02-2009 Towhee Newsletter Tahoma Audubon Society

8/9/2019 02-2009 Towhee Newsletter Tahoma Audubon Society

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By Paul Webster

North Americas largest heron is a familiar sight on

the waterfront and other damp areas around Tacoma.In The Birds of Washington (1909) William L.

Dawson described the Great Blue as picturesque a

word he felt meant both graceful and majestic. Dawson

continued that the Great Blue was a typical feature of

our Northwest landscape, whether standing motionless

in shallow water waiting for prey or slowly flapping its

way across the sky. Wary, adaptable, at home either in

marine or fresh water habitats, the Great Blue in the

century since Dawsons time has co-existed rather well

with modern civilization. However, its nesting colonies

are vulnerable to disturbance by Bald Eagles and

human activity.

Those who usually watch wildlife through binocu-

lars may find the Great Blue up close something of a

surprise. This large heron stands just under three feet

high; its the Great Blues broad wings that spread to

nearly six feet and some of its neck stretches that make

it seem larger than it really is. In flight the birds neck

is pulled back into a Z, so that it becomes parallel to the

bill, and its legs trail out behind. The plumage is

mostly grayish, the neck streaked with white, black,

and rust. Behind the long yellowish, tapered bill adults

have a white crown with black plumes extending back

from above the eye, and longish feathers on the neck

Published by the Tahoma Audubon Society: Connecting people with nature since 1969. Vol. 40 No. 1 February 2009

See "Geese" on page 7

See "Great Blue on page 8

25 years ago page 8

Announcements page 9

BirdSongs page 8

Christmas Bird Count pages 1, 6, 7

Education page 4

Environment matters page 3

Executive Directors column page 2

Field trips page 5

New members page 10

Volunteer recognition page 10

In this issue:

Photo/Mathew Hull

People from all across the United States and Canada will be

watching and counting birds during the Great Backyard Bird

Count (GBBC) for fun and for conservation.

National Audubon and the Cornell Lab of ornithology are

hosting the GBBC with sponsorship from Wild Birds Unlimited.

During the event, everyone who enjoys birds can submit their

observations through www.birdsource.org/gbbc. Be sure to goto the website before you count to see the very important,

easy-to-follow instructions and local checklists.

To have more fun, join Tahoma Audubon Societys annual

GBBC Special. It is free, but we encourage non-members to

take out an introductory membership for the family at $20.00

($15.00 for seniors or students.)

The national count is in its twelth year and Tahoma Audubon

will for the eighth year have its special crash course led by a

Master Birder, the count, and a meal each day of Presidents

Day weekend. Please call Tahoma Audubon Society, 253-565-

9278, or Thelma Gilmur, 253-564-8210 to sign up and to get

contact information for leaders and meals. Also call TAS early

to sign up so that hosts will know how much food to plan on.

Feb. 13, Friday, 9:00-11:00 Birder Betty Jones will lead atMary Blytons home in Puyallup, overlooking the Orting Valley.

Mary saw bluebirds as late as December 23 this winter. Mary

will furnish a 10:30 brunch.

Feb. 14, Saturday, 9:00-11:00 Birder Art Wang will prepare

brunch and lead the crash course and count in the

Commencement Bay area across from his home.

Feb. 15, Sunday, 9:00-11:00 Ken and Nell Batker will lead

crash course and count on Minter Creek in Gig Harbor where

Judy and Ken Austin will furnish brunch.

Feb 16, Monday, 10:00-12:00 or 12:30 Rosanne Becker

and Joann Sims will lead crash course and count at University

Place and possibly a couple other places if group wishes.

Lunch will be served by Helen Engle at her and Stans home.

Another opportunity to do the GBBC with a group, butwithout the crash course and meal, will be on Sunday, the 15th

at PLU. Meet Julie Smith, biology professor, at 9:00 a.m. on

the east side of the Reike Science Center. The count will be

finished and the records reported online at www.birdcount.org

by 11:00.

Great Backyard Bird Count--for fun and for conservation.

National Audubon and the Cornell Lab

Great Backyard Bird Count Feb. 13 - 16

Great Blue Heron

By Diane Yorgason-Quinn

ur Christmas Bird Count (CBC) on December 20th was in the middle ofthe Big Snow Event of this winter, by which I mean both actual snowand Snow Geese.When I met my group in Area 3 to gather up

the CBC numbers at the end of the day, Jeff

Feagin riveted me with a report of 153 Snow

Geese over Fox Island! What!!!!??? I made

him fill out a Rare Bird Report because I figured there might some challenges.

Heck, Snow Geese werent even on the tally list we were using for expected spe-

cies in Pierce County in December. Fox Islanders got to enjoy these geese for

several days more, to the delight of many.

That wasnt the end of it, though. Turned out Snow Geese were seen in MANY

places on our CBC that day! Areas 2, 4, and 7 also turned in large numbers as well,

with close to 200 in each of these areas!

Snow Geese gather on a playeld at Chief Leschi School.Photo/Bryan Hanson

Snow Geese driven by the snow

O

Were celebrating

and youre invited.

Please turn to page 9 for details on the big event!

Christmas BirdCount 08 - page 6


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Tahoma Audubon Staff

Flint, Bryan Executive [email protected] 253-565-9129

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

Swaim, Stephanie Education [email protected] 253-327-9480

Taylor, Graham Volunteer 253-565-1884Kerrigan, Julie Coordinator [email protected] [email protected]

Tahoma Audubon Board Officers

John Garner President

Marjorie Shea Vice President

Wayne Larsen Past President

Jane Brosius Secretary

Kathleen Nelson Treasurer

Tahoma Audubon Board Members 2008

Rob McNair-Huff Field Trip Chair

Thelma Gilmur Membership Co-chair

Dick Carkner

Sally Larson

Marcus Roening

Peggy L. Kopf

Darby Veeck

Ione Clagett

Melissa Paulson

Loren Webster Calendar Editor [email protected]

The Pierce County Chapter of The National Audubon SocietyLocated in University Place's Adriana Hess Wetland Park

2917 Morrison Rd W University Place, WA 98466Office hours 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. Front desk 253-565-9278

The Towheeis a publication of the Tahoma Audubon Society.The Tahoma Audubon Society was chartered in 1969. TAS

advocates for the protection of wildlife and promotes conserva-tion through education and activities that enrich its membersexperiences in and with the natural world.

The Towhee is published monthly, ten times a year, with acombined Jul/Aug and Dec/Jan issue. Submissions of articles andphotographs of birds, bird lore, natural history, conservation, andenvironmental education are reviewed and considered for inclu-sion by the editor. Copy is due by the 15th of the month and may

be sent by e-mail, disk, or typed.E-mail submissions to: [email protected]: Vera & John Cragin and Winfield Giddings

Design & Layout: Robert Kelton: robert_kelton@ mac.comPrinting: Consolidated Press

Page 2 www.tahomaaudubon.org February 2009

ENVIRONMENTMattersExEcuTIVE dIREcTORsCorner

February 2009 www.tahomaaudubon.org Page 3

On a frosty

cold January morn-

ing a new presi-dent was sworn

in before a hope-ful crowd, nation and

world. Many elo-

quent words havebeen written and

spoken about the in-auguration of the

rst African-Amer-ican President. It would be hard to know what could be

added. Probably the best words were those I saw on a

banner held up in the crowd that day, We HAVE over-come. For those who have had to ght for the right to sit

in the front of the bus, it is a crystal clear articulation of thejoy of nding one of their own sitting in the highest ofce

in the land. For me it touches a resonant chord, strung be-

tween a belief that history and democracy conspire to bringabout justice and a faith that through collective action we

can hasten its arrival.As his rst act, President Barack Obama called the na-

tion to its highest self. He reminded us of the struggles this

country has risen above in its short life on this planet. He

called all of us to participate in rising above the issues weface today.

No greater challenge faces us then that of climate changeand its possible effects on our societies, natural habitats and

the wildlife that depends on them. With strong leadership,

a hopeful and engaged citizenry, and collective action wecan tackle this issue as we have many others in our past.

As we have for the last forty years, Tahoma Audubonwill be a leader at the local level to help bring about posi-

tive change to protect habitat. With the support of you, ourmembers, volunteers, and donors, we will work tirelessly

with our partners to bring about environmental justice.

The following is taken from a statement of priority is-sues from National Audubon for the rst months of the

new administration.Global Warming and Renewable Energy:

We welcome the opportunity to help the President

deliver his promised $150 billion plan for clean energytechnologies that will protect our environment and stim-

ulate the economy, with up to 5 million new green jobs. The Congress should pass legislation providing

signicant incentives for development of renewableenergy and pass signicant legislation to address global

warming with a comprehensive cap-and-trade program.Endangered Species Conservation:

Well work with the Administration to secure reversal of

the Bush administrations weakening of the EndangeredSpecies Act, such as the controversial decision to

allow agencies to self-consult regarding the impacts offederally-approved projects on endangered species.

Congress should pass new tax incentives to encourageprivate landowners to work toward recovery of

endangered species.

Bird and Habitat Conservation:

The Administration and the Congress should reinvest

in the National Wildlife Refuge System and addressthe unacceptable $3.5 billion maintenance backlog

crippling this critical tool for conservation.

The Congress should pass legislation to conserveneotropical migratory birds and address the steep declines

in Americas common birds that are disappearing fromparks, farms, and backyards across the country.

Ecosystem Restoration:

The Administration and Congress should fund signi-

cant new restoration projects to improve Americas great

natural ecosystems: The Mississippi River, Everglades,Long Island Sound, and the Great Lakes.

