30a.m. (For complete details please see trip description on page 8.)Together, we�ll prowl the ponds, woods, and desert to seewhat birds we can add to the February list. Please join us,won�t you?After birding the park, you�ll have plenty of time to take
advantage of special discounts available for members of Friendsof Tucson Audubon at the Nature Shop and get back to themain shop in time for the book-signing event with Don Stap at1 p.m. We look forward to seeing you there!
20 Vermilion Flycatcher Tucson Audubon Society February 2006
Here are some facts about avian influenza from the Univer-sity of Georgia�s Department of Population Health College ofVeterinary Medicine.Type A influenza viruses are associated with avian species.
The movement and adaptation of avian influenza viruses (AIVs)from wild birds to new host species (especially mammals) is nota common event.Highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) viruses are ones
that cause high mortality in domestic poultry and are associatedwith the H5 and H7 subtypes.A specific kind of �bird flu� called HPAI H5N1 viruses
have been present in Asia since 1997. HPAI H5N1 is a highly-pathogenic virus. There have been over 100 human cases (all inAsia) with approximately 60 fatalities since that time.In wild birds, most AIVs have been isolated from water birds,
with most coming from species in the Anseriformes (ducks, geese,and swans) and Charadriiformes (gulls, terns, and shorebirds). Inducks, the prevalence of AIV peaks in late summer and earlyfall. In gulls and shorebirds, peak infection rates are associatedwith spring migration but these rates differ greatly between spe-cies and are generally low.In North America, no naturally-occurring AIVs from wild
birds have been associated with mortality or morbidity in anywild bird species. There is no indication that any HPAI virusesexist in North American wild bird populations, and this includesthe HPAI H5N1 virus.There currently is no recognized public health risk in the
U.S. associated with wild bird contact. There has never been asingle documented case of avian influenza virus transmissiondirectly from wild birds to humans.
Avian Influenza &Wild BirdsThere are no documented cases of HPAI transmission from
a wild bird to domestic birds in the U.S. In Asia, the recentexpansion in distribution of HPAI H5N1 suggests that domes-tic flocks are being infected with this virus through contact withmigratory wild birds.Will HPAI H5N1 enter North America via migratory wild
birds? There is very limited exchange of AIVs between conti-nents (even with very common influenza viruses). It is not pos-sible to discount the possibility of an HPAI H5N1 introduction,but such an event based on the known epidemiology of otheravian influenza viruses would likely be a very low probabilityevent.Experimental studies have demonstrated bird-to-bird trans-
mission of HPAI H5N1 in mallards, but these studies werecompleted under confinement conditions that are not represen-tative of natural conditions.Surveillance for AIVs was taking place in the United States
and other North American countries prior to the emergence ofHPAI H5N1. Wild bird surveillance has expanded to includelarger geographic areas and areas of potential introduction, suchas Alaska.Additional information on HPAI can be found at:www.uga.edu/scwds/avianinfluenzainformation.html;
www.cdc.gov/flu/avian; www.aphis.usda.gov/lpa/issues/avian_influenza/index.html; or www.nwhc.usgs.gov/research/avian_influenza/avian_influenza.html.The Ornithological Council has published a peer-reviewed
fact sheet on the implications of avian influenza for ornitholo-gists, bird banders, rehabbers, and others who handle live birds.Go to www.nmnh.si.edu/BIRDNET/OC/avianinfluenza.html.
