The Bird River in Jerry Ameis

the by ChasingJerry Ameis the river to Chase Lake andBird back in late August, a good time to canoe because the bug count is relatively low. Water he Bird is a picturesque Shield Country river that levels should also be low but that was not the case. The begins as a trickle in the southern part of Woodland levels on the Bird were the highest I have ever encountered Caribou Park and relinquishes T in my years of canoeing the river – a its gathered waters in the he levels on the Bird mystery considering that the winter River. If you are quiet, and lucky, snowfall was sparse and that there was you can see wildlife such as osprey, “T were the highest I no significant rain for months. eagles, herons, kingfishers, bears, have ever encountered in my moose, wolves, and caribou. Canoe years of canoeing the river.” We began the trip on a Sunday. As we trips up the river begin at Tulabi Lake left Tulabi Lake and entered the river a on a small beach sandwiched between a steep cliff and pair of curious otters popped up ahead of us. They gave us a a waterfall. From that beach, you can travel 5 hours to 30-second consideration and then slid gracefully back into spend a leisurely weekend at the popular Elbow Lake, or their domain. As we paddled towards Elbow, we met 16 journey to far away places such as the Bloodvein River. canoes heading back to Tulabi Lake. This is why you go upriver on a Sunday if you want a camping spot on Elbow. Four Nature members, Marilyn Hearn, Monica Reid, Martin Zeilig, and Jerry Ameis (leader), paddled up (continued on page 7...)

In This Issue... Chasing the Bird...... p. 1 & 7 Roger’s Rant...... p. 9 President’s Corner...... p. 2 Outdoor Activities...... p. 10-11 Member Profile: Dianne Beaven...... p. 3 Bird News & Fall Hawk Watch 2012...... p. 12-15 Encounters of the Natural Kind...... p. 4-5 The State of ’s Birds: A MB Summary.....p. 16 Nature in the News: RMNP Ski Trails Update...... p. 6 Manitoba Bird Atlas Update...... p. 17 Mars Hill Wildlife Management Area...... p. 8 Discovery Evenings 2012-2013...... p. 18-19 President’s Corner by Donald Himbeault

Canada Post Publications Mail Sales While the sun shines... Product Agreement No. 0040069231. certainly found the sun to be shining brightly on Issued 6 times a year as the official me this summer, especially during the outdoor publication of Nature Manitoba. I trips and day hikes of our outdoor program that Subscriptions are a benefit of membership. I took part in. A highlight of the season would See backpage for membership details. certainly have been the 8-day canoe excursion in Opinions are those of the writers and not Quetico Park, led and organized and by our Trea- necessarily the organization as a whole. surer, Sean Worden, where the weather was in full cooperation. Perhaps there was even more than Office and Library enough sun at times, like on the Mantario Trail hike in July – I don’t ever recall 401 - 63 Albert St. Winnipeg, R3B 1G4 drinking so many litres of water in such a short period of time. Phone/Fax:...... 204-943-9029 Email:...... [email protected] Similarly, I would say the sun is also shining brightly on Nature Manitoba these Website: ...... www.naturemanitoba.ca days. We continue to offer a healthy number of outdoor trips, Grey Hares trips, and birding events throughout the year. We have an exciting and high quality Office Administrator...... Susan McLarty lineup of presenters for our Discovery Evening and Workshop series. The Office Assistant...... Deanna Dodgson Mantario Program is having relatively good success, both in terms of cabin rental Hours: 10:00 am to 3:00 pm revenue and the number of participants in the summer program. The Important Mon/Tue and Thu/Fri Bird Area (IBA) program has gained more status with the hiring of a s the expression ‘make Nature Manitoba News part-time coordinator. A new fund has “A hay while the sun shines’ been established, the Manitoba advises, this is not a time to rest, Newsletter Editor...... Tommy Allen Bluebird Fund, which will provide but rather a time to work at Email:...... [email protected] resources for generations to come to preparing our organization to Editorial Committee: Tommy Allen help stop the decline of songbirds in be strong and sustainable.” Donna Danyluk Roger Turenne Manitoba, all thanks to a generous member. Our membership numbers are stable. Most, but not all, of our funding Advertising rates are available by requests are successful. And the Garden Tour will be back in 2013. contacting the editor. Rates are reduced if But as the expression “make hay while the sun shines” advises, this is not a time the ad appears at least two times. to rest, but rather a time to work at preparing our organization to be strong and Classifieds are also available for only 15$. sustainable. Two areas to focus on come to mind:

Submission deadline is the first day of the 1. Increasing and diversifying our membership numbers. As mentioned month prior to the newsletter publication. above, our overall membership numbers are stable, however there is about a 5 Deadline for the Jan. / Feb. 2013 issue is to 7% turn over every year. Thus, attracting new members is important in December 1, 2012. order for us to just maintain our numbers, let alone trying to grow. While only anecdotal, I would say most of our new members come from people wanting This newsletter is printed on Enviro 100 to join in our activities, having learned about them through contact with 20lb paper which is 100% Post Consumer current members or our website. Otherwise, our recruiting efforts have been Recycled and FSC certified. mostly through kiosks at various events as for example the Red River Ex, Manitoba Nature Summit, and the ReFit Centre. We need to look at more 2012/2013 Executive options, such as advertising through other media, or perhaps forming alliances President...... Donald Himbeault with other organizations. These efforts should also look at attracting members Exec. Vice-President...... Jack Dubois from all age groups. Again it’s anecdotal, but I would suspect that the younger Vice-President...... James Whitelaw side of the population is underrepresented in our organization. Treasurer...... Sean Worden 2. Refreshing of members on committees. Many of our committees have been Secretary...... Alain Louer relying on the efforts of a handful of the same volunteers year after year. It is Past President...... Roger Turenne great having these individuals ready to devote so much time effort, but we don’t want to burn them out, and some I believe are ready and waiting to take 2012/2013 Board Members a less active role. We need to find new volunteers to assure continuity in the Jerry Ameis, Christian Artuso, activities of in these committees. Scott Falkingham, Michele Kading, Rose Kuzina, Can Li, These issues are not unique to Nature Manitoba, and I know many organizations Les McCann, Rommel Molod, struggle to overcome them. Hopefully the “good weather” that our organization Richard Staniforth is currently enjoying will help to make achieving these goals easier and with good success. Page 2 Nature Manitoba News Vol. 4, Issue 6 - Nov. / Dec. 2012 by Tommy Allen Photo: Loretta Humeniuk Welcome New Members! Pass August 15th 2011 - October 14th, 2012: le io Colleen Chubey p n Deanne Coombs o a Cheryl Costen e t Audrey Crew P e Clara Mitchell Enns Susan Hamel Jacqueline Heinrichs Shirley Hiebert DIannE Peggy Kasuba Hans Miller BEAVEN Karen Price . . Office Closed A . on Wednesdays b e The Nature Manitoba office will o r be closed on Wednesdays until u tu further notice. The office will be t Na open during its regular hours of 10am-3pm on Mon/Tue and Thu/Fri. ianne spent most project involving a of her summers at the travelling rail-car that not only Dfamily cottage on Falcon Lake, promoted the planting of trees across Volunteer Treasurer Needed where she enjoyed boating, fishing, the country, but also introduced forest Nature Manitoba is looking to a wildlife and bird watching. “I always education into countless small rural Volunteer Treasurer to complement say I was brainwashed early,” she communities. She thought the book its board for 2013. explains, as her dad was a keen would only take a year or two to outdoorsman – he had a career with write, but it was six years later that The duties of the treasurer are to: the Canadian Forestry Association, she finally had the book printed. »» Prepare a report for each board and later the Manitoba Forestry Throughout her career with the MFA, meeting on the financial state of Association (MFA), and played a vital Dianne knew about the MNS, and Nature Manitoba; role in the ‘Tree Planting Car’, leaving went to some of the indoor program »» Prepare an annual budget; a legacy that Dianne would one day presentations (now Discovery Eve- write a book about. »» Provide guidance to the organiza- nings) and workshops. It wasn’t until tion on accounting related matters; After high school, she jumped right she retired that she became more »» Assist the president with reports into a career with the MFA, where she involved with the organization. She as requested; helped establish special forestry volunteered for Ruby Tekauz, who »» Provide various committee chairs centres in the Interlake region, the was organizing the Discovery Eve- with advice as required; Duck Mountains, and The Pas. She nings, and once Ruby stepped down, »» remained in Winnipeg, and still paid Dianne was a great fit to continue on Chair the Finance Committee, which reviews investment and regular visits to the Falcon with some of the coordina- financial policy. Lake cottage. She has always tion. She has also just joined always cherished spending “I say I was the new Garden Tour The ideal individual will possess an time outdoors, although she brainwashed Committee, which ties in accounting or financial designation or claims that her outdoor early.” with her passion for garden- equivalent university degree, along adventures do not compare ing, and still finds time to with some experience in dealing with to many of those told by other Nature volunteer for the University Women’s fund accounting and not-for-profit Manitoba members. Club of Winnipeg. organizations. Previous board experience is a definite asset. Dianne retired in 2005, after 41-years You can order the book, A Prairie with the MFA, 27 of those years as the Odyssey: Alan Beaven and the Tree Interested individuals should submit a resume & letter to the “Chairperson – Executive Director. She chose to focus Planting Car, at thinktrees.org (call Nomination Committee”, c/o Nature her energy on writing a book about the MFA at 204-453-3182, ext. 6) or Manitoba office by Dec. 31, 2012. the ‘Tree Planting Car’ – a 50-year look for it at McNally Robinson.