Changes are afoot

By John Garner

On behalf of the board of Tahoma Audubon, its my privilege to

invite you to an exciting month of celebrations honoring our past

and looking to our future as we continue our work to conserve andrestore natural ecosystems, focusing on birds and other wildlife for

the benefit of humanity and the earths biological diversity. Bynow Im sure your calendars are marked for an open house recep-

tion honoring Thelma Gilmur on Sunday, February 15th from 1:00to 4:00 at the Mountaineers Clubhouse in Tacoma. This reception

is offered in response to an enthusiastic demand from our members

to recognize, thank and express our love for our own grand dameof conservation andeducation. It is also a celebration to honor all the good work accomplished by those

of you who have connected with Tahoma Audubon through an invitation from Thelmato join in a bird count, or that request from her to staff a shift at the Fair, or the other

favor or task she asked of you, and of course, you couldnt say no. Th at just may cover

the entire Tahoma Audubon membership!Our celebration continues at our 40thAnniversary Banquet on Saturday, February 28

at 5:30 at the McGavick Center at Clover Park Technical College. Our theme,

Growing From Our Roots, promises an enjoyable evening as we reflect back, andlook ahead to the future of Tahoma Audubon.

I want to assure you that your board, volunteers and staff are not resting on their laurels,

and if we do distinguish ourselves, its because we stand on the shoulders of those who

have come before. As we look to our future, we do so with these plans and aspirations: To effectively influence public policy issues that impact our mission. Specifically,to sharpen our focus on shorelines, stewardship of our open space and natural areas,and to expand the role that citizen science plays in natural resource management.

To conserve the biological diversity of Pierce County by preserving and restoringhabitat and ecosystems our commitment to the Green Tacoma Partnership is atangible expression of our work in urban environments. To expand education programs and empower citizens to protect and preserveecosystems and habitats our Osprey Club and summer day camps are wonderfulexamples of how we engage our youth to become the stewards of tomorrow.

To ensure that adequate financial and human resources are available to sustain ourorganization. To that end, the board hascommitted itself to a goal of growing boththe membership and the financial supportthat is needed to ensure our work continues.

On behalf of the board, thank you for your

steadfast support of an organization thats 40years old and still growing strong!

Growing From Our Roots:

40 Years of the Tahoma

Audubon Society

John Garner

Last November, Tacoma took not one, but two big stepsforward to help conserve urban habitats across the city. TheTacoma City Council unanimously passed severalComprehensive Plan amendments, and included amongthem was a new Open Space Habitat and Recreation Planor OSHRP.

The OSHRPis a policy document that will lay out policiesand plans that will help Tacoma acquire, restore, and manage

publicly-owned open spaces throughout the city. This plan isthe product of over two years of work by the planning staff,various city agencies, Metro Parks Tacoma, and extensiveoutreach and involvement with the Green Tacoma Partnership(GTP), a public-private partnership working together tocreate a network of urban open spaces and habitats sustainedby community involvement.

One product of the OSHRP is an inventory andevaluation of urban open spaces citywide. These spacesidentified in the plan are the best natural areas Tacoma has

lots of parks, gulches, creeks, lakes, steep slopes,wetlands, and shorelines. Together, many of these areashave the potential to be habitat corridors for both wildlife

and people. Point Defiance Park, Puget Gardens, SwanCreek Park, Wapato Hills Wildlife Preserve, and FirstCreek Watershed are just a few of Tacomas urban naturalareas identified in the plan.

In fact, shortly after adopting the OSHRP, the CityCouncil eagerly and unanimously passed a resolution(No. 37656) declaring the Citys intent to workcollaboratively with the Puyallup Tribe of Indians on acommunity stewardship plan for the cleanup of the FirstCreek Watershed, located in Tacomas EastsideNeighborhood.

Representing the Tribe at the November 18 CityCouncil meeting, Tribal planner David Whited emphasizedthat the identity of the area must be reclaimed if it is to berestored. The First Creek Watershed exists today as aseries of stormwater drainages with various namesreferencing the street it intersects, such as T StreetGulch and R Street Gulch. Yet, it is a watershed in itsentirety, and must be recognized as one.

Shortly afterward, the Puyallup Tribe passed a similarresolution. Together, with the new First Creek Neighbors

group and otherexisting groups, theywill transform the areafrom one of misuse,neglect, and crime, toa neighborhood jewelthat can be enjoyed byall people andwildlife.

Kudos to TacomasCity Council fortaking these importantsteps to improve oururban quality of life,protect our water quality and natural areas.

Get involved! More information, including how to getinvolved, can be found online at: OSHRP:http://www.cityoftacoma.org/Page.aspx?hid=7612The Puyallup Tribe: http://www.puyallup-tribe.com/First Creek Neighbors: http://firstcreek.blogspot.com/Green Tacoma Partnership: www.greentacoma.org

Conserving urban habitats for people and wildlife

Contact Krystal at 253-232-9978.

[email protected]

By Krystal Kyer

Tahoma Audubon is excited to announce that we will beconducting a BioBlitz in late spring 2009 in the NisquallyRiver Watershed. This exciting project will engage locallandowners, schools, professional scientists, and citizens in arapid biodiversity assessment of the flora and fauna in thearea.

In recent years, the Pierce County Biodiversity Alliance(PCBA) has conducted BioBlitzs inCrescent Valley (Gig Harbor) and theLower White River watershed. As aresult of landowner and communityoutreach and engagement in theBioBlitzs, new community groupshave formed to protect these areas. TheCrescent Valley Alliance formed in2006 and continues today to imple-ment its community stewardship plan.The Friends of the Lower White Riverformed in 2007 spurring a LowerWhite River BioBlitz in 2008, andthey are in the final stages of complet-ing their stewardship plan. PCBAsstewardship plans can serve as tem-plates for new projects, as in the case ofthe Nisqually BioBlitz project.

The area we will be blitzing is located in the Nisqually

Biodiversity Management Area (BMA), known as region10E, in the Roy/McKenna area. Volunteers will be teamedup with professionals and work together to identify speciesin a defined area over a 24-hour period. Data from theBioBlitz will immediately be recorded using handheldCyberTracker software, and uploaded into computers using

the University ofWashingtonsNature Mappingprogram. Thatinformation willthen be available toscientists and regu-lators across Washington State, as itis integrated into the Washington

N a t u r a lH e r i t a g eProgram data-base. In this way,citizen scientistsmake valuable con-tributions to scientif-ic knowledgeand manage-ment, whilegaining personalknowledge andexperiences of a par-ticular place.

Tahoma Audubon hasreceived a $10,000 Green PartnershipFund grant from the Greater TacomaCommunity Foundation and Pierce

Conservation District to conduct the BioBlitz. This award is

matched by $10,000 from The Zoo Society to the PCBA, aswell as additional funds pending. The Nisqually BMABioBlitz is a cooperative project of the PCBA, NW Trek,Tahoma Audubon, UWs NatureMapping program, WADept. of Fish and Wildlife, and the Nisqually RiverWatershed Council.

Get Involved!

Training in Nature Mapping is not required to par-ticipate in the BioBlitz, but it is helpful. Two trainings

are being offered this spring:Nature Mapping - data collection &

monitoring - March 20-21, 2009 atTacoma Nature Center in Tacoma.Register by calling 591-6439.

Nature Mapping - data collec-

tion & monitoring - May 30-31, 2009at NW Trek in Eatonville. Contact JessicaMoore at 360-832-7160 to register.

Ages 12 and up, $70 per person, nocharge for additional family members. This

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 two-dayhands-on environmental learning workshop helps people takethe next step after learning to enjoy wildlife.

To participate in the Nisqually BioBlitz contact Krystal

at 253-232-9978 or email [email protected]

Crescent Valley Alliance: call LucindaWingardat 253-858-3647 or

online at http://www.crescentvalleyalliance.org/Friends of the Lower White River website:http://www.biodiversity.wa.gov/ourbiodiversity/updatewhite_river.htmlPierce County Biodiversity Alliance:http://depts.washington.edu/natmap/projects/bma/overview.htmlUWs Nature Mapping program: http://depts.washington.edu/natmap/

Get ready to BioBlitz!

Rapid biodiversity assessment:

The term rapid biodiversity assess-

ment was coined to describe a moni-

toring approach that relies on a subset

of indicators (for example, selected

species) to be able to quickly draw

conclusions about the health, richness,

or diversity of a biological feature.

Several methods have been developed

for use in both terrestrial and aquatic

environments. A bioblitz is a rapid

biological inventory of plant and animal

diversity found in a designated area

within a 24-hour period.

Citizen science: Citizen science engages volunteers in the collection of ecological information, often

under the leadership of conservation agencies or organizations. Use of citizen scientists is growing

for several reasons: (1) Conservation agencies and organizations often do not have enough resourc-

es to conduct all of the monitoring they need; (2) Many citizens have expert skills in fish, wildlife, and

plant observation as a result of a hobby or avocation; (3) Much more data can be collected by

enabling or training citizen scientists to work with conservation agencies and organizations, helping

to achieve a more robust and comprehensive understanding of biodiversity status and trends.

Free rain garden workshopsA rain garden is a shallow depression

in a yard planted with a variety of ow-

ers, shrubs and grasses that dont mind

getting their feet wet.

Learn how rain gardens help soak up

rainwater from downspouts, driveways,

and sidewalks, while protecting our lo-

cal waterways. When planted with the

right types of plants, rain gardens also

attract birds, butteries and bees.

Youll receive a FREE rain garden

manual and additional materials.

Youll also have a chance to start de-

signing your own rain garden during

the class! There are opportunities

to gain further hands-on experience by helping

create rain gardens later in the summer.

Choose from these dates -

(All classes held from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.)

Thursday, February 5 Orting

Thursday, February 19 Tacoma

Thursday, March 5 Buckley

Thursday, March 19 Lakewood

Monday, April 20 University Place

Thursday, April 30 Edgewood

Workshops are FREE, but advanced registra-

tion is required. For more information, work-

shop locations, or to register, contact Pierce

Stream Team, at (253) 845-2973 or e-mail

streamteam@ piercecountycd.org.

