March-April 2009 Vermilion Flycatcher Tucson Audubon Society

8/9/2019 March-April 2009 Vermilion Flycatcher Tucson Audubon Society

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VERMILIONF L Y C A T C H E RMarchApril 2009 | Volume 54, Number 2

Tucson Audubon Society | tucsonaudubon.org

Blue Mockingbird 3

Whats in a Name:Northern Beardless-Tyrannulet 11

T U C S O N A U D U B O N S B I - M O N T H L Y N E W S L E T T E R

Bienvenido,Spring!

Wintering Birds Stay North 12

Migrate into a Birdathon 14Birds to See, Where to Go 16


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With the inauguration of the newadministration comes the renewal of theidea of individual responsibility,reminding us of the role each of us, asindividuals, can and should play in thesuccess of our country. President BarackObama speaks often of a new era of service to our communities.

In a recent speech he said, AsPresident I ask for your service and your active citizenship ... This will not be acause issued in one speech or program;it will be a cause of my presidency.

Tucson Audubon Society thanks allmembers whose support shows what wecan achieve with this attitude. Lookingforward, we are excited about a newadministration and hope that this attitudeof generosity and selflessness goes onwell beyond four or eight years.

For opportunities to provide your services to help Tucson Audubon make adifference in our community, pleasecontact Chris Harrison at 629-0757 or [email protected]. VF

2 Tucson Audubon Vermilion Flycatcher M ARCH APRIL 2009

Vermilion Flycatcher is published bi-monthly. For addresschanges or subscription problems call 622-5622, or writeto Membership Coordinator, Tucson Audubon, 300 E.University Blvd, #120, Tucson, AZ 85705. Submissionsare due the 1st of the month, two months before the dateof the issue. Please send submissions as Microsoft Wordor RTF documents, or plain text files, to Matt Griffiths [email protected] Matt Griffiths206-9900Proofreaders Jane & Warren Tisdale749-2139and Tucson Audubon staff LayoutEng-Li Green

Tucson Audubon Society is dedicated to improvingthe quality of the environment by providing education,conservation, and recreation programs,environmental leadership, and information. Tucson Audubon is a non-profit volunteer organization of people with a common interest in birding and naturalhistory. Tucson Audubon maintains offices, a library,and nature shops in Tucson, the proceeds of whichbenefit all of its programs.

Tucson Audubon Society300 E. University Blvd. #120, Tucson, AZ 85705

629-0510 (voice) or 623-3476 (fax) All phone numbers are area code 520 unless otherwise stated.

www.tucsonaudubon.org

Board Officers & DirectorsMessages 622-5622President Herb TrossmanVice President Mich Coker Secretary Robert MeridethTreasurer Tom RehmBoard Committees ConservationChris McVie,Development Sandy Elers,EducationCynthia Pruett,Finance Tom Rehm,Nominating Robert MeridethDirectors at Large Clark Blake,Mary KayEiermann, SandyElers, Julie Gordon, Linda Greene, Craig Marken, RobertMesta, Liz Payne, Bill Roe, Jessie Shinn, Linda Stitzer,Bob WenrickPrograms & ActivitiesField TripsDarlene Smyth 297-2315LibraryDavid West 629-0510Membership MeetingsChris Harrison 629-0757Rare Bird AlertJohn Yerger | Report Rare Birds 798-1005Staff Executive Director Paul Green 777-9525Operations Manager Michael Monyak 629-0757 AccountantJean Boris 629-0757Education Program Manager Carrie Dean 622-2230Outreach SpecialistMatt Brooks 629-2230Membership DevelopmentChris Harrison 629-0757Membership Coordinator Jean Barchman 622-5622IBA Conservation BiologistScott Wilbor 628-1730IBA Program Assistant Ruth Wilderman 628-1730Restoration Program Manager Kendall Kroesen 206-9900Field Supervisor Rodd Lancaster 256-6909Restoration SpecialistMatthew Griffiths 206-9900Mason Outreach Coordinator Lia Sansom 971-6238University Shop Manager Sara Pike 622-2230 Agua Caliente Shop Manager Becky Aparicio 760-7881Nature ShopsTucson Audubon Nature Shop300 E University Blvd #120 629-0510623-3476 fax / 622-2230 Shop Manager Hours: MondaySaturday, 10 AM 4PM(10 AM 5PMMonday & Thursday); closed SundayTucson Audubon at Agua CalienteRoy P. Drachman Agua Caliente Park12325 E Roger Rd 760-7881Hours: Tuesday, Friday, Saturday 9 AM 3:30PM

FRONT COVER: Cliff SwallowPetrochelidon pyrrhonota . The racecommonly found in Southeast Arizona,

P. p. melanogaster , lacks the paleforehead patch shown by this individualphotographed in California by MikeDanzenbaker. Mike is a Birds & BusinessAlliance member. You can see more of his photos at www.avesphoto.com.

To have your photo featured on the frontcover of the Vermilion Flycatcher , pleasecontact Matt Griffiths at 206-9900 or [email protected].

Ask Not What Tucson AudubonCan Do For YouChris Harrison, Membership & Development Manager

Features11 Whats in a Name: Northern

Beardless-Tyrannulet

12 Bird Movements Reveal ClimateChange Threat

12 Beyond 60, Beyond Growth

14 Win-Win Birding

15 Ad-Hawk Birdathons Happen

16 Bienvenido, Spring!

Departments4 News Roundup

8 Events and Classes

9 Events Calendar

17 Conservation & Education News

19 Field Trips

22 Birding from our BusinessPartners

24 Birds & Business AllianceMembers Listings

25 TAS-ifieds

26 Nature Shops

27 Bookends

Volunteers Seth Remer (left) and Craig Marke(right) helping with habitat restoration.


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M ARCH APRIL 2009 Vermilion Flycatcher Tucson Audubon 3

As I write this piece, it is just a fewweeks since Barak Obama became the44th President of the United States. Inthat short period of time a great feeling of relief and joy has swept over the nationand the environmental community inparticular. The Bush administration hadwaged a relentless war againstenvironmental regulations for the pasteight years and the new administrationappears to be moving rapidly to reversesome of the last-minute anti-environmental regulations imposed by

that administration.While there is no universal agreementthat President Obamas choices for thecabinet and governmental agencypositions that affect the environment werewise, they generally reflect sensitivitytowards the environment that the former administration lacked. From the viewpointof Arizonans, we might have preferredRal Grijalva to Ken Salazar, but theappointment of Carol Browner (PresidentClintons head of the EPA) as theWhite Houses chief of energy and

environmental issues appears to be anenlightened choice. Another encouragingappointment (which has its negative side,as we will point out later) was our former Governor Janet Napolitano as Secretaryof Homeland Security. As head of theagency that has jurisdiction over border issues, we can hope for a moreenlightened approach to securing theborder than building a fence. It is still tooearly to make a complete assessment of all these appointments, of course, and itwill largely depend on those who areappointed for the staff positions.

With the words restore science to itsrightful place in his inaugural address,President Obama brought new hope that,after eight years of ignoring and oftensuppressing good science, thegovernment will restore its scientificagencies to their rightful roles inprotecting the environment. The newsmedia report that staff members of theseagencies seem to feel their long winter may be over.

That was the good news. Now for thebad news. While the federal governmentseems to be heading for a new period of enlightenment on environmental issues,the reverse may be happening to Arizona.

Although we are all happy that JanetNapolitano has moved on to the nationalstage as head of Homeland Security, ithas left Arizona with a legislature and newgovernor that may be a carbon copy of the former federal administration. Whilethe majority of the country is moving in anew direction, it seems that Arizona may

be going in the opposite direction.Both the federal and state governmentsare facing a financial crisis and massivedeficits, but their approach to solving theproblems appears to be drasticallydifferent. While the federal governmenthas pledged to revive the agencies thatprotect the environment and restorescience to its rightful place in decidingpolicy, our state government will probablyhead in the other direction. Budget cuttingseems to be the mantra of the newgovernor and legislature and we can all

guess where those cuts will come. Theagencies that may be cut, of most

concern to Tucson Audubon, are Game &Fish, State Parks, and the Department of Environmental Quality. We obtain most of our funding for the Important Bird Areasprogram from Arizona Game and Fish,and any significant cut to its budget may

jeopardize our ability to sustain theprogram.

What can we, as members of Tucson Audubon, do to help us through difficulttimes? First, remain true to our ideals andcontinue to support our conservation

efforts to protect our preciousenvironment. Another, and very important,is to continue YOUR financial support of Tucson Audubon and, if possible,increase your support. We are all feelingthe effect of the current financial crisisand many of us will have to adjust our lifestyle accordingly, but most of thethings we eliminate from our standard of living can easily be replaced when timesimprove. What cannot be easily replacedis a diminished environment. We mustmaintain what we have, and Tucson

Audubon is working to do this; so your continued support is essential. VF

COMMENTARYHERB TROSSMAN | PRESIDENT

The Blue Mockingbird above was photographed at Slaughter Ranch, 15 miles east of Douglas, oFebruary 11, 2009, by Charles W. Melton. Found by Richard Webster, it is only the fifth recordUSA. And what a fantastic bird! Spiky, electric blue, with ruby red eyes, it seemed more like a jmockingbird (or, as I later decided, more like a roller or even a motmot). Richard Fray VF

What the Change in the Federal and StateGovernments Means for Tucson Audubon:The Good News and the Bad News


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The Arizona Important Bird Areas(IBA) program at Tucson Audubon hasreceived a modest grant to expandour investigations of bird species

occurrence, abundance, and habitatuse within the BHP Billiton mining companys-held riparian lands alongthe Lower San Pedro River near San Manuel, Arizona. Our surveyswill cover the spring migration andbreeding season and be particularlyfocused on raptors (notably GrayHawk), kingbirds, and the Yellow-billedCuckoo, but will document all birdsdetected in our study area (a 14 kmlinear riparian corridor). Initial field

work begins in March with our firstsurvey in mid/late April. All past or current IBA workshop attendees areencouraged to contact the TAS-IBA

office to sign up to participate(mileage and hotel costs will becovered). Last years report isavailable on-line a www.aziba.org.