Vol. 4, Issue 6 - Nov. / Dec. 2012 Nature Manitoba News Page 3 Please send us your short stories Encounters of the (approx. 300-500 words) of interesting Natural Kind encounters with Manitoba nature.

One of several smaller turtle Tallies at nests where the eggs had Thomson’s Turret hatched normally. by Julia Schoen ix Grey Hares enjoyed great food, wonderful weather, relaxing Scanoe rides and each others’ company at June Thomson’s cottage mallards, goldfinches, four elegant spiders hiding in the nooks and near Kenora (aka “Thomson’s Turret”) Great Blue Herons, Loons and Mergan- crannies of the docks. from August 7-10. It was a satisfying sers, both with young, and a half dozen holiday in every way, including the fact A not-so-delightful surprise was the majestic Bald Eagles, five in the air and that our three days on the water discovery of several turtle nests dug one sitting in a tree near us as we resulted in large numbers of wildlife into rough gravel at the side of the passed by, providing us with an sightings, both animal and plant. bridge above the lake... not delightful excellent view. because the largest nest had been Perhaps the animals that caused the At the cabin, we had front row seats robbed and the eggs devoured. Fortu- most excitement were the mink we each day for the “Battle of the Song nately, there were several smaller nests watched chasing a bird along the Sparrow and the White-throated where the eggs had hatched normally. shoreline, a groundhog we observed Sparrow”. The two birds vied for checking us out, and a deer that we Our plant list included Joe-pye Weed, feeding privileges on the bird feeder spotted swimming across a very wide Fireweed, goldenrod, Harebells, Water set up on June’s property. In the wild, part of the lake. It must have tired Smartweed, water lilies, Evening we saw one unusual bird flush from itself out from the long swim – we saw Primrose, Arrowhead, Pussy Toes, the reeds. Our research indicated that it stumble onto the land and heard it Pearly Everlasting, Tansy, Mullein, it was a likely a young Least Bittern. breathing heavily as it disappeared Spotted Jewelweed, Cow Parsnip and into the bush. Some delightful surprises that came asters, white and purple. our way included a couple of Leopard We saw the expected species that It has to be said that the British Mrs. Frogs that hopped out of their camou- normally inhabit this area, including Thomson managed to provide her flage at our approach, a Toad, several Belted Kingfishers and Blue-winged guests with a rather perfect three days, Painted Turtles basking on rocks in the Teal. A cormorant, Turkey Vultures, and a jolly good time was had by all! sun and two very black dense-bodied

Photos: June Thomson & Julia Schoen

Six Grey Hares members enjoying the wonderful weather near Kenora.

Page 4 Nature Manitoba News Vol. 4, Issue 6 - Nov. / Dec. 2012 A Jewel by the Roadside by Marilyn Latta arly morning is a special time to the other depending on what caught Moving a few feet either way caused be outdoors. There is a primor- my attention. I paused to listen to the the jewel to virtually disappear, leaving Edial feeling that makes it easy to melodious chorus of a Meadowlark, a drab lump among the gravel. What imagine you are the only person on the then detoured to check out a hole in an luck that I had spotted it from exactly planet, especially if you are away from old tree where a Northern Flicker had the right place at exactly the right the hustle of the city. I don’t get out nested the year before. Always on the time. I was in awe. How was it possible early as often as I would like. I’m not lookout for any new botanical finds, I for something so mundane, so… scato- sure whether the spirit is willing and scanned the roadsides but found only logical, to be so exquisitely beautiful? the flesh is weak or if it is the other old friends. And then I spied something Eventually my feet aimed their way way around. different, an anomaly that caught my back home. Finding fresh bear tracks eye, a glittering object by the side of In any event, a few years ago I was at crossing the road, I couldn’t help but the road. I drew closer trying to deci- the Manitoba Tall Grass Prairie Pre- wonder if I had missed them earlier pher what it was. It looked like a jewel serve for a meeting. Afterwards, the or if the bear had crossed after I had and reminded me of my Grandmother’s Preserve staff allowed me to share passed by, perhaps pausing to watch amethyst broach but no, that couldn’t their space for the night so that I could me. Arriving back at the Field Station, photograph wildflowers in the early I was excited to see that Laura Reeves, morning light. My plan was to get up spied something different, the Preserve botanist, had arrived for before sunrise and photograph in the an anomaly that caught work. Laura loves all things prairie. calm air before the prairie breeze “I She often troops through the grasses started blowing. Unfortunately, on this my eye, a glittering object in her bare feet and makes delicious particular morning, the wind decided by the side of the road.” wild edibles, such as Stinging Nettle to get up before the sun. Somewhat soup. If anyone would appreciate my disgruntled at seeing this, I crawled roadside find, it would be Laura. be right. As I moved closer yet, my back into my sleeping bag. However, Enthusiastically, I told her my story, brain struggled to made sense of what a few moments later I managed to describing in great detail the jewel I I was seeing and then finally did. It boot myself back out and decided had found and how dazzled I was by was a coyote scat, but not just any old to walk up the road to the Nature its beauty. Finally pausing, I eagerly coyote scat. It was full of what was Manitoba property at the north end watched Laura for some kind of probably rabbit fur and a number of in- of the Preserve, adjacent to the Rat exuberant reaction so typical of her. dividual hairs protruded from the scat. River Marsh. Instead, Laura regarded me silently for These were curved and covered with several moments before slowing saying The breeze may have ruined my dew drops and the low angle of the “You know, I don’t think you’d better photographic plans but it was a rising sun made the dew drops sparkle tell too many people that story”. beautiful morning. Down the road I with a myriad of colours, but only Perhaps she’s right. walked, meandering from one side to when viewed from a certain direction.

Julia Schoen

Cycling Around Town August 1st – A group of Gray Hares stopped on the bridge in West Waverley, which has some lovely cycling trails. They toured various gardens featured in past Nature Manitoba Garden Tours, the next of which will happen in 2013. – Julia Schoen

Vol. 4, Issue 6 - Nov. / Dec. 2012 Nature Manitoba News Page 5 Nature in the News... ­Riding Mountain National Park (RMNP) ski trails update (excerpts from recent articles in the South Mountain Press, both by Candy Irwin)