Thirty-one people, many of them children, attended TucsonAudubon�s first urban habitat workshop. The workshop was heldat Manny Herrera Park in the Sunnyside neighborhood. Thepark is south of Drexel and west of South 6th Avenue.Tucson Audubon organized the November 19 workshop with
the help of Beki and Ric Quintero. Beki and Ric are communityorganizers who are developing a Peace Garden at the park; asite for community gatherings and contemplation.Manny Herrera Park has a large area that has not been de-
veloped. It is dotted with mesquites and acacias but is mostlydevoid of shrubs. It provides an excellent opportunity for resto-ration of native habitat in an urban setting. Permission to plantand seed native vegetation there was obtained from Tucson Parksand Recreation Department.We led a brief bird walk before the workshop, during which
participants were delighted by good views of a Cooper�s Hawk.After the walk, everyone introduced themselves over sips ofhot chocolate.We explained how native vegetation provides homes for wild-
Successful Sunnyside Urban Habitat WorkshopbyKendall Kroesen, Permaculture and Communications Specialist
life, even in the urban area. We introduced several species ofnative plants, and did a demonstration of how to dig rainwater-harvesting basins for native plants. After that, everybody wentto work. About 35 native plants were planted in basins. By nowit was noon and Beki provided a pizza lunch for one and all.The Peace Garden is the brainchild of the Quinteros. It is a
fenced area inside Manny Herrera Park that is being landscapedand filled with donated plants and vegetable gardens. Ric workson the landscaping while Beki has developed a program of com-munity service for youthful first-time offenders. Many of thekids at the workshop were doing community service, or haddone it in the past and were returning again to help out.Tucson Audubon hopes to raise awareness of urban wildlife
and its habitat by working with neighborhoods to create local-ized habitat within the metro area.Tucson Audubon would like to thank Desert Survivors Nurs-
ery for donated plants, Andy Sanchez from Tucson Parks and Recfor advice, and Beki and Ric Quintero for organizational effortswithout which this workshop would not have been possible.
Vermilion Flycatcher Tucson Audubon Society February 2006 21
36th Annual Institute of Desert Ecology: April 20-23Registration has begun for the 2006 Institute of Desert Ecol-
ogy. We take great pride in the fact that the annual Desert Insti-tute now spans more than three decades. Since that first Insti-tute, over 2,000 individuals have come together to learn andshare experiences, connecting with the natural environment inways both intimate and profound. Last year�s 35th Institute wasno exception, filled with �warmth, humor, brainwaves and bril-liance.� The 2006 Institute will be held April 20�23 at CatalinaState Park.Dates: All participants are encouraged to set up camp on
Wednesday, April 19 between 4 and 9 p.m. The Institute ses-sions begin on Thursday, April 20 at 6:30 a.m.Location: The site of the Desert Institute is Catalina State
Park. The spectacular northwest face of the Santa CatalinaMountains forms the backdrop for this 5,500 acre desert parklocated just north of Tucson at elevations ranging from 2,650to 3,000 feet. Desert washes, canyons and bajadas contain avast array of desert plants and wildlife. The park is a popularbirding area and has a bird list of over 150 species seen withinits borders. Our camping area is comfortably shaded by mes-quite trees, adjacent to undisturbed desert washes, canyons, hill-sides and rich riparian areas, and secluded from other camp-grounds. Days should be sunny and hot, but expect chilly nightsand evenings.Program: Our study focuses on Sonoran Desert ecosystems
with emphasis on relationships between plants, animals and thephysical characteristics of the desert rather than on classifica-tion and identification. Our days start early and optional activi-ties such as owling, blacklighting for insects, and star talks ex-tend into the evening hours. Participants and faculty interact insmall groups during the first three days. On Sunday, a final hiketies together the experiences of earlier sessions for the entiregroup.Accommodations & Meals: Participants furnish their own
tents or campers. Water is available but there are no electrical orwater hookups. To avoid disrupting the peaceful surroundings,operation of generators is not permitted. Restrooms and show-ers are available at the group camping site, and the park hasholding tank disposal facilities. Ample, tasty meals are cateredfrom an on-site unit, with adequate choices to accommodatevegetarians. Before early field sessions, a nutritious pre-break-fast snack is available.Fee & Registration: Contact Jessie Shinn at (520) 622-
5622 or [email protected]. The fee of $375 per per-son ($350 for Tucson Audubon members) includes park en-trance fee and camping from April 19 � 23. It also includesexpert instruction and all meals beginning with Thursday break-fast through Sunday lunch. The Institute ends Sunday, April 23at 2:30 p.m. A non-refundable deposit of $45 per person mustaccompany the registration form. The balance is due by March 10,2006. Please make checks payable to the Institute of Desert Ecol-ogy. No money will be refunded for cancellations received afterApril 7, 2006. Registration is limited to no more than 65 people.
Participants: Tucson Audubon membership is not required,but membership entitles you to a discounted price! Participantsshould be at least 18 years of age and in good health. Anyonewith an interest in natural history and desert ecology can partici-pate. No pets are allowed.Faculty: Faculty members are experienced at teaching stu-
dents with different knowledge levels.
