The Newsletter of the Santa Clara Audubon Society Nov - Dec. 2003
New faces, new projects Condors to be Internsbring infusion of energyto will recall that Jennifer started released in SCVASeducation, conservation efforts with our chapter as an intern , Pinnacles by Craig Breon producing the third volume of See Page 5 Executive Director Creekside News . Jennifer's initial ten-week internship has Clear some space in the office! SCVAS recently hired two led to more than three years with SCV AS. She does a wonderful interns-Jackie Olson and Kim Yuan-Farrell. Jackie will work job and hopefully has a long future of working with children and closely with Programs Coordinator Jennifer Peritz , while Kim adults in the realms of education, conservation and nature will be leading a project under my supervision . Both these appreciation . Jennifer alone is proof enough for me that internships are funded partially by grants and partially by you, internships can lead to great careers . our members and donors, so take a moment to read what we have in mind, and then pat yourselves on the back . Jackie Why interns ? Quite Jackie comes to us after graduating from UC Davis and simply, we run up against staff working for the Sacramento Zoo . At our annual Wildlife and volunteer limitations , and Education Day at McClellan Ranch in October Jackie could be choosing to use interns seen taking on one task after another , working with volunteer s strategically can give us the and the families who attended. For days in advance Jackie "oomph " we need to kick helped Jennifer prepare for the event, and that preparation paid start a new project or improve off. More than 600 people came to the Ranch in just four hours , on the ones we have. and the scene greeting them was filled with hands-on activities live wild animals, local conservation organizations , arts and Intern Jackie Olson Beyond the value to our organization, there's real crafts , and wildlife presentations . The day went smoothly, and value for the interns as well. Since I have the good fortune to the kids seemed to be both learning and enjoying themselves . work in a nonprofit setting on issues I really care about , I in turn For younger children especially, just feeling good about nature, want to see others given the same opportunity . Some members animals, and plants is a great step in the right direction . More effective programs serving more of our community-those are General Membership Meeting continued on Page 15 "Natural History of East African Predators"
with Doug Cheeseman ♦ MeetBob Hirt-Page 4 Palo Alto Arts Center, Newell & Embarcadero Rds. ♦ 2 HudsonianGodwits Wednesday, Nov. 19 -Field Notes, Page6 Doors open 7:30; Program 8:00 Tonight 's program features a variety of wildlife behavior from Doug's multitude of ♦ ChristmasBird Counts sa_faris to T~nzania_andK~nya. Spectacular _close_ups of predator~, including birds of prey , -PagelO with Doug s fact-ftlled, high-energy narration w1Umake for a most entertaining evening . On safari there's action to be filmed at all hours of the day, although before breakfast and ♦ ~'Will birdfor cookies" late in the afternoon the light is most superb. Doug 's photographs will demonstrate the -Page 11 diversity of E. Africa's fascinating small predatory mammals and birds. Doug taught college zoology and ecolPgy for 35 years at De Anza College in Cupertino and has led ♦ Bluebirdnestbox results safaris since the 1970's. He has had numerous photographs published in nature and 1997-2003-Page12 birding magazines, encyclopedias and calendars.
TheAvocet 1 Nov. - Dec. 2003 Field Trips NWR headquarters on 1-5 approx . 20 miles north of Williams . Take Road 68 (Norman Please carpool if possible ; bring binocu Saturday Nov. 15, 8:00 AM Rd.) exit east from I-5, then immediately lars, field guides , layered clothing . Oka Ponds/Los Gatos Creek Park north on frontage road to Refuge . Bring LO = Lunch optional Half day . Leader : Grant Webb (408) 578- spotting scope, full tank of gas . Allow 3 hours RC= Heavy rain cancels 0409 . From Hwy 17 in Los Gatos take Lark from South Bay . [For overnight stay at NF= No facilities available Ave exit west, turn right on Oka Rd., left on Williams , confirm with Dave Cook (408) Mozart Ave, then immediately right on Oka 275-1492 .] Ducks, geese , swans , cranes , Saturday Nov. 1, 8:00 AM Lane . Meet just inside gate . RC raptors . Great trip for beginners. (No children Charleston Slough under 12, please .) Half day . Leader : Ann Verdi (408) 266-5108 . Sunday Nov. 16, 8:00 AM Meet at Terminal Way at end of San Antonio Uvas Creek Park Preserve Saturday Dec. 6, 8:00 AM Rd. north off Hwy IOI in Mt. View. Trip is Half day . Leader : Bob Reiling (408 ) 253- Charleston Slough designed for beginning birders . A good place 7527. From Hwy 101 in Gilroy go west on Half day . Lead er: Nick Yatsko (408) 247- to get familiar with your spotting scope. Tenth Street (Hwy 152 East exit) about a mile 5499 . Meet at Terminal Way at end of San where it turns into Uvas Parkway . Turn left at Antonio Rd . north off Hwy 101 in Mt. View. Sunday Nov. 2, 8:00 AM Miller Ave, the first four-way stop, drive over As always , all are invited to attend but birdin g Moss Landing, Elkhorn Slough , Uvas Creek and turn left into Christmas Hill will be geared toward the beginning birder. Moon Glow Dairy & vicinity Park. Park in first aisle to right. Fairly easy Bring a spotting scope if you have one . Half day plus . Leader : Rick Fournier (831) but long walk. LO, RC 632-2473 . Meet in parking lot on ocean side Sunday Dec. 7, 8:00 AM of Hwy 1 just north of Elkhorn Slough bridge Wednesday Nov. 19, 9:00 AM Sunnyvale Water Treatment Facility in Moss Landing (used to be Maloney's Pescadero Marsh & State Beach Half day . Leader : TBD, questions call (408) Restaurant ). Trip begins along ocean, then to Half day . Leader : Sue James (650) 348-0315 . 253-7527 . From Hwy 101 takeHwy237east , Elkhorn Slough for ducks , shorebirds , land Note that this is the third , not fourth Wed . of exit North on Caribbean Dr ., turn right on birds, vagrants . Trip finishes up early afternoon Nov. Meet at fust parking lot south of bridge Borre gas Ave, then left to parking area. Good after lunch . Bring food, liquids and dress in over Pescadero Creek on Hwy 1. Outgoing numbers, variety of ducks ; scopes recom layers . RC tide, exposed rocks should be good for rocky mended . A fairly easy but long walk. RC shorebirds . Bring spotting scope , layers of Saturday Nov. 8, 8:30 AM warm clothes . LO, RC Wednesday Dec.10, 8:30 AM Grant Ranch County Park Grant Ranch County Park Half day. Leader : Alan Thomas (408) 265- Saturday Nov. 22, 8:30 AM Half day . Leader Alan Thomas (408)265- 9286 . From 1-680 take Alum Rock Ave Alum Rock Park 9286 . From 1-680 take Alum Rock Ave northeast , turn right on Mt. Hamilton Rd., Half day. Leader : Kirsten Holmquist (408) northeast , tum right on Mt. Hamilton Rd. and then proceed approx . 9 miles to park. Meet at 747-0988 .FromHwy 101 orl-680takeMcKee go approx . 9 miles to park. Meet at Hall's Hall's Valley Lake parking lot on left side of Rd. northeast toward hills, then left on Toyon Valley Lake parking lot (first lot on left after road just past main park entrance on right. Ave , right on Penitencia Creek Rd . and passing main entrance on right). LO, RC Fresh water ducks, oak woodland birds , continue into park . Meet in Rustic Lands possible Golden Eagle. Moderate2-mile walk. parking area on right just before "T" Saturday Jan. 3, 7:30 AM LO,RC intersection and underpass . Moderately County Chase strenuous 3 to 4 mile walk on muddy trails . Half day . Leader: Bob Reiling (408) 253- Sunday Nov. 9, 8:30 AM Possible entrance fee. LO, RC 7527 . Get a head start on your 2004 County Ogier Ponds Year List with some vagrant chasing . Bring a Half day . Leader : Grant Hoyt (650) 969- Sunday Nov. 23, 8:30 AM full tank of gas, lunch , and field guides as we 7892 . From Hwy IOI in Morgan Hill take Arastradero Preserve attempt to track down some of the unusual Cochrane Rd . west to Monterey Hwy , tum Half day . Leader : TBD , questions call (408) birds seen on the Christmas Bird Counts in right , go north 2.6 miles , turn right toward 253-7527 . From 1-280 take Page Mill Rd. Santa Clara County . Meet in the Alviso Model Airplane park (street unnamed ). Follow west approx . 1/2 mile to Arastradero Rd. Turn Marina parking lot. From Hwy 237 in San road for 1/2 mile, park in gravel lot at first right , meet at parking lot 1/2 mile on right. Jose take Gold St. north to the end , bear left on bend in road. Raptors , freshwater marsh birds , Variety of woodland and grassland species ; a Elizabeth St., then right on Hope St.to Marina passerines . RC good assortment of raptors possible . Two parking lot. Be prepared to carpool. RC miles of moderate walking . RC Wednesday Nov. 12, 9:00 AM Sunday Jan. 4, 8:30 AM Los Gatos Creek, Percolation Ponds Fri. - Sat. Nov. 28 - 29, 9:00 AM Charleston Slough Half day . Leader Shirley Gordon (408)996 - Sac'to Valley Wildlife Refuges, Gray Half day. Leader : Dave Cook (408) 275- 9863. From Winchester Blvd go east on Lodge, Sutter Buttes 1492. Meet at Terminal Way at end of San Hacienda 1 block to Dell. Turn left ; enter park Full day and a half. Leaders : Mike Mammoser Antonio Rd . north off Hwy 101 in Mt. View . about 100 feet from intersection and meet in & Frank Vanslager, for information contact Birding geared toward beginning birders but parking lot. Entrance fee. About 2 miles of Mike (408) 578-2429 . Meet at Sacramento all are encouraged to attend . Don't forget to easy walking. LO, RC bring your spotting scope .