Co-sponsored by: Pierce Stream Team, Stewardship Partners, WSU Native Plant Salvage Project/Foundation,

Chambers- Clover Watershed Council, Puyallup River Watershed Council, and Pierce County Public Works and Utilities.Raingardenposterdes

ignedbyJohnPitcher.
mailto:[email protected]:[email protected]:%[email protected]:[email protected]://www.cityoftacoma.org/Page.aspx?hid=7612http://www.cityoftacoma.org/Page.aspx?hid=7612http://www.cityoftacoma.org/Page.aspx?hid=7612http://www.cityoftacoma.org/Page.aspx?hid=7612http://www.puyallup-tribe.com/http://www.puyallup-tribe.com/http://firstcreek.blogspot.com/http://firstcreek.blogspot.com/http://www.greentacoma.org/http://firstcreek.blogspot.com/http://www.greentacoma.org/mailto:[email protected]:[email protected]://www.crescentvalleyalliance.org/http://www.crescentvalleyalliance.org/http://www.biodiversity.wa.gov/ourbiodiversity/updatewhite_river.htmlhttp://www.biodiversity.wa.gov/ourbiodiversity/updatewhite_river.htmlhttp://depts.washington.edu/natmap/projects/bma/overview.htmlhttp://depts.washington.edu/natmap/projects/bma/overview.htmlhttp://depts.washington.edu/natmap/http://depts.washington.edu/natmap/http://depts.washington.edu/natmap/http://depts.washington.edu/natmap/projects/bma/overview.htmlhttp://www.biodiversity.wa.gov/ourbiodiversity/updatewhite_river.htmlhttp://www.crescentvalleyalliance.org/mailto:[email protected]://www.greentacoma.org/http://firstcreek.blogspot.com/http://www.puyallup-tribe.com/http://www.cityoftacoma.org/Page.aspx?hid=7612mailto:[email protected]:%[email protected]:[email protected]:[email protected]


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fIEld TRIps and Events


EducaTIONMatters

2917 Morrison Road W.,University Pl. WA 98466

253-565-9278www.TahomaAudubon.org

Open Mon Sat. 10a.m.-1p.m.

1919 South Tyler Street,Tacoma WA 98338

253-591-6439 www.metroparkstacoma.orgOpen Tues. Fri. 8 a.m.-5 p.m.

& Sat. 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

I hope that you dont imagine that Florida is nothing but strip mallsand theme parks. For many that travel to the land of the Big Mouse,

this is all that they get to see. And I do admit, my guilty pleasure inOrlando is visiting my favorite theme park, riding rides and sampling

the foods from all the tiny faux nations along its boardwalk. But as

a former resident naturalist of the Sunshine State, Im going to tellyou about a gem of a nature trip to take if youre ever in the Tampa/

Orlando vicinity.Florida is at. Formed in a calm sea millions of years ago, its calcium

carbonate bedrock is lled with fossils of seashells and ancient sea

creatures. When Florida emerged from the ocean as warmer climatesgave rise to the cycles of ice ages, it allowed terrestrial plants and

animals to ourish. Freshwater aquifers permeate the porous bedrockand rise to the surface through cracks and springs in the weak rock.

Calm rivers amble for miles across the at surface, fed by springs andthe rains of the rainy season.

One hours drive from the theme parks near Orlando lies access tothe Hillsborough River in Northeast Tampa at the edge of the largest

metropolitan area in Florida. My husband, Scott, and I took a half-day to visit the river by kayak. For four hours and covering about

nine miles, we rode the slow currents down river watching wildlife

and taking pictures. This was my second time down the river, whichScott had introduced me to years before we moved to Washington.

It was unbelieveable. In those fourhours we saw Black Vultures, Roseate

Spoonbills, Wood Storks, Red-

shouldered Hawks, Osprey, Anhinga,Double-crested Cormorants, Limpkin,

White Ibis, Great Blue Herons, LittleBlue Herons, Tri-colored Herons,

Black-Crowned Night Herons, GreatEgrets, Snowy Egrets, Cattle Egrets.

And we heard Barred Owls echoing

through the cypress. If youre intoanimals BESIDES birds, we drifted

by alligators, turtles, snakes and ottersas well. I kid you not. It was truly

awesome. Here are some photos to

convince you!

Call Steph @ 253-565-5479. Or

[email protected]


Weekly Bird Walks at NisquallyWednesdays 8:00 am to 11:30 amLeader: Phil KelleyBig changes are happening at Nisqually NationalWildlife Refuge!Join Phil on his weekly bird walks as he counts thebirds at Nisqually NWR. On the rst Wednesdayof the month, the group takes a longer hike on thefull loop, at least for a while this spring depend-ing on construction. The other weeks, the trip isshorter, totaling about 4 miles. On these weeks, thegroup walks out to McAllister Creek via the newcross dike trail. Then it takes the boardwalk/trail tothe Twin Barns, the Nisqually overlook area, andout past where the ring dike used to be.Bring: Good walking shoes or boots, raingear, wa-ter, snacks, and $3 for entry feeunless you have a pass. Scopes are welcome.Meet: At the Visitors Center.Directions: Take I-5 south from Tacoma and exitto Nisqually NWR at exit 114. Turn right at light.Sign-up: Call or email Phil Kelley to conrm de-tails during the trail construction period, and aboutthe start time which may change to 7:30am.Phil Kelley, Lacey, (360) 459-1499, [email protected]. During the 3-4 year estuary reconstruc-tion project, go to http://www.fws.gov/nisqually/and click on Events and News. During the recon-struction, some trails may be closed temporarily.

Skagit and Samish ats feld tripEnjoy the wintering waterfowl, swans, thousandsof snow geese, raptors and other specialites of thisarea by joining us on Feb. 7th. The meeting placefor carpooling is the park and ride parking garageby Freighthouse Square, near the Tacoma Dome.Meet at 7:00 a.m for an early start.This trip is quite popular, so sign up soon by call-ing the Tahoma Audubon Center.Trip leaders are Bruce LaBar and Charlie Wright.

Gig Harbor ExplorationSaturday, February 218:00 AM to Mid AfternoonLeader: Jeff CohenJoin Jeff Cohen as we explore parks, beaches, and

trails in the Gig Harbor area. We will visit TheTacoma Narrows, Pt. Fosdick, Raft Island (by per-mission), and Kopachuk State Park. We will lookfor sea birds and waterfowl, loons, and woodlandbirds. We hope to see all ve woodpeckers, andeven a possible Mute Swan. We may be hearingsome early spring bird song. We may walk up to1.5 miles. Well stop at a restaurant for a lunch, oryou can bring your own lunch.Bring: Warm clothes, lunch if desired (or somemoney for a restaurant lunch), snacks, drinks.Car toll is $4. if you return home on the TacomaNarrows bridge. Scopes are very welcome.Meet: At 8:00 AM at McDonalds in Gig Harbor.Take hwy 16 north from the Narrows Bridge toexit 10. Turn right, and then take a quick left intoOlympic Plaza. McDonalds is on the left.Sign-up: Email or call Jeff Cohen, 206-354-5542,[email protected]

Nature Walk at Point Defance ParkFeb 22 Sun 8:00-11:30 AM

Join author Rob McNair-Huff for a 5-mile walkthrough the forests at Point Deance Park. The tripstarts at the back of the parking lot for the Point

Deance Zoo and Aquarium. Come prepared for ahealthy walk through the park in changeable weath-er conditions. Winter bird highlights can includewaterfowl, Bald Eagles and forest birds. Formoreinformation, e-mail [email protected].

Othello Sandhill Crane FestivalFriday - Sunday, March 20-22, 2009Othello, WashingtonReported by Carol SchulzThe Othello Sandhill Crane Festival is a wonder-ful birding festival in Eastern Washington. Theeld trips, lectures, and banquet served at the highschool are famous now; and quite a few partici-pants and speakers come from out-of-state. Theeld trips leave in school buses, vans, and carsfrom the high school.Registration information and tour info is availableat www.othellosandhillcranefestival.org or call1-866-726-3445 toll free (after 4pm). The mostpopular trips and accomodations ll early, so reg-ister ASAP.For more information about the festival, call or e-mail Carol Schulz, [email protected], 206-824-7618.E-mail is preferred.

Tahoma Audubon Workshop series at Fircrest Community Ctr.The Fircrest Community Center will be hosting three workshops this Spring, inviting neigh-

bors to learn about natural habitats and native gardens. Workshops will be led by Tahoma

Audubon volunteers and staff. Register by calling the Fircrest Community Center at 253-564-

8177 or in person at the Center located at 55 5 Contra Costa Ave., Fircrest, WA98466.Bird Feeding BasicsLearn about local birds and how to use a eld guide. Ensure that a variety of birds visit your

backyard with the information provided in this class.

Age: All. Fri Feb. 27th 6:00PM - 8:00PM Cost: $5.00 Tahoma Audubon SocietyContainer Gardening WorkshopContainer gardening with native plants adds a touch of natural beauty to any home, and can

brighten the smallest of outdoor spaces. Learn about which plants attract wildlife, including

birds. Also learn about the best locations for containers, watering and light requirements and

how to choose appropriate plants. Workshop will also include tips on how to keep interest in

the pots by the use of texture and color.

Sat March 21st 2:00PM - 4:00PM Cost: $5.00 Tahoma Audubon SocietyNative Plants TourLearn about native and non-native plant species growing in our yards and woods. Workshop

includes a walk through Whittier trails with Thelma as she indenties plants native to our area.

Sat April 4th 9:00AM - 11:00AM Cost: $5.00 Tahoma Audubon Society Thelma Gilmur

Holiday travels: Nature on the Hillsborough River, FL

Right: Black Vultures in a Bald Cypress;Below: Alligator and Turtle;Left: Red-shouldered Hawk with snake.Far Left: Roseate Spoonbill & Great Blue Heron.

