06-2007 towhee newsletter tahoma audubon society

8/9/2019 06-2007 Towhee Newsletter Tahoma Audubon Society

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Like a misty legend, the CaliforniaCondor still appears on complete lists

of the Birds of Washington, although

the last sighting was in 1897 in Coulee City.

One of the most famous condors ever was the

one painted by Audubon, which was based on

a specimen taken by Townsend along the

Columbia River in the 1830s where large num-

bers would feed on spawning salmon. So

California Condors are OUR birds as much as

anyones.

The second week of April brought me and

Adam Trent to the Grand Canyon of the

Colorado, the perfect time of year to visit this

unearthly landscape and to seek out this special-ly selected stronghold for this icon of endan-

gered species. As most of us know, every single

bird was brought in from the wild in an attempt

to save a species obviously about to go extinct in

the 1980s. There were just 22 individual birds

left in the world at that time. Captive breeding

programs were set up in several places, mostnotably at the Peregrine Funds facility in Idaho,

where they had had great success breeding and

reintroducing other raptors such as the Peregrine

Falcon and the Aplomado Falcon of Texas.

The breeding programs produced enough

young that releases into the wild started

in 1996 in four locations including two

locations in California, one in Mexicos

Baja, and the largest in the Grand Canyon.

Adam and I had to acclimatize our

tiny brains to the hugeness around us,

and once we got past the gasping-in-awe

phase, we were finally able to start enjoying

the flora and fauna as well as the geo-treats.Our first day at The Canyon was delightful,

but condorless. We kept yanking our headsupward at every large bird above and below us,but those Jokester Ravens just laughed back at

us! We watched aPygmy Nuthatch drilla nest hole with amanic single-minded-ness. (And to think Ihad assumed they justtook over holes madeby others. Not so!)His relative, the

W h i t e - B r e a s t e dNuthatch, followed usaround a bit as well.Rock squirrels andvarious lizards were

all over the trails. A very friendly black-

backed Lesser Goldfinch made me think

momentarily that I had discovered a new

species of Warbler. Grand Canyon Village

hosted an invasion of Western Bluebirds as

well as Great-Tailed Grackles. And

all of this was happening

in a dog-centered world.It seems a bit far

to go to find a

By Diane Yorgason-Quinn

Published by the Tahoma Audubon Society

During the past few months,

the Tahoma Audubon board

has been studying the

bylaws of our organiza-

tion with the idea of

updating them to reflect

the changes we have gone

through in the past two years.

Anytime changes are proposed,

those changes must be published in

two consecutive issues of The Towhee.

This gives you, the membership, a

chance to view the proposed

changes. The changes are

then voted on at the mem-

bership meeting following

the publication of the sec-

ond issue which in this

case would be on

September 14th.

The following articles are those

in which we have proposed changes.

The changes are in bold, underlined

type. We invite comments on these

changes by emailing Molly Hukari at

[email protected] .

You may view the bylaws in their

entirety at www.tahomaaudubon.org

or call 253-565-9278 or come into the

office at Adriana Hess to request or

view a copy.

The address at Adriana Hess is 2917

Morrison Road West in University

Place.

IN THIS ISSUE:Proposed changes to TAS bylaws

see Changes to Bylaws on page 4

Left: Diane Yorgason-Quinn atthe Grand Canyon, April 2007. Photo/Diane Yorgason-Quinn

June 2007 Vol. 38 No.5

Photo/DianeYorgas

on-Quinn

Photo/Adam Trent

This female Condorwas hatched in 1996 at

the L.A. Zoo and raised by herparents. She was part of the very

first release into the Grand Canyonin December 1996 and is still doing well.

see Condors

on page 6

25 years ago Page 2

Bryan Flint column Page 3

BirdSongs Page 4

New members Page 5

Education Page 8

Conservation Page 10

Field trips Page 11

June program Page 12

Paul Webster Page 12

Special request for front desk

volunteers! Please see Page 11.


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Staff

Flint, Bryan Executive Director

[email protected] 253-565-9129

Kyer, Krystal Conservation [email protected] 253-232-9978

Newton, Gabriel Education Coordinator

[email protected] 253-565-5479

Tahoma Audubon Board of Directors

Brosius, Jane Membership 253-759-9852

Carkner, Dick 253-922-1604

Garner, John 253-756-9057

Gilmur, Thelma Membership 253-564-8210

Hukari, Molly Past President

Jordon, Al 253-588-7191

Larson, Sally 253-588-9839Larson, Wayne 253-588-9839

LeGreid, Kathleen Publication 360-458-1483

[email protected]

Matthaei, Fred 253-564-6947

McNair-Huff, Rob Conservation 253-752-3628

Roening, Marcus 253-756-0215

Sloat, Sally Administration (contact) 253-564-0655

Shea, Margie Education 253-591-6439

Sullivan,Brian Volunteer 253-278-1026

[email protected]

TAS was planning the Summer Arts

Fair to be held at Villa Plaza in early

August. The event was a major

fundraiser with 100 arts & crafts

booths, food, street fair entertainment,

and a gallery of nature art. Chairedby Cindy McIntyre the subcommit-

tees were headed by Bob Warfield,

Nancy Millard and Kay Samuels.

In the spring of 1982, as in years

before, the county sprayed roadsides

with Atratol 80W, Cytrol T, and

Krovar I (diuron and bromicil) with

Cytrol T. The chemicals used were

residuals -- that is they

killed off the vegetation

and then would

reside, or persist

in and on the shoul-

der of the road for

the duration of the

summer. Krenite,

Round-Up, and

Weedmaster were used

for broadleaf plant control and

tansy ragwort along the roadsides at

other times during the summer. The

county explained that there was no

cost-effective way to get the job done

without the chemicals. We were told

the only way to control our exposure

was to ask the county to notify when

they will be spraying roads we trav-eled.

Marge Casebolt wrote of her

January, month-long, 100-mile trek

from Kathmanddu to Pokera, Nepal.

She listed the birds, declaring they

were magnificent, as were the plant

material and the ever-present

Himalayan mountain scenery. On

June 25, Marges trip leader, Robert

Fleming, was in the US. He present-

ed his Natural History of the

Himalayas for TAS.

Heres an excerpt from a page-one

item titled Weyerhaeuser PincersClose on Nisqually Delta written by

TOWHEE Editor Charles Bergman.