RONNIE SIDNER, Ph.D. (Mammalogy)Consulting Biologist
CARL OLSON, M.S. (Entomology)The University of Arizona
CECIL SCHWALBE, Ph.D. (Herpetology)Ecologist, U.S. Geological SurveySonoran Desert Research Station, University of Arizona
LINWOOD SMITH, Ph.D. (Ornithology and Botany)Ecological Consultant
CARL TOMOFF, Ph.D. (Ornithology and Botany)Prescott College
BOB SCARBOROUGH (Geology)Consulting Geologist
University Credit: One unit of University of Arizona creditis offered through RNR 497B/597B�Desert Ecosystems, foran additional fee. The University of Arizona is an EEO-AAEmployer.Scholarships: Limited scholarship funds are available. Con-
tact the Institute Director for more information (see below).Donations are welcomed and are tax deductible.
Desert tortoise at the Institute of Desert Ecology
BobWenrick
Questions? Want to register?Contact Jessie Shinn, Institute Director
(520) [email protected]
Also see online registration form at:www.tucsonaudubon.org/education
22 Vermilion Flycatcher Tucson Audubon Society February 2006
Jump on our website for easy access to:Join or renew your membership.Donate to Tucson Audubon Society.www.tucsonaudubon.org
Yes, I would like tobecome a Friend ofTucson Audubon!
O $15 Students/Seniors (62+)O $20 One-year membershipO $35 Two-year membershipO Additional gift to Tucson Audubon $_______Total amount: $_______
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Please send this form to:Tucson Audubon Society300 E. University Blvd., #120Tucson, AZ 85705Attention: Donna Jester
We thank you for your generous support of TucsonAudubon Society.
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Borderland ToursBorderland Tours, 882-7650 from Tucson, toll-free 800-525-7753,[email protected], or www.borderland-tours.com.�Oaxaca Valley & Grand Oaxaca,� March 21�28 & March 28�April 4, 2006, $2,295 per tour or $4,490 for bothLeaders: David MacKay and Rick Taylor. All 7 nights at one won-derful hotel and a wide selection of endemic birds are featured onour Oaxaca Valley tour, including species such as Ocellated Thrasher,Dwarf Jay, and Red Warbler. Grand Oaxaca loops through cloudforest and rain forest across the isthmus to the Pacific Coast, andfeatures endemics such as Citreoline Trogon, Wagler�s Toucanet,Red-breasted Chat, and Orange-breasted Bunting, among dozensof others.�Veracruz Raptors,� September 28�October 9, 2006, $2,495per personLeaders: David MacKay & Rick Taylor. Thousands of migratingbirds of prey stream through the state of Veracruz in the autumn,joining resident raptors such as Hook-billed Kite, Bat Falcon, andAplomado Falcon. Fall also brings a surge of eastern North Ameri-can warblers which join tropical delights like Black-and-white Owl,Mexican Sheartail and Wedge-tailed Sabrewing Hummingbirds, Blue-crowned Motmot, and Keel-billed Toucan.
Nature Treks and PassagesContact Rochelle Gerratt at 520-696-2002, [email protected],or see www.naturetreks.net for information about these and other trips.Copper Canyon Birding, March 11�19, 2006, $2,449See neo-tropical species such as Eared Quetzal and Russet-crownedMotmot. Activities include a river float trip near the colonial townof El Fuerte, the spectacular Copper Canyon train to Creel, andthree days in Batopilas, deep within the canyon. View the itineraryand species list at www.naturetreks.net/dbgcc.htm.Birds and Pottery in Mata Ortiz, March 31�April 2, 2006, $619Drive by van to bird at Whitewater Draw near Willcox and cross theborder south of Bisbee to the famous pottery village of Mata Ortizin Mexico. Stay at a comfortable inn in the middle of this rusticvillage. Plenty of time to watch a pottery demonstration and shop atpotters� homes and galleries. Visit the prehistoric ruins of Paquimeand bird along the river in Casas Grandes. See itinerary and specieslist at http://www.naturetreks.net/Mata_Ortiz_Birding_Pottery1.htm.