Photos/ScottSwaim

Photo/Steph Swaim

Introducing Nature Snapshots at Tacoma Nature Center Have you ever wondered what you might nd on a short walk or in your backyard, but didnt

know where to look or who to ask? Become your own naturalist with these evening workshops

throughout the winter and spring! Each month we will offer a 2-hour program on a specic

theme so that you will leave with the basics of how to identify the critters you didnt know

you saw everyday. Youll notice that you notice a lot more on the walk to school or the trip

to the mailbox everyday! These programs are informal and geared to families but everyone iswelcome. Fees: $15 per person, $30 per family (max of 4). Tuesdays, 6:30 to 8:30 pm. Please

register through the Tacoma Nature Center, 591-6439.

January 13th:Birds February 20th:Mammals March 10th:Herps (Reptiles & Amphibians)

April 14th:Invertebrates May 12th: Tidepools

Upcoming Adult Birding ClassesGet ready! Spring will soon be here and you will want to be able to identify those new birds

at your feeders. This Spring we will be offering another set of Adult Birding Classes so that

you can hone your birdwatching skills. Register for both at the Tacoma Nature Center, online

at www.metroparkstacoma.org or by calling 253-591-6439. You may also become a member

of Tahoma Audubon Society at the time of registration.

Beginning Birdwatching: Backyard BasicsThis class takes place at the Tacoma Nature Center at Snake Lake

Mondays March 3rd to the 23rd, 7:00 pm to 9:00 pm

Curious about birds, but dont know your crown from your tail feather? All are welcome to

this introduction to the joy of identifying the birds that are all around us. You will learn how

to identify common birds, use eld guides as well as binoculars. Learn, too, about some of the

best places to see birds and practice your newfound skills. Local eld trip Saturday, March 21,

9am-1pm. Call the Tacoma Nature Center to register, 253-591-6439.

$45.00 for Tahoma Audubon Members - $55.00 for Non-Members Ages 18+

Intermediate BirdingThis class takes place at the Adriana Hess Audubon Center in University Place

Tuesdays, April 21st to June 9th, 2009, 7:00 pm to 9:00 pm

This class is for those who have completed an introductory birders class or have a good

background in bird identication. In addition to the scheduled class days, there are three eld

study sessions. Field Trips: 2-day trip to Washington coast on May 2-3; 2-day trip to Wenas

on June 6-7; 3-day trip to Eastern Washington June 20-22. Participants are responsible for trip

transportation and expenses. Call the Tacoma Nature Center to register, 253-591-6439.

$55.00 for Tahoma Audubon Members - $75.00 for Non-Members Ages 18+

This field-based class brings together the natural

world and the artists perspective. Native plant

specialist, Mary Sue Gee, will provide hands-on

instruction in identification and ecological rela-

tionships during one classroom session and three

field trips. She will be joined by Monica Weidman,

watercolor artist and botanical illustrator, to

engage the students in a deeper appreciation and

understanding of the native plant ecosystem of

the South Puget Sound. Mary Sue has an MLA

degree in landscape architecture and extensive

training and experience in wildlife habitat restora-

tion, urban and wetlands ecology. She combines

her interest in art and nature in her presentations

and stories. Monica has a BA in Art Education

and is a certified Scientific Illustrator. She finds

pleasure in natures serene pace and its simple

yet complex beauty.

Partners in providing thebest in nature

programming

at the Tacoma Nature Center

Now enrolling students ages 3-6

First session begins September 2009Details at www.metroparkstacoma.org Or call 253-591-6439

Nurture in Nature Preschool

Call TAS to register (253-565-9278). Some trips are

people limited out of necessity.

Notify TAS 24 hours in advance if you cannot come.

Field trip leaders put in a lot of time and planning and

no-shows disrupt field trips. More than 3 no-shows a

year can result in revoking opportunity to participate.

Arrive at the meeting place early.

No pets are allowed.

Be prepared for seasonal weather.

Bring lunch, drinks and snacks if the field trip is

scheduled past mid-day.

All passengers divide total carpooling expenses.

Current guidelines are 20 cents a mile per car, not

including driver.

Beginners are always welcome.

Have fun.

RulEsWild Edible Plant WalksCome and eatStinging Net-tles and otherplants, on ourWild EdiblePlant walks!We will havetwo walks inFebruary both starting at 2 PM and meeting inthe big parking lots One at Kopachuck on theSaturday the 14th of February (so bring your

Valentine!) and the other at Penrose Point onSaturday the 28th of February. What betterway to start the new year than to learn how tospot all sorts of healthy greens for free! Both walks will be led by rangers Dan Christianand Matt Smith. Each walk will be limited to15 people, so you need to call in advance toregister. For Kopachuck call 253-265-3606 andfor Penrose call 253-884-2514.

The Art & Nature of Native Plants Spring ClassFee: $75 member; $95 non-member includes class

instruction and three field trips. Optional field trips may be

scheduled with additional fee.

Required Text: Plants of the Pacific Northwest

Coast, Jim Pojar and Andy MacKinnon, 1994. Book will be

available at class for $19.95. Discount for Tahoma Audubon

members.

Suggested Text: Flora of the Pacific Northwest, C.L.

Hitchcock and A. Cronquist, 1973.

Other field guides are useful if students have favorites.

Suggested Tools: Any type of sketch book, pencils,

charcoal, colored pencils, watercolors, magnifying glass/

lens, binoculars, camera

Class Date: 7-9 pm, Wed. April 15, Adriana Hess Audubon

Center, University Place

Field Trips: 9am-3pm; Sat. April 18, Sat. May 2. Third

date to be scheduled with class.

Scholarship assistance is available. Contact the

education committee chair, Margie Shea, at 591-

6439 or [email protected]

To Register: Call 591-6439 to register. Pre-registration is

required. Deadline to register is April 8.

stephanieSWAIMEducation Coordinator
mailto:[email protected]:[email protected]:[email protected]:[email protected]:[email protected]://www.metroparkstacoma.org/http://www.metroparkstacoma.org/http://www.metroparkstacoma.org/mailto:[email protected]:[email protected]


4/7

Page 6 www.tahomaaudubon.org February 2009 www.tahomaaudubon.org Page 7

Area 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 Boat Total

Species

Red-throated Loon 25 25

Pacic Loon 1 58 59

Common Loon 3 1 6 10

loon sp. 1 1

Pied-billed Grebe 1 1 4 14 2 1 1 23

Horned Grebe 10 13 26 11 1 3 1 65

Red-necked Grebe 2 4 1 4 1 241 253

Eared Grebe 47 47

Western Grebe 4 52 1 4 1179 1240

Clark's Grebe

Dbl-crested Cormorant 46 45 48 6 259 1 34 268 707

Brandt's Cormorant 22 4 349 375

Pelagic Cormorant 1 2 49 5 100 157

cormorant sp.

Great Blue Heron 19 13 7 6 5 4 1 12 67

Mute Swan 1 1

Trumpeter Swan 5 5

Swan species 41 5 46

Canada Goose 240 116 6 35 170 151 490 97 19 1324

Cackling Goose 4 82 27 113

Snow Goose 183 153 187 523

Wood Duck 60 9 3 72

Green-winged Teal 28 2 3 5 52 1 91

Mallard 80 166 93 134 85 226 70 253 76 1183

Northern Pintail 2 6 4 1 20 33

Cinnamon Teal

Northern Shoveler 1 2 5 567 575

Gadwall 8 11 58 14 5 96

Eurasian Wigeon 1 6 1 1 1 10

American Wigeon 215 360 66 95 49 73 37 232 158 1285

Canvasback 30 30

Redhead 4 4

Ring-necked Duck 26 4 1 447 10 488Greater Scaup 6 19 25

Lesser Scaup 12 114 2 128

scaup sp.

Harlequin Duck 1 5 6

Long-tailed Duck 6 6

Black Scoter 11 11

Surf Scoter 32 10 70 24 6 19 575 736

White-winged Scoter 1 3 3 17 24

scoter sp.

Common Goldeneye 8 36 15 43 134 27 351 614

Barrow's Goldeneye 110 28 34 7 5 44 228

goldeneye sp.

Bufehead 5 20 50 9 72 131 38 4 141 470

Hooded Merganser 7 3 6 38 4 4 1 63

Common Merganser 7 61 18 210 27 316 639

Red-breast. Merganser 9 4 3 9 25 289 339

merganser sp.

Ruddy Duck 11 11


Bald Eagle, adult 6 4 5 2 3 2 1 12 35

Bald Eagle, immature 3 1 4

Northern Harrier 1 1

Belted Kingsher 2 3 5 1 2 3 3 19

Red-breasted Sapsucker 6 4 7 2 3 2 1 25

sapsucker sp.

Downy Woodpecker 2 7 5 10 2 4 30

Hairy Woodpecker 2 2

Northern Flicker (red sh.) 11 10 27 26 4 6 10 20 1 115

(yellow shafted/int.)

Pileated Woodpecker 1 2 2 1 1 1 1 9

*Tree Swallow 2 2

swallow species

Horned Lark

Steller's Jay 9 11 22 52 6 9 3 11 1 124

Western Scrub-Jay 3 1 5 9 4 6 4 32

American Crow 160 421 353 321 200 65 200 464 6 2190

Common Raven 1 1

Black-capped Chickadee 37 53 32 136 32 38 12 81 421

Chestnut-bk.Chickadee 29 22 137 24 6 2 3 223

Bushtit 32 60 25 18 3 10 148

Red-breasted Nuthatch 4 1 20 9 3 2 2 6 47

Brown Creeper 1 3 3 1 2 10

Bewick's Wren 2 2 1 4 5 3 4 21

Winter Wren 8 8 17 11 1 2 1 1 49Marsh Wren 4 2 1 7

wren sp.

American Dipper

Golden-crowned Kinglet 31 4 5 38 45 49 10 13 195

Ruby-crowned Kinglet 10 5 7 12 2 1 37

Townsend's Solitaire

Hermit Thrush 2 1 3 1 1 8

American Robin 1203 152 2906 151 41 15 12 101 212 4793

Varied Thrush 7 7 12 8 2 2 4 42

American Pipit 1 1 8 10

Cedar Waxwing 290 200 1 491

Northern Shrike

European Starling 60 347 274 169 17 53 400 1364 20 2704


Species

Hutton's Vireo 2 2

Orange-crowned Warbler

Yellow-rumped Warbler 3 20 2 1 26

..Audubon's subsp.