The fight to preserve and protect

the Nisqually Delta shoreline received

a setback on April 2, when the shore-

lines Hearing board gave tentative

approval for a permit for a

Weyerhaeuser export dock on the old

DuPont property. The Board did

place some restrictions on the use of

the dock: it must be used for outgo-

ing new materials and manufactured

forest products, the receiving of cargo

is forbidden, and the company must

control lighting and glare. The mem-bers of the Nisqually Delta

Association and the Washington

Environmental Council are now delib-

erating the next step in the fight to

keep this piece of shoreline from being

industrialized. The plaintiffs -- NDA

and WEC, are presently considering a

judicial appeal.

. . . Weyerhaeuser has

kept its long-term plans

quiet. But one step at

a time, gradually, in

increments, the fateof the Delta is being

revealed. Slowly,

the first Shoreline

of Statewide

Significance is being

choked.

The Washington Audubon Council

endorsed Initiative 414 and TASers

were helping collect the 180,000 sig-

natures needed to guarantee the initia-

tive a place on the November ballot. I-

414, The Refund and Recycling Act,

would establish a minimum 5 deposit

on soda and beer beverage containerssold in the state.

Field Trips/outings included:

Fort Lewis walk with Cathy

Jerbic; Nisqually National Wildlife

Refuge, Norris Cone; Harts Lake area,

Georgia Ramsey; a weekend outing

to explore the proposed Columbia

Gorge Scenic Area, led by Vancouver

Audubon Society birders and

botanists; saltwater shoreline ecology

classes were led by Frank Henry for

Snake Lake Nature Center; South Hill

Park in Puyallup, with Lu Foxford;

Snake Lake pond creatures, RayHerbig; and backyard potluck picnic

celebrating the Year of the Eagle, at

the Engle garden.

Just the other day ...

June 2007Page 2

Learn about plants at Adriana Hess!

The Towhee is a publication of the Tahoma Audubon Society.The Tahoma Audubon Society was chartered in 1969. TASadvo-cates for the protection of wildlife and promotes conservationthrough education and activities that enrich its members experi-

ences in and with the natural world.The Towhee is published monthly, nine times a year, with a com-

bined July/August and December/January issue. Submissions ofarticles and photographs of birds, bird lore, natural history, conser-vation, and environmental education are reviewed and consideredfor inclusion by the editor. Copy is due by the 15th of the monthand may be sent by e-mail, disk, or typed.

Editor: Kathleen Ann LeGreid: phone 360-458-1483E-mail:kaleditor@ mindspring.comMailing: Vera & John Cragin and Winfield GiddingsDesign & Layout: Robert Kelton: E-mail: [email protected]: Consolidated Press

Printed on recycled newsprint

By Helen Engle

Heres what TAS was doing back in 1982

Feedback, comments and reminis-

cences welcome, 253-564-3112,

[email protected].

Last month we listed nine native plants that were blooming. Now,from April 16 to Towhee deadline date of May 15, we've added gor-geous displays of camas, fairybells, starflowers, star-floweredSolomon's seal, vanilla leaf, oxalis, serviceberry, many prairie flow-ers, and the native rhododendron. Come to some of our upcomingflower/plant walks and learn what you can plant in your yard.

Adriana Hess Audubon Center: 2917 Morrison Rd. W., UniversityPlace, 253-565-9278

Bird Walk: Monday, June 11, 12:00 to 1:00 p.m., with Ruth andPatrick Sullivan. The walk on May 14 was so exciting that we bird-ed till 2:00 p.m. Some of the outstanding birds identified were:Western Tanager, Anna's Hummingbird, Sora, Olive-sidedFlycatcher, Bullock's Oriole, Common Raven, Turkey Vulture,Downy Woodpecker, Orange-crowned Warbler, Wilson's Warbler,Western Wood Pewee, Yellow Warbler.

Plant Walk: Monday, June 18, 12:00 to 1:00 p.m., with RichardVan Deman.

Thanks for Weeding: A great, big thank-you goes to Tom Gergen,Monica Weidman, Margie Griffin, Earline McQueen, John McInnes,Janette Parent, Berta Thompson, for their work on Park

Appreciation Day. Tom and Earline have been back to put in evenmore hours of dedicated service.

Invitation to Weed and Water: Saturday, June 16, come helpfrom 10:00 to noon. Bring your favorite tools. We will appreciatethe help so very much.

Morse Wildlife Preserve: Open Trails, Sunday, June 10, noon to4:00 p.m. (All second Sundays through October.) Bird identificationwalk with Betty Jones, Saturday, June 23, 9:00 to 11:00 a.m. Sametime, Friday, July 27, and Friday, August 24.


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At the heart of any Audubon chapter is the

monthly membership program. Audubon

is a membership organization whose

strength is in the relationships and connections

between the members. There are twenty-six inde-pendent chapters in Washington, and many of them

have a regular membership meeting in some form or

another.

These meeting are a time for folks to get together,

catch up, learn what is

taking place in the organ-

ization, and learn about

the natural world from a

speaker, a movie, or

someones slide show of

a trip to some far off

place.

Tahoma Audubon has

been hosting programs ofone form or another since

the early 1970s, before

there were a wide variety of nature programs on tel-

evision. During the programs, members saw streak-

ers on the Pacific Lutheran University campus and

survived an earthquake. Programs featured experts

such as Bud Anderson who released raptors indoors,

author Dennis Paulsen who educated us about birds,

and photographer Art Wolfe who gave us slide

shows.

The highlight each year is the annual members

banquet speaker in February. The newest faces

come in June when awards are given to young stu-dents who participate in our annual bird drawing

contest. The room is packed with adoring parents

and relatives.

Like everything else that happens with Audubon,

there is a rock steady

volunteer working

month after month to

pull off the membership

events. For nearly a

decade Judy Austin has

consistently and effec-

tively put together edu-

cational programs for the

membership. Withoutany desire for recogni-

tion, and despite her fear

of speaking in public, Judy is there every month to

introduce the featured speaker.

But Judy does not do this work alone. No one

would actually hear the speaker without the assis-

tance of Winfield Giddings working the electronics

of the sound system and AV. Everyones blood

sugar level would

tank before the

night is through

without the

refreshments pro-vided by volun-

teers such as Bill

and Roxy

Giddings.

After so many

years of work,

Judy is hanging up

her hat. After the June program she will no longer

be the chair of the program committee. I think I can

speak for the membership in expressing deep grati-

tude to Judy for all the hard work she volunteered

for and all the great programs she organized over the

years. Her energy and tenacity were fundamental to

the success of these events.What will future membership programs look

like? If you have ever had an interest in providing

education programs for adults about the natural

world this is a wonderful opportunity to step for-

ward.

I hope you will consider being part of a commit-

tee to organize exciting and engaging meeting for

the members of Tahoma Audubon.

EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS CORNER

What will future membership programs look like?