An article in the Aug. 24 edition of this A more positive article, also by Candy RMNP will have no staff available for community newspaper, published in Shoal Irwin, appeared in the Sep. 7 edition. backcountry services, like rescue services Lake, reported on the public meeting with and first aid, but the absence of a Safety MP Robert Sopuck and RMNP superinten- Volunteers plan to Specialist does not negate the responsi- dent Robert Sheldon held earlier in August. pick up the slack at bility of RMNP for the safety of visitors. A few sentences excerpted from this article The RCMP and local Fire & Rescue written by Candy Irwin tell the story… RMNP this winter groups can be relied on to assume some responsibility as well. Parking lots at the f you are a cross-country skier who, trail heads will continue to be ploughed Loss of winter services like many, prefer to ski on groomed I out, as always. at RMNP continues to trails, this article will put a smile on your frustrate area residents face! In views of the fact that RMNP has RMNP will continue to post ski trail been designated a three-season park due information on their website for the he words ‘disappointed and ‘frus- to recent government cutbacks, a group public, and so will Friends of RMNP, Ttrated’ would aptly describe the of motivated volunteer organizers have usually updated every Thursday through- feelings of over 200 people who attended decided to ‘step up to the plate’ to ensure out the winter. the Public Consultation meeting re: that enthusiasts can continue to enjoy Friends of RMNP will oversee the Winter Activities in Riding Mountain RMNP in the winter. packing, tracking and grooming of the National Park held in Onanole on Aug. Anne Lindsey Townsite and Campground classic and 9…The reduction of winter services skate ski trails. They hope to access constitutes a savings of $50,000 to grants, donations and sponsorships in $60,000 in the $7.5 million annual order to hire someone on a contract budget of the Park…One former em- basis, to ensure regular and consistent ployee, whose job it was to help formu- grooming of these popular trails. This late the RMNP Management Plan pointed will also ensure that the Jack Rabbit Ski eople groaned and felt a little “P insulted when Sopuck and Skiing the group of motivated volunteer Sheldon stated that the ski trails Kinosao Trail “A organizers have decided would ‘be open, but not groomed’...” in RMNP. to ‘step up to the plate’...” out the large amount of money recently On Wednesday August 29, a Steering Program, the RMNP Loppet and biathlon spent on another feasibility study and Committee meeting was convened and activities can go forward. amendment to the management plan, chaired by Greg Anderson from the paving the way for the development of The Steering Committee then put Elkhorn Resort. Also present were the Agassiz Ski Hill, should it prove to be forward a ‘wish list’ of the other most representatives from Friends of RMNP, financially viable…A particularly elo- popular ski trails, as follows: Beach the Jack Rabbit Ski Program, cottage quent speaker expressed the opinion that Ridges, Hilton, Broadleaf, Edward Creek, owners, area residents and the Westman the Conservative government’s approach Crawford, Deep Lake, Flat Lake, Com- Wilderness Society (Brandon). Also to fiscal management didn’t make any pound, Lake Katherine, South Lake, Grey present were Judy Snitynsky, Executive sense, particularly in view of the fact that Owl and Kinosao. This list has been Administrator for Dauphin-Swan River- people in communities surrounding the submitted to RMNP for risk assessment Marquette Constituency (representing park have spent many years marketing and their suggestions for which trails MP Robert Sopuck), Richard Dupuis, RMNP and the surrounding areas as a would be the most suitable for volunteers Manage of Visitor Services for RMNP and year-round tourism destination…People to sustain. Trail grooming may involve Dale Wallis, Townsite Manager for RMNP. groaned and felt a little insulted when mowing, repairs, tree removal and Sopuck and Sheldon stated that the ski There are 4 ski trail groomers owned by occasionally, re-routing and tracking. trails would “be open, but not groomed” RMNP and they will be made available to If you would like to volunteer, please …After close to three hours of wrangling, volunteers. Chainsaw Certification would email [email protected]. one speaker summed it up by saying that be preferable, and getting a course set up the decision to reduce winter services in would be no problem, although much of RMNP will substantially harm our the clearing work could be done with For the full versions of the above community in many ways…The general manual swede saws. All volunteers are articles, contact South Mountain consensus was that the concerns ex- insured when working in RMNP once a Press at [email protected]. pressed fell on deaf ears. Volunteer Agreement has been signed. Page 6 Nature Manitoba News Vol. 4, Issue 6 - Nov. / Dec. 2012 that. A moose skull and assorted bones were strewn near Chasing the Bird our camp site. Perhaps it was a wolf kill or winter kill. (...continued from page 1) Our return journey began with a long day of 6 portages, 2 chutes, and 28 km of paddling to reach the western end of Name Unknown Snowshoe Lake. One reason was that it was wise to cross the 9 km length of Snowshoe Lake with a favorable wind. A west wind on Snowshoe turns the lake into a sea of white- caps. We were lucky. As we paddled west, we had a slight tail wind. The other reason was that we wanted to be close enough to Elbow Lake to ensure that we would arrive there on Friday, avoiding the weekend find-a-camp-site problem. Friday afternoon found us at Elbow. We soon plunked down at the same campsite we had used on the way upriver. Saturday was partly spent by a strenuous climb up a steep and long granite hill, just north of the campsite. The view Above Snowshoe Falls: (left to from the top is spectacular. That night there was another right) Jerry Ameis, Marilyn Hearn, of nature’s marvels – a lightning show extraordinaire. Monica Reid, and Martin Zeilig. We headed home on Sunday. The sky was threatening rain and the wind was picking up from the west – the direction The next day we had our first encounter with the power of we had to paddle. We lashed the two canoes together, the river. The first portage out of Elbow had changed outrigger style, as a way of ensuring no one went for a dramatically. It used to be 10 metres long around a low non-voluntary swim. Also, this way of paddling encourages waterfall, followed by a short paddle and a 50 metre stimulating conversation (at least sometimes) and makes it portage. The force of the high water levels of the past few easier to paddle into a headwind. years had collapsed the clay/sand cliff that was at the edge of the portage. The dam We carried the lashed canoes across the he high water had broken, so to speak. Now the river first portage (a 15 meter walk) but had to poured through the breach, erasing all “T levels turned the unlash them at the next one. The remain- traces of the former portage. The new first portage into a ing two portages were crowded with portage required a rope haul up a steep swamp that would have canoeists heading home after their incline to a plateau, followed by a 350 required waist-deep weekend sojourn in Elbow. The backcoun- metre walk to the top of McGregor Falls. floundering in foul muck try is not always a place of solitude. The high water levels also created other to launch the canoe...” The beach at Tulabi greeted us at last. This difficulties. Our original plan was to travel is always a time to cherish the companion- to Eden Lake, the headwater lake of the Manigotagan River. ship of fellow paddlers and the beauty of Shield Country. The high water levels turned the first portage (the one at Homeward we drove. For some reason we ended up at Alga Lake) into a swamp that would have required waist- Seddons Corner for supper, but that, and the story of deep floundering in foul muck to launch the canoe. We had Martin’s tent, are tales for another day. to abandon that plan and paddle to Chase Lake instead. Jerry Ameis I refer to the section of the Bird between Snowshoe and Erosion had erased most Chase Lakes as the “deliverance” section because of the falls, of the usual portage canyons, rapids and chutes that occur along the way. The route at Elbow Lake. high water levels created problems at portage landings and forced thigh-deep water walking to travel up the chutes. There is an enchanting portage on this section. The sun- speckled mossy trail crosses an island. The upstream end is a flat rock shelf where the river splits into a fall on the south side and a steep rapid on the north. It is an alluring spot to sit and marvel at nature’s charm. About 1/2 km upstream from the island portage, we met a female moose swimming across the river 40 metres in front of us. When it reached the shore, it did not linger to speculate about our intentions. We camped on an island on Chase Lake where we stayed for two nights. The spot was across from one of the two fly-in fishing lodges on the lake. The lay-over day was spent exploring the large island, relaxing, swimming, sunbathing (UV rays at Chase are benign), and chatting about this and Vol. 4, Issue 6 - Nov. / Dec. 2012 Nature Manitoba News Page 7 Heather Miltenburg

Aspen (Populus tremuloides): This tree’s circumference is roughly 155cm.

Mars Hill Wildlife Management Area: More Than Trails by Peggy Kasuba, Mars Hill Forest Alliance of the insects that fill the air as the forest comes alive with wildflowers and the buzzing of bees. You may even see a ave you hiked the Mars Hill Wildlife Management black bear. Area? Have you hiked it in all four seasons? Autumn brings the fluttering of leaves and the beautiful The Mars Hill Wildlife Management Area (WMA) pallet of colour, especially the orange and reds of the forest has some inhabitants that may elude you, like the H understory, and the yellow of birch and Trembling Aspen. Red-sided Garter Snake, if you aren’t looking for them, Grouse and animal tracks abound. Owls and coyotes while others are more obvious. provide vocal entertainment in the evening hours. Spring brings a profusion of Prairie Crocus. Did you know Winter is soft and silent against a blue or grey sky. Chicka- the Mars Hill WMA is an important nesting site for migra- dees, Blue Jays, Ravens, grosbeaks, and woodpeckers are tory songbirds? The splendor of standing in a cathedral of ever present. An amazing time for a hike! But you will not sixty-five foot tall Jack Pine listening to a choir of songbirds see a black bear! is euphoric! Then there is the grand evening call of the Eastern Whip-poor-will, which by the way is federally and We invite you to come out and experience the Mars Hill provincially protected and COSEWIC listed. Did you know Wildlife Management Area in all four seasons! there are nine species of wild orchids including all three The Mars Hill Wildlife Management Area encompasses 3,315 coral-roots in this WMA? In June we Roger Lariviere hectare ,and is located 8 kilometres east came upon an area with nearly 300 of Libau on Provincial Road 317. Spotted Coral-root orchids. You may Contact Peggy Kasuba at 204-265-3499 even see a black bear. or [email protected] for more A cacophony of frogs in the wetlands details about specific trails or directions. and the sight and sound of Sandhill Cranes is delightful! The wetlands are busy as larvae transform for flight, including mosquitoes, while Red- winged Blackbirds and ducks are busy nest-building. Trees are downed and beavers are building. We had a great time water-dipping for invertebrates with two volunteers from . Summer meadows with milkweed attract Monarch butterflies and Some of the wide caterpillars. Morning Cloak, swallow- trails provide great tail, fritillary butterflies are but a few cycling opportunities.

