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Home , Mount Diablo, Sutter Buttes

Volume 54, Number 6 March 2009 David Wyatt • Bats of the What is the only mammal that flies? Yes, you got it . . . they are our bats. Bats are also one of our most misunderstood creatures with many myths and misconceptions sur- rounding them. Whether you love them, hate them, or are simply indifferent to them, join us in discovering the fascinating, some- times bizarre, world of bats. On March 5, The Dusky Warbler, biologist David Wyatt will introduce us to found by Emilie many of the bat species we can find here in Strauss on October 9 and beyond. Learn that most bats at Point Isabel, was, eat insects and are extremely important in by far, the best bird controlling insect pest numbers. Also dis- on Denise’s 2008 cover how bat biologists study these mam- Contra Costa Big mals and what that information is revealing Year list. about their behavior and life histories. Photo by Bob Lewis Dave Wyatt is currently co-chair of the Biology Department of Sacramento City College. He has taught in community colleges since 1993 and has been full time at SCC since 1998 teaching various courses in Field Ecology. His primary research interests have revolved around three areas: Ringtails, bats, Sutter Buttes, the world’s smallest mountain range, were known by the as Esto and insects (primarily beetles, since 1987). Yamani–The Middle Mountains–and were regarded as a place for spiritual renewal . His research has been predominantly in Dave is a parent and is currently owned by up close and personal and found it a great California, but has extended to Baja Califor- four beagles that fill his life with howls of pleasure to see Dave with his students. Dave nia, Belize, and Arizona for bats; and Belize, laughter. is a wonderful teacher and his students are Guatemala, Arizona, and Texas for insects. In the spring, Dave leads Bat Research clearly enjoying their research with him. Outings to the Dean Ranch in the Sutter Dave is full of amazing information. So, Buttes. The Middle Mountain Foundation join us for his presentation and come away Meeting Schedule sponsors these events in association with with a greater appreciation of our nocturnal The next general meeting of winged neighbors. Audubon Society the Sutter Buttes Land Trust. About a dozen will be Thursday, March ,5 in the species of bats live in the Sutter Buttes, in- BIRDING INFORMATION Camellia Room of The Gardens at cluding the Mexican Free-tailed Bat, as well Last fall Cecil Williams, our MDAS Heather Farm, Walnut Creek. as the largest and smallest bat species found Education chair, and several MDAS vol- 7:00 pm Birding Information in North America. The largest is the Mastiff unteers, in conjunction with the Moraga 7:25 pm Announcements Bat with an 18-20 inch wing span, the only Library staff, provided unique bird watch- 7:40 pm Refreshments,* door prize bat that has a call deep enough to be heard 8:05 pm Speaker: ing experiences for children. The children David Wyatt by the human ear. On May 17, the hottest * Please remember to bring a cup. had experiences with binoculars, scopes, day of 2008, Bev Walker and Alice Holmes Thursday, April 2: bird lists, and bird feeding. The evenings participated in one of Dave’s Bat Research Bob Stewart, Breeding Strategies of were highly successful and great fun for all. Outings. Their experience was fascinating. Bay Area Birds Cecil will share pictures and stories, and They were able to meet seven bat species future plans for expanding the program. DEDICATED TO HABITAT CONSERVATION AND ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION the Quail —— March 2009 Welcome Observations By Steve Glover A flock of 125 Cackling Geese flew over A was at Lafayette Reservoir New Members McNabney Marsh on 12/28 (BB). on 12/26 (MM). Falcons at Upper San Mary Beth Alban Moraga Seven male Wood Ducks at Upper San Leandro Reservoir included a Merlin on Lisa Anich Concord Leandro Reservoir near Moraga on 1/17 (BL) 1/17 (BL) and a Peregrine on 1/18 (RS). Colleen Cassidy Lafayette was outshone by 29 there on 1/19 (RS). A female Phainopepla was at the parking Mary Lee Dodd Moraga Contra Costa County’s 3rd Eurasian lot at Black Diamond Mines Regional Park, Antioch on 12/27 (P&NS). This is been a Chrislyn Fosenburg Concord Green-winged Teal continued at McNabney Marsh near Martinez on very reliable winter spot over the years. Nathalie Oram Alamo 12/28 (BB). Single White-throated Sparrows were Karol Prinz Pleasant Hill Male Eurasians Wigeons were at at Point Pinole Regional Shoreline in Ronald Thompson Lafayette McNabney Marsh 1/24 (MS) and Miller/ Richmond on 1/7 (LL) and residential Knox Regional Shoreline, Richmond on Orinda 1/25 (LE). President’s Corner 1/26 (PB). Fourteen Great-tailed Grackles were at Jimm Edgar The maleHarlequin Duck continued to be McNabney Marsh on 12/28 (BB). This Mount Diablo Audubon is off to a busy seen by many observers at the Richmond colony now seems to have leveled off at start for 2009. I hope all of you will attend Marina 1/7-9. about this size. one of our monthly meetings and go on a The maleLong-tailed Duck continued at Bob Battagin, Martha Breed, Paul Brenner, field trip. As spring comes and