TheAvocet 2 Events Calendar Nature Shop Wednesday Nov. 5, 7:30 PM Holiday Open House Bay Area Bird Photographers th presents long-time BABP member Chuck Saturday, December 6 Tribolet' s slide program on the undersea life 10AM-2PM of Monterey Bay, including a photo of a bird taken at a depth of 60 feet (try to guess the species)! Lucy Evans Baylands Interpretive Please join our staff for refreshments, discounts on Center, E. Embarcadero Rd., Palo Alto. merchandise, and a friendly Fireside Chat to discuss our current and ongoing projects. Saturday Nov. 8 Young Audubon Wild on Wetlands Walk Wildlife art will be on display by local artists. Call office for details. Shop for the newest selection of birding books: Tuesday Nov. 11, 9:30 AM Eve Case Bird Discussion Group Birding on BorrowedTime will meet at the h~me of Pat and Jean Dubois, Owls and Other Fantasies 17150 Buena Vista Ave., Los Gatos (408) Raptors of Western and Eastern N. America 395-4264 . Topic: Oak Titmouse . Birding at the Bottom of the Bay Tuesday Nov. 11, 7:30 PM And many more ... Board of Directors meeting, McClellan Ranch Park. Select the perfect gift: 2004 Sibley and Audubon Calendars Wednesday Nov. 19, 7:30 PM General membership meeting, Palo Audubon Premium Shade Grown Coffee Alto. Program starts at 8 (details on Pg. 1). or, if you can't decide, we can help!
Wednesday Nov. 26, 10-11 AM The Nature Shop is open daily Monday-Friday 10-5 Coffee Hour and Bird Chat, Nature Shop, McClellan Ranch Park. Saturdays 10am-2pm Questions: Please call (408) 252-3747 Tuesday Dec. 2, 7:30 PM Board of Directors meeting, McClellan Ranch Park. Beginning Birdwatching with Lisa Myers Wednesday Dec. 3, 7:30 PM The following class is sponsored by the SCVAS Education Committee. To register Bay Area Bird Photographers please call the office at (408) 252-3740. All cancellations require 72-hour prior presents David Cardinal with his "Spring in notification for refunds. the South Bay: Photographing breeding sea Specially designed for beginners, this class covers an introduction to birding, son with SFBBO " program, including images including field guides, classification and taxonomy , birding resources, birding ethics, of the "Stavocet" and other wonders of the salt and much more . Participants will learn strategies for identifying and listing birds and ponds. Lucy Evans Baylands Interpretive have the opportunity to hone those skills during field trips to local birding sites. Optics Center, E. Embarcadero Rd., Palo Alto. (both binoculars and spotting scopes) will be reviewed for better understanding of equipment available to new birders . Saturday Dec. 6, 10 - 2 Class sessions are held at McClellan Ranch Park in Cupertino and are based on the Holiday Open House at McClellan instructor's handouts and slides. Focus will beon local birds, particularly those found Ranch Park. See announcement at right. in winter. Field trips will last approximately four hours; locations are to be announced (depending on high bird activity). Fee is $40 for members, $45 for non-members. Tuesday Dec. 9, 9:30 AM Classes will be held on 11/10, 11/17, 11/24 from 7-9 PM; field trips onl 1/15, 11/22. Eve Case Bird Discussion Group Lisa Myers is a local native who has been birdwatching since she was a teenager. will meet at the home of Pat and Jean Dubois, Introducing new people to birding has been a goal for Lisa as she bas taught classes and 17150 Buena Vista Ave., Los Gatos (408) conducted workshops for several years through the City of Campbell, the Wild Bird 395-4264 . Topic: Peregrine F~con . Center in Los Gatos and SCV AS. Lisa also leads birding trips to hot spots in and around the Bay Area. With a degree in Communications and a passion for birds, Lisa's classes are a non-intimidating, educational, fun-filled way to learn all about birding!