Like everything else

that happens with

Audubon, there is a rock

steady volunteer working

month after month to pull

off the membership

events

June 2007 Page 3

Tahoma Audubon is the Pierce County chapter of National Audubon.

As an introductory member of Tahoma Audubon you also receive a

National Audubon membership and Audubon Magazine for one year.

Renewing your Chapter Membership ensures that we can continue to

do our work in Pierce County. Chapter membership includes: Towhee

newsletter subscription, free family events, birding trip invitations,class and book discounts, conservation activities, annual celebrations

and more. Joint TAS/National Audubon membership includes:

Chapter membership, National membership, annual Audubon

Magazine subscription, and support of Important Bird Areas (IBA)

and state and national conservation agendas.

Membership Fee:

___ Introductory (first year) $20

___ Joint National/Tahoma Audubon $50

___ Chapter member renewal $30

___ Other Contributions _____________

Member(s) Name: _______________________________________

Address: _______________________________________________

City______________________________ Zip__________________

Phone: home ___________________business _________________

e-mail: ________________________________________________

Member #: _______________________________ (office use only)

Checks payable to: Tahoma Audubon

2917 Morrison Rd. W. University Place, 98466

Tahoma Audubon Society, established in 1969, is a 501(c)(3) non-

profit organization. Donations are tax deductible.

Tahoma Audubons Helen Engle received the Charles H. Callison Award

at the May 2007 Audubon Board Meeting in Park City, Utah. On May 18,

Helen was presented the Charles H. Callison Award In

recognition of over fifty years of environmental

activism and her unparalleled contributions to conser-

vation as a tireless volunteer at the Audubon chapter,

state and national levels, her deep generosity of

spirit and energetic enthusiasm, her welcoming

style and ready willingness to bring people

together to build a common consensus for

change, her dedication to the welfare of staff

and volunteers alike, and her overall commit-

ment to the goals of Audubon and to thecause of conservation worldwide.

Helen Engle receives

National Audubon award

Nominees were considered on the following criteria:

Achievement at the local, state or federal level of sound

environmental policy.

Creativity in using the always-limited resources available.

Builder of coalitions through cooperating with other environmental,

social and political groups to achieve common environmental goals.

Creative thinking demonstrated by devising effective strategies and

tactics to achieve environmental goals.

Education through providing enlightenment and better understand-

ing of environmental goals.

Outreach to bring others into common consensus.

Perseverance, patience and a positive attitude recognizing that

progress takes time.

Demonstrate an intelligent, environmental course for humankind

through science and economic understanding.

Generosity with time, commitment and talent to further the

Audubon mission.

Perspective spiced with humor, recognizing that we are but mortals

with limited time and a capacity to do good.

Congratulations, Helen!


4/11

BIRDSONGS by Phil Buly For the birdwatchers

June 2007Page 4

Perhaps even more than butterflies, dragon-

flies are birdwatchers' insects. They are fantat-

ic fliers - watch one go straight up out of sight

to chase another dragonfly. They are as com-plex as birds in their behavior; males of many

species hold territories, with agressive dis-

plays, chases, and fights among them and

some males exhibit complex courtship behav-

ior. The adults are the hawks of the insect

world, feeding on other insects up to the size

of dragonflies and butterflies, and their preda-

tory behavior is easy to observe. And they

really do come in all colors of the rainbow -

common Washington species are black,

brown, blue, green, red, organge, yellow, white,

or gray, in various shades and combinations.

The following proposed change was made to pro-vide a reference for chapter creation as opposedto the date of incorporation.

ARTICLE I: STATUS

The Tahoma Audubon Society was registered on 12

August 1974 under the provisions of the WashingtonState Non-profit Corporations Act, RCW 24.03.

Tahoma Audubon was chartered by National

Audubon on March 17, 1969.

The following proposed change reflectsour adoption of a chapter-only mem-bership.

ARTICLE III: MEMBERSHIPSection 2: Classes of membership and

dues shall be the same as those main-

tained by the National Audubon

Society. Tahoma Audubon Society

may institute a chapter membership

separate from National Audubon.

When the bylaws were written in 1974, com-mittee chairs were required to be on the board.This created a more cohesive, communicativeboard. As the chapter has changed and peopleslives have become busier, this requirement hassometimes been an impediment to filling chairpositions. In the following article, the word shallhas been changed to may, giving chairs theoption of not being on the board.

ARTICLE V: BOARD OF DIRECTORSSection 2: The Board shall consist of at least twelve

members who are members of the Society, with four

elected each year to serve for three years. The chair-

persons of the standing committees, if not appointed

from the Board, may become members of the Board.

The immediate past president shall also be a member

for one year after the new president is elected.

We hired our first executive director in 2004. Wehave added language to clarify that role. With theaddition of this article, the numbers of subse-quent articles increased by one. I have notincluded all of those changes for the sake of con-

servation of space.

ARTICLE VIII: EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Section 1: The Board may choose to hire an

Executive Director. The Executive Directors job

will consist of those responsibilities in the job

description and will include working with volun-

teers and coordinating committee and staff com-

munication with the Board. The Executive

Director will follow the policies of the organization.

The next change creates an avenue of communi-cation between the board and committees whichcould have been lost by the change to Article V.Board of Directors.

There was also the desire by some committeechairs to update the description of the role oftheir committees. Those changes also follow.

ARTICLEIX: COMMITTEESSection 1: The President, with the approval of

the Board of Directors, shall appoint chair-

persons of standing committees. The

chairpersons shall be members of the

Society. They may select their own

committee members with the recom-

mendations and suggestions from the

Board. Terms of office shall be for one

year. They may be re-appointed.

Standing committees shall be composed

of not less than three members. Each

committee will present no fewer than

quarterly reports to the Board.

d. Publications: The role of the Publication

Committee is to establish and maintain guidelines

to present Tahoma Audubon to its membership and

to the public through publications and media using

a professional, uniform, and consistent message.

The Publication Committee publishes, at least six

times a year, a bulletin (The Towhee) for the mem-

bers of Tahoma Audubon.

e. Education: The Education Committee shall gen-

erate environmental education and natural histor

y

programs for

youth and adults utilizing sites oper-

ated by Tahoma Audubon and natural areas of

Pierce County. The committee shall work with

schools, agencies, businesses, organizations and

individuals in the community to pursue its goals of

environmental education. The education commit-

tee program should be developed as a part of the

annual planning process. The education committee

shall serve in a collaborative and supportive role

for the Education staff.

This final change clarifies which edition ofRoberts Rules of Order will be used.