Ntaba ToursContact Ntaba Tours toll-free at 1-866-466-8222, cell at 502-545-0207, [email protected] or visit ourwebsite atwww.ntabatours.com.�Discover South Africa,� January 28�February 12, 2006, tourPrice: $3,500 per person sharing, excluding airfareAirfare: $1,500 round trip from Atlanta to South Africa, includingair travel in South Africa. (The cost of airfare is subject to change�depends on airline price at time of booking.) Ornithological, Botani-cal, Cultural, Natural History: Experience the diversity that South
Birding Travel from ourBusiness Members
BIRDINGTRAVEL, continued on next page
Vermilion Flycatcher Tucson Audubon Society February 2006 23
Thanks &Wishes Valerie Pullara, Development Director
University Blvd. Nature Shop• Small TV/DVD player combo• Small CD player
Habitat Restoration Office• Trailer, at least 5’x10’, to haul a
small utility vehicle (KawasakiMule)
Education• New or gently-used field glasses• Collapsible hand cart
Mason Audubon Center• Heavy duty hand truck• Gravel rake• Digging bar• 12” adjustable wrench
Current Wish ListCurrent Wish ListCurrent Wish ListCurrent Wish ListCurrent Wish List
On behalf of the board, staff andvolunteers, we want to wish everyone avery happy new year. Your generosity overthe past 12 months was remarkable. Tuc-son Audubon is grateful for your gifts,donations and time. We thank the gener-osity of the following people, who havemade donations, both for specific pro-grams and general support.In-kind donations:Anonymous, two framed Audubon
prints.Margaret Aughenbaugh, 15 signed
prints of Walpi Village.Brooklyn Pizza, gift cards for pizza
and other food from their restaurants.Jerry and Patricia Clymer, various
items to be sold at the Mason AudubonCenter yard sale.Jeffrey Dean, a music CD to for the
holiday raffle.Patricia Dean, Tilley Hat, gourd and
glass ornaments, book, coffee mug andjuicer for the holiday raffle.Susan Fleming, a walking stick and
Peterson North American Birds CD-ROM.Edward Hacskaylo, various items to
be sold at our Mason Audubon Centeryard sale.Mary Dahl, a pair of 10x25 bin-
oculars.Rochelle Gerratt, for enabling dona-
tions made to Tucson Audubon through
our International Trips Program withNature Treks and Passages.Joseph Orenstein, a box of field
guides, books and tapes for our library.Annick Rappole-Salinas, five books
signed by John H. Rappole (cousin) inmemory her father.Ray Sayre, tools, hardware, books and
other items to be sold at the MasonAudubon Center yard sale.Darlene Smyth, two gift certificates
for the Nature Shops and a Swarovskishoulder bag for the holiday raffle.Jane and Warren Tisdale, a hand-
carved walking stick.PeggyWenrick, two pairs of binocu-
lars to be used in educational programs.Jane Williams, 123 Natural History
and Scientific American magazines.Rick Wright, two books for the holi-
day raffle.In loving memory of Anna Wainger,
Cherie and David Lazaroff; in lovingmemory of Dr. Robert J. McNeill, EvelynMcNeill; in loving memory of KarenRaber, Linda Ochsenbein; in lovingmemory of Keith Mardis, GeorgeMcCauley and Opal McCauley; in lovingmemory of Lynelle Lavine, Don andClaire Macha. In honor of NatashaWinnik, Herbert Winnik; and in honor ofSonja Macys, Jane Bock.Tucson Audubon would also like to
thank the hundreds of volunteers that so
gladly give their time to assist in restora-tion projects, field trips, naturalist pro-grams, education programming, MasonAudubon Center, conservation projects,IBA, administration, committees and withmany of our events. Tucson Auduboncould not do all of the wonderful pro-gramming and community outreach with-out your tireless efforts.
Africa has to offer, from the KrugerNational Park to Cape Town, with Roband Stella Mountain, South African citi-zens now living in Kentucky. We person-ally lead the tour and use local profes-sional guides. Quality accommodation,excellent cuisine, personal needs takencare of, all at a sensible price!�Birding Safari to South Africa,�March 11�27, 2006, tour Price: $3,800per person sharingPrice excludes airfare from Atlanta toSouth Africa, including air travel in SouthAfrica. (The cost of airfare is subject tochange�depends on airline price at timeof booking.) Experience South Africa�sabundant birdlife with avid birders Rob
and Stella Mountain, South African citi-zens now living in Kentucky. We person-ally lead the tour and use local profes-sional guides. Quality accommodation,excellent cuisine, and personal needs aretaken care of�all at a sensible price!