TheAvocet 3 Volunteer Ventures by Jennifer Peritz the December Holiday Open House to discuss other opportunities . If you 're eager to get started sooner, just give SCVAS Programs Coordinator me a call at the number below! Thanksgiving is nearly upon us, and I'd like to take this For information on how YOU can become a volunteer, opportunity to give a big THANKS! to all of SCV AS' hard please contact Jennifer at (408) 252-3740 or working volunteers. It's been an incredible year: we've [email protected] . monitored over 45 bluebird trails, reached out to nearly 6,000 school-aged children, kept the Nature Shop filled with happy customers, offered free field trips nearly every weekend, written numerous letters commenting on critical Scope on membership conservation issues, and much, much more. From the Board ~ of Directors to the committees to the day-to-day volunteers, By Debbie Thompson you truly are the heart and soul of our organization and for The Board of Directors is lucky to have the infusion of that we say 'Thank you!" new ideas and expertise through the addition of new board For those of you looking for volunteer opportunjties members . Bob Hirt joined the Board in June 2003 and during the holiday season, be sure to keep SCV AS in mind. quickly immersed himself in the workings of our chapter. One volunteer request that is becorrung more common is for Bob comes to us with 25 years experience in the corpo Birding Companions. Many people in the commuruty are rate finance world, including a position as Vice President of interested in going birding or attending our monthly Corporate Finance for a large Silicon Valley company . Bob meetings, but have difficulty transporting themselves . These is not only successful in the corporate world, he has devoted people are in need of Birding Companion s who can spend 3 much of his spare time to "birding-centric" non-profit groups to 4 hours every week or two (or in the case of a monthly such as ours. He has been president and served on the board meeting, once per month) helping them to enjoy the world of of Golden Gate Audubon, served on the boards of Audubon birding. Often times, they are avid birders who have a lot to Canyon Ranch and Friends of Richardson Bay, and currently share with others about their knowledge of the birding world. participates in many Bay Area Christmas Bird Counts. If you'd like me to help match you with another birder, Bob grew up in Michigan but has lived in California for please give me a call! the past 30 years. He became interested in birding in the Another way to keep busy in the month of November is to early ?O's when he and a friend went backpacking in lend a hand with our Annual Fall Fundraiser. Every year we Sequoia National Park . His friend was responsible for hand-address nearly 4,000 envelopes to send to all of our identifying trees and Bob responsible for birds. This soon members. It's a huge task, and we can't do it without your turned into a competition between two friends to see who support! Volunteers are needed not only to address the could identify the most species of birds (I have a feeling that envelopes , but also to join us for an Envelope Stuffing Party Bob won). here at the Ranch on Saturday, November 15. We will be Since he became hooked on birds, traveling around stuffing, sealing, and stamping the envelopes to prepare them California and the world to see them has been one of his for the mail. This is a fun opportunity to help the chapter, favorite pastimes. He recalled a trip to Venezuela where he meet other members , and enjoy the beauty of McClellan was caught in the rruddle of an army ant swarm. "It was Ranch Park. Snacks will be provided, and afterwards we'll several minutes before I could pass," he said, "so I just stood offer a short bird walk by the creek (weather permitting) . on a rock watching the birds snatch the flushed insects all Call for details! around me." In December, the event most birders and SCVAS In the past, Bob has led many deep-ocean pelagic trips members look forward to is, of course, the Christmas Bird where his favorite birds to find are pterodroma petrels. In Count, and our chapter sponsors four different counts (see fact, they had the first North American record of Dark page 10 for details) . I went on my first CBC in December of rumped Petrel and the first photographically documented 2000, a few months after I started working for SCV AS. I record of Stejneger's Petrel. The trips were rough and so had no birding experience and thought I would be out of my infamous that they were written up in the Wall Street league with the other birders, but I couldn 't have been more Journal . "Pelagic tours are like a treasure hunt," be ex wrong. My team welcomed me with open "wings." If plained. "Out of nowhere a bird shows up right in front of you're new to birding, don't be intimidated to join the count! you and then disappears again into the horizon." We'll pair you with more experienced birders in your area, Currently Bob is Chairperson of SCVAS' Strategic and you, too, can become a part of a long standing Audubon Planning Commjttee , where he and others are setting the tradition! long-term goals of our chapter. He is also putting his The opportunities listed above are just a sample of what extensive finance experience to work on our Finance SCV AS has to offer. I invite you to come to the office Committee. We greatly appreciate having board members during our November Coffee Hour/Bird Chat (see page 3) or like Bob help guide our chapter to the next level. TheAvocet 4 Education Day event sets attendance record The 12th Annual Wildlife Education Day held at McClellan Ranch Park was a huge success! Each year this event has become bigger and better with the participation of more families, more SCV AS members helping, more high school volunteers, more environmental groups, and more live animals . Approximately 650 people attended, an increase of about 100 Isaac I.Amfrom Strouse Studio over last year. Along with SCV AS' booths and activities, proudly poses next twenty other organizations attended to help spread the message to his winning ofenvironmental stewardship. New additions this year included poster of a Plover. Lam won Honor- the S.F. Zoo and a large contingent of students from Lynbrook, able Mention in Westmont, Homestead, and Piedmont Hills High School who •. the 3rd grade Art helped things run smoothly by ably handling a variety of our Studio category. hands-on activities. The early morning bird walk at Charleston Slough drew posters drawn by school children. Volunteers from Wildlife approximately 50 people and was led by Freddy Howell, Peg Rescue showed an immature Red-shouldered Hawk, an Bemucci, Jim Liskovec, Lee French, and Allen Royer, four of American Kestrel, and Socrates, the Great-Homed Owl, a long whom are Education Committee members. The kids were time favorite. Two handsome goats were led around by 4H quite excited at the array of ducks, herons, pelicans, etc. When participants, and everyone had to be careful not to step on the Jim Liskovec got a scope-filling view of a Black-crowned gnarled tortoise slowly moving through the crowd. Diverse Night Heron, he informed the group that this was the best view and colorful snakes and lizards were on display from the Bay of this bird they would ever get. While looking through the Area Amphibian and Reptile Society (BAARS), and there was scope, an excited girl called out, "Oh my gosh! Daddy, you've also a wonderful display of insects in "Bugville." got to come quick and see this!!" Favorite hands-on activities for kids were birdhouse building, Back at the park, it was quite astonishing and rewarding to making a messy bird feeder with pinecones and peanut butter, walk around at this event and see the myriad of things taking creating a hummingbird mobile or sun catcher, making origami place and the sense of fun and excitement. The outside of the animals, a scavenger hunt along the creek, and a puppet show building was festooned with lines of colorful, award-winning presented by Freddy Howell. Presentations about bird-banding by Vicky Silvas-Young, snakes by BAARS and an interactive presentation on bats by Dave Johnston plus the presentation of Fall FundraiserHeading Your Way prizes to poster contest winners made this event a huge success. We're not a "YOU MUST GIVE NOW TO SA VE THE BABY HARP SEALS" type of organization. Nor do we Thank you Sponsors and Donors send you six, eight, ten appeals a year asking for funds. Our style is straightforward and simple. Once a year we tell you gfie•ercurn Ne1u5 STEVENS what we accomplished with your help this year, we set goals The Newspaper of Silicon Valley CREEK for next year, and we ask you to support the wildlife and SOFTWARE quality of life in this region. We expect to be sending this year's annual appeal just 1r1 PacificGas and before Thanksgiving. As before, it will be packed with a ~~ 1 ElectricCompany roundup of our accomplishments in the areas of conser Richard Lowenthal, g vation, environmental