We are conducting expanded birdsurveys and new habitat conditiondocumentation in new areas of theGreater Sabino/Tanque Verdewatershed. Based on our findings wemay propose an expansion of theexisting Sabino/Bear Creeks IBA toencompass more of watershed. We

will also be working to have newconservation measures enacted for these drainages by privatelandowners and Pima County. An owl

survey along Tanque Verde Wash o

Jan. 23, 2009 found 7 Great HorneOwls in 1.2 miles! Another IBA OwlSurvey, March 11, 2009, alongTanque Verde Wash is open for participant sign-up (limit 8participants); call early to reserve spot (6281730). You do not need be an IBA volunteer.

Lastly, we will host anIBARiparian Species ID Workshop, for past or current IBA Workshopattendees that will also be held alothe San Pedro River in March or early April. Our goal is to sharpencurrent team skills for our surveyefforts in 2009, particularly for thofolks who can assist our efforts atBHP in San Manuel and thePatagonia Mountains, and to assistour partnership with Arizona GamFish Department and bird monitorat riparian plots near our IBAs.Checkour website at www.aziba.org for final detailsor call Scott (628-1730

IBA surveys focus on Lower San Pedro River andGreater Sabino/Tanque Verde watershed this springScott Wilbor, Important Bird Areas Program Conservation Biologist

L E F T S C O T T W I L B O R

, C E N T E R L I Z B U R K E

Left and center: Within the Lower San Pedro River IBA, the extensive BHP Billiton riparian lands near San Manuel, Arizona will be further investigasummer for their importance to all birds, but especially species of conservation concern, their habitat associations, and key vegetative components of Audubon, and many partners, are interested in the future conservation of this special riparian corridor. Right: Gray Hawk

Unfortunately, I have no new picturesof me sitting on a toilet but we are stillmoving in a positive direction towardshaving this bathroom built! Check theTucson Audubon website for updateson construction, opportunities to see

the construction in progress, andvolunteer possibilities. Ground-breaking is planned for some timeMarch, and we hope it will becompleted in time for theIronwood Jam (see p 4).

Mason Center bathroom updateLia Sansom, Tucson Audubons Mason Center Outreach Coordinator

Tanque Verde Wash is a conservation focus for the Important Bird Areas Program (part of the greater Sabino IBA region),and the site of continuing owl surveys this spring. Off-road vehicles, habitat fragmentation, non-native vegetation, are keythreats impacting this ecosystem

S C O T T W I L B O R


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By reducing outdoor use of potablewater and creating more shade,landscape designers can help reduceenergy consumption and greenhousegas emissions. Tucson Audubon aimsto help the Tucson landscapingcommunity do an even better job of creating landscapes that supportwildlife, conserve water, and reducethe urban heat island effect.

Towards this end, Tucson Audubon

recently created and taught its firstcourse on creating bird-friendly,sustainable landscapes. The courseattracted twenty-two people includingmany from the landscape designcommunity.

We collaborated with many expertsin our community. Greg Cormanhelped design and teach the course;his company, Gardening Insights, aBirds & Business Alliance member,does horticultural consulting andlandscape design with emphasis on

native plants and wildlife-friendlylandscapes. Other experts included Ann Audrey, Carolyn Campbell, DorisEvans, Brad Lancaster, Carl Olson,Jim Verrier, and Scott Wilbor.Executive Director Paul Green and Iwove these expert contributions into acohesive course fabric.

Desert Survivors Nursery hosted asession, providing an opportunity tolearn about the hundreds of species

of native plants for sale there.Some key landscape innovations

taught in the course included nativeplant guilds that work for birds,maintaining healthy insect diversity,rainwater harvesting, and habitatdesigns for lizards.

Important course conceptsincluded integrated design,biodiversity, design simplicity, andswitching from a scarcity mindset toan abundance mindset, the latter graphically illustrated by Brad

Lancaster. We also discussed thehabitat needs of Tucson birds and theimportance of landscape linkages.

We are using detailed feedbackfrom the participants to help usimprove the course for its nextinception. We are beefing up detailsabout landscape components for wildlife, and Saturday sessions willinclude field trips to model Tucsonlandscapes. Due to significant interestin the course, we will teach it again inSeptember 2009.

There is a large potential audienceincluding master gardeners,neighborhood associations, municipal

planners, bird enthusiasts, backyardo-it-yourselfers, and many others

To reserve you place for theSeptember 2009 classes, pleasecontact Kendall at 2069900 or kkroesen@ tucsonaudubon.org.

TUCSON AUDUBONNEWS ROUNDUP


Learning to create homes for birds in our backyardsNext course planned for September

Kendall Kroesen, Restoration Program Manager

Top: The course met at Tucson Audubon and several other locatioParticipants saw a variety of presentations on wildlife andlandscaping, and visited someimportant field sites.

Middle: Course participants wereexposed to results of the Tucson BCount, including that a neighborhoonly needs to have 10 percent of itground surface covered by Sonora

Desert vegetation in order to suppGambels Quail. Vegetative cover needs are higher for other species,but are still reachable.

Bottom: One of the class field tripwas to Milagro Cohousing, adevelopment on Tucsons west sidthat employs extensive rainwater harvesting and graywater use.

K E N D A L L K R O E S E N


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Birders think of southeastArizona as Mecca, with 500species seen and 400

occurring regularly. The TucsonBird Count now hasdocumented over 230 speciesof birds in the greater Tucsonmetro area alone!

But did you know cycliststhink of Tucson as a Mecca, too? Just hang out on the Mt.Lemmon Highway someSaturday morning and watchthe bikers doing training runsup to Summerhaven! There aremany local biking clubs andevents, like Tour de Tucson.Many people are usingbicycles as transportation tolower their costs and reducetheir carbon footprint.

Two glorious activities:biking and birding! Why notput them together?! Thats justwhat were doing. On FridayApril 10 Tucson Audubon andthe City of TucsonsDepartment of Transportation(DOT) will sponsor an eventthat promotes both cycling andbirding in Tucson. Its part of DOTs Bike Fest 2009 .

The event will start at FortLowell Park at 7 AM. Well bird

the park and then head westalong the south side of theRillito. The stretch of the Rillitolinear park from Craycroft toAlvernon is often quite goodbirding. The bicycle/pedestriantrail along the Rillito is verywide and easy to ride.Beginning birders and bikersare welcome!

We will spend the morningriding at a leisurely pace andstopping to watch birds.

Leaders will ride back to Ft.Lowell Park with any bikerswho are returning there.

For more information contactKendall Kroesen at 206-9900or 971-2385.

Cycling for speciesBirding by bicycle in Tucson on Friday April 10, 2009Kendall Kroesen, Restoration Program Manager

VOLUNTEER OFTHE MONTH

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Liz Paynewas born inRedwood City, California, andnow a Tucson resident workinas a tour coordinator andgraphic artist. Liz has been veactive in Tucson AudubonSociety since joining in 2004.Currently on the Board, sheserves on many committees.Her involvement includes theInstitute of Desert Ecology,Birdathon participant, field trileader and the 60th AnniversaryGala Committee.

FOUR QUESTIONSFirst time you went birding:Officially in 1979 Your level of birding: IntermediateFavorite place to go birding: Any place! Riparian areas for warblers, grasslands for raptorOther hobbies: Dog agility;music; knitting; sharing akitchen with friends to create great meal; traveling; andtropical beaches

Sergio Avila, Kevin Balser, Alison Banks, Susan Blattner, Ken and LindaBriggs, Joseph Brinig, Joan Butler, Maria Call, Jerry Daniel, Daniel andVirginia Danieu, Cynthia Dean, Judith DePasquale, Carol desCognets, LarryDucey, Douglas Everett, John Farmer, Conor Flynn, Karen Ford, JoanGellatly, Mary Grgich, Laurens Halsey, S. JoAnn Hanson, Elise Harrison,Larry and Julie Hecker, Susan Hill, Patricia Hopwood, Joan Huber, WilliamJohnson, Bob King, Curtis Keim, William Klein, John Lamey, Gordon Lane,Becky Laughlin, Matt and Nikole Lewis, James and Jane Lombardo, LauraLpez-Hoffman, Barbara MacDougall, Fran McCarty, Jeff and Debbie Myers,Vicki Noell, Carol Osborne, Maggie Pearson, William Pessel, Adrian Quijada-Mascareas, Judith Ramsey, D. Jeanine Rennier, John Reuland and DianeHodiak, Marisa Rice, John and Dinah Rogers, Jim Rowley, Rob Sabata,Diane Salisbury, Paula Schlusberg, David Schwartz, Jerry Shapins, JackySollo, Eileen Sykora, Dean and Sandra Taylor, Cosette Thompson, CinoyTraylor, Elizabeth Urban, Shiloh Walkosak, Robert and Ruth Zollinger

GIFTS RECEIVED

Membership in honor of JohnFarmer from Matt Slakey

Membership in honor of Matt aNikole Lewis from Nikki Peter

Gift in memory of her mother,Evelyn Steevens from Donald aSheila Hamann VF

W E L C O M E N E W M E M B E R S !


The following names will be submittedfor election to the Board of Directorsat the March 9, 2009, meeting of theSociety (Lecture Series) by theNominating Committee:Herb Trossman, President (2nd term)Mich Coker, Vice President (2nd term)Richard Fray, Director at LargeNeil Markowitz, Director at LargeCynthia Pruett, Director at Large Adrian Quijada-Mascareas, Director at Large

2009 nominees for Board of Directors

Tucson Audubon staff members Lia Sansom and Matt Griffiths enjoyed somebicycle birding recently.

FROM A NEW MEMBER

I visited Tucson recently andfound a brochure in the rack at the

EconoLodge. That led me to phoneJohn Higgins (Tucson Audubonfield trip leader) and was invited to join in an outing to Avra Valley.John was a great guide and told usabout the area as well. On that one3-hour trip, I was able to add fivenew species to my life list,including a Prairie Falcon.