..Myrtle's subsp.

Townsend's Warbler 1 4 1 4 1 11

warbler sp.

Spotted Towhee 15 16 44 37 9 3 17 32 173

*American Tree Sparrow

Savannah Sparrow 3 3Fox Sparrow 9 8 21 18 10 3 10 4 83

Song Sparrow 18 52 42 62 46 7 16 27 270

Lincoln's Sparrow 1 1

*Swamp Sparrow

*White-throated Sparrow 1 1

Golden-crowned Sparrow 5 64 19 8 14 70 180

White-crowned Sparrow 8 3 2 2 15

Dark-eyed Junco (Oregon) 112 91 293 219 35 45 53 122 970

.. slate-colored subsp. 1 1

Red-winged Blackbird 50 3 18 8 42 35 156

Western Meadowlark 7 1 8

Brewer's Blackbird 50 16 5 71

blackbird sp.

Brown-headed Cowbird

Purple Finch 4 7 23 34

House Finch 14 111 23 105 20 18 32 323

Red Crossbill 3 3

Pine Siskin 55 118 55 50 105 383

American Goldnch 2 3 1 75 81

Evening Grosbeak

nch sp.

House Sparrow 76 27 16 106 10 21 20 51 327

Sharp-shinned Hawk 1 1 1 3

Cooper's Hawk 2 1 4 1 1 9

Accipiter sp. 1 1

Red-tailed Hawk 13 13 4 4 2 36

Rough-legged Hawk

American Kestrel 1 1

Merlin 1 1 1 1 4

Peregrine Falcon 1 2 1 1 5

Ring-necked Pheasant 2 2

Ruffed Grouse

California Quail 13 13

Virginia RailSora

American Coot 6 17 9 1732 1764

Black-bellied Plover

Killdeer 8 31 1 27 6 7 16 5 101

Greater Yellowlegs

Spotted Sandpiper 1 1 2

Ruddy Turnstone

Black Turnstone 5 3 8

Sanderling

Western Sandpiper

Least Sandpiper

Dunlin 315 60 6 381

calidris sp.

Long-billed Dowitcher

dowitcher sp.

Wilson's (Common) Snipe 1 1 2 2 6

sandpiper sp.

Parasitic Jaeger

Little Gull

Bonaparte's Gull 400 50 500 60 1596 2606

Heermann's Gull

Mew Gull 94 103 20 1579 1796

Ring-billed Gull 50 1 147 198

California Gull 6 9 10 1 4 30

Herring Gull 2 2

Thayer's Gull 1 10 7 4 22

Western Gull 1 1 2

Glaucous-winged Gull 135 144 125 67 45 22 40 28 286 892

W. X Glaucous-winged 10 42 2 169 223

gull species 1700 3 20 1723

Common Murre 1 96 97

Pigeon Guillemot 14 3 204 2 21

Ancient Murrelet 24 24

Marbled Murrelet 1 1

Rhinocerous Auklet 1 2 56 59

CASSIN'S AUKLET 1 1


Rock Pigeon 555 82 58 289 20 58 2 150 23 1237

Band-tailed Pigeon 1 4 2

Mourning Dove 1 40 2 2 45

Barn Owl CW

Western Screech-Owl 1 1 2

Great Horned Owl 1 2 1 4

Short-eared Owl

No. Saw-whet Owl

Barred Owl 1 1

Anna's Hummingbird 15 9 21 8 4 9 66

Count Compiler: Faye McAdams Hands

Area 1: Joe McGuire

Area 2: Carol Schulz

Area 3: Diane Yorgason-Quinn

Area 4: Roxy & Bill Giddings

Area 5: Rolan Nelson

Area 6: Marcus Roening

Area 7: Stan & Sharon Johnson

Area 8: Ruth Sullivan

Carol Smith, Jim ODonnell& Cindy Smith.

Photo/Diane Yorgason-Quinn

By Faye McAdams Hands

Or at least, thats how it felt! Our Christmas Bird Count for

2008 fell right in the middle of our chilling December tempera-

tures and snow-covered roads. Id like to personally thank all of

the Area Coordinators -- Joe McGuire & Art Wang, Carol Schulz,

Diane Yorgason-Quinn, Roxy & Bill Giddings, Rolan Nelson,

Marcus Roening, Ed Pullen for Stan & Sharon Johnson, and Ruth

Sullivan and ALL of our Counters, for persevering and making

it happen!

We actually did quite well coming in with all time high

counts encompassing the 35 years of Tahoma Audubons CBC

for a number of species: Annas Hummingbird, Red-breasted

Sapsucker, and Snow Geese. We also had a first this year as our

own Charlie Wright spotted a Cassins Auklet from the Boat.

The Tally Dinner was well attended, considering the thicken-

ing snow that started about 1pm and refused to let up. Wetallied, ate fast, re-lived the day and our high points, and drove

carefully home.

See you next year, when were all hoping for weather in the

mid-60s for our 2009 CBC!

CBC in the frozen tundra!

That day was just the beginning. Reports from all over western

Washington, but most right here in the South Sound, continued to roll

in through early January, then slowly dissipated as the snow did like-

wise. Geese were reported at Titlow, Nisqually, Puyallup, Fife, Gog-Le-

Hi-Te at the port, Belfair, Eatonville, Federal Way, and huge numbers in

Kent (650 in one flock). There were also reports south to Julia Butler

Hansen National Wildlife Refuge, west to Grays Harbor, and the

greater Seattle area.

Bryan Hanson saw 107 with Ed Pullen on the CBC in Fife. He said,

It was a big surprise and a real treat to see those beautiful Snow

Geese in Fife. As unusual as it was, they did look quite at home in

the snowy field.

Though we have had Geese before on our CBC, this year has been

unprecedented in numbers and distribution in the south sound, just

one more way this has been an unusual winter.

In an attempt to solve the mystery, I turned to Dr. Dennis Paulson,

Director Emeritus at the UPS Slater Museum of Natural History and

friend to Tahoma Audubon, who had of course been following the

phenomenon. His analysis: The first thing that occurred to me

when this invasion of the south Sound began to happen was that the

heavy snow was completely covering their feeding areas on the

Skagit Flats and northward. I dont have confirmation of this, but I

think its the best guess. I think it explains Trumpeter Swans also

being seen in many more areas than usual and the repeated sighting

of flocks of both species flying just about everywhere.

Theyre gone now. Hope you didnt miss them! If so, come on

our field trip to the Skagit Valley February 7 th. One mission will be to

discover whether the Snow Geese are back where they belong!

... Geesefrom page 1

Top: Song Sparrow in the snow.

Above: Our water crew on tugboat Joe, December 20, 2008.

Left to right: Reporter from the Peninsula Gateway , Marian La-

Bar, Bruce LaBar, Faye McAdams Hands, Charlie Wright, barely

seen is skipper Robin, and on the dock Jim ODonnell

Photos/Diane Yorgason-Quinn


5/7

and upper body give adults a slightly shaggy appear-

ance. Juveniles have a dark crown, a foreneck heavily-

streaked with brown, and lack the adult plumes.

The Great Blue Heron (Ardea herodias) is at home

across most of North America. It breeds from south-

east Alaska to Canadas Maritime Provinces, and

south across the United States well into Mexico. On

the Pacific Coast the Great Blue ranges from Alaskas

Kenai Peninsula to Baja California. Birds east of the

Rockies are migratory and winter

roughly from the Ohio Valley

to northern South

America.

Great Blues are

common residents in

suitable habitat throughout our

state, and a February visit to a local

heron colony can be a fascinating

experience. Great Blues entertain

observers with a large reper-

toire of stylized behaviors and

sounds to maintain territory and attract the opposite

sex. An unattached male shows his availability in the

stretch display by extending his neck, raising his bill

to vertical, erecting neck plumes, and then retracting

his neck while moaning Goo-goo. He also claps his

bill together audibly, preens demonstratively, and

makes circular flights above the colony with neck

extended. Herons have an entire series of calls; some

examples are the repeated Frawnk which expresses

alarm or threatens. The clucking

Go-go-go is a contact call at the

colony and foraging sites, and a

two-syllableEe call is uttered in flight.

Great Blues dont need much from us,

but they do need space around their

colonies, about three hundred meters,

especially early in the breeding

season when the birds are quick to

abandon their huge nests. Beyond

that they need only some wet meadows, marsh-

es and shorelines, where if you think William

Dawson was right they actually lend

their touch ofpicturesque tran-

quility to our busy world.

February 2009 www.tahomaaudubon.org Page 9Page 8 www.tahomaaudubon.org February 2009

BIRDSONGS

byPhilBuly

aNNOuNcEMENTs

Answers:1.Osprey2.perchingbird3.Antarctica4.eyass5.Commongoldeneye

Dennis Paulson did the program for

our 15th Anniversary Banquet on

February 10, 1984 at the Sherwood

Inn. He called his program a

photographic essay entitled Follow

the Wind Birds, covering the biology of

shorebirds, the plovers, sandpipers, and their

relatives.

Our Christmas Bird Count, presided over by Ken

Brown on December 18, 1983 resulted in average

numbers: 116 species. The excitement was that Joe

Quinn, Mary Layman and Rich Bowers spotted the

first ever Peregrine Falcon in Area 1. Other goodies

included an Oldsquaw (now Long-tailed Duck), two

Virginia Rails, two Ancient Murrelets, 200 Water Pipits,

one Red Crossbill, one White-fronted Goose. No

Merlins. The birders gathered to do the count totals at

Helen Engles home where they enjoyed the chili

dinner she prepared for them.