ARTICLEXIII: PARLIAMENTARY AUTHORITYIn matters not covered by these bylaws the most cur-

rent edition ofRobert's Rules of Order shall govern.

You may notice a number of

things changing with Tahoma

Audubon Society. One of the

most visible changes is The

Towhee. In April, we signed

an agreement with a new desk-

top publisher to design eachissue of The Towhee. We think

that Robert Kelton did a

tremendous job with the May

issue. But it is going to get

even better.

In September we will be

reorganizing the layout and

look of The Towhee. The new

layout will accomplish several

goals. The first is to have an

updated look that appeals to

new potential audiences as well

as our long time members. We

also intend to have a more con-sistent layout that makes it eas-

ier to locate the information

that is most important to you.

Most importantly we seek to

have a Towhee that is more

inviting to read and is read by

more people.

Change in Banner and Logo

One of the most controver-

sial changes will be an updated

banner or masthead, the image

of The Towhee and Mount

Rainier that is at the top of the

page when you first pick upThe Towhee. Artfully

designed by Dale Thompson

the current masthead is much

appreciated and has been a

constant companion. We are

grateful for the generosity and

talent of Dales work.

In addition we are looking at

new designs of our logo as

well. Both the masthead and

the logo will stay true to

Tahoma Audubons identity

and incorporate the image of

The Towhee.

It is important to update a

publications look in order to

stay relevant in a world of

internet and 24-hour cable TV.

We look forward to the new

things that are ahead of us.

Changesafoot ...

... Changes to Bylawscontinued from page 1

From "Dragonflies of Washington" by Dennis Paulson.Published by Seattle Audubon Society, 1999.


5/11

June 2007 Page 5

New and Returning: Christine

Austin, Mike Baunach, Betty Beal,

James Blankenship, Lynn Boldenow,

Mr & Mrs P F Brantner, Chuck

Buzzard, Robert Cameron, Hope

Celani, Joan Dimler, Charlotte

Duggan, Valerie Edwards, James

Feldman, Eleanor Ficca, Nicolas

Fogata, Jean Francis, John Garner,

Darla Gonzales, Joyce Greenfield,Nancy Gretencort, Barbara Guller,

Nick Hansen, Mrs J Heiderscheid,

Kathy Hemion, Lenore Herzberger,

Jody Hess, Duston Jensen, Lou Val

Johnson, Christine King, Clare

Lovett, Jon Nyberg, Ted Olson, Kate

Packard, Charlotte Parr, Elizabeth

Powell, Betty Quintana, John

Revetria, Karen Ries, Monte Roberts,

Deborah Rodriguez, Sue Schub, Ann

Schut, Jennie Sheridan, Michelle

Skurupey, Gregor Smith, Sabin

Stevens, Kathleen Studer, Elizabeth

Taunt, Yvonne Thorpe, Kris Wagoner,

James Whorton, Constance Wiletzky,

Joel & Lucinda Wingard, Kim

Woolhouse.

Introductory: Tom & Sharon

Charbonnel, Peter Hayes, Earline C

Luco McQueen, Hayden & Kayo

Mackey, Fran Phelan, Jo Ann Savitz,

Tom & Sue Stewart, Mary E

Williams.

Special Support, Chapter New and

Renewing: Alan Christensen, Betty

Fulton, Carol Kovanda, JeannetteMatthews, Paula Meyer, Ray & Dee

Olson, William Scheer, Maurene

Smith, Berta Thompson, Mel & Judy

Urschel, Lewis Wallon, Donna &

Alan Zimmerscheid, Ken Zirinsky &

Ellen Cohen.

Special Support, Joint TAS and

NAS: (Renewing done through

TAS.) Dorothy Burkhart, Karen

Fischer, Ken Luthy & Sara Siemens-

Luthy, Nancy Henderson, Jo Ann

Jones, JoAnn Moore, Arthur Pavey.

Renewal: Peter Bartels, Melvin

Belding, Byron Blount, Ken Brown,

Norman Budrow, William Charette,

David & Jan Chase, Mr

& Mrs Givin Chase,

June Coloff, Mr &

Mrs. John Cragin,

Richard & Linda

Craig, Richard

Dehlinger, Bruce

Demarais, Diana Dodd, George

Earnest, Chris Engle, Gretchen

Engle, Dr Olaf L Fisher, PhyllisForbes, Stephanie Furner, Corina

Going, Reubena Grant, Susan

Greenwood, Milton Guhr, David

Hirst, Frank Jacobs, Kevin Jones,

Laura Kelley, Mary Kenney, Liz

King, Peggy Kopf, Kathleen

LeGreid, Mr & Mrs Michael Ligran,

Doreen Ligrano, Joyce Lundberg,

Peggy MacDonald, John Maxwell,

Ruth McMurray, Dorothy

McLauchian, Sue Miller, Catherine

Monty, Theresa Moody, June Mosby,

Richard Myking, Nephrology

Northwest, Carole Pedersen, B L

Petrequin, Wayne Pieper, Julie Pisto,

Dan Quigley, Polly Rasar, UP Refuse

Service, Ursula Renz, Martha

Robbins, Robert & Marie Robinson,

Paula Roussel, Al Schmauder, Dave

Schultz, Fred & Louise Schumock,

Dr & Mrs. Buel Sever, Mr & Mrs JoSimmons, Eldora Sloan, Carol Rae

Smith, Susan Sporl, Phyllis Staderfer,

Bonnie Stiff, Robert Taylor, Ann

Thurston, P Townsend, Steven

Urback, DDS, J P Vancoevern,

Eunice Werner, Marilyn Westervelt,

Marshall Wilson, Korine Wimbles,

Mr & Mrs Allen Zulauf.

Thank-you to all of you for being

a part of Tahoma Audubon and help-

ing us support our mission: "To con-

serve and restore natural ecosystems,

focusing on birds, other wildlife, and

their habitats for the benefit of

humanity and the earth's biological

diversity.

Welcome greetings to new and returning members, April 16 to May 15, 2007

I had an opportunity to study peeps this

spring- no, not the sugary, pastel treats

brought to birding class by the faithful

Willettes at Easter - but the feathery, fast

moving, light catching, flashing peeps on the

shore of the Long Beach Peninsula.

Each time I see them I think of and share

Ken Brown's description of "little wind up

toys." He was speaking of Sanderlings. Ken

stated with some pride that more Sanderlings

winter on our coast than anywhere else. The

first one I saw was a singleton on the blowing

sand beach near the Ocean Shores Jetty.