education, restoration, and birding. Besides being our biggest fundraiser of the year, this is the Cupertino City Council Member 1®1BOI01 one place where you can review our year at a glance. Last year's annual appeal was our most successful ever, Raffle and Poster Contest Prize Donors raising more than $74,000 (about one-third of our yearly budget). Our goal this year is to top that mark-a lofty goal, Wild Bird Center of Los Gatos but achievable. When that letter gets to your mailbox, we Orchard Supply Hardware hope that you will take the time to read it and respond. Summer Winds Out of kindness to our feathered friends, we're not going An-Jan Pet and Feed Supply to say that SCV AS stretches a dollar until the eagle screams. Naturals from the Earth Wooden Horse However, we believe that if you read our annual appeal, you Hicklebee's Books will know that we are a lean, effective little machine. Thank Gold Crest you for your past support, and please support SCV AS again Mollema & Son this year. TheAvocet 5 Field Notes by Bill Bousman Bay edge as this species tends to avoid New Chicago Marsh throughout August salt water. A female or immature Red and September (m. ob.). The fall passage Pelicans through Hawks breasted Merganser was seen in Salt of Lesser Y ellowlegs got a slow start but A count of 1100 American White Pond AlO in Alviso on 28 Sep (MMR, picked up in the second week of August. Pelicans on Salt Pond A9 on 28 Sep MJM) and may be the same bird seen in High counts were 14 at Crittenden Marsh (MMR, MJM) was a good total for the that vicinity in July. A Broad-winged on 2 Sep (WGB) and 20 at New Chicago early fall. On the same day, 68 Brown Hawk east of Casa deFruta along Pacheco Marsh on 29 Sep (MMR) . The latter Pelicans were also on the same salt pond Creek on 12 Sep (PF) is the seventh count is the best we've had since 1999. (MMR, MJM). Inland, the immature county record and the first we've had in The biggest news at New Chicago Brown Pelican found on Almaden Lake the fall since 1994. It is also the earliest Marsh this fall was the discovery of two in late July was seen there through 2 Sep bird we've had by 14 days . juvenile Hudsonian God wits. The first (AV) and is likely the same bird seen at bird was seen briefly on 27 Aug and then Calero Reservoir 20-25 Sep (AV, MDd). Shorebirds through Murres studied on 28 Aug (DM) . Reported on 29 An American Bittern bunkered down in New Chicago Marsh was the center of Aug, this bird, a third county record, was Stevens Creek at La A venida on 3 Sep shorebird mania in August and Septem well seen throughout 29 Aug (m. ob.). (FV) was in an unusual location for a ber. A molting adult Lesser Golden Observers came out in force again on 30 wintering bird and may have been a mi Plover was found there on 9 Sep (WGB) Aug, when amazingly, two birds grant. Snowy Egrets nested success were found (JL). Initially the two fully at the Palo Alto Duck Pond this birds were apart, but eventually one summer, with up to nine birds fledged A Broad-winged Hawk along was flushed and joined the other. from three or more nests (WGB, v. These birds were missed during most ob.). Increasingly rare in the county, Pacheco Creek was a good find, of the following week, but were a single Cattle Egret was seen at the seen once again on 6 Sep (JMy), the Sunnyvale B aylands on 27 Aug (RS). but the surprise of the season last observation. Single Red Knots The percolation ponds at Los Gatos was two Hudsonian Godwits were found in Salt Pond A5 in Alviso Creek CP were a magnet this fall for on 15 Aug (MMR, MJM) and at Green Herons with at least 12 birds found in Alviso New Chicago Marsh on 30 Aug counted on 29 Sep (LSu). At least (JAC). A juvenile Sanderling was one pair of Black-crowned Night seen on Salt Pond AS in Alviso on 7 Herons also nested in the palms at and was identified as an American Sep (MMR, MJM) . A juvenile Semipal the Palo Alto Duck Pond. One to two Golden-Plover (WGB, MJM). This bird mated Sandpiper was found in the west nestlings were seen in August and at least engendered much controversy over the oxidation pond at the Sunnyvale Water one fledged (CJC, DB, DM). Single next few weeks as its tertial-primary-tail Pollution Control Plant (WPCP) on 16 White-faced Ibis appeared in a few places offsets did not match well with either Aug (R WR, FV, MJM) and remained but did not linger. One was at the New golden plover species. However, this there at least through 18 Aug (m. ob.). A Chicago Marsh on 16 Aug (RK, PK) and bird was molting its inner primaries which second juvenile was at the Coyote Creek this bird or another was at the Sunnyvale is expected for Pacific Golden-Plover but Field Station (CCFS) waterbird pond on Baylands on 9 Sep (RS). An injured male is considered exceptional for American 19 Aug (RWR, FV). Two or three juve Eurasian Wigeon in the outer Guadalupe Golden-Plover, which normally does not nile Baird's Sandpipers were found on Slough was seen regularly in August and start wing molt until it arrives on its South Salt Pond AS in Alviso on 31 Aug (MMR, September (MMR, MJM). A female American wintering grounds. The con MJM), but none were found elsewhere Canvasback was in outer Guadalupe sensus it that this bird must be a Pacific for the poorest passage since 1990. It was Slough again on 1 Aug (MMR, MJM) Golden-Plover, although the primary a relatively poor passage for Pectoral and two males were found in the outer length appears exceptional. Life was Sandpipers as well. An adult was found Palo Alto FCB on 12 Aug (MMR). Two much easier when an unaged Pacific on the Sunnyvale WPCP oxidation ponds of the three birds had obvious injuries Golden-Plover was found nearby in Salt on 11 Aug (RK, PK) and was seen there which had forced them to oversumrner. Pond A16 on 20 Sep (RWR) and a juve through 17 Aug (m. ob.). The first juve Single female/immature Buffleheads at nile in New Chicago Marsh 25-30 Sep nile was found at the New Chicago Marsh New Chicago Marsh on 10 Sep (MMR) (DW, RWR, FV, MMR, v.ob.), both on 20 Aug (DW, AME, WGB) and one to and Alviso Slough on 16 Sep (MMR, showing typical tertial-primary-tail off three birds were there irregularly through MJM) may have oversumrnered as most sets. Snowy Plovers were well repre the end of September (v. ob.). Three wintering birds do not arrive until Octo sented in the period with one to three juveniles were in ponds in the Palo Alto ber. A female Common Merganser on birds seen in Salt Pond AS in August Flood Control Basin (FCB) on 6 Sep Salt Pond A4 in Sunnyvale on 24 Aug (MMR, MJM) and also one to three birds (TGr) and seven were at the CCFS (MMR) was an unusual find along the in the vicinity of the Alviso Marina and waterbird pond on 13 Sep (RK, PK) . TheAvocet 6 Field Notes cont'd
Singles at other spots included a juvenile Sunnyvale on 7 Sep (RK, PK, along Adobe Creek in the Palo Alto FCB DM, JMe) were the last seen on 13 Sep (MMR) and on Salt Pond A8 there. The terns that were aged in Alviso on 16 Sep (MMR, MJM). An were juveniles. The big news adult Stilt Sandpiper was found at the on Black Skimmers was the New Chicago Marsh on 19 Aug (RK, extensive numbers in the vi PK) and has been enjoyed by many cinity of Salt Pond A8 in through the end of September. An adult Alviso during August and female Ruff showed up at the New Chi September. A peak count of cago Marsh on 7 Aug (R WR, FV) and 27 was obtained on 28 Sep was seen irregularly over the next two (MMR, MJM) and this in- weeks. It was last spotted there on 23 cluded three juveniles and 3 "The big news on Black Skimmers was the Aug (DW). Then on 24 Sep, a juvenile 1st-basic birds, suggesting extensive numbers in the vicinity of Salt male Ruff showed up in the marsh near good nesting success this year. Pond AB in Alviso during August and theAlvisoEECentranceroad(MW, VL). Up to 4 adults and 2 fledglings September. A peak count o/27 was This bird has been quite cooperative were seen in the outer Palo Alto obtained on 28 Sep ... " through the end of September (m. ob.). FCB 6-10 Aug (MMR) and a Sketch by Emelie Curtis Approximately 1750 Wilson's pair on Salt Pond Al6 fledged at Phalaropes were in closed salt ponds in least one young on 10 Aug (RK, PK). In the latter case, however, it is not Alviso on l Aug (MMR, MJM). As Woodpeckers in the Santa clear the fledgling survived beyond its expected, numbers dropped quickly in Cruz Mountains were heard east of Sky first day. As sometimes happens in late August. Few birds are left in September line Boulevard near Castle Rock SP on summer, misoriented Common Murres so 100 plus birds on Salt Pond A8 in 17 Aug (LCh) and southwest of Skyline come into the South Bay. A juvenile seen Alviso on 16 Sep (MMR, MJM) was a bit Ridge OSP on 5 Sep (GS). The Willow in outer Guadalupe Slough on 7 Sep unusual. A single bird in the New Chi Flycatcher migration along our valley (MMR, MJM) appeared healthy. cago Marsh on 29 Sep (MMR) was late. creeks and wetter areas began on 17 Aug The migration of Red-necked when a single bird was seen at the Sunny Swifts