For several years Dr. Henry Kyle, physician at McNeil

Island Federal Penitentiary for over three decades, had

been asking for support in finding a way to preserve

the naturalness of McNeil Island against the possibility

of private development. On January 4, 1984 papers

were signed which transferred most of the

McNeil Island Complex to the State of

Washington. The Game Commission,

with positive recommendation from the

Non-game Advisory Council, gave

Director Frank Lockard the authority to

negotiate with the State and to accept

ownership of the bulk of the island complex.

The transfer was made subject to the condition that

the property transferred shall continue to be used for

wildlife conservation. Decision makers who stuck to

their promises received our thanks: Governor John

Spellman, Rep. Norm Dicks, Rep. Sid Morrison, Sen.

Slade Gorton, and Sen. Dan Evans.

Auduboners across the state were working to pass

the Washington Wilderness Bill of 1984. Mary Fries,

our Wildflower Specialist, wrote some beautiful words

about what wildness means to us.

It is enough for me to know that somewhere there

is room for the cougar to roam though I will never see

him. There are wildflowers I will never learn to

identify because I cant get near enough but I cheer

them on and wish them well on this spaceship Earth.

There are wild fish I will never eat. There are birds

singing in the deep woods, making nests, guided by

some age-old pattern I cannot know. There are

sweet cascades of water

moving toward me from

higher ground. I take a drink

of it and taste the essence of

the mountains.

Our field trips were

coordinated by Cathy Jerbic,

Field Trip Chair. We went to

see Art Wolfes wildlife

photography at Pier 59 Gallery

near the Seattle Aquarium;

plus a family outing to the Aquarium with Snake Lake

Nature center (Now Tacoma Nature Center). Jim

Scearce led the trip to Nisqually Wildlife Refuge; Ken

Brown led the Skagit River and Padilla Bay trip. Thais

Bock took us to West Seattles Lincoln Park and

Vashon Island, walking onto the Fauntleroy-Vashon

Ferry to look for alcids and seabirds. Cathy Jerbic took

us to explore the Wilkeson Coke Ovens and have

lunch at the Wilkeson City Restaurant for some local

history. Snake Lake Nature Center took us to San

Juan Island for a visit to the Whale museum, plus

birding for Eagles, Skylarks, and seabirds.

By Helen Engle

Helen Englefrom days of yore.

Feedback, comments and reminiscences

welcome, 253-564-3112, [email protected].

Just the other day... Heres what TAS was doing in February 1984

Audubonstronglysupportsproperly-sitedwindpowerasacleanalter-

nativeenergysourcethatreducesthethreatofglobalwarming.

Wind

powerfacilitiesshouldbeplanned,sitedandoperatedtominimize

negativeimpactsonbirdandwildlifepopulations.

NationalAudubonSocietyWindPowerPolicy

... Great Blue from page 1

quizzicalthe

By Thais Bock

wl1. Formerly known as Fish Hawk whatis its name today?

2. The word passerine means _______.

3. Waterfowl are found on every conti-nent except this one.

4. A young falcon is called an _________.

5. Which goldeneye species has a round

white spot on its face? (Answers below cartoon.)

A plaque honoring Keith Schwyhart will be installed at our

recirculating stream,

at the Adriana Hess Wetland Park, where Tahoma Audubon provides educationalprograms. To give you a bit of history on this: University Place became a city in

1995, and wanting open-space in the new city, they purchased this land from Dr.George Hess and his wife Adriana. The mayor asked Tahoma Audubon if theywould be the educational presence for the Park. This role was nalized on paper

in 1997. Sometime soon after that, Keith was appointed to the AHWP Committeeeven though Audubon did not come into the building until December, 1999.

The AHWP Committee continued the planning and the accomplishing of the

mitigation required because the trail and the deck were placed within the 100 footwetland buffer. As the Committee met monthly, Keith started sharing how hed

visited centers where one could watch the birds from the Centers windows. Hewas sold on the difference in number of birds when water was present. The Com-

mittee agreed. The architect had planned for an amphitheater at this spot. As theCommittee kept planning, it was agreed wed have a stream and we began looking

for various companies to give us plans. Keith brought forth a rm with whom he

had had experience and the Committee and Park chose his candidate. The projectwas nshed in 2004. We may have had an amphitheater and many fewer birds on

this site if it had not been for Keith.

In late 2008, Keith

Schwyhart was diag-

nosed with lymphoma,

and died peacefully in

the company of family

December 15, 2008.

His Wife, Betty Bruce

and his family request-

ed that memorials be

sent to Tahoma Audu-

bon in his honor.

Honoring Keith Schwyhart

Think Birdathon now so youll be ready with

pledges when it comes time between April 25 andMay 31 to go out on a given day to count the birds.

You can count alone, with a group of your friends,

or choose to go with an expert birder and get thehelp you need to really find a good number ofbirds. Choices of trips will be listed in futureTowhees. Please watch for them and call TAS tosign up.

Many sponsors prefer to pledge a flat amount

and that works well, too.Its fun, you learn a whole lot about birds, and

meet people with the same interests as you havewhen you sign on as a Birder/Counte r. If you cantgo out to find the birds, you are encouraged tosend a Birdathon contribution. Tahoma Audubon

needs many dedicated sponsors to help supportour conservation and education work.

who is it?

Birdathon is knocking!

Celebrate

Come Celebrate!The Conservation & Education Legacy

and Leadership of Thelma Gilmur

Open HouseSunday, February 15, 2009

1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.Mountaineers Clubhouse2302 North 30th Street,

Tacoma, WA

In recognition of this milestone, we invite

you to join us for an evening of great

food, unbeatable company and hearty

celebration of our accomplishments

over the last four decades. Well

reect on our past and future...and

well have fun doing it!

The evenings program includes a cock-

tail hour, fantastic silent auction items and a

delicious buffet meal. Then well elect new board

members, recognize our distinguished volunteers

and kick off this years Birdathon.

We sincerely look forward to seeing you

at this 40th Anniversary event!

Tahoma Audubon Society is turning 40!

Thanks to you, we have lots and lots of books inour library at the Adriana Hessofce ... but now we needanother bookcase!

Do you have a

bookcase to donate?If so, please call us 24 hours before donating

your bookcase so that we will be ready for yourdelivery. Were in the ofce from 10am - 1pm.253-565-9278

What: TAS 40th Anniversary Banquet

and Annual Membership Meeting

When: Saturday, February 28th, 2009.

Cocktails & auction - 5:30 p.m.

Dinner and program - 7 p.m.

Where: Clover Park

Technical College

McGavick Student Center

4500 Steilacoom Blvd, SW

Lakewood, WA98499

Cost: $40 per person

RSVP: Order tickets at

www.TahomaAudubon.org.

Deadline for registration is Tuesday, Feb. 17th.


6/7


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 sub-

scription, free family events, birding trip invitations, class & book dis-

counts, 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. Checkspayableto:TahomaAudubon2917Morrison

Rd.W.

UniversityPlace,

98466TahomaAudubon

Society,establishedin1969,

isa501(c)(3)nonprofit

organization.Donationsaretaxdeductible.

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)

Membership

VOluNTEERRecognition


wElcOME to New and Returning Members

We are so pleased to welcome you to Tahoma Audu-

bon Society. Our mission is to conserve and restore

natural ecosystems, focusing on birds, other wildlife,and their habitats for the benet of humanity and the

earths biological diversity.Chapter New and Renewing:

Lynn Arthur & Galen Stark, Amy Bettesworth, Bent &

Marie Blichfeldt, Carole Breedlove, John & CatherineBunger, Jennifer L Burklund, Loretta Chivers, Don &

Pat Clifford, Kathryn Cooper, Susan C Dawson, RhonaDiehl, Edith Drylie, Gloria Ellis, Lloyd & Patricia Fet-

terly, Bill & Roxy Giddings, Barbara Guller, CorreneHall & Alan Hurr, Thomas M Hargrove, Danielle E

Harrington, Gail Hemphill, Valerie Higgins, Barbara &

Michael Hill, Millard & Becky Hixson, Rita L Hum-mel & Jim Hansen, Robert Husted, Wayne Jackson,

Brooke A & Brian Johnson, Byrna Klavano, Phyl-lis Knopp, Margaret Kraft, Mardi Krusemark, Dillon

Leggett, Robert & Rosemary Lenigan, Jean O Loomis,

Paul & Lauretta Lucien, Ferm Lundberg, Carol Mack-innon, Marilyn Mahoney, David Marshall, Susan Mat-

tern, Brian & Sue McCluskey, Jean McCord, Sally

McHugh, William Mitchell, Gary & Sharon

Nestegard, Herman K Nickel, Jim & Jeanne

ODonnell, John & Karen Parks, Alex Petty,Robyn Ryan, Fred & Louise Schumock, Tan-

ja Scott, Gretta Stanll, Evelyn Svendsen,Mike Walker, Alan B Zimmerschied.

Chapter Joint with National:

Christine Anderson, Robert Annon, Patricia Bergen,Nels & Winifred Bjarke, Judy Blatt, Jack & Billie

Brown, Nate & Angie Chappell, Gerald L Cozad, LoisCurrie, Jo Egan, John T English, Robert M Ferguson,

Willena Ferguson, Philip O Frazer, Al Gray, Phillip &Shirley Healy, Sherrie Kilborn, Jim & Ann Leighty,

Julie & David Lucas, Robert Mack, Betty J Main, San-

dra T Martin, Mary Pat Minor, June & Wayne Mosby,John Nelson, Richard & Janet Nelson, Tedd & Sally

Nesheim, Ann Post, Ed & Kay Pullen, William Scheer,Jon G Wagner, William Weber, Joel Wingard.

Introductory, Recruited through TAS:

Mickey Allen, Mark & Kathy Baldridge, Curt Black,Lynn de la Maza, Jay Erickson, Ronald Groves, Marian

Hagener, Rocky Hauge, Bill Ludwig, Michelle J Tirhi

& Adele Tirhi, Alex Wang.