Those that I studied numbered surely in the

thousands, and seemed to prefer one section

of the beach where the waves churned up

muddy debris. They spent hours feeding fran-

tically in the receding waves or erratically in

the wet sand. Some stood in long lines hud-

dled against the wind, occasionally hopping

one legged to a "better" spot. There were

usually a few joyously bathing themselves asa fresh wave came in or receded while others

stood above the water line meticulously

preening and realigning their feathers. At

times, Dunlin were mixed in - some begin-

ning the change to breeding plumage. But the

Sanderlings were grayish white or blackish

gray, depending upon their maturity - with

their black shoulder patches, legs and short

black bills. Occasionally I would spot a

few Western Sandpipers gleaning on the

outskirts of the group.

On the beach, the species were easy to dif-

ferentiate just by their feeding pattern.

Dunlins were slower moving and methodical,

dipping their bills first to one side, then the

other. The Sanderlings ran fast, so fast their

legs blur, 2 steps or 20, stop with one leg

poised, cocking their heads as though they

are listening or watching, then they either

stab down or run again. This pattern appearsso unpredictable it brings to mind images of

my family berry picking - my husband

methodically and efficiently filling his bowl

while the rest of us move from patch to patch

trying to find the fattest, easiest to pick

berries. I noticed that the paler adult birds

seemed to find food more consistently.

Occasionally the entire flock took flight,

Dunlins, et.al. In the air I couldn't tell them

apart, and, despite being a mixed flock, their

flight was synchronous. The flock in flight

seemed like an entity itself, stretching and

thinning, then fattening out, flashing white

then dark as each individualturned and turned again.

It moved over and

between the waves, disappeared as ocean

spray then appeared again - a smoky swirl

speeding away. A few minutes later they were

back again, this time lighting as smaller

f1ocks that quickly massed together.

Twice I watched a Merlin come in to hunt.

She was only slightly bigger than the shore-

birds themselves, but her flight was individ-

ual and by comparison appeared erratic. I

actually watched her come in only once. Thepeeps spotted her and were up in swooping

flight with her on the attack before I spotted

her the first time. She made three attempts

before giving up.

After the sun set, and as we made our way

back from the beach, I wondered, Where do

Sanderlings sleep at night? But maybe the

better question would be Do they?

Later we saw Sanderlings and Dunlins

sleeping together in a large group amongst an

even larger mass of active birds; most were

one legged, all facing the wind. The larger,

darker Dunlins looked like clumps of kelp on

the sand. I wondered if at night they sleep atseparately grouped species because in the

morning the flocks arent

mixed species

as they

are later

in the

day.

By Melissa Sherwood

Illustrations by Melissa Sherwood


6/11

Left:A Pigmy Nuthatchdrills a nest hole.

Right:Researcher Frankfrom the PeregrineFund tracks trans-mitter-equippedCondors.

Above:A Raven soarsthrough theGrand Canyon.

Left:A rock squirrelon the south rimof the canyon.

Left: Condor with Tag #4 - Female hatched in 2000 in Boise, puppet-reared, released December 2000.

June 2007 Page 7Page 6

nice place to walk your dog, but it sure looked like thatwas what was happening. It was like Westminster withgreat numbers of fancy purebreds, all nicely leashedand enjoying being noticed. A great day ended, but stillno vultures of any kind.

Day 2 at The Canyon and nearing lunchtimewith still no condors. Not even any TurkeyVultures!! Our best bet was a condor

researcher from The Peregrine Fund, the agency thatraises the Condors for release into the canyon in coop-eration with the National Park Service. Frank had hisradio and tracking antenna, which he showed us. Heagreed the condors were not close at hand at themoment, but shared with us that there were severalnesting attempts happening at the moment includingtwo nests nearby in caves. Each condor pair lays justone egg every other year in a cave or deep crevice, so this world of rock is their bestpossible habitat. Plus all that carrion to eat when a tourist falls off the rim into thecanyon.... Of course, its not as easy as that. It takes 6 to 8 years for a condor tobecome old enough to reproduce, and since these birds were all captive-raised, theyhave other adaptation hurdles to overcome as well.

The condor release program has its critics, but nevertheless seems to be succeed-ing despite seemingly insurmountable obstacles. Of course many of the releasedbirds have not made it in the wild, either succumbing or showing lack of adaptation,necessitating being put back into the captive breeding program. However, MotherNature is harsh with all of her children, so some of this has to be accepted. Whatturned out to be the surprise, however, was finding out that the main cause for theirdemise turned out to be lead shot. This was not anticipated and has added a hugeobstacle for the program. Every single bird not only has tags and transmitters, but isperiodically recaptured and tested for lead (among other things) and given chelationtherapy for lead poisoning if necessary. Plus great numbers of planted carcassesknown to be free of lead have had to be continually planted.

Just as I was pondering whether the critics were right or not to think about scut-tling the California Condor Restoration Project, darkness fell over the earth.Big bird! I gasped, momentary losing any other vocabulary I might have pos-

sessed! A condor flew low over us, followed by another, and another, and another!!!Four of them definitely checked us out, rising like the ultimate magic trick from thebottomless chasm! As we followed their progress, three others joined them, makinga group of Lucky Seven, chasing a couple of Ravens who, from this point on, wouldnever be thought of as large birds on this trip! I thought my brain had already lostall perspective from exposure to this immense cleft in the earth, but somehow I wasable to grasp that these flying creatures almost require a canyon that large to getenough loft to lift their massive selves! Wingspans are almost 10 feet!

Later on, we saw condors frequently during our stay in the Canyon, one, two, orthree at a time. The news is good on the condor front. There are now 58 soaring inthe Grand Canyon including seven that were released in March this year, and they areof all ages and experience. It is thought that four nests are occupied at this time, andthere are immatures out there now that were born here and have been raised com-pletely in the wild. The Grandest Canyon isnt holding them prisoner either, eachwinter more of them wing off and find new territories to explore, particular ZionNational Park northwards across The Canyon. As individual birds get older, theybecome less tied to The Canyon and the researchers who made their lives possible,

much as our own children strike out on their own. What better next step for all?For more information or to help out, contact The Peregrine Fund in Boise, Idaho,

at www.peregrinefund.org, and see the California Condor Restoration Project athttp://www.peregrinefund.org/conserve_category.asp?category=California%20Condor%20Restoration.

continued from page 1

Condors ...Condors ...

Photos by Diane Yorgason-Quinn

Right: Corvus Coraxon patrol high above The Canyon


7/11

EDUCATION

Page 8 June 2007

Tahoma Audubon Family ProgramsDiscovery Walks

All ages welcome, $5.00/person, free to Audubon membersThese walks are designed for families, and friends of all ages, with a special

invitation to grandparents. Discover a new location each month as you explore

the site with an experienced nature guide. Call 253-591-6439 for directions.