through Sparrows Phalaropes peaks later than Wilson's. vale WPCP (RK, PK et al.). A high Typically in August and September we A record count of 7200 birds was tallied count was of seven birds along Stevens see Vaux's Swifts along the edge of the on closed ponds in Alviso on 31 Aug and Creek from Hwy 101 to Crittenden Lane South Bay, but it is unclear whether these numbers remained high there in Septem on 25 Aug (MMR). Birds were still are dispersing birds from the Santa Cruz ber with more than 1190 Rednecks being found loca!Jy to the end of Sep Mountains or southbound migrants. Two counted on 28 Sep (MMR, MJM). As tember (v. ob.). Surprisingly, one to two to ten birds were found at multiple loca always in the South Bay, the Common birds were found at Kelly Lake in Henry Tern is not common. One was found at ti011csalong the Bay with l0overtheSunny Coe SP on 31 Aug (JY, AL), well into the Sunnyvale WPCP oxidation ponds vale WPCP ponds on 7 Sep (RK, PK) and the Diablo Range where we do not nor 10 ovet New Chicago Marsh on 9 Sep on 6 Sep (MJM) and seen through the mally expect to find birds during the fall (WGB). But ·birds also remained near nextday(v. ob.). Another bird was found passage. Juvenile Bank Swallows ap areas where they nest including eight over on Salt Pond A5 in Alviso on 16 Sep peared in reasonable numbers near (MMR, MJM). Staging Least Terns Saratoga High School on 31 Aug (MMR) Alviso with the first found on 20 Sep continued into August with a high count and 12 over Los Gatos Creek CP on 20 Sep (KO) and two juveniles there by 23 Sep (LSu). A female Black-chinned Hum on Salt Pond AS of 114 on 15 Aug (RWR, FV). Birds continued to be seen (MMR,MJM). Numbers there dropped mingbird was raising nestlings through 4 in this general vicinity through 29 Sep Aug (WGB, KO) along the Guadalupe to 22 by 31 Aug and they were gone by (MMR). American Dippers, although River below Curtner. A female or imma-' early September (MMR, MJM). About resident, are seldom reported in early 24 birds on Salt Ponds A2E and B2 was ture was seen along Stevens Creek below fall. This year one was found along La Avenida in Mountain View on 8 Sep the high count for birds staging near Saratoga Creek at Saratoga Springs on 7 Stevens Creek (RWR, FV). A juvenile (MMR). A female Rufous Humming Sep (LMy) and another was at Alum Black Tern showed up near Alviso bird was banded near Felter and Sierra Rock Park on 25 Sep (JMy). We rarely Slough on 15 Aug (MMR, MJM) and roads in theDiabloRangeon 8 Sep (RCo). find Hermit Warblers during fall, so a another was at the Sunnyvale WPCP They are a very scarce fall migrant in the male along San Francisquito Creek near oxidation ponds the same day (RK, PK). Coast Ranges. An immature Lewis's the bike bridge above Middlefield on 16 Multiple birds were found at Sunnyvale Woodpecker was seen near Ke!Jy Lake in Sep (MDd) was a treat. A Northern in the next few days with a high count of Henry Coe SP on 31 Aug (JY, AL) and is six on 17 Aug (DBr). Three birds at likely a dispersant. Calling Pileated continued on Page 8 TheAvocet 7 Condors returning to Pinnacles Part One: California located at the east end of the park was Pinnacles. Ventana Wilderness Society Condors transferred from one of two access points to the site volunteers and Pinnacles park staff had and a very precarious dirt road also hiked the trail and performed Big Sur to Pinnacles N .M. provided access from the west. It was helicopter long-haul delivery of con by Ralph W. Schardt because of this road that this site had struction materials to the site before it In September of 2002 I started working on a photography project as a volunteer at Pinnacles National Monument in San Benito County. My idea was to photograph the entire California Condor reintroduction process: picking the site, building the Young aviary, transferring birds, and finally, California Condors the release into the wild of the Califor .. await release nia Condor (Gymnogyps californianus) into the wilds at Pinnacles National Monument. By of Pinnacles the time my proposal for the project National was approved, Pinnacles N.M. and Monument Ventana Wilderness Society wildlife south of biologists had chosen a site on top of Hollister North Chalone Peak at the southwest ern edge of the park. North Chalone is at an elevation of to be abandoned-one of the private was abandoned. It would be almost 8 over 3000 feet and provides panoramic property owners exercised his right to months before another site was selected views of the Santa Lucia coast ranges restrict numerous agency vehicles and environmental assessments were and southern Salinas River valley. The through his property. Since this was completed. original condor release site was just the only way to safely access the site In May of this year I got a call from below a fire lookout station that had for construction and bird transfer, the Chief Ranger at Pinnacles telling me been unused for several years. A 4.5 another site had to be selected . we were "back on" with the condor mile trail from the visitors' center I had hiked up to the original site reintroduction project. By June, things (round trip almost 9 miles) with 50 were hopping and helicopter long-hauls pounds of photography gear and had already transferred building materi another IO pounds of food and water. als from the original site to the new site Field Notes cont'd The view was worth the journey and at the east end of the park. The new site Waterthrush was a good find along it was a good introduction to the kind was a smaller, 2000 foot unnamed peak Stevens Creek below La A venida on 2 of work I was soon to experience with near the east park entrance. My first Sep (MMR) and was seen once again on the reintroduction of the condor at visit to the site was a 3.5 mile walk on a 3 Sep (RK. PK). Two MacGiUivray's 4-wheel drive road to the base of the Warblers were banded at CCFS on 13 peak. From there it was 1900 feet Sep (fide MJM). The only others found straight up, no trail, to the new site Observers : Deborah Barte11s (DB), Bill where the rearing and release facility were singles along Stevens Creek below Bousman (WGB), Dennis Braddy (DBr), would be built. La Avenida on 24 Sep (MMR) and at the Les Chibana (LCh), Jack Cole (JAC), Rita I had converted most of my original end of Embarcadero Way in Palo Alto on Colwell (RCo), Chuck Coston (CJC), Mat 28Sep(WGB). AfemaleSummerTana thewDodder(MDd) , AlEisner(AME), Paul photography equipment that I carried up ger in Palo Alto's Foothills Park on 30 Fox(PF), Tom Grey(TGr), Roland Kenner to the first site to digital SLR format so I Aug (DLSu) was a good find. The first (RK), Pat Kenny(PK), VaLaruischoot(VL), didn't have as many camera bodies and White-throated Sparrow of the season Amy Lauterbach (AL), John Luther (JL), lenses to carry up the mountain with me. was banded at CCFS on 28 Sep (fide Dean Manley (DM), Mike Mammoser It was still quite a climb, as my pack MMR). (MJM), John Meyer (JMe), Jean Myers weighed over 50 pounds with equipment (]My), LisaMyers(LMy), Kris Olson(KO), and a full day's worth of water. The RARITIES: Please drop me a Bob Reiling (RWR), Mike Rogers (MMR), other volunteers and wildlife biologists note: Bill Bousman,321 Arling Georgia Stigall (GS), Rosalie Strait (RS), also had to carry food and water along Linda Sullivan( LSu), Frank Va11slager(FV), ton Way, Menlo Park, CA 94025, with miscellaneous construction tools or: [email protected] Ann Verdi(AV), Dave Weber(DW), Michael Wienholt (MW), and lames Yurchenco (JY). and materials. A typical day on this cont'd. next page TheAvocet 8 Condors continued peak in July saw temperatures soar to well over 100 degrees, and the first thing we did was construct some shade! Pinnacles and Ventana biologists and staff worked every day building the condor facility that would eventually house the birds. Water tanks to hold water for the birds were brought in by helicopter to the site, and park mainte nance workers had to work out a system of PVC piping to pump water from holding tanks 1900 feet below the facility to three tanks at the top. In addition to a water system, an all terrain vehicle (ATV) road was built in anticipation of transferring the birds to Park staff and volunteers transport a condor to the release site the site and hauling up still-born calf carcasses for food. Unfortunately, the road was not stable for vehicular traffic journey up the hill. Of the seven birds, Phil Hand and it was used as the main walking one is a mentor adult male and 6 are trail to the construction site. That hike sub-adult males. All the birds were was shorter by 3 miles than the first carried up the trail by humans using 1916 - 2003 site, but it was steeper and was quite a poles and harnesses attached to large One of SCVAS' most active birders workout to traverse with gear and kennels. The transfer went smoothly for several decades, Phil Hand, passed materials for the project. and the condors are no~ awaiting away in October of this year. Phil was Biologists who study the condor's