Introductory, Recruited through NAS:Mary Boatwright, Charles R Cludesson, Theresa Du-

fault, Abigail Jarman, Lawrence P Lake, D Page, Wade

Spear, Constance K Till, Elaine Tomita, Julie Veeck,Geoff Walker.

Hope you will attend our very special 40th anniversarymembership meeting and banquet on February 28th.

NOTE: 82 TAS members renewed their membershipthrough NAS as shown in the latest NAS report to us.

These 82 members will not receive the Towhee.

REMEMBER: Since policy started in January 2008,the Towhee is sent only to those who have renewed lo-

cally through Tahoma Audubon. This is because we donot get a share of fees when members renew through

the national Audubon organization.

November 16, 2008 to January 15, 2008

By Diane Yorgason-Quinn

The January floods were beating us down after therecord December snows, so Ruth Sullivan led the firstchapter field trip of 2009 out of the weather into theOlympic rain shadow, and it worked!We had found the ark, and we stayed

nice and dry all day with nary a drop.Extra high tides coinciding with thenearly full moon reminded us that wewere in fact still living in a waterworld, though. Beaches were mostlysubmerged, so there were very fewshorebirds. Luckily, the abundantwaterfowl made up for it.

Ruths first stop was Point Wilsonat Fort Worden, near Port Townsend.This site has become quite famousthis winter for providing guaranteedlooks at large numbers of AncientMurrelets, and this day was no excep-tion. We saw several lines of thesesought-after cousins of the Puffinsflying single-file low over the water,though of course not very close!Three species of Loons, Cormorants,Surf Scoters, Red-BreastedMergansers, Western and Horned Grebes, Gulls, andstunning Harlequins rounded out the species here, withlarge numbers of Buffleheads. Buffles were everywherewe went, both salt and fresh water. Luckily its hard to get

tired of them!At Port Hudson

in town, we foundthe expected hugeflock of BlackTurnstones on thepilings and among

them the previ-ously reportedtwo RockSandpipers, hardbirds to see evenwhen youre look-ing right at them,their heads tuckedin to drown out

the noisy Turnstones. Ruth described the Turnstonevocalization as a guttural rattle, but at least it was hap-py-sounding rattle. What was really unusual, though, wasthe single Marbled Godwit standing like King Kongamong the bantam Turnstones and Sandpipers, perhaps

thinking himself as a god among shorebirds, somethingwe couldnt argue with. Dapper Hooded Merganserscruised back and forth through the pilings, jockeying forbetter positions just as we were doing above them.

For the freshwater point of view, we visited the Kah TaiLagoon, where Ruddy Ducks amused us greatly, as wellas a Pied-Billed Grebe, Scaup, Gadwall, Coots, and aGreat Blue Heron. We had a few Song and Fox Sparrowsas well, our first Passerine spot of the day. The light waspretty good here, especially considering our gray day, socameras came out. Loren Webster had brought some

pretty nice camera equipment, and it was hard to tear himaway. Of course, Ruth is one of the premier bird photog-raphers in the region, as we all know. Leslie Webster justlooked on with amusement. She was getting life birdstoday!

Heading out of Port Townsend, we hit the jackpot atIndian Island Lagoon Beach with 450 Brant!! A PileatedWoodpecker, Cackling Geese, and several Bald Eagles(by now becoming junk birds!) were also at hand. Atight-

knit group of six Great Blue Herons across the water on asmall patch of beach made us wonder what they were upto with their unusual cooperative behavior.

Then working our way to Fort Flagler, we finally foundthe flock of little birds wed been listening for all day. We

were surrounded by both Kinglets,Downy Woodpecker, Brown Creeper,

Varied Thrushes, both Chickadees,and best of all 300 Pine Siskins intwo intersecting flocks, patrolling theskies above us and some fenced-inchickens, domestic geese, and goatswho were valiantly guarding the fort.Some of us have been missing theSiskins for the last couple of winters,but now we know where they are.New Purple Martin boxes had beeninstalled and made us look twice atwhat looked like out-of-seasonMartins that turned out to be decoys.Hope they work to bring the birds tothese great nest boxes.

We ended our day at Oak Bay withhundreds of Pintail! What a sight!We were smiling all the way home.Ruth calculated 65 species for theday, with terrific numbers especially

of the most-wanted Brant, Pintail, and Ancient Murrelets!Wow! As we headed south, the sky darkened and theheavens opened up again, but they didnt dampen ourbirding experience. Thanks, Ruth! Its good to have youback in the saddle.

Red-Throated loon, Point Wilson,January 11, 2009

Photo/Loren Webster

By Julie Kerrigan

Recently, I have had the privilege to work withAnna Thurston on the Natural Area StewardshipTraining developed by the Washington NativePlant Society, in conjunction with the CascadeLand Conservancy, Green Tacoma Partnership,City of Tacoma and Metro Parks Tacoma. Thetraining is an 11 week course offered on Fridays atthe Tacoma Nature Center in which participantslearn about native and invasive plants, soils, sitemanagement plans, geology, site monitoring, map-ping and a variety of other topics. Experts in theirfields provide the classroom and field trainings.Throughout the training Saturday field trips arescheduled to provide a variety of hands-on volun-teer experiences, habitat exploration and plantidentification opportunities. This training is offered

free to participants with the understanding thatparticipants will volunteer their time (100 hours)and new gained knowledge to work as stewards ona variety of natural areas around Tacoma.Participants receive a wonderful assortment of freeresources in the form of maps, books and bro-chures. We have about 20 participants in the train-ing who are eager to learn and volunteer their time.While Im there to assist with set-up, preparing forpresentations and volunteer check-in, I am learn-ing like the participants about our natural worldand how we can make it a better place. I lovelearning new things and Im really excited that Ihave the chance to soak it all in and put my knowl-edge to good use.

In the coming months the Green TacomaPartnership will be offering free one day trainingswith similar content. Look for more details soon.

A student at the University of Puget Sound, Jill is

interning with Tahoma Audubon as editor of theTowhee for her spring semester. She has already

jumped into the work with both feet for this issue.We look forward to her contributions in the comingmonth. Jill is looking for volunteers who want to helpwith editing the Towhee now and in the future.

Natural Area Stewardship TrainingWelcome to Jill Eikenhorst

High and dry birding in flood season

What is Global Youth Service Day?

Pierce County Global Youth Service

Day is a time for hundreds of youth

volunteers from throughout Pierce

County to join local nonprofit and other

community organizations to work on

service projects. Participating organiza-

tions are matched with volunteers who

give their time, talents and services to

make a hands-on difference in our com-

munity.

Not only does Global Youth Service Day have a sig-

nificant impact on the needs of local nonprofits and

schools, it also enables volunteers to meet new

people, work as a team, gain new experiences, and

see first-hand the caring power of our community.

Its about coming together for a common purpose to

improve the lives of others and advance the com-

mon good.

The goals of Global Youth Service Day are:

1.) To mobilize youth to identify and address the

needs of their communities through service.

2.) To support youth on a life-long path of service

and civic engagement.

3.) To educate the public, the media,

and policymakers about the year-round

contributions of young people as com-

munity leaders.

What Kind of Projects are

Encouraged?

Organizations are encouraged to sub-

mit project applications to utilize teams

of 10 to 50 individuals. We encourage

service-learning projects in areas rang-

ing from literacy and the environment, to healthcare,

hunger, and help for the elderly.

Agencies are welcome to submit applications for

multiple projects. Specific projects might include:

Serving a meal at a homeless shelterHome repair or construction for a low-income familyAssisting at the local food bankCollecting books for kids and spending time readingwith them.PaintingLandscapingEnvironmental educationPark, school or playground clean-upCollection Drives for food, clothing, etc.Graffiti clean up

When & Where

Projects can take place anytime between February

16 and April 26, 2009. A Volunteer Celebration event

will occur on Friday, April 24, from 5:30 to 8:30 pm

at Mount Tahoma High School.

Who Can Volunteer?

Youth ages 12 to 24 are welcome to participate. We

have a goal of having more than 750 youth partici-

pate along with 250 adult mentors.

Have a project? Want to volunteer?

For more information contact: Sarah Oliver at

[email protected]. Or call(253)

284-3380.

2009 Pierce County Global Youth Service DayGlobal Youth

Service Day '09

Tacoma Goodwill will mobilize more than 750 young

people to participate in the 21st Annual Global Youth Ser-

vice Day, Fri.-Sun., April 24-26, 2009, in Pierce County.

Tacoma Goodwill will receive $2,000, provided by State

Farm Companies Foundation, to help with planning local

GYSD projects. Youth from around the county will lead,

design and carry out several projects at schools and non-

prots throughout

the area.

Photo/Diane Yorgason-QuinnPhoto/Diane Yorgason-Quinn

We found the missing Pine Siskins near Fort Flagler.Decoys adorn new Purple Martin Houses.

Photo/Ruth Sullivan

Marbled Godwit trying to blend in with a hundred Black Turnstones at Port Townsend.

Ruth Sullivan, Leslie and Loren Webster at the Kah Tai Lagoon near Port Townsend.

Photo/Diane Yorgason-Quinn


7/7

Feb 6 Fri 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM. TGIF Work Party. Location:Adriana Hess Wetland Park. Habitat restoration (planting,

invasive species removal, pruning).

Feb 7 Sat 11:58 AM to 3:58 PM. Seabird Survey 5. Location:

assigned survey sites.

Feb 9 Mon 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM. Bird Walk at Hess

Feb 10 Tue 10:30 AM to 11:30 AM Nature Alphabet: C is for

Colorful Critters. Tacoma Nature Center. Preschoolers exploredifferent nature topics through stories, hands-on activities, nature

walks, and crafts at the Tacoma Nature Center. Adult participationis recommended, children under four require an adult present.

Please note alternating times. Register by the Saturday before theprogram by calling 591-6439.