Pre-registration is required.

June 16 Puget Creek Gulch 10:00 a.m. 11:30 a.m.

Morse Wildlife Preserve Programs

Best for ages 2 and up, free to Audubon membersExplore this natural treasure located in Graham during the following special

open days. Call Gabriel for more information and directions at 253-565-5479.

Community Programs

Enjoy a guided hike and activities with a different theme each month.Programs run 10:00 a.m. noon.

June 23 Habitats of Morse: PrairieOpen Trails

Walk the trails and discover the beauty of the five habitat zones in the preserve.

Programs run noon 4:00 p.m.

June 10

Tahoma Audubon Just for KidsNature Story Time

Best for ages 2 6, $5/child, free to Audubon members and U.P. residentsJoin us as we explore the park at the Adriana Hess Audubon Center in

University Place with nature stories based on the current theme. Adults are

welcome with the children. This is a wonderful grandparent/grandchild activi-

ty! Space is limited. Call 253-591-6439 to register.

June 29 By the Bay 10:30 a.m. 11:30 a.m.

Day Camps for kids age 4-6 & 8-10 begin in JuneSee ad below, or visit the Tacoma Nature Center page on the MetroParks web-

site for details: www.metroparkstacoma.org.

1919 South Tyler Street, Tacoma WA 98338253-591-6439 www.metroparkstacoma.orgOpen Tuesday Friday 8:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.

& Saturday 10:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m.

2917 Morrison Road W., University Pl. WA 98466253-565-9278 www.TahomaAudubon.org

Open Monday Saturday10:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m.

Tacoma Nature CenterArt ExhibitsAs part of the changing art gallery at the Tacoma Nature Center, please join usin enjoying the following exhibit.

Tahoma Audubon Bird Drawing Contest Winners, June 5 August 25

The winning contest entries of the 8th annual contest will be on display for the

summer at the Tacoma Nature Center. Participants range from grade 2 to 7.

Gallery available most open hours, call ahead to ensure availability.

Artist Reception June 8, 7:00 p.m., Awards Ceremony 7:30 p.m.

NatureMapping WorkshopsMoving from activities to field research, NatureMapping is a tool for stu-

dents and citizens to use to help determine a healthy future for fish and

wildlife through the use of sound scientific techniques. Classroom and

field work will include the use of maps, wildlife identification tips, habitat

coding, building a search image, and tracking and data collection proce-

dures.

Data Collection & Monitoring June 9 & 10Tacoma Nature Center, 10:00 a.m.4:00 p.m., $70 per participantThis workshop is for citizens interested in using the NatureMapping

process to keep track of wildlife in their backyard, local parks and forests,

or any other natural area. This hands-on environmental learning workshop

helps people take the next step after learning to enjoy wildlife.

NatureMapping for Educators July 19 & 20Tacoma Nature Center, 9:00 a.m.5:00 p.m., $70 per participantThis workshop will provide educators with the skills needed to aid learners

in the NatureMapping process. The basic data collection and monitoring

techniques of NatureMapping are all included, plus activities to engagelearners in the process. This two-day workshop also includes time spent in

the field applying the NatureMapping process. It is not open to non-educa-

tors. Clock hours available.

*During the workshop, sessions will take place at several sites in the

Tacoma/University Place areadetails upon registration.

Tahoma Audubon recently

switched checking accounts to

HomeStreet Bank. Their great rates

and helpful staff was part of it, but it

is their dedication to the local com-

munity and to being a good partner

to local nonprofits that convinced us

to bank with HomeStreet Bank.

It has been a few years since wewent on bended knee for computer

equipment. The built-in obsoles-cence of our donated computerequipment has started to catch upwith us.

We are looking for good second-generation computer equipmentthat is not currently being used asa doorstop, including:

A laptop computer One or two desktop computers Computer monitors (flat screen

would be great)

Please call Bryan Flint at 253-565-

9129 before donating equipment.

Computer Equipment Needed

Thank you ...


8/11

EDUCATION

Page 9June 2007

On Saturday, May 12,Tahoma Audubon spon-sored a fun-filled celebra-

tion of InternationalMigratory Bird Day at theTacoma Nature Center.

Teen volunteers helpedstaff lead family-orientedactivities, games and bird

hikes focusing on localmigratory birds and theresources they need to

survive.Kids and adults went on

guided bird hikes and tried

their hand at Habitat Golf,bird identification and afun game of Jeop-Birdy.

Fun for all at the Bird Festival!

Just what arethese birdwatchers watch-ing? Could it bethat lovely, GreatHorned owl?

Robert E. Hardwick has compiled a guide to the 149 species of Washington Statebutterflies, including subspecies. The CD contains 791 colored illustrations of bothmuseum and natural field photos. Detailed descriptions of each species, adult flighttimes, and likely locations to find the butterflies in flight are included. Many photos oflarval and pupa stages are included. A list of known larval food plants are providedfor each species. The CD is easy to use with a PC or Mac. Easy access to species or desired pages are providedby bookmarks. The CD contains the entire printed version of the book, which is divided into five parts: Introductorymaterial, Papilionidae and Pieridae, Lycaenidae, Nymphalidae, and Hesperiidae.The CD is a complete guide to the butterflies of our state, including all the butterflies that one may see in backyards,

parks, and forested areas in the Puget Sound area and is only $30. For more information, contact Robert Hardwickat [email protected] or 253-858-6727.

Butterflies of Washington

Educators! Learn about the Flying Wild programon August 3rd. Clock hours are available.

Contact Michelle Cardinaux at 253-591-6139 for details


9/11

Pierce County is blessed with fertile valleys thatoffer some of the most productive farmland inAmerica. Historically, farms existed all along the

Puyallup River from the estuary where the Port of

Tacoma now stands, all the way upstream through Fife,Puyallup, Orting, and Sumner and further upstream

toward its source, the glaciers of Mount Rainier.

With time, populations have multiplied, farming com-

munities have become suburbs, and roads and highways

have been built to move people and commerce through-

out the county, across the country, and around the world.

While populations spurred housing and roads, the port

enabled economic development and jobs for Pierce

County residents.

The amount of land in the county didnt grow, but the

demand for it did, and continues to. Roads like SR 167

were constructed along easy routes that cut through fer-

tile floodplains in valleys farmland. Once the roads

were in place, providing new transportation routes lead to

new developments along the length of the new corridors.Towns like Puyallup grew up quick. Smaller towns like

Orting seemed to emerge out of thin air. Everyone wants

a piece of the country, but not everyone is willing or able

to work the land.