Page 8 Nature Manitoba News Vol. 4, Issue 6 - Nov. / Dec. 2012 late in the day, the wind was picking up, and I didn’t know where or if another campsite could be quickly found. I had no choice but to stay. A good thing because the next day I toured the lake and visited all of the half-dozen “official” …on crappy campsites campsites on it. All save one were littered with human feces and toilet paper in close proximity to the tenting areas. by Roger Turenne Is there a point to ranting on about this? Aren’t I just t first glance it looked like an (hopefully) preaching to the converted? Actually, there is a ideal campsite – a semi-open point, and it is that Manitoba Conservation is sometimes an Aarea providing panoramic views unwitting accomplice to this state of affairs. When a tiny and some shelter from the wind at the island, with no “backcountry” to provide for the discrete tip of a small peninsula jutting out from digging of catholes, is officially designated as a campsite, a larger island in the middle of Garner complete with metal signage and the placement of a fire Lake in Nopiming Provincial Park. It had the grill, it is an invitation for trouble. (Also, standard issue fire grill, small table, a reason- s it a willful act of placing a fire grill on a tiny island will ably flat tent site on a rise overlooking the “Iperversity or an inevitably result in most of its trees con- lake, and a good landing to allow easy egress example of utter and verted to firewood.) from the centre seat of my solo canoe. complete cluelessness?” The Whiteshell River north of Caddy Lake is Once I started unloading the canoe, I very certainly one of the most popular canoe quickly I smelled something fishy. Only it wasn’t fish, but routes in the province. There is a very heavily used desig- rather the very strong stench of human excrement. I hap- nated campsite on an island in the middle of South Cross pened to glance down at my boot and noticed it was ringed Lake. You would be well advised to pick a tent site with an with a telltale brown substance with a consistency that onshore breeze. When the air is calm, the smell of human indicated a degree of freshness as well an ability to stick to waste permeates the entire island. You would also be well every lug and crevice of a Vibram sole. What the…? advised to not wear your best shoes. What is the mental state of an individual who defecates The province’s Green Plan states: “The province will pilot an right at the canoe/boat landing at a campsite? What are his online backcountry camping site inventory for canoe routes in or her thoughts about the next person who will land there? Nopiming Provincial Park to provide trip planning informa- Is it a willful act of perversity or an example of utter and tion for backcountry camping enthusiasts and to help attract complete cluelessness? If only this were an isolated case, new visitors.” Having open air toilets as campsites is not the but it is not. best way to promote that objective. So c’mon Manitoba The first tent site I checked out had another pile of human Conservation, if you’re going to designate a heavily used, excrement right in the middle, this one made more visible easily accessible – especially to motorboat traffic – campsite, by the toilet paper spread around it. Another isolated case? it should be a no-brainer to equip it with a pit toilet. No, I have seen examples of such behaviour on other trips. As a Canadian diplomat abroad, as a senior advisor to two The rest of the camping area made for perilous walking as Manitoba premiers, as a political analyst, and as an human waste and toilet paper were evident in many places. environmental lobbyist, Roger has observed the political scene My first instinct was to leave immediately. However, it was from all angles over more than 40 years.

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Vol. 4, Issue 6 - Nov. / Dec. 2012 Nature Manitoba News Page 9 To receive weekly updates of outdoor activities, send a message to [email protected].

Mantario Cabin Winter St. Boniface Hike Portage la Prairie Hike Preparation Work Party and Fall Dinner Sat. November 10th Fri. October 26th - Tue. October 30th Sat. November 3rd An urban hike around Portage’s Crescent Help maintain the Mantario Cabin and Al will do an early afternoon hike Lake. We will also check out the Delta prepare it for winter. Learn how to use starting around the Belgian Club, going Marsh area to see how much it has been and look after the cabin facilities. We’ll through St. Boniface to The Forks or affected by the high water levels. canoe and portage in during late season Waterfront Drive and back. Afterwards Contact Rose Kuzina at 204-338-9369 conditions for a four or five day weekend. those interested could attend the or [email protected]. [Rate 2] Call Dale Brown at 204-444-2278 Belgian Club’s fall supper (cost $11). or email Peter Vandermaar at Contact Al Louer at 204-235-1790 or Fort Whyte / Assiniboine [email protected]. [Rate 4] [email protected]. [Rate 1-2] Forest Post-Festive Hike Sat. December 29th Emerson Hike and Fall Dinner Headingley Hike In case you did not eat enough during Sun. October 28th and Fall Dinner the holiday season, here’s another chance Hike around Emerson via the Sun. November 4th to try again while hiking. Join Rose TransCanada Trail, then reward Join Les McCann for an autumn hike and on the third annual 12 km round-trip yourself at the town’s fall dinner. the Headingley Fall Dinner. As advance hike through the Assiniboine Forest to Contact Rose Kuzina at 204-338-9369 tickets are necessary, dinner money of the Fort Whyte Centre restaurant. or [email protected]. [Rate 3] $12 per person must be sent to Les or the Contact Rose Kuzina at 204-338-9369 Nature Manitoba office by October 29. or [email protected]. [Rate 2] Register with Les at 204-895-8108 or email [email protected]. [Rate 2] This is a difficult time of year to plan for outdoor activities – visit our website for up-to-date trip listings. Trip Leader Forms Visit SaveELA.org! Trip Leader forms are available on our website, in the “Outdoor Activities” section Classified Ads Join concerned Canadians to oppose under “Trip Leader Forms”. Please fill For $15 you get a box of this size the federal closure of Canada’s them out and return them to the Nature Manitoba office. Contact the office if you to share any text that you want. Experimental Lakes Area. would prefer paper copies mailed to you. Email [email protected].

every Wednesday – all of these events are in our group, we need some new faces organized by volunteers from the ranks of and some new places to go. Where are you? the group. We carpool to destinations and Our membership fees are very low, $5.00 We know you are out there! share expenses. Most events are free, gives an almost lifetime membership. f you are free mid-week on Wednesdays, some include lunch in a nearby restaurant, Members must also be members of Nature we are looking for you. We are looking mostly we take our own food. Our pace of I Manitoba, but others are welcome to come for retired or part-time working people activity tends to be at the lower end of on one or two trips to try us out before who enjoy physically active things to do, speed but varies according to the group. they commit themselves. who are looking for new experiences, new Nobody gets left behind! places to go, new places to explore. Are Please consider coming out to one of our We cross country ski in the winter, we you looking to expand your horizons, events. Most, but not all, are advertised in cycle, bike, canoe or camp in the summer. make new friends among like-minded Nature Manitoba News, some are kept for Between seasons we do ‘cultural events’ people, and meaningful things to do on members only. eg. touring M.T.C., the WAG, the new Wednesdays? The Grey Hares may be airport, or other places of interest. We are your answer. For further information, please call John always looking for new places to go, Gray at 204-269-1765, June Thomson at The Grey Hares is a group within Nature events to attend, experiences to share. 204-837-6469 or any other member of the Manitoba of retired, and partly retired Grey Hares. You can also contact the Our problem – our numbers are dwin- people who enjoy all of these activities. Nature Manitoba office at 204-943-9029, dling, people move on, or for one reason [email protected] or visit the The Grey Hares meet twice a year to or another are no longer able to partici- website at www.naturemanitoba.ca. produce a schedule of events that occur pate in our activities. We need new blood