Rob Sabata, Bella Vista, AR

Jean Barchman, Membership Coordinator

K E N D A L L K R O E S E N


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Living With NatureLecture SeriesTUCSONSecond Monday of the month,September through April, 7 PMDuVal Auditorium, University Medical Center (UMC)

March 9, Monday 7 PMPANAMANIAwith Rick Wright Panama may be small, covering only30,000 square miles at the narrow waist of Central America; but this slender isthmuslinks two continents and their birds. Withmore than 1,000 species occupying anarea slightly smaller than the state of Indiana, Panama makes air- castle dreams

come true for visiting naturalists. Thebirders destination of choice for well over a hundred years, Panama was thoroughlyexplored in the nineteenth centuries aspart of the decades- long search for landand sea routes joining the oceans, and theresults of those efforts political, social,and technological continue to influenceecotourism in the New World tropics today.

Join Rick Wright, Managing Director of WINGS Birding Tours, for an illustratedexploration of the intersections of northand south, ocean and forest, past and

present in Panama, the tropicaldestination for Tucson AudubonsNovember 2009 member tour.

Come early! Snacks and refreshmentsbegin at 6:45! Panama birding books willbe available for purchase. We will haveinformation on Tucson Audubonsupcoming Panama Trip!

April 13, Monday 7 PMBIRDING THE TOP END MANGROVESwith Denise Lawungkurr Goodfellow The Top End of Australia is a uniqueplace, both remote and wild. Unlike muchof Australia, the Top End is a moretropical region, boasting beautifulwaterfalls, spectacular wetlands, andmangrove forests. The area has beencontinuously inhabited for 60,000 yearsand the Aborigines who live hererepresent one of theoldest currentlypracticing cultures inthe world. Wildlife isabundant in the TopEnd. More than 330bird species can befound in the area.

No person isbetter qualified tospeak aboutbirding the Top End than DeniseLawungkurr Goodfellow, author of thedefinitive book on the birds of this area,Birds of Australias Top End.

Denise is a birding guide, biologicalconsultant, author, and now a PhDstudent from the Top End. Her interest inall things natural was sparked when, as a

child, an Aboriginal woman introducedher to the Australian bush. She is a strongvoice for conservation and also for therights of the indigenous peoples.

Denise will be talking with us about theTop Ends birds, of course, but also themany potential dangers when birding inAustralia, including encounteringcrocodiles and snakes. She promises apresentation that includes accurateinformation, good pictures, humor,anecdotes and perhaps some pathos.

Denise will be conducting a focus

group for her graduate research onAmerican birding couples and would likevolunteers to par ticipate. If you areinterested in helping with her researchplease contact Chris Harrison at 629-0757 or [email protected] details.

We invite you to stay after this lecturefor cake and refreshments to celebrateTucson Audubon Societys 60thAnniversary.

GREEN VALLEYThird Saturday of the month, Octoberthrough March, 10 AMGreen Valley Public Library

March 21, Saturday 10 AMWILDLIFE REHABILITATIONwithLiberty WildlifeGet up close and personal with somesouthwestern raptors. Liberty WildlifeRehabilitation Foundation of Scottsdale, anon-profit wildlife hospital, will be inGreen Valley to teach us about theeagles, hawks, falcons and owls of theSonoran Desert first-hand.

Anne Peyton, one of Libertysknowledgeable volunteers, will talk aboutthe adaptations that raptors have made inorder to survive in this difficult climate.

Several live birds will be on display for

everyones education and enjoyment.These may include hawks, falcons, owlsand maybe even an eagle. This is apresentation not to be missed!

Anne will also tell us about the workthat Liberty is doing to save injured birdsand other animals. Liberty Wildlife wasfounded in 1981 and each year takes inapproximately 4,000 injured, ill or orphaned native animals, treating themand hopefully releasing them back intothe wild.

Liberty has helped rescue and

rehabilitate countless animals, whileeducating thousands of people about theimportance and value of our nativewildlife.

TUCSON AUDUBONEVENTS AND CLASSES

Collared Aracari

G A V I N B I E B E R


Available in the Nature Shopfor $49.95.Includes color plates, species description,highlights of similar species,status and distrubution,main habitat description,and range description.

Liberty Wildlife Volunteer, Anne Peyton, withHorned Owl, Hedwig


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Together Green Volunteer Restoration Work DayMarch 14, Saturday 8 AMEsperanza Ranch

Help with the habitat restoration efforts atEsperanza Ranch (between Amado andTubac) by digging rainwater harvestingbasins, planting trees and shrubs,removing invasive plants and picking uptrash. Sign up by contacting KendallKroesen at 971-2385 or [email protected].

Cut Your Hair, Save the Birds!March 22, SundayCoyote Wore Sideburns Hair Salon

Come and have your hair cut by theprofessionals at the Coyote WoreSideburns hair salon on Sunday, March22, during the Fourth Avenue SpringStreet Fair. The cut will cost you $25, andthe salon will pass on all receipts that dayto Tucson Audubon for our work inconservation, education, and recreation.The salon is at 630 N 4th Avenue, and thecut-a-thon will take place between 11 AMand 5 PM. Haircuts will be on a walk-inbasis. Just look for the Tucson Audubonbooth on the street outside. The CoyoteWore Sideburns is a member of TucsonAudubons Birds & Business Alliance.Both Paul Green and Kendall Kroesen

sport haircuts from this remarkable salon,established in 1988 by CarmenGuagliardo and Signe Razzi. The Salonhas a fun, casual atmosphere, and themusic is always good. The readers of theTucson Weekly have voted The CoyoteWore Sideburns as one of Best of TucsonSalons for five consecutive years. Theytell us they have Aveda color, and theyare open 7 days each week.

Mason Center Herp DayApril 25, Saturday 9 AM12 NOONTucson Audubons Mason Center

Lead by Tucson Audubon Naturalists,there will be a variety of activities andpresentations, live critters (including aGila Monster!) and a trail walk. ContactLia Sansom at 971-6238 or [email protected] for more information.

International Migratory BirdDay at Madera CanyonMay 2, Saturday 9 AM3P MMadera Canyon

On Saturday May 2, Tucson Audubon willpartner with Friends of Madera Canyon,National Forest Service, and other

conservation organizations to celebrateInternational Migratory bird Day at theWhitehouse Picnic area in MaderaCanyon. The days events will includebird walks (may begin before 9 AM), andactivities for all ages. For moreinformation go to www.tucsonaudubon.orgor www.friendsofmaderacanyon.org or contact Chris Harrison at (520) 629-0757or [email protected].

EVENTS CALENDAR

Through Apr 1. Artist Ruth Canada presentsBirds With Attitudewatercolorsin the RanchHouse Gallery at Agua Caliente Park. Ruthdonate 20 per cent of all sales to Tucson Audubon. For more information call 760-7

Mar 9, Monday 8AM. Living With NatureLecture, Tucson: Panamaniawith Rick Wrigh(details p 8).Mar 11.IBA Tanque Verde Wash Owl Surve(details p 5)

Mar 14, Saturday 8AM. Together GreenVolunteer Restoration Work Day at EsperanzaRanch (details left).

Mar 14, Saturday 6:15PM. Celebrating thePhotography of Tom Vezo. A Benet topreserve and protect Madera Canyon.Sponsored by the Friends of Madera CanyoSpecial Guest: David Yetman, Host of TheDesert Speaks. See www.tucsonaudubon.oVezo_event.pdf for more info.

Mar 22, Sunday.Coyote Wore SideburnsTucson Audubon Cut-a-thon(details left).

Mar 23, Monday 7PM. Presentation: A Tale of Two Citiesby Paul Green. Observations onthe effects o f planning by comparing Tucs Arizona, with Cambridge, England. DesertHills Social Center Auditorium, 2980 S CaDel Sol in Green Valley. No charge.

Mar 28 & 29.Riparian Family Institute. Aweekend event for the entire family focuse

on the rich plant and animal life foundstreamside along the San Pedro River. For more information contact Matt Brooks 6222230 or mbrooks@tucson audubon.org.

Apr 10, Friday 7AM. Bike Fest 2009Ft.Lowell Park eld trip. Bird the park and thRillito River by bike! (details p 7)

Apr 10May 10.Tucson Audubons BirdathonPut the fun back in fundraising! Noexperience necessary! (details p 14)

Apr 15May 15.Tucson Bird Count.(details p 10).

Apr 1619.Institute of Desert Ecology.For more information contact Matt Brooks at 62230 (details p 10).

Apr 25, Saturday 9AM. Mason Center HerpDay (details above left).

Apr 25, Saturday 6PM. Ironwood Jam.(details p 4).

May 2, Saturday 9AM 3 PM. International Migratory Bird Day at Madera Canyon.(details above left).


Volunteers at a TogetherGreen volunteer day inOctober 2008

J A M E S P R U D E N T E

Flame-colored Tanager

All day cut-a-thon, Sunday, March 22,to raise funds for Tucson Audubon.The cut will cost you $25 which we

pass on to Tucson Audubon!


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Institute of Desert EcologyThursdaySaturday, April 1619Catalina State Park

With spring around the bend, the urge toget out and enjoy our beautiful Sonoran

Desert becomes strong. Throw in somemigrating birds, good friends, greatteachers, and tasty food, and you haveyourself the makings of a memorableevent. Thoroughly satisfying each of these requirements for a good time, the39th Annual Institute of Desert Ecologywill be held April 1619 at Catalina StatePark. This program brings theenthusiastic teaching of local experts toparticipants from Arizona and beyond.

The program focuses on SonoranDesert ecosystems, using the dynamic

relationships between plants, animals,and the physical elements of the desertto forge a deeper understanding of desert landscapes.

The fee of $395 ($425 for non-TucsonAudubon members) includes parkentrance fees, all meals, expertinstruction, and camping from 4/15 to4/19. The $80 non- refundable depositmust accompany the registration form.The balance is due by March 6. Norefunds will be given for cancellationsafter April 3.