Farmers began competing for land with others who

wanted to build houses, commercial and industrial cen-

ters around easy access to highways. As land was

bought, property values went up. Some urban trans-

plants, businesses and industry complained about the

facts of life in farm country the noise of roosters at 4:30

a.m., the stench of cattle manure, the sluggish pace of

farm machinery impeding what should be a quick com-

mute to work in the eyes of newcomers.

Farms and suburbs are incompatible uses. Farming

becomes more difficult because of the competitionfor narrow roads and the complaints of new neighbors.

Farming becomes impossible when land values soar and

so do real estate taxes. Facing hard times, farmers are

approached by developers offering to buy their land. It

turns out land is worth more for buildings than for grow-

ing food. This doesnt make intrinsic sense, if you con-

cede that productive farmland is limited and not repro-

ducible both locally and on the planetary level. But

money talks, right?

Its the year 2007, and Pierce County is recognizing

that our fertile farmlands need to be protected before they

are lost forever. The question is: how do we protectfarmlands without over regulating land or without trump-

ing property rights? The county is looking toward the

marketplace to solve a marketplace problem. Incentive

programs rather than punitive measures are in order. In

this case, they come in the form of Purchase and Transfer

of Development Rights Programs (PDR/TDR).

As it turns out, owning property means a lot more than

just owning the land. Rights are granted in categories

such as mineral extraction, water, and space above the

land. Under a TDR program, landowners can sell certain

land rights to another landowner, allowing that person to

take actions that would otherwise not be allowed due to

county regulations. For instance, a farmer can sell his or

her rights to build four houses on the land to another per-

son who wants to construct houses on a different piece ofland, but due to current regulations and zoning, s/he can-

not. The farmer gets paid by the landowner who pur-

chases the rights. This keeps the farm from being devel-

oped in the future into another use, while allowing

growth to occur at a location other than viable farmland.

The Alderton-McMillin Community Plan, Pierce

County, and the State of Washington are all looking

toward PDR/TDR pro-

grams as market-based

solutions that protect

farmland from becom-

ing irrevocably alteredby development, and

protect farmers by giv-

ing them new options

to generate income.

Governor Christine Gregoire recently signed a bill estab-

lishing a PDR/TDR program on May 15, 2007, and the

Pierce County Council passed a resolution on May 8th to

start the process of establishing a countywide program.

These are all good signs that officials are willing to take

actions to protect working farms.

Recently, the county created the Farming Assistance,

Revitalization and Marketing (FARM) program. This

includes the addition of a farmbudsmanwhose role is to

help farmers and would-be farmers navigate the permit-

ting process and connect farmers to resources they need.The Office of Farm Preservation is another product

aimed at helping protect farmland. The Farm Advisory

Commission is replaced by the Farm Advisory Board.

And a new marketing campaign educating county resi-

dents about availability of locally grown food connects

farmers and consumers via the Food and Farms Connec-

tion program. To learn more about these programs and

anything farm related call (253) 798-FARM.

We can only hope that all of these new tools willbe successful in protecting farmers and theirfarms. If not, the residents of Pierce County will lose a

valuable resource -- fresh, locally grown food; a historical

and vibrant rural farm culture; and a sector of our diverse

local economy.

Instead of losing farms, we should be nurturing farms.Tahoma Audubon, Futurewise, and Cascade Land

Conservancy all advocate for the protection of our local

working farms, and encourage citizens to voice support

for the PDR/TDR programs.

For more information on TDR programs, visit:

http://www.cascadeland.org/cascade-agenda/communi-

ties/tdr or call Ryan Mello at 253-274-4955.

CONSERVATION

June 2007Page 10

Terry's Berries is an organic berry and produce farmlocated in the Puyallup Valley.

On April 21st, 2007, 40 biologists,botanists, and citizen scientists returned tothe Lower White River to continue their sur-

vey of wildlife and plant communities. Thissurvey, called a BioBlitz, is a method usedto determine the variety of wildlife and plantsthat, along with human residents, call thisspecial place home. This years survey wasbased at the Game Farm Wilderness Parkand emphasized the cities of Auburn andPacific and nearby property in unincorporat-ed Pierce County.

The Lower White River has been identifiedas one of 16 unique places in the SouthSound that sustains healthy populations of

fish, mammals, birds, insects, reptiles andamphibians. Collectively these 16 importantareas define a network of biologically impor-tant habitats that conserve wildlife and meethuman needs, such as providing sources ofclean water. The BioBlitz is designed toconfirm that wildlife predicted to be living inthese areas is actually present. according toMichelle Tirhi with the Washington

Department of Fish and Wildlife. This yearsBioBlitz was specially designed to encour-age community interest and involvement inconservation. according to MicheleCardinaux with the Tacoma Nature Center.

A group is just now forming to work forthe biodiversity and health of the LowerWhite River basin and its communities. Thegroup is called the Friends of the LowerWhite River and includes friends and neigh-bors from Buckley to Sumner. More informa-tion about the group can be obtained bycontacting Jeanne Fancher at 253.924.0211or [email protected].

Earth Day BioBlitz a Success!

Protecting farmers and their farms


10/11

June 2007 Page 11

A

n invi

tation t

o the bir

d

er

s po

tluck

Penrose Point State ParkPark Ranger Daniel Christian will be leading a free bird

walk through Penrose Point State Park on Saturday, June

2 from 9am to 10am. Meet at the day-use parking lot.

Foothills Trail

from Orting west to Voigt CreekFriday, June 8-- 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Meet in the parking area of Orting City Park in downtown

Orting between Washington Ave. and Van Scoyoc Ave

SW. It is the area of the park where Rte. 162 makes a

bend to go out of town. We will have a leisurely walk of

about a mile on a paved trail to the bridge crossing Voight

Creek to look for the Dippers that sometimes nest under

the bridge. There are lots of trees along the way for war-

blers, and other birds found nesting along the Carbon

River Bring a snack or sack lunch to eat at one of the sit-

ting areas along the trail. We should be back to the parking

lot by 1 p.m.

Leader: Betty Jones, register by calling TAS 253-565-9278

Adriana Hess Audubon

Center--bird walkMonday, June 11--noon to 1:00 p.m.Come along and count the growing numbers of birds at

this lovely site. Leaders: Patrick and Ruth Sullivan

Adriana Hess Audubon

Center--plant walkMonday, June 18--noon to 1:00 p.m.

We have planted a great number of native plants at this

site to encourage the community to learn what they canplant for native habitat. Come join us.