release into the wild sometime in a dedicated field trip leader and history believe that it has been over 100. December of this year as they continue participant who will be greatly missed years since the California Condor to acclimate to their new home. by the local birding community. soared above the mountains and My work on this project not only In the early '60's Phil's daughter ranches south of Hollister in the regions included photo chronology, but I also Carolyn did a school paper on "Birds of around Pinnacles N.M. Everyone on helped build the facility and partici Barron Park," the Palo Alto the project was very excited about the pated in the transfer, which included neighborhood where the family resided, prospect of having condors back in this the release of an adult into the wild at and Phil's interest in birding never area and extremely dedicated to the Big Sur. This project provided me with waned from that time. A Hewlett project. During one activity of con an in-depth education on the condor Packard employee from the mid- struction I counted over 25 volunteers and the people who are dedicated to 1940' s, Phil retired in 1973 and became helping cut and line up netting for the bringing it successfully back to the wild more involved in birding, leading field flight pen. Everyone hiked that trail in California. I feel fortunate to have trips for SCV AS and travelling around and put in their time in the hot sun. worked on such a wonderful endeavor the country augmenting his life list. He Construction at the site was accom and anticipate the day when I can was often accompanied on birding plished in an astonishing time of six photograph the first California Condor outings by his dear sister Pauline, who weeks, and by the end of August we to be released into the wild at Pinnacles passed away several years ago. were putting the final touches on the National Monument. As a trip leader, CBC participant, or facility in anticipation of transferring Access to the sight is highly birding companion, Phil was a keen but the condors to their new home from restricted, but after December of this modest birder, and was always ready to Big Sur. On September 9, 2003 a year, I look forward to taking a group help others improve their birding skills group of wildlife biologists from of people down to Pinnacles and as he imparted his considerable Pinnacles N.M., Ventana Wilderness viewing the sight from a distance to see knowledge willingly, with warmth, Society and the U.S . Fish and Wildlife the magnificent condors soaring intelligence, and a fine sense of humor. Service collected seven condors from overhead. Those of us who had the pleasure of the Big Sur facility, and the birds sharing time with Phil in the field will arrived by vehicles in the early hours of Part two will include the story of the remember him as a wonderful birding September 10 to Pinnacles N.M. release of the first condors into the wild companion and a true gentleman . A small group of us watched over at Pinnacles N.M. - stay tuned! -Grant Hoyt the birds overnight as they awaited the TheAvocet 9 The Christmas Bird Counts are coming! Each year SCV AS is proud to sponsor Palo Alto-M onday, Dec. 15 Calero-Morgan Hill-Sund ay, four different Christmas Bird Counts From the hills of Skyline Drive to the Dec. 28 (CBC's) that take place either wholly or shores of San Francisco Bay, birders will The Calero-Morgan Hill CBC will partially in Santa Clara County. The idea be scouring the redwoods and mudflats take place on Sunday, Dec 28. Our focus is to send teams of birders into a 15-mile for each and every bird willing to stand up is on South Santa Clara County ranging diameter circle and count as many spe and be counted during the Palo Alto CBC from the Diablo Foothills to the Santa cies and individuals as possible . th on December 15 • This count is con Cruz Mountains and including Almaden That's right, somebody actually counts ducted half in Santa Clara and half in San Valley plus Coyote Valley where ponds every gull, blackbird and sparrow, as Mateo County. and lakes are interspersed along the Coy well as the less-common birds, including Last year we saw at least seven un ote Creek riparian corridor . Local "hot the occasional unusual "vagrant." At the common species on the count, including spots" include Calero Reservoir , Ogier end of the day everyone gets together for Pileated Woodpecker and Pacific Golden Ponds, and Almaden Lake. Among other a countdown dinner and tabulation ses Plover. What we find this year depends areas visited are Almaden/Quicksilver sion. It's fun to hear about high and low largely on how many people participate, CP, Santa Teresa CP, Edenvale Garden totals , weird birds encountered, and so you are encouraged to contact one of Park , Guadalupe Oak Grove Park, Coy weather-related adventures (the counts the Region Coordinators below, or my ote Ridge, and the Water District ponds . take place rain or shine). Veteran counters self, and join in the fun! If you are new to Special birds found on previous counts look forward to the CBC 's each year as the count, or have a particular area in have included Pacific Loon, Snow Goose, they census birds in every nook and cranny which you would like to count, let me American Bittern, Bald Eagle, Lewis's of the county , but newcomers are always know and I will find just the right spot for Woodpecker, Yellow-bellied Sapsucker , welcome . Even if you're a novice at you. Forms and other details , like the American Dipper, Mountain Bluebird , identifying birds, your spotting and tally countdown dinner , will follow . Al Eisner Hermit Warbler, Grasshopper Sparrow, ing skills are still valuable to your team of has once again graciously volunteered to and Great-tailed Grackle, to name a few. counters, so look over the CBC announce compile the Count statistics. Please plan to join us in documenting ments that follow and sign up to develop wintering birds in the many varied, yet your skills on these important , volunteer Jack Cole (coordinator) (408) 996-0434 often under-birded, habitats of this count based annual bird censuses . snoyowl @yahoo.com circle-and perhaps discover a rarity The National Audubon Society records along the way. For more information and maintains all CBC data. This year Region TBD and/or to sign up for the count, please NAS is implementing on-line registra contact Ann Verdi by email tion for CBC participation . To check Region 2 Mike Rogers
SsintaClara County ' Map of Santa Clara County showing the location of the 4- counr circles. Mapping by Perry Thorwaldson
"Will bird for cookies" Birdathon leader's tasty incentives "Fish Docks" was named for actual fish docks that were inspire Bonnie to a new level of birding visible and covered with cormorants on this particular day. by Bonnie Bedford-White Rumor has it that there is always a Great Homed Owl that I had the fine opportunity to participate in a Birdathon to roosts in the Fish Dock trees. When our leader, Rigdon, benefit Point Reyes Bird Observatory in late September. yelled out, "A cookie for whoever finds the owl first," Usually this group (named "Fly binoculars went up en masse. by Dawn") is led by the founder , Was that what made my eyes Ted Chandik, but on this work so swiftly ? Seconds later I particular day Ted'sgood friend, was pointing it out, a perfect Rig Currie, led our group. ..,~-.- silhouette in the tree branches. The day was splendid. In the afternoon we headed Assortments of good birds were ~.....,,.,~.....,..:.,.,~9T"!"··' out to Limantour Beach. A small in all the classic Point Reyes inland body of water yielded locations. The famed Nunes hundreds of American Wigeon. Ranch was peppered with Again the call came, "A cookie warblers : Chestnut-sided , Townsend's and Blackpoll, for a Eurasian Wigeon! " This time it took a few short interspersed with American minutes before I had the bird in my scope, and once again I Redstarts . They all reminded me of winky holiday lights received my reward. twinkling at random. These beauties were everywhere, and We all practice honing our skills in the field. Sound and such a sight to behold . A Green-tailed Towhee added even sight coupled with good optics, and seasoned with more interest to that location . It was hard to decide knowledge and luck. I never would have guessed that where to look. cookies could be additional force. Of course, I'd like to Later we proceeded to the Fish Docks area. I'd been to think that my skills as a birder are simply getting better and Point Reyes several times over the years but the fog had better, but it just may have been the promise of cookies that always been dense. This was the fust time I realized that provided the leading edge. The A vocet 11 Bluebird Recovery Program Success Continues Summary of Dedicated volunteers like Red 1997 to 2003 results Pendleton and Gus Constant built, by David "Tex " Houston installed , and monitored the first official Imagine the joy of knowing you've nest box trails in our county over six years helped to provide a