For more information or to register,please visit www.tucsonaudubon.org/education/ide.htm or call Matt! Brooks at622-2230. VF


TUCSON AUDUBONEVENTS AND CLASSES

Top: A hedgehog cactus blooms in Santa CatalinaState Park. Bottom: Past IDE participant, JonathanShapiro, and Matt Brooks examine a skunk skull.

At the 2008 Institute wrap-up session, Dr. Carl Tomoff delivers an eloquent homily that threads together allthat the participants learned during a packed four days.

C E C I L S C H W A L B E

Pima County Natural Resources,Parks and Recreation

Environmental Education EventsFor more information about the following wcontact 615-7855 or [email protected]:Feliz Paseos Park Birding Walk (Mar 7 & Apr 489 AM); Tucson Mountain Park Birding Walk Mar 14 & Apr 11, 89:30 AM); Birds of CienagaCreek (Apr 29, 6:4510 AM); Agua Caliente Bird Walk (Every Tuesday inMar & Apr. 89:30 AM).

B O T H P H O T O S S A R A P I K E

Volunteer for the 2009Tucson Bird Count!

April 15May 15

The Tucson Bird Count (TBC) is anongoing volunteer- based project thatcollects data on the abundances anddistributions of birds in and around theTucson area. Since its start in 2001,TBC volunteers have surveyed birds atthousands of sites, gathering highquality data on birds in urban areas.The TBC consists of two programs:the annual Route Program (April 15 May 15) with survey sites locatedthroughout the Tucson area; and thequarterly Park Monitoring Program withsurvey sites concentrated in areas of special interest. We need volunteersfor both programs!

Uses of TBC data includemonitoring the status of the Tucson- area bird community over time, findingthe areas of town and the land usepractices that are succeeding atsustaining native birds, andinvestigating the ecology of birds in human- inhabited landscapes. Throughinformed land use, Tucson can sustaina diverse bird community, aiding inconservation of bird species.

Who can participate?

The TBC is performed by volunteer birders from the Tucson community.There are survey sites available allover the city and surrounding areas,ranging from urban neighborhoods tonational parks. To find out more aboutTBC, register to participate, or viewthe results so far visitwww.tucsonbirds.org, or contactRachel McCaffrey ([email protected] or 7303218).


11/28

Northern Beardless- Tyrannulet thelittle bird with the big name! I think I sawmy first one of these at Cienega Creeknear its nest over the water. The cute littlecrested head, bi- colored bill, and buffy wing-bars made quite an impression, butthe crowning memory was this birdssong. The clear, whistled, peer, peer,

peer, peer notes were different from thoseof any other bird Id heard before.

The Northern Beardless- Tyrannulet(Camptostoma imberbe) is the mostnorthern member of a large tropicalsubfamily of flycatchers (Elaeniinae).

These birds dont perch conspicuouslyand sally out in a flycatching manner,but sit quietly and glean insects from barkand foliage. Youll notice that they haveshorter, stubbier bills than other tyrantflycatchers such as kingbirds. The latter have broad, flattened bills more adaptedto catching insects on the wing.

These birds are fairly common in our riparian woodlands in summer, but onlyrange into the U.S. in southeast Arizona,the nearby corner of New Mexico plus thesouthern tip of Texas. Also present in

lowlands in low numbers in winter, lookfor one to be in Agua Caliente Park ineastern Tucson then. Good summer places to look are along watered sectionsof the Santa Cruz and San Pedro Riversand Sonoita and Cienega Creeks.

After getting acquainted with their name, many beginning birders wonder is there a Southern Beardless Tyrannulet?

It turns out there is! Very similar but withbrighter wing- bars, their ranges overlapslightly in Costa Rica. So, weve got theNorthern part figured out, and Tyrannulet refers to it being a small tyrant flycatcher,so whats the scoop about being beardless ?

Most flycatchers have what are called

rictal bristles . These are spiky feathersaround the bill that were once thought toaid directing insects into the birds mouth,or possibly to aid in triggering a bill- snapping response when the birdattempts to grab a prey item. More recentideas are that these bristles protect theeyes from high- speed collisions withinsects, or that movement of the bristlessomehow informs the bird about theposition or movement of prey held in thebill. So called perch- gleaners, tyrannuletsseem to have nearly lost their beards

along the evolutionary trail, and thisspecies ended up named beardless asa result. (I guess it sounds better than rictal- less!)

Its fun to keep an eye out for tyrannulet nests. The female constructsan elaborate, domed, globular nest aboutthe size of a baseball, with an entrancehigh up on one side. Ones Ive seen upclose were not flat- bottomed, but hadstraggling nest- parts hanging downwards.The nest can be from chest height to highin a tree but is usually between ten andthirty feet off the ground. Often hidden inold tent- caterpillar nests or snuggled intoa mistletoe clump, you might be surprisedto see a decrepit- looking nest suddenlybustling with activity as an adult bringsgroceries to a batch of nestlings!

Males do most if not all of the singing.Though the male gives a more- varieddawn song, the most often heardvocalization is that series of peer notes,given much of the day as a territory- marker.

Once one is familiar with thetyrannulet, identification isnt usually aproblem, but initially one should watch outfor immature Verdins, which can looksimilar. Look for the Verdins short, conicalbill and more- rounded head shape.Empidonax flycatchers have a different

look. Head- shape, wider and flattenedbills, and vocalizations help tell themapart. The Tyrannulets bill is described asnarrow and stubby, reminiscent of a tinyvireos bill.

So when April arrives and youre out insome good riparian habitat, listen for those wonderful peer notes coming fromhigh up in short trees such as mesquites.Only four and a half inches long, youllhave to look closely for those field marks that bushy crest, buffy wing-bars,short narrow tail and two- toned bill (darkon top, flesh- colored at base on the lower half). Also look for an indistinct whitisheyebrow. Hopefully youll soon beenjoying one of our special avian treats!Good luck! VF


. . . many beginning birders wonder is there aSouthern BeardlessTyrannulet?

. . . tyrannulets seem tohave nearly lost their beards along theevolutionary trail.

G E O R G E W E S T

WHATS IN A NAME

Northern Beardless-TyrannuletLARRY LIESE

Available in our Nature Shops. Flycatchers of Arizonaby Homer Hansen.This mini-guide containsstructural illustrations and atable with identification andsound characteristics for 26 species of flycatchers,kingbirds, phoebes, and

pewees found in Arizona. Extremely intuitive anduser-friendly, its a great field reference for anyone birding in AZ as you will undoubtedly runinto many confusing flycatchers. Waterproof andtear resistant. $6.95


12/28

Wintering birds are remaining further north than in past years. Some residentsare moving north and show decliningnumbers in Arizona.

These findings come from a newanalysis of information from the ChristmasBird Count (CBC). The science team atNational Audubon has looked at the datafor the last forty years and discovered that58 percent of 305 widely spread species

that spend their winter on the North American continent have shifted their range north, some by hundreds of miles.

The analysis revealed movementamong species of every type, includingmore than 70 percent of highly adaptableforest and feeder birds. Only 38 percentof grassland species mirrored the trend.

Audubons scientists think that thisreflects the constraints of this severely-depleted habitat. Grassland bird species

now face a double threat of habitat lossand climate adaptation.

At least five resident forest birds of Arizona are shifting their range northward,and hence their total populations in

Arizona (40-year state cumulativepopulation change) have decreased frombetween 49% to 88%. These include mostnotably Clarks Nutcracker, AmericanDipper (rare already), Spotted Towhee,

Pygmy Nuthatch, and Northern Pygmy-Owl. Northern Flicker (part resident andpart over-wintering migrant) is alsodecreasing in Arizona.

We see this pattern repeated in NewMexico where six resident forest speciesare decreasing: Pygmy Nuthatch, MountainChickadee, Red-breasted Nuthatch,Townsends Solitaire, Clarks Nutcracker,and Stellers Jay. So we see a pattern of resident forest birds of the Southwest

mountains shifting north, and hencedecreasing in the Southwest overall.

Population shifts among individualspecies are common; they fluctuate andhave many causes. However, Audubonscientists say the ongoing trend of movement by some 177 speciescloselycorrelated to increases in long-term winter temperaturesreveals an undeniable linkto our changing climate.

The findings signal the need for dramatic policy changes to combatpervasive ecological disruption.

Visit www.audubonaction.org/campaign/birdsandclimate for more informationincluding the full national report.

Habitats already under siege fromdevelopment, energy production,agricultural expansion and other humanuses will require enhanced protection and

restoration to


SPECIAL FEATURE | BIRDS AND CLIMATE CHANGE

Bird Movements RevealClimate Change ThreatPAUL GREEN | EXECUTIVE DIRECTORSCOTT WILBOR | IMPORTANT BIRD AREAS PROGRAM CONSERVATION BIOLOGIST

It was in 1949 that a bunch of birdwatchers from the Tucson NaturalHistory Society formed Tucson AudubonSociety. (Our roots are not in the earlier

Arizona Audubon Society that was born in

1908 and then disappeared.) It did not takeus long to get hooked into conservation.

In 1959, when development threatenedthe valuable Sonoita-Patagonia Creek,Tucson Audubons birders mobilized tocollect funds to purchase the site. In atrue partnership, we passed the funds onto the Nature Conservancy who werebetter able to manage the purchase andthe site. To this day, one of the mostimportant sites for birds in our stateremains protected.

That first act symbolizes theconservation threats that have facedTucson Audubon during our first 60 years.Staggering population growthin PimaCounty rising from 139,000 to more than

a millionhas put pressure on all our natural resources. This includes the land,habitats, water, air quality and more, uponwhich we and birds depend.

Our conservation focus gained clarityas we played a central role, in 1998, inthe formation of the Coalition for SonoranDesert Protection whose aim has been todirect development to lands of lessbiological significance through theconservation lands system of the SonoranDesert Conservation Plan. Coupled with

management for endangered species, naturalresource protection has enteredthe mainstream of land use planning inthe Tucson region.