migration the Richmond Marina 1/15-19 (BB). Lynne Ehlers, Steve Hutchcraft, Wyn begins, it is an exciting time to be out bird- Seven female Hooded Mergansers were at Krida, Bob Lewis, Laura Look, Mary ing. We participated in the Flyway Festival Hill Park, Danville on 1/11 (SH). A male Malec, Rusty Scalf, Paul and Nancy Schorr, the first weekend of February at Mare Is- Hooded was at Upper San Leandro Reservoir Maury Stern land. It was our new volunteer coordinator, on 1/17 (BL). Two pair of Hoodeds were at Submit Contra Costa County sightings to Moses De Los Reyes’, first event to staff and Hidden Lakes Park, Martinez on 1/19 (MB) Steve Glover at [email protected] lots of folks stepped forward to help. It was and another pair was in downtown Walnut or (925) 997-1112. a great event and one we have been a part Creek on 1/23 (WK). of since it began many years ago. Speaking An American Bittern was at Contra Loma of new board members, Diane Malucelli Regional Park, Antioch 1/20-27 (P&NS). has stepped into the sales manager position of the chapter. Barbara Vaughn has stepped back from her long-time role in that job. Praise for Barbara; Barbara has served in many roles for the Welcome, Diane! chapter as well as being president. Thank Barbara Vaughn is the one who, for you Barbara for your service! nearly two decades, has greeted you as Our education committee will once you arrive at a meeting. She’s the one who again be involved in our “No child left encouraged you to buy raffle tickets, -En inside” program at Jack London School in tertainment books, Mount Diablo Audu- Red-shafted Flicker Antioch. Board member, Paul Schorr, will bon hats, birding checklists; and she’s the Colaptes cafer collaris head this up. We will have two classroom person who has arranged the raffle prizes, Birds of Golden Gate Park sessions with students; one with Native which add an extra bit of fun each month. Joseph Mailliard • 1930 Bird Connections where Diana Grana- dos will bring a number of live birds for But Barbara has turned the job over students to see and hear about their life to another volunteer, Diane Malucelli. cycles and another session to learn how to Diane is the one whom you could always count on to be there at the SF Bay Flyway This smartly patterned use binoculars and field guides. In May we bird is frequently seen will have two field trips for the students to Festival, the John Muir Open House, and any other of the environmental exhibits as it hovers—its long, go “birding.” This is a great way to expose pointed wings serving as kids to the outdoors. If you can help, we in which Mount Diablo Audubon Society takes part. helicopter rotors—above where it need volunteers for the field trips. They are hopes to find its prey. More often, Diane will be an active and important on May 26 and May 28 from 9 am to 1 pm these birds are patiently perched on new member of the Board of Directors. So and will be at Contra Loma Regional Park. telephone wires ready to swoop down let’s all welcome Diane, and at the March Contact Paul at [email protected]. for a meal. We continue to be deeply involved meeting, let’s each of us buy one Mount Unscramble these letters, or turn to in the Acorn Woodpecker situation at Diablo hat, two birding checklists, and three raffle tickets. You’ll be glad you did; Page 6 to learn more. Rossmoor. I don’t at this writing have a lot AACEEEIKLMNRRST of new information, but we will keep you she’ll be glad you did! informed as developments take place. Welcome, Diane! Thanks, Barbara! the Quail —— March 2009 Cheers for Our Hills Regional Park » Continued from Page 8 Along with the neighboring Don Volunteers Edwards National By Moses de los Reyes Wildlife Refuge to the south, and the State’s Eden Landing Ecological Preserve to the north, Coyote Hills’ wetlands are a major migratory bird use area along the Pacific Flyway. These wetlands and others on the Peninsula side of the bay constitute the “San Francisco Bay−South” Important Bird Area of California. The IBA hosts more than one percent each of the world- wide populations of California Clapper Rail, Long-billed Curlew, and Saltmarsh Common Yellowthroat. Additionally, it has more than ten percent of the coastal- Northern Pintail. A young lady accepts a prize from Carol breeding Western Snowy Plover. Many EBRPD photo by Joe DiDonato Mathews while her mother and sisters look other sensitive bird species use the IBA, birds of every shape and size inhabit the on, during the SF Bay Flyway Festival. including Burrowing Owl, Short-eared willows. This area is important to such The Mount Diablo Audubon Society Owl, Least Tern, and Black Rail. There has wintering species as the Black-crowned volunteers actively participated in the 13th even been an occasional winter sighting of Night-heron, Fox Sparrow, Hermit Thrush, Annual San Francisco Bay Flyway Festival Yellow Rail. Ruby-crowned Kinglet, Yellow-rumped held February 7th and 8th, at Mare Island. The open water ponds of the marsh Warbler, and is one of the few known The volunteers enthusiastically shared provide an important winter refuge sites in Alameda County for wintering information on the MDAS and gave out for migratory waterfowl including the Long-eared Owls. During the spring information