Page 10 Nature Manitoba News Vol. 4, Issue 6 - Nov. / Dec. 2012 GENERAL RATING GUIDELINES APPLICABLE Free on Wednesdays? Hike the Bittersweet Trails TO ALL ACTIVITIES Join the Grey Hares for interesting trips Wed. November 28th Rate 1 Novice: Typically 2 to 3 hours and activities and good company. Hike the Bittersweet Ski duration. Little or no experience required. Trails near Treherne. Easy terrain. Limited physical fitness Marilyn Hearn at 204-895-4659. [Rate 2] acceptable. Weather not likely to be severe Halloween Hike and normally we can retreat to shelter. Wed. October 31st Halloween Hike at La Barriere Park. Hike or Ski Rate 2 Intermediate: Typically 4-6 hours Charles Begley at 204-233-8395. [Rate 1-2] Beaudry Park long. Some previous experience and skill desirable. Some steep or difficult terrain. Wed. December 5th Moderate physical fitness required. Tour of New Winnipeg Airport Hike or ski the trails at Beaudry Park. Seasonal weather normally not severe. Wed. November 7th Remember to bring your park pass. Ted Harvey at 204-889-5725. [Rate 2] Rate 3 Advanced: Typically full day trip. Tour of the new Winnipeg airport. Previous experience, significant skill and Bryon Burvill at 204-233-7904. [Rate 1] good physical condition required. Steep or Hike or Ski difficult terrain. Sustained strenuous activity Walk Beaudry Park Birds Hill Park required. Weather not normally severe. Wed. November 14th Wed. December 12th Rate 4 Advanced: Trip of several days Walk through Beaudry Park. Ski or hike the trails of Birds Hill Park. duration with heavy packs, specialized Remember to bring your park pass. Remember to bring your park pass equipment and skills. Effects of inclement Marilyn Hearn at 204-895-4659. [Rate 1-2] Sharron Bettess at 204-256-2248. [Rate 2] weather and injuries more severe. Seasonal weather not normally severe. Hike Grand Beach Trails Ski the Grand Beach Trails Rate 5 Advanced: Trip of several days Wed. November 21st Wed. December 19th duration with heavy packs, specialized equipment and skills. Possible severe Hike the Grand Beach Trails. Ski the Grand Beach Trails. weather conditions – wind, cold rain, Jerry Zaste at 204-799-8040. [Rate 2-3] Jerry Zaste at 204-799-8040. [Rate 2] sleet – may halt trip and demand use of skilled survival techniques or make accidents or physical injuries life threatening. Aid or rescue is difficult to obtain.

Lake Winnipeg Beaches Christmas Bird Count PLEASE NOTE: Sat. November 3rd December 14 to January 5 All those planning to participate in a trip Late fall is a good time to look for lingering The Christmas Bird Count season must register with the leader beforehand, waterfowl, raptors and gulls along the will soon be upon us. Count period is unless otherwise indicated. Space is often beaches of S.E. . Winter from December 14 to January 5. limited, so call early. If the leader cannot passerines, such as Snow Buntings and See page 15 for more details on be reached, call the office at 943-9029. redpolls, should also be present. how to participate, and for a list As a member of Nature Manitoba you have Contact Rudolf Koes at 204-661-0763 for of the contacts for each area. the right to participate in all of our activities information or to register. [Rate 1-2] and programs, but you must provide a Photos: Julia Schoen valid membership card. Trips are led by unpaid, non-professional volunteers. Trip leaders may exercise discretion and decline to include any person. When registering you must rely on your own assessment of your ability to participate, based on the requirements of the trip as described in the trip rating guidelines and at www.naturemanitoba.ca. By showing up it is understood that you acknowledged and are prepared and able to participate at the level indicated. You will be required to sign an Informed Consent and Liability Release Agreement in order to participate. Participants must be prepared for inclement Unwinding in the Woods weather. Participants must have adequate February 15th, 2012 – The Grey Hares clothing, water, food, must carry their own had a great time on the Lac du Bonnet gear, and are responsible for ensuring it is ski trails. Bob Hamlin resourcefully in good working condition. See the Outdoor Activity section of our website for more dragged an old chair out of the bush, details on the Trip Rating Guidelines. making a comfortable seat at lunchtime.

Vol. 4, Issue 6 - Nov. / Dec. 2012 Nature Manitoba News Page 11 The following is a brief description of the areas covered, the participants and some of their more interesting sightings. AREA 1 – Cal Cuthbert and 12 members of the Brandon Naturalists Society spent the day along the east side of the Assiniboine River valley just north-east of Virden. This is only the second time a count has been done in this area. Cal reported that from their vantage point on the valley rim they were able to watch raptors both above and below them. Their day’s count was 34 species. AREA 2 – Rob Parsons, Liis Veelma and Jo Swartz visited Carman, Morden, the Pembina River valley near Windygates and Manitou. They saw over 5000 Brewer’s Blackbirds. 2012 FALL HAWK WATCH Their day’s count was 44 species. AREA 3 – The area south and west of Portage la Prairie on both sides of the Assiniboine River was covered by Linda Pearn, Katharine Schulz, Dan Stirling and Cathy Dewar. They counted 67 Savannah Sparrows. They saw 58 species over the course of the day. by Gordon Grieef Dennis Swayze AREA 4 – The Lynch Point to Delta he 2012 fall hawk watch area was covered by Garry Budyk took place on September 8 and John Weier. They had the only with eleven groups participat- T Clark’s Grebe, Baird’s Sandpiper, ing. The early morning temperature Red-necked Phalarope, Red-headed of 9°C rose to 17°C but winds of 50 Woodpecker, Eastern Wood-Pewee, to 70 kph severely restricted any Least Flycatcher and Tree Swallow hawk migration and kept passerines reported by any of the groups. They hunkered down in the undergrowth. saw 211 Western Grebes and 187 This year, 13 species of hawks were Barn Swallows over the course of seen, which is exactly the average the day. Their total for the day was over the 34 years that the fall hawk 103 species, by far the highest of watch has been run. The total count any of the groups. of 564 hawks is just over the AREA 5 – Marlene Waldron, Ward long-term average. Sixty percent of Christianson, Larry De March and all the Turkey Vultures seen were on Laurel McDonald covered the Shoal the Pine Falls count. The 51 Bald A Bald Eagle Lakes and St. Ambroise areas. They Eagles seen this year is about the near Gimli. saw 23 Great Egrets and 3 Califor- average over the past six years. The nia Gulls during the day. They had long-term average is 19 birds but the only Red-breasted Merganser numbers have been steadily increas- leven groups tallied 155 seen by any or the groups. Their total ing over the years. Northern Harrier species, including the “E for the day was 82 species. numbers were at 70% of the long-term 13 species of raptors... exactly average and Red-tailed Hawks were at the long-term average...” AREA 6 – Ken Gardner covered the 25% above the average. American Grosse Isle and Grant’s Lake area and Kestrels experienced a further drop in numbers compared to East, West and North Shoal Lakes and as far north as last year, with a total that is about 55% of their 34 year Inwood. Ken saw 150 Ring-necked Ducks, 1200 American average. The number of Merlins that were counted is 50% Coots, 75 Greater Yellowlegs, 25 Lesser Yellowlegs and 9 above average. The four Peregrine Falcons that were Eastern Bluebirds. He was the only person to see a Black- counted this year compares to the long-term average of one crowned Night-Heron, American Avocet, Red Knot, Winter bird. The counts of all other raptor species were generally in Wren or Marsh Wren. His day’s count was 70 species. line with their long-term averages. AREA 7 – and the west shore of Lake Over the course of the day the eleven groups tallied 155 Winnipeg from Matlock to the south end of Hecla Island species, including the 13 species of raptors. This is exactly were covered by myself and Andy Courcelles. We saw 1000 the long-term average number of species over the 27 years Snow Geese, 4800 Canada Geese, 6000 Franklin’s Gulls and that I have been keeping track of all species seen. This year, 3300 Ring-billed Gulls. We saw the only American Black Winter Wren and Northern Mockingbird were added to the Duck and Golden-crowned Kinglet seen by any of the combined list for the 27 years to bring it to 258 species. groups. Our total count for the day was 75 species.