Victor Emanuel NatureTours, Inc.2525 Wallingwood, Suite 1003, Austin, TX78746, 800-328-8368Ozarks and Prairies, May 5�14, 2006The Ozarks and prairies of Missouri andArkansas represent some of the mostbeautiful and unique ecosystems in NorthAmerica. Join tropical bird specialist SteveHilty for an intimate birds-and-botany tour
of his home country. Visit rolling pineforests, cypress swamps, and lush bird-filled prairies. Enjoy pristine glades,streams and a float trip on theBuffaloRiver.Cost: $2,150, from Springfield, MO.Point Pelee and the Kirtland�s War-bler, May 13�21, 2006Canada�s Pt. Pelee National Park offerssome of the greatest springtime birdingin North America. Our annual tour thereregularly records 30 species of warblerand most of the songbirds of easternNorth America. An added bonus is a dayat Crane Creek, OH and two days inMichigan in search of the Kirtland�s War-bler. Leader: Kim Eckert. Cost: $2,140,from Detroit.
Tucson Audubon Society300 E. University Blvd., #120Tucson, AZ 85705
The Vermilion Flycatcher is the newsletter of the TucsonAudubon Society. You may receive the newsletter byjoining the Friends of Tucson Audubon. See membershipform on page 22.
N O N - P R O F I T O R G .
U.S. POSTAGE PAID
TUCSON, AZ
PERMIT #1345
TucsonMembershipMeetingDuVal Auditorium, University Medical Center, 7 p.m.February 13, �Reconciliation Ecology: Having Our
Land and Sharing, Too,� by Professor Michael L. RosenzweigReconciliation ecology is transforming the way conservationists think, and recon-
ciling bird species with human development is a part of this strategy. This talk willfeature a number of examples. Tucson can play a special role in this conservationrevolution. Thanks to the Tucson Bird Count, we are now learning how to targetspecific species for support. Tucsonans can spread this idea and help it to take rootall over the city and its sisters nearby. Tucsonans will provide an example that willgive others hope and a model for action. Michael L. Rosenzweig is Professor ofEcology and Evolutionary Biology at the University of Arizona. He founded thedepartment (the world�s first) in 1975 and was its first head. Rosenzweig is a speakerrenowned for his ability to bring complex ecological subjects to wide audiences.Rosenzweig has written a large variety of professional papers and several books,including Win-Win Ecology, Species Diversity in Space and Time, and And Replenish theEarth: the evolution, consequences and prevention of overpopulation.
Green ValleyMembershipMeetingPima County�Green Valley (Conrad Joyner) Library, 10 a.m.(arrive at 9:30 a.m. for coffee and cookies)
February 18, �The Hummingbird Project,� by Alona Bachi, and�Hummingbird Research at Tohono Chul Park,� by RachelMcCaffreyThis month�s program features two U of A graduate students doing research
about hummingbirds. Alona Bachi will talk about The Tucson Hummingbird Project,a hummingbird ecological study using volunteer hummingbird watchers. The projectmonitors hummingbird abundance to enhance hummingbird conservation in Tuc-son. Alona is an ecologist with a B.Sc. and M.Sc. in Life Sciences and Ecology fromBen-Gurion University in Israel. Rachel McCaffrey will speak about hummingbirdresearch she did at Tohono Chul Park. She studied the relationship between hum-mingbirds� use of feeders and flowers, hummingbird activity patterns, and whichplants they preferred. Rachel also runs the Tucson Bird Count. Both speakers arePh.D. students in Ecology and Evolutionary Biology with Dr. Rosenzweig, who willspeak at the Tucson meeting on February 13.
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DirectionsTucson Parking: There is parking,for a fee, in the multi-tiered Patient/Visitor parking structure close to theauditorium at UMC. Free parking(after 5 p.m.) is available south ofMabel Street and west of Warren(see map).Green Valley: The public library is at601 N. La Canada. From I-19 take exit#69, Duvall Mine Rd., go west toDuvall Rd., go left on La Canada, righton Desert Bell Rd. Go ½ block, turnleft and stay left for the library.
More Program Information: Con-tact Donna Jester at 629-0757, [email protected].