Having said that, when we come downMt Lemmon into Tucsonor drive downto Nogalesand see the sprawl beforeus, houses nudging up against publiclands, we get a sense of the issues facingus as more people want their piece of theopen landscape, degrading or destroyingit in the process.

While issues of land use planning andnatural resource protection will remainconservation priorities for Tucson

Audubon, we also need to recognize the

Beyond 60, Beyond GrowthPAUL GREEN

Birds nowwinteringfarther northshow the needfor a policychange

D O R I S E V A N S


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sustain bird populations and provideecological benefits essential to humanhealth, economic prosperity and quality of life. Habitats are also under threat frominvasive, non-native, plants and animals,many of which have thrived in a warmingclimate in the Southwest (e.g. bark beetle,giant reed).

We hope that these results will helpattract attention and spark action amongbirders, including tens of thousands whocontributed to the Christmas Bird Countdata, on which these results are based.The 109-year-old CBC provides a uniqueinsight into North Americas birdpopulations. Just as Citizen Science isallowing us to better recognize theimpacts of climate change, so citizenstewardship can help us reduce them. VF

additional threat to bird habitatspresented by our changing climate.Climate models for our region all predictrising winter temperatures and moreintense winter storm events, while no oneis quite sure what will happen to thesummer monsoon system. Higher temperatures increase per capita water demand and decrease supply, so we willneed to make a great many more

compromises for birds and other wildlife if valued habitats are to survive.

Climate change is a symptom of highlevels of consumption, an issue our society has to face. If we plot levels of human economic activity (such as GDP),levels of the side effects of those activities(such as carbon dioxide production), andmeasures of environmental degradation(such as extinction rates), the lines on thegraph share a pattern: a slow rate of increase between the 1750s and 1950s,

followed by exponential growth thereafter.There is a clear correlation betweeneconomic growth and the degradation of our natural environment.

Economists see no limits to growth,ever. Yet, if you have any biologicaltraining, you understand that populationsare limited by those natural resources thatsustain them (such as clean water, air,food). Our planets natural processes

simply cannot sustain continued growth. Ithas taken us from the beginning of timeuntil now to reach our current levels of economic activity, side effects, andenvironmental degradation: they coulddouble in the next 20 years.

If we are to sustain our quality of lifeand maintain biodiversity, our ultimategoal must be to get beyond limitlesseconomic growth to a steady state of human betterment that our planet cansustain. Our biggest challenge in the

future will be to use natural resources nofaster than our planet can replenish them,and not to deposit wastes (such ascarbon dioxide) any faster than our planetcan absorb them. Scientists will need toset the goals, and economists will need towork out how we achieve them. We will allneed to encourage innovation to ensuresustainable extraction and use of our natural resources.

Global-level solutions will requireinternational cooperation. Meanwhile, wecan all introduce the principles of sustainable use of resources, and of notoverburdening our planet with our wastes,in our daily lives. Tucson Audubon will behighlighting ideas at our Mason EducationCenter. We can teach each other, and wecan advocate for change in governmentsat all levels. The future of birds and awhole lot more, depends on that. VF

Species 40-year northwardmovement (miles)Abundance

center 40-year Arizona

population change

Purple Finch 433.0 N -95%

Fox Sparrow 286.8 N -74%

Pygmy Nuthatch 265.5 N -49%

Spotted Towhee 215.0 N -68%

Northern Flicker 192.5 N -68%

Rough-legged Hawk 178.7 N -90%

Northern Pygmy-Owl 163.6 N -62%

Clarks Nutcracker 123.6 N -88%

Eastern Bluebird 114.5 N -73%Common Yellowthroat 109.3 S significant increa

Brown Creeper 103.8 N -44%

Golden-crowned Kinglet 87.3 N -44%

Black Vulture 51.9 S significant increas

Cactus Wren 49.9 S 68%

American Dipper 37.2 N -72%

Above, left to right: Northern Flicker (Phil Pritchard), Common Yellowthroat (Paul & Eng-Li GreNorthern Pygmy-Owl (S. Isoe), Black Vulture (Alan D. Wilson/naturepicsonline.com)Source: National Audubon Society

45

40

35

30

25

20

15

10

5

0

-5

1 9 6 9 / 7

0 1 9 7

3 / 7 4

1 9 7 7 / 7

8 1 9 8

1 / 8 2

1 9 8 5 / 8

6 1 9 8

9 / 9 0

1 9 9 3 / 9

4 1 9 9

7 / 9 8

2 0 0 1 / 0

2 2 0 0

5 / 0 6

Latitudinaldistancemoved(miles)

Change in center of abundance among305 widespread bird species in North America


14/28

Have you noticed that Tucson

mornings have become a littlelouder with bird song? That your hummingbird feeders empty alittle more quickly than lastmonth? Have you seen the birdsthat you have not seen for threeor four months?

Yes, its the beginning of spring and,more importantly, the beginning of thespring bird migration! This is a time of transition, a time when we can see

wintering ducks alongside transientshorebirds. When wintering sparrows singin the same fields as kingbirds which willstay on to breed.

Spring is a great time for birding insoutheastern Arizona. Birds areeverywhere and the number and diversityof species is high.

All this, plus the fact that it is not yet100 degrees everyday, makes it theperfect time for Birdathon. Birdathon is auniquely Audubon rite of spring thatinvolves having fun, counting birds, andenjoying our local environment. Itschallenging, exhilarating, and addictive!

How does it work? Birders flocktogether in teams of two or more and setout to spot as many bird species aspossible in a given period, up to 24consecutive hours. Each team asks

friends, family, and local businesses toshow their support by making a financialpledge based on the number of birdspecies seen by that team. It is similar toa charity walkathon where walkers earndonations for the number of miles walked(or the cut-a-thon featured on page 9)

All of the money raised in this yearsBirdathon will help Tucson Auduboncontinue its Education and Conservationprograms in the face of decreased

resources.Last year we raised more than $20,000

through the Tucson Audubon Birdathon.We are looking to raise significantly morethan that this year with your help. Howgreat then that Birdathon is also fun andeducational. It gives families the chance tointroduce young people to the experienceand discovery of birds and nature.

Friendly competition helps our teamsachieve more. Part of the fun of Birdathonis striving to be the team with the mostspecies or the team that raised the mostmoney. Thanks to our supporters, well beable to offer some great prizes at our Thank You Brunch, most of which wellraffle. To enter the raffle, you only need tohave taken part in the Birdathon.

We are looking to our members to formteams of all kinds. Low-carbon teams.Teams of grandparents, parents andchildren. School teams. Company teams.Gung-ho birder teams. All have two thingsin common: the desire to see birds, andthe ability to raise funds.

Here's how you and your friends canparticipate: Get your team together andthink of a clever name, ask friends, family,and neighbors to support your efforts witha pledge, pick your day, get out your binoculars and go birding. You will enjoythe experience. In addition, if you can't getout yourself, make a pledge to support ateam and help the Tucson AudubonSociety. If you dont like asking friends andfamily for money dont worry. Well do it for you. So the only stress is not seeing thatbird you had hoped to see.

For more information visit our website,tucsonaudubon.org. For specificquestions and help with fundraising ideas,contact Chris Harrison at (520) 629-0757or [email protected]. Eachregistered team will receive a packetcontaining helpful materials for planningroutes and recruiting sponsor. VF

SPECIAL FEATURE | BIRDATHON

Fun for You, Funds for the BiCHRIS HARRISON | MEMBERSHIP AND DEVELOPMENT MANAGER


Birdathon (burd thn) n. 1. Tucson Audubons largest and most fun annual fundraevent.2. An annual, month-long birding activistarting April 10, 2009 through May 10, 2009 birders form teams and challenge others to seewho can see or hear the most bird species in asingle 24-hour period, or who can raise the momoney for a great cause.3. An opportunity for birders of all ages and skill levels to participatfun and rewarding day of birding.4. A chance for each of us to help raise money for the Tucson Audubon Programs that we all value so much.

Left: BirdathonersThe Unflappables. Right: During a Birdathon, a House Sparrow is as sought after aElegant Trogon.

Equip yourself and your team with essentials for asuccessful Bird-a-thon!

These items plus muchmore are available in our Nature Shops.Birds of Arizona Field Guide

This small book fits easily intoa pocket, has color photos

and helpful information for any beginning birder looking to learn more. $14.95The DeLorme Arizona Atlas and Gazetteer is themost detailed road map of the region and canhelp with planning those short cuts needed toget around while counting birds! $19.95

L T O R : S

A R A P I K E ,

E L A I N E R

. W I L S O N / N A T U R E P I C S O N L I N E

. C O M


15/28

For some reason I got myself too busybetween mid-April and mid- May of lastyear to organize a Birdathon that I wouldconsider worthy. As it happens whenI am too busy, I unwittingly becameinvolved with two Birdathon teams, bothin a rather ad- hoc (or is it ad- hawk?) way.It seemed that I had committed myself tovolunteer for five days at the Institute of

Desert Ecology (IDE) at Catalina StatePark (see page 10) and was a teamleader for an Important Bird Area (IBA)survey (see page 4) on Tucson Audubonsconservation easement at EsperanzaRanch, both occurring in the Birdathontime frame.

The first team had decided that aBirdathon would coincide nicely with our IBA survey along the upper Santa CruzRiver of the Esperanza easement. Youcould say we bagged two birds (actuallymore) with one stone. As this easement isnot open to general birding we had hopedthat we could have an advantage of somekind. But that was not to be. This surveyyielded only the usual suspects, includingGray Hawk, Swainsons Hawk, Greater Roadrunner, Ladder- backed Woodpecker and Vermilion Flycatcher. As the day wasyoung when we finished the survey andwe were in the vicinity, our little group of four intrepid birders stopped at MaderaCanyon. We added to our day list some of the best that the canyon has to offer.