on birding and conservation. Green-winged Teal, Northern Pintail, and migration the willows support an amazing One of the exciting highlights of the event Northern Shoveler. Once here, these ducks array of songbirds including: Pacific-slope that featured certain birds and their nests recharge their energy reserves by feeding Flycatcher, Swainson’s Thrush, Yellow was the “Guess Whose Nest Contest.” along the surface on rushes, pondweed Warbler, Yellowbreasted Chat, and Willow Children were shown nests of various birds seeds and aquatic insects. During the Flycatcher. You can almost always count such as American Robin, Barn Swallow, months of November through mid-January, on seeing a White-tailed Kite hovering Anna’s Hummingbird, and were asked a large flock of Tri-colored Blackbirds, a over the fields. to guess which nest belonged to which California Species of Concern, takes up The Visitor Center is a resource for your bird. Those who gave the correct answers roost in the emergent wetland vegetation understanding of the history of the park, (even if helped by parents or volunteers) of the Main Marsh. its Indian heritage, its Spanish were readily rewarded with nice-looking The abundant supply of insects period, its geology, and its involvement in pins, small toys, and other interesting provides a food base for nearly 100 World War II. The Visitor Center is closed prizes. The following people participated species of wintering, migratory and on Mondays, Thanksgiving and Christmas; in the very successful two-day commu- breeding birds that use the riparian areas the butterfly garden is also closed on nity outreach event: Moses and Ella de los of the park. During the winter season Tuesdays. Reyes, Cheryl Abel, Maury Stern, Barbara Minneman, Jody Sherard, Diane Malucelli, Carol Matthews, Susan and Jack Cooper, Your Quail by E-mail Gloria Cannon, Joel Summerhill, Evelyn A number of members responded Ivey, Ethan “Chick” and Ruth Chickering. to our appeal in the February Quail Ron Kline is to be given special thanks for to change from US Postal Service setting up the display at the start, and the delivery to direct e-mail. We want to Chickerings are to be thanked for taking encourage you to become one of these it down. members who recognize the benefits We extend our best kudos to our great of making this move. team of volunteers! We look forward to Just send an e-mail to the Quail the continued active participation of our Editor at [email protected] enthusiastic volunteers to future commu- with a copy to the Membership Chair nity outreach events supported by MDAS. at [email protected]. This will We invite all our chapter members to assure that we have a valid e-mail participate and we guarantee that they will address for you. You must also be sure have lots of fun and have a great feeling of that incoming mail from the Editor is not blocked by your spam filter. community accomplishment. Acorn Woodpecker at work in Arizona the Quail —— March 2009 Field Trip Schedule By Hugh Harvey March 4 Wednesday ...... Walnut Creek Parks ➌ Wednesday, March 25 19 Thursday ...... San Leandro Reservoir Lake Lagunitas 25 Wednesday ...... Lake Lagunitas Leader: Maury Stern, 284-5980 28 Saturday ...... Black Diamond Mines April This very popular birding trip to Marin passes through varied 4 Saturday ...... Garin Regional Park terrain in the beautiful area of the northern slopes of Mount 8 Wednesday ...... Orinda Connector Trail Tamalpais. Carpool leaves from Sun Valley at 7:30 am. Cross the San Rafael Bridge to US-101 N. Take the first San Rafael 11 Saturday ...... Pine Canyon exit, go left on 3rd Street. In San Anselmo turn right onto Sir 14 Tuesday ...... North Briones Francis Drake Blvd., continue to Fairfax. Go left on Fairfax 18 Saturday ...... Mines Road Road, follow to left turn on Sky Road and continue to 21 Tuesday ...... Del Puerto Canyon kiosk. Entry fee required ($7 last year). Drive to parking lot 30 Thursday ...... Mitchell Canyon near foot of Lagunitas Dam. Approximate meeting time is May 9:00 am. After birding the nearby area, we will hike around 6 Wednesday ...... Mount Diablo State Park Lake Lagunitas. We have often found Pileated Woodpeck- 9 Saturday ...... East Contra Costa County ers here. 14 Thursday ...... West 27 Wednesday ...... Sycamore Grove/Shadow Cliffs ➌ Saturday, March 28 ➊ Wednesday, March 4 Black Diamond Mines Walnut Creek City Parks Leader: Eugenia Larson, 806-0644 Leader: Hugh Harvey, 935-2979 Meet at 8:00 am at the parking lot at the end of Somersville Meet 8:30 am at wooden railing at the natural pond, Road. Go east on Ygnacio Valley/Kirker Pass Roads, in Pitts- just past the Community Center in Heather Farm Park. burg, turn right on Buchanan Road. Go east on Buchanan to This is down the hill from where our monthly meetings Somersville Road (Antioch) and turn right. Alternate route, are held. We will tour the park, view wintering birds, then exit Highway 4 at Somersville Road (south). Follow Somers- drive to Howe-Homestead Park south of Ygnacio Valley ville to the entry gate, entry fee required, proceed to the last Road. Time permitting, we will visit two other park areas parking lot. Woodland, and some grassland birds. off Rudgear Road. Bring lunch and a beverage.