home, a nursery , a ago. Still today, this evolving program sanctuary, for a clutch of five bluebird continues to expand as new volunteers hatchlings . Imagine watching those join the now over 60 bluebird folks who hatchlings grow and begin to test their make this amazing program a succes s. wings. Imagine watching the fledglings Trying to stay one step ahead of the take first flight. This is the rewarding songbirds main predators , and snakes, Juvenile Western Bluebird feeling experienced by volunteers has led to the use of creative new box sketch by Bonnie Bedford-White participating in the Bluebird Recovery designs and mounting techniques, like Program . the hanging box and the metal or elevator pole mounts. Dedicated volunteers spend observations, which include, date, species, The Bluebird Recovery Program is and the number of eggs laid, hatched , and one of the strongest volunteer-based many hours researching and experimenting to find the most optimal fledged . Monitoring the boxes is key to programs sponsored by SCVAS . The understanding not only the changes in main goal of this program is to increase conditions needed to provide safe, high quality habitat. the populations , but also the effectiveness nesting habitat for Western Bluebirds and of the methods and equipment used . many other species of cavity-nesting birds. Monitoring nest boxes during the nesting season from March through July Volunteers meet at the end of each season This is accomplished by building, to share experiences and look at summary installing, and monitoring nest boxes for has become my favorite time of the year . We monitor boxes once a week and note of the data we' ve all helped to collect. more than a dozen different species of cont'd . next page cavity nesting birds in Santa Clara County . SCVAS works in collaboration with SantaClara County bluebird recovery results, 1997 to 2003 volunteers, schools, public and private landowners , and other community groups Chicksfledged from boxes monitored by volunteers to help increase the populations of a diverse number of songbirds and other S_uecies 1997 1928 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 cavity nesters . While the Western WEBL 90 274 189 204 271 432 378 Bluebird will always be the main focus of VGSW 52 175 198 89 107 295 177 the program , helping all species of native cavity nesting birds is just as important. OATI 5 122 167 173 133 249 128 Many challenges lie ahead for the bluebird CBCH 5 13 50 96 106 127 104 and other wildlife in Santa Clara County ATFL 25 17 54 60 84 128 95 as human needs and activities compete BEWR 0 27 23 33 38 29 19 for the natural resources needed by all HOWR 11 18 3 13 44 61 36 living creatures. WBNU 10 5 4 20 6 29 25 The loss of habitat for bluebirds is the 128 main challenge that sparked SCV AS TRSW 31 46 55 54 73 166 volunteers in 1997 to start a formal HOFI 0 0 0 4 10 0 0 monitoring program . Simply put, cavity AMKE 0 0 0 0 1 2 3 nesting species require holes, like those WESO 0 0 4 4 0 0 0 found in an old oak tree, in order to build BNOW 0 0 0 4 4 11 12 their nests and raise their hatchlings . As WODU 0 0 0 0 0 6 20 dying trees are removed and more and more land is cleared for development , these species are quickly losing their TQTALS 229 697 751 747 877 1~35 1184 opportunities to nest and reproduce. TRAILS 17 20 21 23 23 42 34 Combine this with threats from predators, BOXES 230 295 338 395 420 492 443 non-native species (such as the English SPECIES 8 9 10 12 12 12 12 House Sparrow), and e~en meddling humans, and the populations of these (Test your knowledge of species nomenclature-"WEBL" denotes "Western Bluebird" birds have been seriously threatened. in the table above; can you identify the other species listed? Answers on Pg. 14) The A vocet 12 We 're Looking for a Few Good Folks! by Debbie Thompson President, SCVAS awareness of our chapter. The new Finance Committee: This committee Our chapter has very bold goals and Membership Chair will have the full is responsible for monitoring the is one of the most influential environ support of the Board of Directors and financial aspects of SCV AS including mental and educational groups in the staff in getting started. managing our investments, reviewing Bay Area. We accomplish these goals We are also looking for volunteers our budget, preparing our financial through the help of our dedicated to serve on the Membership Commit statements, and filing taxes. Anyone volunteers serving on committees . tee. Committee activities can include with an interest in finance or experience Volunteers can have specific experi organizing events, interacting with the in investment portfolio management is ence that would help guide the deci community, helping in our booth at encouraged to join this committee. sions of the committee or they can have fairs and membership drives. Fundraising Committee: This little experience with an eagerness to Education Committee: This committee comes up with ideas and help and learn. Some committees that committee is very active in providing plans to raise money to meet the currently need help are listed here. youth and adult educational programs. conservation, education and other goals Volunteer time required for each Wildlife Education Day and the of our chapter. It helps implement our person on a committee varies greatly Wetlands and Woodlands program are successful fall fundraising appeal and and is usually very flexible . It is also just two of our successful programs . the Spring Birdathon . We would like acceptable to join some committees to The Programs Coordinator, who is part to expand our fundraising activities, work on a specific issue or event. So if of our staff, serves on this committee. which could include identifying big you have a little time to spare and want We need folks who are willing to lead donors and planning fundraising to make a difference, join one of our field trips, design curriculum and in parties, events, raffles and auctions. committees and together we can fulfill class presentations, or work in schools Help us put the "fun" into fundraising the important mission of our chapter . to help spread our message of nature and make a big impact on the success Membership Committee: Do you stewardship to the youth of Santa Clara of our chapter. enjoy interacting with people? We are County . Board of Directors: We are looking looking for a people-oriented volunteer Environmental Action Committee: for dedicated leaders to serve on our who has a background in membership EAC volunteers work with SCV AS Board of Directors. The Board is development, marketing or sales to staff and other organizations on responsible for setting the mission, tone chair and revitalize our Membership conservation issues around the county . and direction of the chapter while at the Committee. The mission of the This is one of our most popular and same time maintaining a social and fun Membership Committee is to recruit active committees . Please join the atmosphere . Board meetings occur new members, improve membership EAC if you would like to make a once a month with a full day retreat retention , increase member satisfaction difference in the quality of life in our held in the summer. Each member is and diversity, and promote community area. Meetings are once a month . expected to also serve on a committee . Currently, we have a well-rounded board with a wide range of experiences and interests . Help shape your chapter cont 'd Bluebird by applying to serve on the Board of All of our monitors form a wonderful to the volunteers and various groups who Directors. natural bond with the birds and take made this season another success for all Contact us: There are additional pride in knowing that their efforts help to who love to watch the bluebirds and interesting and rewarding committees increase the birds' chances of nesting others fly. that need volunteers, such as Christmas successfuly. There are many ways that you, too, Bird Count, The Birdhouse Network , This season we had 1184 fledglings can get involved . Please join the fun and and Field Trip Committee. Please call reported from 34 different trails help improve bird habitat by volunteering or email our Programs Coordinator, throughout the county. Four backyard to monitor a trail, or by allowing a trail Jennifer Peritz, if you would like to join birders also added to this year's totals . A or nest box to be installed and monitored one of our important committees , have total of 473 nest boxes from these trails on your property, or by contributing a special interest not described here or and backyards were monitored and materials or donating to the bluebird want to apply for the Board of Direc reported during the 2003 season . We had recovery program of SCVAS . tors (programs@scvas .org or (408) fledglings reported for thi}'teen different If you have questions regarding how 252-3740) . species, from Chestnut-backed you can get involved pleasecontactDavid Chickadees to Barn Owls. Many thanks "Tex" Houston at 650-529-9023 ..