During our sojourn we added MagnificentHummingbird, Elegant Trogon, Dusky- capped Flycatcher, Hepatic Tanager andthe Flame- colored Tanager. After bothstops, and consuming about eight hours of our twenty- four hour allotment, we had 74species. Although we did not have t ime for more, our effort resulted in some verygood observations, lots of fun, and some

good contributions to Tucson Audubon.The second of the teams was the IDE-

Hawk Eyes, now becoming almost asmuch an institution as the IDE itself. Theteam was headed up by Liz Payne, alsoan IDE volunteer, and quickly jelled intoan eager albeit rag- tag group as soon asa twenty- four hour period wasestablished. As this groups members allhad commitments to help IDE runsmoothly, some of the team dropped inand out in their own ad- hoc way duringthe twenty- four-hour period. With all of thebirds being within walking distance of theGroup Campsite at Catalina State Park, itautomatically qualified for the newclassification of a low carbon footprintBirdathon team.

If you dont tell the BirdathonCommittee, I must admit that we mayhave had to embellish the rules just a littleby not having a fixed team membership.The IDE- Hawk Eyes did have a centralcore, but we graciously accepted anyobservations from IDE participants. But

as the point is to have fun while raisingcontributions for Tucson Audubon, we didnot think this little bending of the ruleswould matter, particularly as we werentcompetitive with the other bloodthirsty lowcarbon teams. I think the only oneseriously affected was yours truly as I hadpledged a dollar a bird and it was worthevery penny!

The IDE- ad- hawk- eyes did quite wellwith the observation of, yet again, 74species. Along with many of CatalinaParks usual suspects, the list includedNorthern Goshawk, Zone- tailed Hawk,Peregrine Falcon, Western Screech- Owl,Elf Owl, Common Poorwill, and a number of migrating warblers. Having said all that,the bird for the day was probably a Gila Monster.

My experiences during last yearsBirdathon show that success can be hadeven when time is limited. One can enjoya Birdathon at any level. So go out thereand establish a team whether it is ad- hocor more organized and competitive or somewhere in between. You can even sitin your easy chair in your own backyard.That would surely qualify you as a lowcarbon team. Just remember that theobjective is to have fun and raise funds sothat Tucson Audubon can carry out itsmission which includes conservation,education, and recreation. VF

s!


Ad- Hawk Birdathons HappenCRAIG MARKEN | VOLUNTEER AND BOARD MEMBER

IDE-Hawk Eyes(from left to right):

Craig Marken,Jerry Ogden, Liz Payne,

and Matt! Brooks

Birdathon 2008Number of teams: 23Number of low or no carbon teams: 6

Total money raised: $24,951

Average money raised per team: $1,084.80

Most money raised by any one team:$2,625.40

Most species seen by any one team: 194


16/28

I chose this title to signify the return of winged migrants from Mexico, Centraland South America. (I suppose we couldsay Welcome, Primavera! but thatsounds more like a pasta dish thanterrible Spanglish.) Many of these avianathletes pass through on their way tobreeding grounds in the Rocky Mountainsand elsewhere, while some just barelymake it across the border into the UnitedStates (Gray Hawk, Broad- billedHummingbird, Elegant Trogon, and Buff- breasted Flycatcher to name a few.)

Sightings from late winter have

included a very rare visitor from Mexico,Short- tailed Hawk , in a Tucsonneighborhood near Grant and Wilmot.McCormick Park hosted a WilliamsonsSapsucker , while Ft Lowell Park held aNorthern Parula . A big surprise atEvergreen Cemetery was a PineWarbler . On the Santa Cruz River aBlackburnian Warbler put on a show,and an Orchard Oriole continued atSweetwater Wetlands. Above the dam inSabino Canyon a Chestnut- sidedWarbler stayed on.

In the Santa Rita Mountains south of the city, several Rufous- cappedWarblers seem to have made a home inFlorida Canyon.

In Patagonia a Sinaloa Wren , a firstU.S. record, remained along SonoitaCreek west of the Patons place at presstime. A wintering Elegant Trogon ,Eastern Phoebe , and LouisianaWaterthrush were sighted at the eastend of Patagonia Lake State Park; aRufous- backed Robin was reporteddownstream from the lake in the SonoitaCreek State Natural Area.

Check the recorded or online Rare Bird Alert for more, or join the Arizona- NewMexico birding listserv (BIRDWG05).

For southeast Arizona, as in many

parts of the country, the months of Marchand April see sweeping changes in bothour weather and our birdlife. Winter rainshave tapered off and temperatures are onthe rise. Curve- billed, Crissal, andBendires thrashers are all singing longbefore March arrives and many alreadyhave fledglings. So too will other desertdenizens like Verdins and Cactus Wrens.The surest sign of spring for me is when Ibegin to hear Lucys Warblers and BellsVireos singing, seemingly everywhere.

It is exciting to think about all of these

returning favorites, but it also begs the all- important question: where to go birding?

If you live in Tucson, you may picturethe Santa Cruz River as a concrete- linedchannel holding little more than treatedsewage effluent. But just a short drivesouth of the city, this very same river islined with cottonwoods and willows andmost importantly, filled with birds!

The portion of the Juan Bautista de Anza National Historic Trail betweenTubac and Tumacacori is superb inMarch. I often arrive early in the morningat the Bridge Road trailhead in Tubac andsimply explore the trail north and south of the bridge. Lingering winter residentsmingle with early spring migrants. Thestriking Lark Sparrow is abundant; Ash- throated Flycatchers and WesternKingbirds arrive; five species of swallowsgather above. A ground fire has removedmuch undergrowth north of the bridge, butmixed flocks containing Bridled Titmouseand other passerines are still found. Bylate March, you may be lucky enough to

glimpse a migrating Common Black- Hawk overhead.

By mid- April you can basically pull outa map, close your eyes, and point. Openyour eyes. That is probably a good placeto go! But seriously, I want to take amoment to highlight an area that is soclose to home, yet is overlooked by many

Tucsonans: the mighty Santa Catalina Mountains.

These mountains represent the secondlargest Sky Island range north of theU.S./Mexico border, behind only theChiricahuas in area. Of the Arizonaspecialties, only Elegant Trogon and Sulphur- bellied Flycatcher are absent.Specifically, the Catalina Highway alwaysbeckons to me. Traversing its 27-milelength allows you to move through everylife zone from Sonoran desert to spruce- fir forest, and birds abound along the way.Good stops include Molino Basin, middleBear Canyon, and Marshall Gulch. Bear Wallow is especially good for Red- facedWarbler. It is quite an experience to movefrom Gila Woodpeckers to Yellow- eyedJuncos in one trip!

I hope youll get out and about to catchsome of the action, and appreciate all of those fine northbound migrants. Andsince I plan to take my own advice, Ill seeyou out there! VF


WHERE TO GO, BIRDS TO SEE

Bienvenido, Spring! JOHN YERGER | ADVENTURE BIRDING COMPANY

Santa Cruz River south of Tumacacori

J O H N H O F F M A N

Butterfly Trail, Santa Catalina Moun

Available from our Nature Shops.Tucson AudubonsFinding Birds in Southeast Arizona(2007) is a greatplanning tool and a greatway to help you get tothe birding hotspots inthe area. $24.95


17/28


CONSERVATION & EDUCATION NEWSCHRIS MCVIE, PAUL GREEN, KENDALL KROESEN, SCOTT WILBOR, CARRIE DEAN

In 1998, dozens of conservation and neighborhood groups,including Tucson Audubon Society, formed the Coalition for Sonoran Desert Protection (Coalition), with the purpose of developing and implementing the Sonoran Desert ConservationPlan (SDCP).

A major component of the SDCP, and the focus of theCoalitions work, is the Pima County Multi- SpeciesConservation Plan (PCMSCP). The PCMSCP seeks to formalizehow Pima County will comply with the Endangered Species Act

in the unincorporated area of the County through a variety of conservation measures targeting both endangered andthreatened species and their habitat.

There have been a number of conservation plans adoptedthroughout the nation; unfortunately most of these plans havenot resulted in the conservation of endangered and threatenedspecies. With few exceptions, species have continued to declineunder these approved plans, while the regulated communitieshave long- term protection from liability for the impacts tospecies habitats.

Today, in Pima County, we have a chance to achievemeasurable conservation, by protecting vulnerable species and

important habitat, and restoring connectivity between corehabitat areas. With the SDCP and PCMSCP, we have anopportunity to not only protect the Sonoran Desert ecosystembut create a new threshold for Endangered Species Actcompliance that will benefit communities throughout the countryas they struggle with these same issues.

Pima County recently released the Final Draft of the plan; it iscurrently scheduled for approval by the Board of Supervisors,and subsequent submittal to the US Fish and Wildlife Service

this spring for review. The review will include a formal publiccomment period pursuant to the National Environmental PolicyAct, including review of an Environmental Impact Statement.

The Coalition is currently drafting comments on the Final Draftto submit to Pima County by the March deadline. The Coalitionintends to have a draft to share with our members by the timethis article goes to print and we encourage Tucson AudubonSociety members to review and support our comments!

To review the Coalitions comments and find out how topublicly support them, please visit www.sonorandesert.org. Thefull text of the Final Draft MSCP can be found at www.pima.gov/cmo/sdcp/MSCP/MSCP.html.

Pima County releases final draft of

Multi-Species Conservation PlanCarolyn Campbell, Executive Director, Coalition for Sonoran Desert Protection

Modifications to the eastern half of theSweetwater Wetlands and the streamfeature are on schedule. The targetdate for opening the eastern wetlandsponds and the main parking lotremains May 1, 2009. The streamfeature has been modified byremoving thick cattail, which impededwater flow and created mosquito

habitat. In the future, visitors will beable to see water flowing in the rock-lined channel as it runs beneath thebridge. Some saltbush was clearedalong the stream banks to provideaccess for heavy equipment. Staff believes that, within a few years,those areas will re-seed and becomeas thick as ever with saltbush. We

have retained the Hidden Pond in itsnatural state.