Page 12 Nature Manitoba News Vol. 4, Issue 6 - Nov. / Dec. 2012 Rudolf stated that the highlight of the day was seeing a Pine An Osprey Martin at close range near Powerview. During the course of in its nest. the day they tallied 74 species. AREA 10 – The area from Winnipeg and Ile des Chenes Dennis Swayze east to Dugald and Elma was covered by Lars Jansson, Frank Machovec, Dan Stirling and Ron Austin. They had the only Ruffed Grouse, Boreal Chickadee, Magnolia Warbler and Brown-headed Cowbird recorded by any of the groups. Their day’s total was 50 species. AREA 11 – Luc Blanchette was cycling in the St. Jean Baptiste area when he noticed a kettle of raptors overhead. He spent the next two to three hours watching and submit- ted a list of raptors plus all other birds that he saw that day. This is the first count submitted for that area. He saw the only Veery, Northern Mockingbird and Rose-breasted Grosbeak recorded by any of the groups. His day’s count was 44 species. By far the rarest bird to be seen in this reporting period was a Field Sparrow which was banded at Oak Hammock Marsh AREA 8 – Birds Hill Park, Gull Lake and Patricia, Grand on the last net-check on the last day of the banding season. and Victoria Beaches were visited by Nella Schmidt, James To my knowledge it was the first Field Sparrow banded in Whitelaw and Ron Dueck. They found 46 Red Crossbills and Manitoba at a banding station, and it made for a consider- one White-winged Crossbill. They saw the only Common able amount of excitement among those that were present. Loon, Osprey, Rough-legged Hawk, Sora and Connecticut It was a hatch year bird and its plumage was part way Warbler seen by any of the groups. Their day’s count was between juvenile and adult. According to The Birds of 65 species. Manitoba, this species has been reported in Manitoba at AREA 9 – The Beausejour, Alegra, Brightstone, Lac du least 25 times and has bred in the province. Bonnet, St. Georges, Pine Falls and Stead areas were the The “regular” table of sightings following the hawk watch territory of Rudolf Koes, Peter Taylor, Reto Zach and Jerry write-up covers August and September with a few catch-up Weshnoweski. As in past years, they had the highest counts sightings from July. of Turkey Vultures, Bald Eagles and American Kestrels of any of the groups. They saw the only Gray Partridge, If you have some unusual bird sightings be sure to send them Ruby-throated Hummingbird, Pileated Woodpecker, Gray to me at 31 Kara Cove, Winnipeg, R2N 3C2 or you can e-mail Jay and Yellow-headed Blackbird seen by any of the groups. your sightings to me at [email protected].

2012 FALL HAWK WATCH RESULTS

Vol. 4, Issue 6 - Nov. / Dec. 2012 Nature Manitoba News Page 13 Species #’s Date Location Observers Ross's Goose 1 Sep 13 12 Winnipeg R. Staniforth Ross's Goose 5 Sep 15 12 Oak Hammock Marsh R. Koes, NM outing Northern Shoveler 200 Sep 15 12 Stonewall K. Gardner Common Loon 43 Sep 28 12 Clear Lake, RMNP R. & I. Porteous Least Bittern 1 Aug 12 12 Whytewold C. McPherson Great Blue Heron 50 Aug 17 12 Brandon C. Cuthbert Great Egret 50+ Jul 31 12 Shoal Lakes R. Nickel, A. Ens Great Egret 1 Aug 3 12 Headingley B. Taylor Great Egret 8 Aug 8 12 Libau Marsh C. & F. McPherson Great Egret 16 Aug 17 12 Brandon C. Cuthbert Great Egret 32 Aug 26 12 Whitewater Lake R. & I. Porteous Great Egret 2 Sep 26 12 Oak Hammock Marsh area R. Clarke, R. Austin, L. Jansson, R. Porteous Cattle Egret 21 Aug 26 12 Whitewater Lake R. & I. Porteous Green Heron 2 Aug 28 12 Wheeler's Lake C. McPherson White-faced Ibis 22 Aug 26 12 Whitewater Lake R. & I. Porteous White-faced Ibis 50 Sep 13 12 Whitewater Lake D. Halverson Prairie Falcon 1 Jul 31 12 Marquette R. Nickel, A. Ens Prairie Falcon 1 Aug 26 12 Oak Hammock Marsh area J. Weier, G. Walz American Coot 200 Sep 15 12 Stonewall K. Gardner Black-bellied Plover 175 Aug 12 12 Oak Hammock Marsh area C. Artuso, J. Swartz American Golden-Plover 60 Aug 12 12 Oak Hammock Marsh area C. Artuso, J. Swartz American Golden-Plover 300 Sep 26 12 Oak Hammock Marsh area R. Clarke, R. Austin, L. Jansson, R. Porteous American Avocet 50 Sep 13 12 Whitewater Lake D. Halverson Buff-breasted Sandpiper 104 Aug 12 12 Oak Hammock Marsh area C. Artuso, J. Swartz Little Gull 1 Sep 14 12 Hecla Island R. Staniforth Lesser Black-backed Gull 1 Sep 4 12 Whitewater Lake R. Cannings Lesser Black-backed Gull 1 Sep 21 12 P.R. 227 Landfill C. Braden Common Nighthawk 130+ Aug 23 12 Pinawa P. Taylor Common Nighthawk 1 Sep 14 12 Winnipeg J. Weier Red-headed Woodpecker 1 Sep 16 12 Grosse Isle K. Gardner Yellow-bellied Flycatcher 1 Sep 15 12 Kleefeld D. Fast Say's Phoebe 1 Sep 12 12 Lauder fide R. Mooi Scissor-tailed Flycatcher 1 Jul 12 12 Lundar H. Hallson Warbling Vireo 1 Sep 16 12 Kleefeld D. Fast Tree Swallow 1000's Aug 18 12 Whitewater Lake L. Pearn Barn Swallow 1000+ Aug 28 12 Netley Creek C. McPherson Townsend's Solitaire 2 Aug 26 12 Chain Lakes R. & I. Porteous Brown Thrasher 1 Sep 22 12 Starbuck C. Penner Gray-cheeked Thrush 1 Sep 17 12 Winnipeg G. Budyk & D. Dodgson American Robin 3000 Sep 30 12 Whytewold C. McPherson, R. Methot Yellow Warbler 1 Sep 15 12 Oak Hammock Marsh R. Koes, NM outing Black-throated Blue Warbler 1 Sep 2 12 Headingley B. Shettler Black-throated Blue Warbler 1 Sep 22 12 Kleefeld D. Fast Pine Warbler 1 Sep 19 12 Winnipeg R. Parsons Kentucky Warbler 1 Sep 1 12 Winnipeg R. Wiebe Summer Tanager 1 Aug 7 12 Pelican Lake K. De Smet Eastern Towhee 1 Sep 30 12 Winnipeg K. Schulz Field Sparrow 1 Sep 30 12 Oak Hammock Marsh P. & G. Grieef, J. Levac, C. Artuso, m.obs. Fox Sparrow 1 Sep 13 12 Winnipeg G. Budyk & D. Dodgson Dark-eyed Junco 1 Aug 21 12 Grosse Isle K. Gardner Northern Cardinal 1 Aug 14 to Sep 13/12 Dufresne B. Krosney Northern Cardinal 4 Aug 28 12 Winnipeg R. Koes

Page 14 Nature Manitoba News Vol. 4, Issue 6 - Nov. / Dec. 2012 www.kittycams.uga.edu Christmas Bird Count 2012 he Christmas Bird Count season will soon be upon us. Count period (the time counts can be held) is from December 14 to January 5. To get Tinvolved, or for additional information on any of the counts listed below, please contact the compiler listed for your area. Dates are not known for most counts at press time, although Brandon & Winnipeg will probably be held on December 16, the first Sunday of count period. It’s best to contact the compiler well in advance of count period. Updates may be available on Nature Manitoba’s ‘KittyCam’ website and the Manitobabirds yahoogroup. One welcome change is the elimination of the count fee – participation is free for all. Documents »» Balmoral...... Jim & Patsy Duncan (204-467-8857) Cat Carnage »» Brandon...... Cal Cuthbert (1-204-727-2239) (reprinted from the Aug. 24 edition »» Brokenhead...... Peggy Kasuba (1-204-265-3499) of Bird Studies Canada news) »» Cranberry Portage...... Chris Smith (1-204-472-3942) recent study by scientists from the »» Cypress River/Spruce Woods...... Ken De Smet (204-467-8635) AUniversity of Georgia and the »» Dauphin...... Bill Walley (1-204-638-6774) National Geographic Society’s Critter- »» ...... Bob Jones (1-204-239-1803) cam program recorded the outdoor »» Gimli...... Bonnie Chartier (1-204-642-9777) activities of house cats wearing special »» Glenboro/Spruce Woods...... Lorelie Mitchell (1-204-827-2548) video cameras around their necks. Nearly one-third of the cats in the study »» Lyleton...... Ralph Wang (1-204-634-2465) succeeded in capturing and killing »» Minnedosa...... Ian Thorleifson (1-204-867-3527) animals. The cats killed an average of »» Morden...... Abe Friesen (1-204-362-4856 ) 2.1 animals every week they were »» Oak Hammock Marsh...... Paula Grieef (204-467-3243) outside, but brought home less than »» Pinawa/Lac du Bonnet...... Peter Taylor (1-204-753-2977) one of every four of their kills. Bird kills »» Portage la Prairie...... Carrie Braden (1-204-856-0952) constituted about 13% of the total wildlife kills. Based on these results, it »» Riding Mountain N.P...... Ken Kingdon (1-204-848-7240) has been suggested that house cats kill »» Selkirk...... Gerald Machnee (1-204-757-4745) far more than the previous estimate of a »» Thompson...... Dave McDonald (1-204-778-9184) billion birds and other animals each »» The Pas...... Joel Kayer (1-204-623-4006) year. The American Bird Conservancy »» Winnipeg...... Rudolf Koes (204-661-0763) (ABC) estimates that cats are likely killing more than 4 billion animals per This is a great opportunity to see some wintering birds in the city. Join tens of year in the U.S., including at least 500 thousands of other birders across North America in this event and help contribute million birds. to our knowledge of winter bird distribution. A pot luck dinner and compiling Visit the ABC website to learn more: session will be held afterwards. www.abcbirds.org