The A vocet 13 Advocate's Corner SCVAS Consider s Legal Action to Protect Penetencia Creek by Craig Breon SCVAS Executive Director developer had sat down with the Water firm of Sh ute, Mi haly, and Wei nberger District, Army Corps, and other to send a letter to the City deman ding The SCV AS Board is concerned resource agencies to see if that it rescind its approval and considering possible legal an agreement could be forged on how recirculate the environmental .9' options to protect Penetencia to move forward . As so often happens docume nts . Ho pefully, the City will Creek in East San Jose . While at San Jose Council , we were largely realize that it is on shaky ground and do in a heavily urbanized area, ignored, as were the resource agencies . what we have asked in order to avoid a Penetencia Creek remains in a As a res ult, we consider our other legal confrontation . re latively natural state compared to optio ns. In the end, there's no guarantee many of our valley-level riparian areas. In this situation, the City seems to even if we go to co urt and win-that Penetencia also supports one of our few have made a fatal mistake. By not the development project will change for remaining spawning grounds for circulating its environmental the better. However, if we do not act , it steelhead trout, a species listed as documentation to the appropriate only encourages the City to engage in threatened by the federal government. resource agencies, the City essentially more lawlessness in the future . Issues The San Jose City Council recently cut them out of the process, in violation such as this make for difficult decisions approved a residential development of state law . The attorneys we for the SCV AS Board, but we have project near the creek that may consulted to discuss this feel that if we shown the willingness in the past to indirectly cause harm to a stretch of have to sue , we will have a winning stand up strongly for our beliefs, and Penetencia. The problem is that this case. As a first step, we authorized the this has served us well. creek floods , and the Santa Clara Valley Water District is working with the Army Corps of Engineers to Library upgrades develop a flood control project that activities in counties other than Santa Clara , would both protect homes and For anyone who has ever visited the library receives newsletters from businesses in the area while SCVAS' offices in McClellan Ranch Park , Audubon chapters in other counties around maintaining the health of the creek. In you've no doubt experienced the obvious the Bay Area as well as those in Tucson , an urban setting that is not an easy task. treasure that the beauty and natural diversity Los Angeles, Seattle, Portland, San Diego , The main thing the Water District of the park provides. One hidden treasure at and even Honolulu . The periodicals don ' t needs in order to do a progressive, McClellan that people sometimes overlook , end at the newsletters-there's also a small environmentally responsible flood however , dwells inside the building ... the collection of birding magazines such as control project is land-land near the SCV AS library . This wonderful resource is Audubon,Birders' World,andBirding. Just creek . The residential project approved filled with interesting and varied material stop by and ask the office staff to help you by the San Jose Council could limit the just waiting to be discovered. locate these . Water District's options, leading to a Joy Robinson and Joan Leighton , All library materials, except the few more damaging flood control project. SCV AS volunteer librarians, have been marked reference, may be borrowed by To its credit, the San Jose Council did working for the past eight months or so to SCV AS members for up to three weeks. To require the developer to set back the catch up with various backlogs in the make the collection easier to review , Joy has been working very hard to update the homes at least 100 feet from the creek . SCVAS library. As a result, nearly 150 catalogue , arranged by author , title, subject , However, for the Water District to do books have been added to the collection in and call number . Thanks to her efforts, a the job right, it may need even more that time . All of these recent additions were donated by past and current SCV AS current version of the catalogue is now room than that. It is this complex members - many thanks to each of them! available. So, the next time you swing by interaction of different projects that The collection is now quite strong , McClellan Ranch Park to go birding by the forms the grounds for our potential particularly with field guides from countries creek or to buy a bag of birdseed, come on legal action . in Asia, Africa, and the Middle East. In in and browse the library shelves . You may It should be noted that here, as addition, a small collection of videotapes find something to help you prepare before always, we try to avoid the courts. We and audiocassettes has been catalogued and you embark on your next birding trip, or wrote to the Council and appeared at is now available. These range from birding maybe something to help you learn more the public heari ng on this project, by ear CDs to videos focusing on about local birds. Whatever your birding requesting that the City delay approval conservation to species-specific programs. interest, you're bound to find something of the project until city staff and the For those wishing to know about birding worthwhile in the newly updated collection . The A vocet 14 Interns bring new energy to SCVAS programs fromPagel the results we expect when hiring an that something is wrong at the Cisco intern. Jackie will also be working with Systems development in Alviso. Also, a Jennifer and many SCV AS volunteers on tip from an employee leads me to believe our in-class programs and field trips. that the Water District-typically one of Thanks to grants from the Center for the more responsible agencies in our Venture Philanthropy and the Yahoo! region-may not be fulfilling its Employee Foundation, and thanks to your commitments to local fisheries. I've also donations to last spring's Birdathon and heard rumor that the Eagle Ridge other fundraisers, SCV AS will be able to development in Gilroy has problems. In serve more schoolchildren this year, and short, I expect Kim to hit the ground we will be realigning our approach to running, turning these leads and schools and families with our educational possibilities into the research and follow services. through needed to preserve and enhance Learning from some well-researched local natural resources . theories on effective environmental IdealJy this project will not only benefit education, we will be trying to reach our region, but also have wider students with multiple experiences in a ramifications. Kim and I will document single year, occasionally working with our successes and frustrations, with the consultants to hone our approach, and Intern Kim Yuan-Farrell thought that a future publication may help collaborating with other environmental other community organizations deal with education providers to see if our combined creeks are healthier. Other monitoring this same issue. The problem is widespread; efforts can deliver better services. By efforts have been more sporadic, we will not solve it, but we may bring some taking on a leadership role in the classroom depending on what I notice around the substantial attention to it. and on field trips, Jackie will allow county and my time constraints. Please join me in welcoming Jackie Jennifer the time to recruit more Unfortunately, Kelly moved on, and I and Kim to SCV AS. volunteers, develop curricula, and explore simply do not have the time to cover her the integration of our programs with the previous work in addition to my own. efforts of other educators. This is where Kim comes in. She comes Jackie will be working approximately to us from Santa Clara University, where twelve hours a week with SCVAS. From she graduated earlier this year as an Quiz answers: what I've seen so far, she will add Environmental Studies major. A former VGSW - Violet-green Swallow significantly to our educational student of mine , Kim is bright and OATI - Oak Titmouse accomplishments . articulate, with a proven commitment to CBCH - Chestnut-backed Chickadee conservation work. A TFL - Ash-throated Flycatcher Kim A grant from the Santa Clara Valley BEWR - Bewick's Wren For some time now, I have wanted to Water District will partially fund a two WBNU- White-breasted Nuthatch approach the issue of mitigation semester internship delving ever further HOWR- House Wren monitoring in a more systematic and into the murky world of mitigation TRSW - Tree Swallow concentrated manner. Think of mitigation monitoring. Kim will be responsible for HOFI - House Finch monitoring as holding developers and learning both the laws and the realities of AMKE- American Kestrel local cities to the commitments they make holding developers to their promises . I WESO - Western Schreech-owl toward environmental protection. We make that distinction very purposefully BNOW- Barn Owl had a significant success when Kelly in this area, what the law says should WODU- Wood Duck Crowley was with us, monitoring happen often diverges greatly from the construction sites during the rainy season facts on the ground. and looking for water quality violations. As I write this, Kim has not yet started, Kelly produced an excellent report on but I already have a few leads for her. We Requesting drawings this issue (which can still be seen on our know that a Shea Homes project in south website at www.scvas.org/ San Jose has failed to fulfill its and photo s stormwater.html), drawing attention to a commitments to wetlands and riparian Please send drawings and photos for systemic problem locally. As a result of protection. While we have pointed this consideration in future Avocet her work, local jurisdictions and our out before, the city only partially publications to Grant Hoyt or Bonnie Regional Water Quality Control Board responded, and there's more work to be Bedford-White . Call Bonnie at408-261- paid more attention to the issue, and thus done. In addition, I have a strong suspicion 8210 for more information .
The A vocet 15 Santa Clara Valley Audubon Society 22221 McClellan Road Non-Profit Organization Cupertino, CA 95014 U.S. Postage Paid San Jose, CA Phone: 408-252-3747 Permit No. 5869 Fax: 408-252-2850 E-mail: [email protected] A N ~ F s11:\/ENsc SCVAS11 ~ McCl.EU.ANRAr«: • . McC
OFFICERS CHAIRPERSONS President Avocet GENERAL MEETINGS are held on the Debbie Thompson 408/227-4604 Editor : Grant Hoyt 650/969-7892 third Wednesday of each month except July, Past President Graphics and Print Preparation August and December and are open to the public. David Drake 831/336-1127 Bonnie Bedford-While 408/261-8210 1st VP Bay Area Audubon Council BOARD OF DIRECTORS meetings are (Vacant) Delegate open to all members. Call the office at (408) 2nd VP Leda Beth Gray 831/336-1127 252-3747 for times and directions. Charles Preuss 650/261-9067 Christmas Bird Count Treasurer RARE BIRD ALERT: (415) 681-7422 Mary Murphy 650/621-7534 Ann Verdi 408/266-5 I 08 Secretary Education KEEPING CONNECTED: E-mail us at
City State & ZiP·----"------Phone.______~Email ______7XCH Cl4 0 Check here if you don't want your name and address shared with other organizations. Make all checks payable to SCVAS. The A vocet 16