Feb 10 Tue 4:00 PM to 5:30 PM. Conservation Committee.Location: Adriana Hess Wetland Park, 2917 Morrison Road W,

University Place, WA 98466 M

Feb 10 Tue 6:30 PM to 9:00 PM. Valentine Card Class. AdrianaHess Center. Rosanne Becker: Instructor. Valentine Iris Fold

Card Class. Fill in Valentine shapes with colorful strips of paperor ribbon that spiral to the center or iris. Leave class with at least

two cards and patterns to make your own! Just bring scotch

magic tape (green plaid dispensor), small scissors and a craftcutting mat if possible! Cost: $15 paid at class. Call 565-9278 toreserve your spot! Email: [email protected] or call 253-564-

7115 for questions.

Nature Snapshots: Mammals

Feb 10 Tue 6:30 PM to 8:30 PM at Tacoma Nature Center. Ages12 and up, $15 per person or $30 per family (4 people max)

Join us for a snapshot of nature as we explore the basics ofidentication and help families learn a few of the local native

wildlife. Call 591-6439 to register. E

Feb 11 Wed 7:30 AM to 11:00 AM. Weekly Bird Walks at

Nisqually Join Phil on his weekly bird walks as he counts thebirds at Nisqually NWR. Meet: At the Visitors Center. The

group may walk out to McAllister Creek if that trail is open.Then it takes the boardwalk/trail loop out to the Twin Barns, the

Nisqually overlook area, and the riparian area, totaling about3 miles. Bring: Good walking shoes or boots, raingear, water,

snacks, and $3 for entry fee unless you have a pass. Scopes arewelcome. Sign-up: Call or email Phil Kelley to conrm details

(especially during the trail construction period). Phil Kelley,Lacey, (360) 459-1499, [email protected]. F

Feb 11 Wed 10:30 AM to 12:00 PM. Budding Scientists

Adaptations for Life

Feb 11 Wed 3:15 PM to 4:45 PM. Budding ScientistsAdaptations for Life

Feb 12 6:30 PM to 8:30 PM. TAS Board Meeting. Adriana HessAudubon Center. Monthly Meeting of the Tahoma Audubon

Board. Guest Welcome, please call ahead at (253) 565-9278.

Feb 12 Thu 9:30 AM to 11:30 AM. Beginning Homeschool

Science: Amazing Animal Adaptations. Location: TacomaNature Center. Homeschool students explore science through

hands-on experiments, activities and inquiry-based learning.Register early, these classes ll quickly! Call 591-6439. Ages

8-10, $10, 9:30-11:30 or 1-3 pm. To participate in this class,students should be able to add and subtract numbers.

Feb 12 Thu 1:00 to 3:00 PM. Beginning Homeschool Science:

Amazing Animal Adaptations. Tacoma Nature Center.

Feb 13 Fri 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM. TGIF Work Party. Location:

Adriana Hess Wetland Park. Habitat restoration (planting,invasive species removal, pruning).

Feb 13 Fri 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM. Membership Meeting. TacomaNature Center, 1919 S. Tylor Street. Monthly membership

meeting ofTahoma Audubon. All welcome. Check web site forprogram - www.TahomaAudubon.org. Call (253) 565-9278.

Feb 15 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM. Open House for Thelma Gilmur.

Location: Mountaineers Clubhouse, Tacoma. A

Feb 16, 2009 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM. Plant Walk at Hess.

Location: Hess

Feb 17 3:30 PM to 5:00 PM. Snake Lake Science Club: Got

science? Location: Tacoma Nature CenterAges 10-14, no charge for club meetings, $10 per student to join

the club. Snake Lake Science Club is for homeschool and othersudents age 10-14 years old who want to learn more about science

and the natural world. Students pay a once-per-school-year feeof $10 to join the Science Club and are then free to participate in

any program offerings, including the 2009 Snake Lake ScienceFair. The following programs are designed to help students learn

more about science and the scientic process through hands-ondiscovery. Pre-registration for each program is required as space

is limited.

Feb 18 Wed 7:30 AM to 11:00 AM. Weekly Bird Walks atNisqually Join Phil on his weekly bird walks as he counts the

birds at Nisqually NWR. Meet: At the Visitors Center. Thegroup may walk out to McAllister Creek if that trail is open.

Then it takes the boardwalk/trail loop out to the Twin Barns, theNisqually overlook area, and the riparian area, totaling about

3 miles. Bring: Good walking shoes or boots, raingear, water,snacks, and $3 for entry fee unless you have a pass. Scopes are

welcome. Sign-up: Call or email Phil Kelley to conrm details(especially during the trail construction period). Phil Kelley,

Lacey, (360) 459-1499, [email protected]. F

Feb 19 Thu. Enviro. Lobby Day. Location: WA State Capitol,Olympia. www.environmentalpriorities.org. A

Feb 19 Thu. 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM. Intermediate science: All about

Animals. Location: Tacoma nature Center.Homeschool studentsexplore science through hands-on experiments, activities andinquiry-based learning. Register early, these classes ll quickly!

Call 591-6439. Ages 8-10, $10. To participate in this class,students should be able to add and subtract numbers.

Feb 19 Thu. 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM. Intermediate science: Allabout Animals. Location: Tacoma nature Center

Feb 19 Thu 5:00 PM to 6:00 PM. Education Committee Meeting.

Adriana Hess Conference Room.



Feb 24 1:30 PM to 2:30 PM. Nature Alphabet: D is for Dragony.Location: Tacoma Nature Center.

Preschoolers explore different nature topics through stories,hands-on activities, nature walks, and crafts at the Tacoma Nature

Center. Adult participation is recommended, children under fourrequire and adult present. Please note alternating times. Register

by the Saturday before the program by calling 591-6439.

Feb 25 Wed 7:30 AM to 11:00 AM. Weekly Bird Walks atNisqually Join Phil on his weekly bird walks as he counts the






Feb 25 Thu 10:30 AM to 12:00 PM. Budding Scientists:

Animals, Animals Everywhere

Feb 25 Thu 3:15 PM to 4:45 PM. Budding Scientists: Animals,Animals Everywhere

Feb 26 Fri 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM. Advanced Science: Bio-Science:Zoology. Location: Tacoma Nature Center. Homeschool students

explore science through hands-on experiments, activities andinquiry-based learning. Register early, these classes ll quickly!

Ages 12-15, $12. Older homeschool students will continue theirscience studies with challenging and engaging experiments and

activities. To participate in this class, students should be able tocalculate averages, percentages and solve simple equations.



Feb 27 10:30 AM to 11:30 AM. Nature Storytime Starry NightLocation: Adriana Hess Audubon center

Join us as we explore the park at the Adriana Hess AudubonCenter in University Place with nature stories based-on the

current theme. Adults are welcome with the children. This is awonderful grandparent/grandchild activity! Space is limited to

the rst 20 registered guests (adults and children!), so call earlyto sign up! 591-6439. $6.00 per child non-member. $3.00 for

Tahoma Audubon Member. Adults and U.P. residents FREE(registration at Tacoma Nature Center requested, 591-6439)

Feb 27 Fri 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM. Advanced Science Lab:Zoology. Location: Tacoma Nature Center.

Homeschool students explore science through hands-onexperiments, activities and inquiry-based learning. Register

early, these classes ll quickly! Call 591-6439. Ages 12-15, $12.An expanded science class for Advanced Homeschool Science

students which includes an integrated laboratory session as anextension of the two hour classroom session. Students get greater

in-depth investigation of the monthly topic, practice in problem-

solving and research skills and hands-on experimentation.Attendance in the class session is required for participation in

a lab session. Lab sessions are not required for participation inclass sessions.

Feb 28 Sat 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Self-guided Tour Workshop at

the Tacoma Nature CenterLocation: Tacoma Nature Center. For the self-guided tours at the

Tacoma Nature Center at Snake Lake, specially trained groupleaders like YOU learn natural history and ecology information

and activities to share with your class on your eld trip. You willhave access to your science lab and equipment, our hands-on

exhibit area, our 71-acre nature preserve and our nature biofacts,eld guides and more! $50.00 per person. Ages 18+ Call the

Tacoma Nature Center to register, 253-591-6439

February 28 Sat 5:30 PM to 9:00 PM. 40th Anniversary Banquet.

Location: McGavick Student Center at Clover Park. GrowingForm Our Roots Come join in the celebration of 40 years of

steadfast advocacy and education on behalf of the environment.The festive evening will have a silent auction, delectable buffet

and recognition of four decades of achievements. But we arenot stopping there, and we look forward to the next forty years

and the joy of growing from our roots. The address is 4500Steilacoom Blvd. Call our ofce at (253) 565-9278 for more

information. A

Mar 2 Mon 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM. Beginning Birdwatching -Backyard Basics. Location: Tacoma Nature Center. Curious

about birds, but dont know your crown from your tail feather?

All are welcome to this introduction to the joy of identifyingthe birds that are all around us. You will learn how to identifycommon birds, use eld guides as well as binoculars. Learn, too,

about some of the best places to see birds and practice your newfound stills. Local eld trip Saturday, Mar 21, 9am-1pm. $45.00

for Tahoma Audubon Members, $55.00 for Non-Members.Ages 18+. Call the Tacoma Nature Center to register, 253-591-

6439.E

Mar 4 Wed 7:30 AM to 11:00 AM. Weekly Bird Walks atNisqually Join Phil on his weekly bird walks as he counts the






Mar 6 Fri 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM. TGIF Work Party. Location:


Mar 7 10:58 AM to 2:58 PM. Seabird Survey 6. Location:assigned survey sites.

Mar 7 Sat 1:30 PM to 3:00 PM. Snake Lake Science Fair.

Location: Tacoma Nature Center. Join us for the Snake LakeScience Fair at the Tacoma Nature Center. Students age 6-18 will

be able to create their own science projects and participate in thisexciting community event. Homeschool students and students

from public and private schools are welcome. $10 per

Documents

02-2009 Towhee Newsletter Tahoma Audubon Society