Leader: Richard Van Deman

Morse Preserve--bird walksSaturday, June 23; Friday, July 27;

Friday August 24--9:00 to 11:00 a.m.Leader: Betty Jones, call TAS office to register, 253-565-

9278

176th Street MarshSunday, June 24-- 9 a.m. to noonMeet at the parking lot in front of gate at the end of 176th

St. in Spanaway. It is the western terminus of 176th St.,and the part of the proposed Cross Base Highway.

It is a bit of a walk from the parking area to the marsh,

some of it up hill. Walking will be leisurely.

Leader: Betty Jones, register by calling TAS 253-565-

9278

FIELD TRIPS

RULES1) Call TAS to register (253-565-

9278). Some trips are people limit-

ed out of necessity.

2) Notify TAS 24 hours in advance

if you cannot come. Field trip lead-ers put in a lot of time and plan-

ning and no shows disrupt field

trips. More than three no shows a

year can result in revoking the

opportunity to participate.

3)Arrive at the meeting place

early.

4) No pets are allowed.

5) Be prepared for seasonal

weather.

6) Bring lunch, drinks and snacks if

the field trip is scheduled past mid-

day.

7)All passengers divide total car-pooling expenses. Current guide-

lines are 20 cents a mile per car,

not including driver.

8) Beginners are always welcome.

9) Have fun.

Bird watching is at the heart ofAudubon. Field trips are at the heartof birding. That is because birding isabout much more then just watching

birds; it is also about the connectionsbetween people and the environment.Tahoma Audubon and the birdingcommunity have a long legacy of pro-viding quality field trips and education-al opportunities for adults of all abilitiesand levels. Many people have dedi-cated countless hours to making greatfield trips happen. We are committedto continuing that tradition.

There was a time when no onewas organizing field trips in PierceCounty. Tahoma Audubon saw theneed and made it happen.Theprocess turned out to be fun and ful-

filling. Recently our field trip chair hadto resign leaving a vacancy in this

very important position for TahomaAudubon.

It is time to renew our process: toidentify the need and organize field

trips. We are having a potluck toenjoy each others company and startthings fresh.Thursday June 14th, 2007

5:30 p.m. field trip, 6:30 p.m. potluckTitlow Park, 8201 6th Ave, picnicshelter near community centerWhat to bring:

Last name ends in the letter A-Nplease bring a main dishLast name ends in the letter M-Zplease bring a desert or saladTahoma Audubon will supply plates,cups, utensils, and drinks

Please RSVP by calling the TASoffice at 253-565-2978.

Audubon - Mountaineers - Foothills Trail

- Cascade Land Conservancy, Sierra

Club,Citizens for AHealthy Bay, Carbon

River Corridor, and more ...

At the Engle Garden, 4011 Alameda

Avenue, University Place WA 98466

Thursday, June 21, 2007, 6-9 p.m.

Featuring: Displays by our parks (local,

county, state and national); Licensed

Falconers with their live birds; Native

plants for sale; Photo exhibit; Earth-

friendly crafts and games for

kids.

PLUS displays by friends in

our allied organizations.

Children and grandchildren are

MOST welcome. And don't

forget how great the food is at

these events!

We furnish coffee, punch, but-

tered rolls.

You Bring: A hot or cold

entree, PLUS a salad or dessert; PLUS

your own table service and a sit-upon.

Beer and wine is BYO. No signup neces-

sary. Rain does not cancel.

Directions: 4011 Alameda is 1/2 mile

south of Fircrest Golf Course.

Parking on Alameda and on Kootnai, the

lower street (come in lower gate).

For more info: Helen or Stan, 253-564-

3112, [email protected] or branch

phone: 253-566-6965.

Ecuador December 8-16, 2007

Nate Chappell and his Ecuadorian

wife, Angie, will lead a trip to the

mountains and western slope of the

Andes. These are some of the best

birding areas in the world. Elevations

will range from 2,000 to 14,000 feet.

We will stay at hotels in Quito, theTandaypa Valley and Mindo on this

trip. Quality viewing and photogra-

phy of Ecuador's birds will be the

focus of the trip. Spectacular species

which participants have an excellent

chance of seeing include Andean Cock

of the Rock, 3 species of Antpittas,

Andean Condor and many species of

beautiful hummingbird and tanager.

Cost: $1,700 includes all hotels, meals,

transportation, park fees and guiding.

Does not include cost of airfare

between the US and Ecuador. Call

Nate Chappell at 512-1060 for more

information.Thailand January 13-27, 2008

Nate Chappell and his wife, Angie will

lead a 2-week trip to Central and

Northern Thailand next January. Nate

is a long time Tahoma Audubon mem-

ber and very accomplished wildlife

photographer. We will also have 1 to

2 Thai nature guides with us the entire

trip. The trip is focused on seeing and

photographing the birds and mammalsof Thailand. We will travel from

Bangkok to Unesco World Heritage

site Khao Yai National Park, Phu

Khieo Wildlife Sanctuary and Doi

Inthanon National Park in Northern

Thailand. You will have a chance to

see and photograph many beautiful

species of birds and animals.

Thailand is rich in many bird families

including giant hornbills, beautiful tro-

gons and colorful kingfishers. Cost:

$3,400 includes all hotels, meals,

transportation, park fees and guiding.

Does not include the cost of airfare

to/from the US to Thailand. Call NateChappell at 512-1060 for more infor-

mation.

Volunteers needed for Tahoma Audubon office

Receptionist schedule hours 10 a.m.-1 p.m.

Help TAS and have fun meeting and greeting Adriana Hesss visitors.Only three hours per shift. Call Sally Sloat at 253-564-0655 to volunteer.(If Sally is out and about, she is usually home by 3 pm.)

Sunday, June 24, 10:00 am to 2:00 pmLeader: George GerdtsJoin expert birder and naturalistGeorge Gerdts aboard the 69-footcruiser "My Girl" as it travels from PortTownsend to within 200 meters ofProtection Island National Wildlife

Refuge in the Strait of Juan de Fuca isthe breeding ground for Tufted Puffinsand for thousandsof other birds. Expect to see marinemammals, close in perching birds, andbeautiful scenery from this luxuriousyacht. George leads tours for Kitsap

Audubon, and has conducted this boattour annually for 15 years. The tripleaves Port Townsend at 10:00 am.Call or e-mail George Gerdts for thebrochure and more details. You willneed to send a check for $65.00 toreserve your spot. Call or e-mailSOON!Signup: Call or e-mail George Gerdts206-842-8138, [email protected]

Big Backyard Potluck Picnic June 21

Protection Island Bird Cruise

Nate Chappell trips to Ecuador and Thailand


11/11

06-2007 towhee newsletter tahoma audubon society

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