Dennis Swayze Peregrine Falcon Peregrine Falcon juvenile Recovery Project from the 2012 season. was a pretty good year for 2012 the peregrines despite two losses.The West Winnipeg chicks were moved to a rural hack site to fledge safely. A few days after their bands/transmitters had been placed, we lost one and believe it was a Great Horned Owl attack. Both of the remaining females have been hanging out together – one of them even did a cross-border day trip to Grand Forks. We lost one bird from Brandon – it was found near Virden sitting by the roadside. Unfortunately, she was too dehydrated and weak and even the rehab folks couldn’t save her. The Radisson chicks did well – one has been hanging out at Oak Hammock Marsh, and has been spotted at Woodlands (north-west of Winnipeg). Vol. 4, Issue 6 - Nov. / Dec. 2012 Nature Manitoba News Page 15 C. Artuso The State of Canada’s Birds A Manitoba Summary by Michelle Mico irds of the Prairie region have been reported to be in decline by almost Over the last 40 years, shorebird species have declined by almost half. This flock at Whitewater Lake Important Bird Area (IBA) 40% according to a national report B includes American Golden Plover, Short-billed Dowitcher, Long- describing the trends in the status of billed Dowitcher, Pectoral Sandpiper, and Least Sandpiper. Canada’s birds. The first-ever State of Canada’s Birds report draws on over 40 years of data Two ways to help conserve Canada’s Birds from professionals and citizen scientists. In general, bird populations have Manitoba’s Chimney Swift Initiative decreased by 12% across the country; Chimney Swifts are a threatened species that have been identified in the State however, this trend isn’t uniform across 1 of Canada’s Birds as being in major decline since the 1970’s (photo on next page). species groups. Some groups such as Manitoba’s Chimney Swift Initiative monitors existing Chimney Swift nesting and waterfowl, raptors, and colonial seabirds roosting sites and locates “new” roost and nest sites. The project has also designed are reported to be increasing, while other and erected artificial nesting towers for swifts. Visitwww.mbchimneyswift.ca for groups are showing declines. more information. To become a part of this initiative and in the conservation of a Groups showing declines include threatened species, contact Frank Machovec at [email protected]. grassland and shorebird species. Manitoba’s Important Bird Area However, with an 80% decline, aerial insectivores (specifically swallows, swifts 2 The Important Bird Area (IBA) program is an international program aimed and nightjar populations) are showing an to identify areas that are crucial to one or more species of birds. Standards for alarming recent trend. Speculation on identifying IBAs have been developed by BirdLife International. Manitoba has 38 the cause of their decline includes IBAs, many of which are designated due to the presence of globally significant widespread application of pesticides as numbers of congregatory species. To learn more how Manitoba’s IBA program contributes to international bird conservation efforts, contact Michelle Mico at well as climate change altering the [email protected]. timing of insect emergence, since birds are thought to time their nesting to the peak of food availability. showed no dramatic population changes with the number of increasing and Twenty-two percent of Canadian bird decreasing species being roughly equal. Could protecting species spend the whole year in Canada, community pastures the remaining migrate to the United The Prairies region has reported the States (33%), Central America, Mexico worst decline of all the regions in help prairie species? and the Caribbean (23%), South America Manitoba, almost 40% since 1970. Preserving areas of native grasslands (15%), or Europe and Asia (7%). Habitat Reasons for this decline are speculated to has been identified by the State of loss is a concern for many migratory be due to highly intensive farming Canada’s Birds report as an important species both inside and outside Canada. practices, pollutants, linear develop- conservation activity in the Canadian International cooperation at the conti- ments, increased water use by cities, Prairies. The Manitoba Government nental, hemispheric, and global level is agriculture and industry, suppression of will soon be acquiring more than a recognized as being imperative to ensure fire, and climate change. hundred thousand hectares of federal that threats to migratory birds are pasture lands. Many of these areas reduced during their life cycle. Conservation and are known to be in good condition and provide enough prairie habitat Manitoba’s populations? Nature Manitoba features to support Sprague’s Pipit and Chestnut-collared Longspur, Nature Manitoba and its member’s help The report summarizes bird populations both threatened species. By writing to support many bird conservation efforts for eight simplified regions. Manitoba’s both the Minister of Conservation and bird populations are represented by the such as the Chimney Swift Initiative, Water Stewardship, Honourable Gord Southern Shield and Maritimes, Western Breeding Bird Atlas, Christmas Bird Mackintosh and the Minster of Agri- Boreal, and Prairies Region. Count, and Important Bird Areas. If you culture, Food and Rural Initiatives, are interested in finding out more about Honourable Ron Kostyshyn you can An overall decline of 13% was observed these programs, please visit the website let them know that protecting these within the Southern Shield and Mari- www.naturemanitoba.ca and go to the areas are important to you, Manito- times region, which encompasses the “Birding” section, or phone the Nature ba’s future, and to the global conser- relatively small southeast corner of the Manitoba office at 204.943.9029. vation of these declining species. province. The Western Boreal region Page 16 Nature Manitoba News Vol. 4, Issue 6 - Nov. / Dec. 2012 Manitoba Breeding Bird Atlas 2012 – Passing the Half-way Mark (excerpted from the Summer/Fall 2012 Manitoba Breeding Bird 2012 may well be Atlas newsletter and the Aug. 10 Bird Studies Canada News) remembered as “The Long-tailed Jaeger Year of the Long-tails” – anitoba Breeding Bird Atlas staff and volunteers C. Artuso have completed an extremely hectic and successful Long-tailed Jaeger that field season. This was the third of five atlassing is, as this species was recorded on at least four of the atlas’s M remote northern expeditions this year, including the first seasons, and in this one season, the total number of hours spent atlassing was doubled, from just over 10,000 hours ever confirmed breeding in Manitoba – a nest found by Joel last year to over 20,000 hours. Coverage of the province Kayer and Ken De Smet at Nejanilini Lake. In addition, increased from over 1700 squares last year to just over aggressive behaviour of pairs of Long-tailed Jaegers at 2100 squares this year, of the total of roughly 7000 Schmok Lake found by Christian Artuso (photo above) (10 km by 10 km) squares. provided probable breeding evidence there. Three of the sites where this species were found were on inland tundra. The total number of species recorded with possible, prob- There were also sightings along the coast but these did not able or confirmed breeding evidence increased from 280 have high breeding evidence codes. Clearly, a lot remains to species in 2011 to 286 species in 2012. The six new species be learnt of this species’ breeding distribution in our prov- added in 2012 are: Cinnamon Teal, King Eider, Long-tailed ince but we now know that they do breed at least periodi- Jaeger, Carolina Wren, Snow Bunting, Eastern Meadowlark. cally in Manitoba. There were also 2 hybrids of note: Golden- winged X Blue-winged Warbler and Eastern Other highlights in 2012 included a X Spotted Towhee.” A few other species major find in Wapusk major find in – such as Pectorial Sandpiper are currently “A National Park – three three Golden Eagle nests, the first con- being reviewed. Golden Eagle nests, the firmed breeding in our province for half first confirmed breeding a century or more despite numerous Year of the Long-tails in our province for half tantalising reports elsewhere. Black a century or more...” Scoters were found all across the north Numerous remote expeditions into all and Mew Gulls in various northwestern corners of the province used a variety of locations, including apparent “pairs” but we have yet to modes of travel, including hiking, canoeing, boating, and confirm these species for the atlas. We did however find flying (floatplane and helicopter). Areas surveyed included nests of rare northern breeders like Red-throated Loon. lowland sites such as Wapusk National Park, Interesting northern records without breeding evidence Seal River IBA, Dymond Lake, and the God’s and Hayes included King Eider, Snowy Owl, Gyrfalcon, Iceland Gull, rivers; inland tundra sites including Schmock Lake, Nejani- and Snow Bunting. lini Lake, Munroe Lake, and Neultin Lake; and remote boreal sites such as Aitkins Lake, Atim Lake, Gunisao River, To browse any of the atlas data, whether by species, region or Nelson River, Charron Lake, and Stevenson Lake. square, visit www.birdatlas.mb.ca.