Tucson Water has scheduled acontrolled burn for Thursday, March 5,and so we will close the entireWetlands for that day. We apologizefor the inconvenience. The westernhalf will reopen on Friday in time for the weekend. Vegetation clearing andliner installation in the eastern pondswill commence soon thereafter. When

complete, the eastern ponds will hthe same open appearance seen byvisitors at the western ponds, whicremain open to the public this wint

Tucson Water appreciates thepatience of winter birders who havused the temporary parking area anentrance gate located 600 feet farthwest from the closed parking lot oSweetwater Drive.

Bruce Prior, Tucson Wate

Sweetwater Wetlands work on target

B O B M I LE S / U S F W S


18/2818 Tucson Audubon Vermilion Flycatcher M ARCH APRIL 2009

CONSERVATION & EDUCATIONNEWS

Light pollution has a deadly effect onbirds and other wildlife.

Lets take the first one. Millions of birds are needlessly killed each year due to fatal crashes. Artificial lights atnight can create real hazards. Themixing of glass and light is a deadlycombination for birds. The Fatal Light Awareness Program (flap.org) inToronto has identified over 140different species of birds that havecollided with buildings in their cityalone. Their estimates are as high as100 million birds killed every year inNorth America due to collisions.

Now, on to the second nightmare.Migrating birds rely on natural lightand objects like the moon and starsfor navigation. Artificial sources whichlight up the sky, washing out their roadmap, can be fatal. Birds may getdisoriented and find themselves milesout over the ocean and becomeexhausted with nowhere to land.Splash is not something they can dealwith. Outdoor lights should always beturned off when not absolutely

needed. This will help mitigate birddeaths and many other light-inducedwildlife problems, not to mentionsaving energy and reducing pollution.

The third nightmare has to do withbirds food sources. Some recentstudies at Michigan State Universityhave concluded that artificial outdoor lights can cause some insects andother creatures to lay eggs onsurfaces that they think are water, butare not. Populations of insects may besignificantly reduced due to their offspring dying on these artificialsurfaces. Artificial light reflected fromdark surfaces such as glass, plasticsheets, cars, solar collectors, androad surfaces can create ecologicaltraps, jeopardizing animalpopulations and our fragileecosystem. Also, outdoor lights actlike a magnet and a drug to manyinsects which would otherwise bemaking productive contributions andprospering. We have much to learnabout reducing the human impact onnative species. Everyone can help byreviewing their own outdoor lights.They should be shielded, pointeddownward, and on only when needed.

Joe Frannea, Southern Arizona

Section of the International Dark-Sky Association; sa-ida.org

A birds worst nightmare . . .crash! splash! no grub!

Our cars and our birds: theyreall connectedChristina McVie, Conservation Committee Chair

We began our year on an upswing with the Obamaadministration taking immediate and direct steps to improveour environment. He directed his administration to moveforward on tougher fuel-efficiency guidelines for the autoindustry in time to cover 2011 model-year cars. PresidentObama also directed the Environmental Protection Agency(EPA) to reconsider a Bush-era decision that stoppedCalifornia and over a dozen other states from setting their own, stricter limits on auto emissions. Fourteen states,representing about 40 percent of the population according toauto industry estimates, have already adopted California'sstandards, and they have been under considerationelsewhere, too.

Passenger vehicles account for 40 percent of Arizonasgreenhouse gas emissions, about the same percentage aspower station pollution in Arizona (see

www.azclimatechange.gov). The Bush administration issued anear-term proposal last year that would have required newcars and trucks to meet a fleet average of 31.6 mpg by 2015.California, meanwhile, has battled with auto companies toimpose even stiffer regulations that would force carmakers toachieve a fleet-wide 35.7 mpg by 2016 and 42.5 mpg in 2020.

If the states are allowed to enforce the standards originallydrafted by California, they will reduce greenhouse gaspollution by more than 450 million metric tons by 2020,according to Arizona Public Interest Research Group(www.arizonapirg.org). As our report on page 1213 reveals,our changing climate (much of which is due to human activity)is affecting the distribution patterns of our wintering birds.

Will Arizonas new governor, Jan Brewer, and our statelegislature support the work done by Arizonas Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ) and former governor JanetNapolitano, to ensure our states clean air as we continue togrow? After Arizona joined Californias lawsuit against the EPAlast year, both branches of the state legislature voted tooverturn the standards, which Napolitano vetoed. As we go topress, Brewer proposes cuts to ADEQ funding of at least $4million and takes another $18 million in fund transfers tobalance the state budget, while another $4.9 million is slatedto be diverted from the Arizona State Parks Heritage Fund,adversely impacting wildlife and recreation. VF

Hundreds of birds have been seen trapped in the light beams of New YorkCitys annual September 11 memorial,Tribute in Light .

W A R R E N T A N G / W W W

. P B A S E . C O M / W T A N G


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MARCH

March 3Tuesday 6 AM Patagonia Lake State ParkWell look for waterbirds,flycatchers, gnatcatchers and whatever else we can find. Well walk a couple of miles on mostly level but not alwaysclearly delineated trails. Expect mud, sowear appropriate footgear. Bring lunchand park fee or pass. We may visit other sites in Patagonia and/or Nogales as well.Meet at the Frys at Irvington and I-19 at6 AM, or at the Green Valley McDonalds(Continental Rd Exit) before 6:30 AM. 140miles roundtrip. Leader : Dave Dunford571-0535 [email protected]

March 79Saturday- Monday Sandia Crest Rosy FinchesJoin us for a last run of the season for allthree species of Rosy Finches at SandiaCrest near Albuquerque NM. Wellcarpool/caravan, departing TucsonSaturday morning, arriving in

Albuquerque for dinner. Hotel infoavailable from the leaders. Sundaymorning well work Sandia Crest until wehave our looks at the Rosy Finches (evenif that means coming back the next day).Plan on a reasonably priced lunch at theCrest House (or pack a lunch to eat in thecar). Time permitting, well enjoy some of

the areas other birding hotspots. Monday,were back to Tucson via a couple of hours at Bosque del Apache. Limited to12 birders. Contact either leader for moredetails. Contact Vivian after February 1 tosign up. Leaders : Vivian MacKinnon 323-6452, [email protected], or Lainie Epstein 720-8976,[email protected]

March 10Tuesday 6 AM Cienega CreekCienega Creek is a riparian jewel on theoutskirts of Tucson that is little exploredby locals. Well search this fine area for

early spring migrants and residentspecies. The walk will be 23 milesroundtrip. Bring water, a snack, sturdyshoes, and (of course) your binoculars.Back by 1 PM. Meet on the west side of Houghton Rd, just north of I-10 at 6 AM.Limited to 12 participants. Call or email toreserve spot. Local. Leader : Matt! Brooks623-2230 [email protected]

March 14Saturday 7:30 AM Willow Springs RoadUnderbirded upland desert areanorthwest of Oracle Junction in PinalCounty. Well travel roads, look at washesand cattle tanks to observe differentspecies of sparrows and possiblewintering flycatchers, bluebirds, raptors,etc. Well go into the flanks of BlackMountain. Occasional ChihuahuanRavens. No rough walking. Plan to endbetween noon and 1 PM. Meeting place isnorth side of Bashas parking lot inCatalina at northeast corner of intersection of Oracle Rd and Golder Ranch Rd. About 40 miles roundtrip.Leader : Doug Jenness [email protected]

March 17Tuesday 6:30 AM Anza Trail at Tubac & TumacocariWell start by walking the Anza Trail southfrom Tubac bridge, and then drive toTumacacori looking for winteringsparrows, early migrants, and hoping for a repeat of last springs spectacular raptor passage. After a picnic lunch, well bird

some local wetlands. Meet at Frysparking lot at I-19 & Irvington at 6:30 AM(leader not present) or at the McDonaldsin Green Valley (Continental exit from I-19) at 7 AM. 90 miles round trip. Leader :Michael Marsden [email protected]


TUCSON AUDUBON FIELD TRIPSDARLENE SMYTH | FIELD TRIP COORDINATOR

For the latest or expandedfield trip informationvisit www.tucsonaudubon.orgor call us at 629-0757

General InformationTucson Audubon field trips are free. For general information call field tripcoordinator Darlene Smyth 297-2315.

For specific information about a trip,contact the leader of that trip.

Please dress appropriately for your field trip. Always wear sturdy shoes, ahat, and use sun protection. Bringplenty of snacks and water for yourself.

Always bring your binoculars, fieldguide, and for most trips a scope canbe useful. Bring money to cover your share of the carpooling and anyrequired entry fees (eg for state parks).

Arrival Times

Please arrive before listed departuretimes. Trips will leave promptly at thetime given.

Carpooling Sites

NW Tucson: Ina and Via Pontecommuter parking lot one blockwest of Oracle and Ina, south sideof Ina.Central Tucson: First Baptist Churchparking lot on west side of 5th Ave,1 blocks south of University Blvd.Weekdays only.

SW Tucson: I-19 and IrvingtonFrys parking lot.Green Valley: I-19 and ContinentalRd exit 63McDonalds parking lot.NE Tucson: Tanque Verde Rd/Catalina HwyMcDonaldsparking lot.

Tucson Audubon strongly encouragescarpooling and for some trips it may berequired. Check the trip listings for meeting/carpooling sites. You areexpected to reimburse the driver for theactual cost of fuel. Drivers and tripleaders are not expected to contribute.

Rare Bird AlertListen to the latest rare bird alert at798-1005. Report rare birds to the RBAcompiler at 798-1005 or [email protected]

After Your Field TripDont forget to stop in the Tucson

Audubon Nature Shop to check outnew books, see wonderful natureitems, and chat with volunteers.

Birders at Cienega Creek M A T T B R O O K S

DONT FORGET TO STOP IN OUR NATURE SHOP FOR YOUR FIELD AND ID GUIDES.