South Carolina Department of Natural Resources Dennis Swayze

Chimney Swifts Some species, such as the Chimney Swift, have declined to less than a quarter of their former populations. One way in which Manitoba’s Chimney Swift Initiative helps conserve this threatened species is by identifying and monitoring roost Pileated and nest sites. Woodpecker

Vol. 4, Issue 6 - Nov. / Dec. 2012 Nature Manitoba News Page 17 Tommy Allen Tommy

Nature Manitoba’s Discovery Evenings are held Programs start at 7:30 pm except for the at Le Centre Culturel Franco-Manitobain, March 18th AGM which starts at 7 pm. 340 Provencher Blvd, in St. Boniface. Admission is $2 for members / $3 for All programs will be held in Salle Antoine- non-members. Members must show member card. Gaborieau (on 2nd floor) except for the December 10th North Pole Adventures presentation, which will be For more information, call the Nature Manitoba office held in the main floor theatre, Salle Pauline Boutal. at 204-943-9029 or email [email protected].

Monday, November 12th, 2012 Hide and Seek with Amphibians and

Julia Schoen Reptiles in Southwestern Manitoba Pamela Rutherford, Associate Professor, Department of Biology, Brandon University outhwestern Manitoba is home to sixteen species of amphib- Sians and reptiles, and several of these species have localized distributions. In addition, many of these same species are secre- tive and little is known about their natural history. Over the past 7 years, Pamela and her students have been working on several of these species, including the Northern Prairie Skink and the Western Hognose Snake, and have learned a lot about their natural history. They have also learned how much we don’t know. In this talk Pamela will share both insights and further questions that have been raised by their research into these fascinating animals. Monday, November 26th, 2012 Wetlands and Wetland Protection in Manitoba Tracy Maconachie, Ducks Unlimited Canada n Manitoba, we lose 15 acres of wetlands every day. The loss Iof these wetlands and the ecological goods and services they provide is significantly degrading our environment. Draining wetlands allows more nutrients to flow downstream, contribut- ing to the blue-green algae problems that are becoming increasingly common on Manitoba’s lakes and rivers. Loss of wetlands also contributes to greenhouse gas emissions, reduced Mushroom ID Field Trip flood protection, deteriorating water quality, increased risk of Participants of the “Morels and Other Fungi” work- drought as well as loss of habitat essential for biodiversity. shop in April 2012 were fortunate to have Dr. David Ducks Unlimited Canada’s recent research has helped to Punter lead another complementary field trip to quantify some of the ecological and financial costs associated Marchand on September 15. Even with the drought, with wetland loss in Manitoba, and it has also identified the we were able to find some mushrooms to identify. need to develop an integrated, comprehensive provincial wetland policy that will equitably protect/restore wetlands, The next issue of Nature Manitoba News will list the support landowners that conserve wetlands, and provide upcoming . Nature Manitoba Workshop Series 2013 guidelines for development near wetlands.

Page 18 Nature Manitoba News Vol. 4, Issue 6 - Nov. / Dec. 2012 Monday, December 10th, 2012 Monday, February 4th, 2013 (Note location: Salle Pauline Boutal – main floor) From Grasslands to Shoreline – North Pole Adventures Manitoba’s Most Endangered Birds, Darcy St. Laurent, Search and Rescue Technician The Burrowing Owl and Piping Plover n the company of Eric Larsen and Antony Jinman, Darcy St. Ken De Smet, Species at Risk Biologist, Manitoba ILaurent successfully completed a trek to the North Pole Conservation Project Manager, Piping Plover Program during the spring of 2010. The trio was flown in by ski plane to Alexandra Froese, Project Manager, Cape Discovery on Ellesmere Island on March 3rd. Throughout Manitoba Burrowing Owl Recovery Program the journey, the men experienced gruelling conditions that made progress difficult. Even during the final days, they didn’t his presentation will focus on conservation initiatives for know if they would make it to their destination because the Ttwo of Manitoba’s most endangered birds – the Piping drift of the pack ice had slowed them down almost every night. Plover and Burrowing Owl. Manitoba Conservation has been The trio finally reached their goal on the 51st day of the trek – involved in monitoring conservation initiatives for these two April 23rd, Earth Day. species since the late 1980s. The presenters will provide a brief history on the changing status of the two species, and relate Darcy is a highly decorated veteran of the Canadian Military. some success stories and less successful initiatives that have He has been a combat engineer, combat diver, army parachut- and are being employed to assist in their recovery. ist, explosive ordinance disposal technician and a UN Peace Keeper in Cambodia and Bosnia. Currently Darcy is a Search and Rescue technician, part of an elite band of Canadian Forces th specialists who call themselves SAR Tech’s, whose role it is to Monday, March 4 , 2013 rescue others in the unforgiving north. Insects of the Carberry Sandhills Robert Wrigley, Retired biologist th Monday, January 7 , 2013 hike through Manitoba’s Carberry Sandhills presents The Beauty and Bother of Urban Wildlife A frequent opportunities to observe hundreds of fascinating and colorful insects – wasps, bees, butterflies, beetles, dragon- Brian Joynt, Wildlife Manager, flies, cicadas, and many other families. With striking close-up Central Region, Manitoba Conservation images of these ‘creatures of the sand’, Robert describes their natural history and where to look for them. Tiger beetles are any wildlife species take advantage of the urban environ- selected as a group to demonstrate how insects adapt to ment. Depending on individual perspectives and the M environmental extremes, and how related species avoid species involved, urban wildlife can provide residents either competition by occupying different habitats. Predators of tremendous enjoyment or incredible frustration, sometimes insects and species-at-risk are also described. both! Urban wildlife is a very difficult issue to manage due to the characteristics of the environment, diversity of resident Robert has been studying small mammals and insects of these attitudes and adaptability of many of the species involved. sandhills over a 42-year period, and it remains his favorite site Strategies must attempt to maintain wildlife as a valuable part for researching Manitoba’s rich biodiversity. His former posi- of the urban experience while minimizing the economic and tions include Curator and Museum Director of the Manitoba social costs incurred. This presentation will explore some of Museum, Director of the Oak Hammock Marsh Interpretive these balancing acts. Center, and Curator of the Zoo. For most of his career he has been known as Dr. Bob. Dr. Bob is willing to lead a tour of the Carberry Sandhills for st Monday, January 21 , 2013 Nature Manitoba members on a Saturday in June 2013, a good Manitoba’s Enchanted Isles – time to see a variety of insect species. Watch for further details in Nature Manitoba News. Exploring the Remote Islands of Lake Winnipeg’s North Basin th Randall Mooi, Curator of Zoology, The Manitoba Museum Monday, March 18 , 2013 he North Basin of Lake Winnipeg is dotted with several Annual General Meeting Tislands that have received only cursory attention from & Members’ Night biologists. Dr. Randall Mooi, has surveyed several of these islands for birds, amphibians and reptiles and has made some (early start at 7:00 pm) surprising discoveries: uniquely coloured snakes, unexpected e’re looking for two or three 20-minute presentations on toads, and rare birds, and even spiders that live in carnivorous Wnature-related topics to accompany our Annual General plants. Join Dr. Mooi on a tour of the North Basin as he Meeting. Travelogues should have a strong nature component, introduces the what, where, when, and how of the animals please! Contact Dianne Beaven at [email protected] with living on these incredible islands and gives us a taste of the your ideas for a presentation. adventure in exploring them.

Vol. 4, Issue 6 - Nov. / Dec. 2012 Nature Manitoba News Page 19 Publications Mail Agreement Number 40069231 Return undeliverable Canadian addresses to: 401-63 Albert Street Winnipeg, MB R3B 1G4 Phone: (204) 943-9029 [email protected]

About Nature Manitoba Nature Manitoba is people sharing a passion for nature. Since its foundation in 1920, Nature Manitoba’s mission has been to promote awareness, appreciation and understanding of nature, and to preserve and enjoy it. In Become a Member support of this mission, Nature Manitoba offers a wide of Nature Manitoba! variety of educational programs and publications, supports research into Manitoba’s biological and geophysical diversity, Individual $40, Family $55, Student $20, Senior $35 organizes field trips and outdoor activities year-round, and Join online at www.naturemanitoba.ca. advocates for the protection of our natural environment.

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Page 20 Nature Manitoba News Vol. 4, Issue 6 - Nov. / Dec. 2012