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March 21Saturday 8 AM Sabino CanyonWell walk paved roads and trailsto look for typical desert birds as well asmigrants. Expect to walk up to 3 milesand be finished before lunch time. USFSfee area. Meet inside the parking lot closeto the entrance booth. Leader : DarleneSmyth [email protected] 297-2315

March 24Tuesday 5 AM Lazy J2 RanchThis is an exploratory trip to an activecattle ranch that is not ordinarily open tothe public. The ranch is located in theheart of the San Rafael grasslands andcan be expected to have most of theraptors and grassland birds foundelsewhere in the San Rafael. We will alsospend some time in other areas of thegrasslands as time permits. There will bean opportunity to purchase some of theproducts of the ranch grass-fed beef and scenic photographs. This trip islimited to 12 participants in three high- clearance vehicles. Contact the leader toreserve a place on or after 5 March. Bringlunch. 150 miles round trip. Leader : JimHays [email protected] (preferred) or 203-3489.

March 28Saturday 6 AM Cochise Stronghold and Amerind FoundationCombine birding, walking, history andspectacular scenery on our morning visitto Cochise Stronghold. Well bird the5000 elevation campground (day usefee), then walk part of the Divide Trail at abirding pace. Oaks, junipers, sycamores,and cottonwoods host woodpeckers, jays,warblers, and orioles, while the rockyspires provide habitat for eagles, falcons,

swifts, and wrens. After lunch at thecampground, well visit The AmerindFoundation (archaeology museum) inDragoon. Well bird the grounds, andthose who wish can visit the museumitself (fee). Meet on the west side of Houghton Rd, just north of I-10 at6 AM. 140 miles round trip.Leader Barbara [email protected] 322-5857.

March 31Tuesday 6 AM New Location: Brown Canyon(north of Ramsey Canyon)We begin at an old ranch site with a largepond edged by big trees, which isattractive to spring migrants. Next, wecheck a different pond in mesquitegrassland which is attractive to breedingresident species. Then we move up thecreek into Brown Canyon proper in typicaloak woodland, on a trail that makes a bigloop, with a stop overlooking a spring,before returning to the ranch in time for alate lunch. Limit: 12 people. Contactleader starting March 1. Meet atHoughton Rd/I-10 at 6 AM (leader notpresent); group to meet leader in SierraVista (details upon reservation). 180 milesroundtrip. Leader : Erika [email protected] 225-0393 (Tucson) or 234-4359 (Sierra Vista)

APRIL

April 4Saturday 7 AM Childrens Trip at Sabino CreekCome out and have fun learning aboutnature with your child. Children betweenthe ages of 5 and 12 are welcome with anadult (parent or friend). We will hike toSabino Creek and do some wading andsplashing, then look for insects, lizards,and other fun animals and plants. You canexpect about 2 miles of walking, so bringgood walking shoes. Extra wet shoes

would be useful for creek wading.Magnifying glasses and binoculars arehelpful also. Bring drinking water. The tripis limited to the first eight children to signup. At least one responsible adult fromeach family has to attend. Leader :

Anthony Mendoza 219-0366

April 7Tuesday 7 to 9 PM

Star PartyCome for any or all of it! End of Campbell, about a mile north of Campbelland Skyline. Park on the west side. Wewill see the last of the bright stars of winter under a nearly full moon. Saturnsrings are edge- on this year, somethingthat wont occur again until 2024! Atelescope will be available to view thissplendid sight! Leader : Mike [email protected]

April 10Friday 7 AM Fort Lowell Park and Rillito by BicycleMeet at Fort Lowell Park (lot off of Craycroft) and bird the park and the Rillitoby bicycle! Get exercise and helpintroduce Tucson cyclists to birding. Wellride at a leisurely pace and stop for birds.Finished by noon or earlier. TucsonsDepartment of Transportation iscosponsor. Call to sign up. Leader :Kendall Kroesen, 971-2385 or [email protected].

April 11Saturday 5:30 AM Esperanza RanchVisit 300 acres along the upper Santa Cruz River (between Tubac and

Amado) being conserved and restored byTucson Audubon. Look for Gray Hawks, Rufous- winged Sparrows and springmigrants. Requires 23 miles walking onuneven ground. Limit of 14 birders callleader to sign up starting March 15. Meetfor 5:30 AM departure at the Frys onIrvington just east of I-19, or at 6 AM at the

McDonalds on Continental Road inGreen Valley just west of I-19. 90 milesroundtrip. Leader : Kendall Kroesen 971-2385 [email protected]

April 13Monday 2 PM Pyle: Higher and Deeper The exemplary detail and clarity of thebest field guides have raised the bar of birderly sophistication. Those who haveincorporated the wealth of information inBig Sibley and National Geographic are


TUCSON AUDUBONFIELD TRIPS

Cochise Stronghold M

A T T G R I F F I T H S

Sabino Creek K E N D A L L K R O E S E N


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moving to the next generation, Peter Pyles Identification Guide to North

American Birds, a treasure trove for thosewho take the time to learn how to use it.

An introduction to this gold- standard of identification resources will be followed bypractice in identifying, aging, and sexingmuseum specimens, emphasizingcharacters usable in the field. Registration

required. Leader : Rick [email protected]

April 14Tuesday eveningMt. Lemmon Owl ProwlThere are six regular owl species on Mt.Lemmon: Western Screech; WhiskeredScreech; Elf; Northern Pygmy;Flamulated; and Great Horned. We will tryto locate them all. Bring a good light andsuitable clothing for warmth. Meet for carpooling at the McDonalds at TanqueVerde and Catalina Highway. You mustsign up with the leader starting April 5 tolearn further details. Trip is limited to 12people and should last from 3 to 5 hours.Leader : Richard Messenger 773-818-6248 [email protected]

April 18Saturday 6 AM Willcox and ChiricahuaMountainsFor birders with an open check box nextto their lifer Mexican Chickadee, Tucson

Audubon offers a field trip to the west sideof the Chiricahua Mountains to earn your first look! Well stop at Willcox to check onwaterbirds, both coming and going. Meetat the Houghton and I-10 carpool spot at6 am. Carpooling in high clearancevehicles recommended. Remember water, food and sunscreen. Well try to be

back by 2 PM. About 240 miles roundtrip.Leader : Clifford A. Cathers

[email protected] 762-3201

April 21Tuesday 7:30 AM Honeybee CanyonTake a leisurely walk with some fellowbirders into Honeybee Canyon in OroValley. Hopefully, we will see the resident

nesting owl and its young before theyfledge, along with many of the commondesert birds. If time permits, we may walkthe power line trail nearby for thepossibility of some Harriss Hawksand other raptors. Local. Leader: DickSauer [email protected]

April 25Saturday 6 AM Sonoita Creek State NaturalArea, Rio RicoIn the morning well hike the SonoitaCreek trail from Rio Rico to just beyondthe main campsite (a favorite GreenKingfisher haunt on their rare visits)almost 7 miles in total looking for migrants and regional specialties. After apicnic lunch at Rio Rico, well bird someroadside stops along the Santa Cruzcorridor on the drive back. Limited to 11participants because of permitrestrictions. Contact Michael to sign up.120 miles round trip from Tucson. Leader :Michael Marsden [email protected]

April 28Tuesday 5:30 AM Kitt Peak AreaThis Sky Island trip will focus on findingCrested Caracara, Bendires Thrasher, Ash- throated Flycatcher, and Rufous- winged Sparrows as well as expected

species at higher elevations such as Band- tailed Pigeon, etc. Some late- blooming desert flowers may still be found(a bonus!). Well walk along roads andtrails. Bring a scope if you have one. Meetat 5:30 AM at the Frys parking lot at I-19and Irvington to carpool. Round tripdistance is ~90 miles with a mid- afternoonreturn. Leader : Clait Braun 529-4614

sg- [email protected] VF


TUCSON AREA BIRDINGBuenos Aires NWR.Tucson Audubon bird waat Arivaca Cienega every Saturday at 8 AM,November through April, whatever the weatMeet at the trailhead for a mostly level walkapproximately 2 miles. You can expect to seeto 50 species depending on the season. Tocarpool from Continental Shopping Center iGreen Valley to Arivaca Cienega and for moinformation, call Bob Rolfson at 399-2873.

Wake up with the Birds at Roy P. DrachmanAgua Caliente Park.Every Tuesday. PimaCounty guided bird walks for beginners andfamilies. Binoculars available. Meet at theRanch House. For information and times, ca615-7855 or contact [email protected].

Catalina State Park. Bird walks led by DenisWright on Fridays, 7:3010 AMat the rst picnicarea. Time will change in 30-minute incremeas weather/light conditions require. Open da5 AM 10PM. Fee. Call 628-5798 for informatio

Sabino Canyon. Birding and nature hikes.Parking fee. Call 749-8700.

Saguaro National Park. Call 733-5153 (East)or 733-5158 (West) for scheduled bird walks

Tohono Chul Park. Birding walks at 8:30 AM.Monday, Wednesday & Saturday. Open 8 AM 5PMdaily. Entrance fee. Call 742-6455.

Tucson Botanical Gardens. Open 8:30 AM.4:30PM. Entrance fee. Call 326-9686.

OTHER AREASArizona State Parks. Birding and other walkswww.pr.state.az.us. Fee. Call 602-542-4174.

Buenos Aires NWR.The refuge is open 24hours a day, and visitor center open 7:30 AM 4PMseven days a week. Call 823-4251.

Boyce Thompson Arboretum.Open 8 AM 5PM. daily (last admissions 1 hour beforeclosing). Call 689-2811. Visit ag.arizona.eduBTA/ events/ birdwalks.html for bird sightin

Ramsey Canyon. Open every day 8 AM 5PM.Fee. Call 378-2785.

Southern Arizona Bird Observatory.Tours of birding sites available. Fee. Call 432-1388 ovisit www.sabo.org.Fort Lowell Park K E

N D A L L K R O E S E N


22/2822 Tucson Audubon Vermilion Flycatcher M ARCH APRIL 2009

ADVENTURE BIRDING COMPANYwww.adventurebirding.cominfo@adventurebi

March-April 2009 Vermilion Flycatcher Tucson Audubon Society

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