➋ Thursday, March 19 Trip Reports Bodega Bay, January 17-18. Twenty-five enthusiastic birders San Leandro Reservoir joined Terry Colborn and Ted Robertson for a full weekend of Leader: Don Lewis, 284-5480 birding beautiful Bodega Bay on the Sonoma Coast. Roger Mar- Meet at 8:00 am at Valle Vista staging area off Canyon Road. lowe, one of the top birders in Sonoma County, joined the group From SR 24 in Orinda, take Moraga Way to Moraga. From for the first day. Thanks to Ted, we were able to stay at the UC Mount Diablo Blvd. in Lafayette, take Moraga Road south to Davis Bodega Marine Lab, (BML) affording the group in-depth Rheem and then Moraga. At the Chevron station, go south visits to a number of birding hot spots, including having full access on Canyon Road to Valle Vista. to the BML property, which is restricted to the general public. There we were treated to good scope views of Common Murre, Ancient Murrelet and a single Rhinoceros Auklet, the latter two species being a life-bird for several people; Red-throated and Field trips are open to members and non-members, begin- ners and advanced birders. Weather or other contingencies may Common Loons were plentiful, while a distant Pacific Loon was require changes. For updates, visit the MDAS website at www. seen by only a few. A beautiful male American Kestrel remained diabloaudubon.com/index/php. Bring a lunch and drink and join teed up for everyone to get great scope views. A pair of Wild us during our midday break. Turkeys ignored our presence as we departed the BML grounds. Category ➊: Easy, little or no walking, smooth paths Taking advantage of the tides, we were able to study the winter Category ➋: Moderate, one mile or more, possibly rough terrain plumages of many wintering birds, adding ten species of shore- Category ➌: Difficult, extensive walking on rough terrain birds to our list including Whimbrel, Surfbird, and both Ruddy Carpool locations: Sun Valley—Southwest corner of the Sun and Black Turnstones. The “rail ponds” produced three Virginia Valley Mall parking lot at Willow Pass Road and Contra Costa Rails, while a Sharp-shinned Hawk passed overhead. Boulevard in Concord. That evening we went on an “owl prowl.” Roger Marlowe’s expertise at calling owls is remarkable. Everyone was silent as we Continued on Page 5 » the Quail —— March 2009 hill. At Rush Creek Marsh we had three area. I’d like to thank all participants for a Trip Reports teal species in one binocular view. A large successful trip. Ethan “Chick” Chickering » Continued from Page 4 number of shorebirds were south of the Grizzly Island, February 11. 57 bird walked a back road through an old-growth lake at Shollenberger Park, as well as a species were seen by 13 members in a Redwood forest. Roger first imitated a large contingent of Mute Swans. Turkey morning of threatening rain, which did Spotted Owl. A distant bird responded Vultures fed on bird carcasses on the come just as we finished our lunch at immediately! The two began a duet when exposed mudflats and a Rush Ranch. The predominant bird was the Spotted Owl flew silently and landed was seen by some. We had 70 species seen Red-tailed Hawk on many poles and trees. in a tall tree above us. We trained our or heard for the trip. Hugh Harvey We saw no uncommon birds but had good spotlights up in the tree, but were unable Woodbridge/Cosumnes, January 3. On looks at Tundra Swans, 11 duck species, to locate it as the owl continued to call. a spectacularly beautiful day, some 20+ in- , Marsh Wren, and Common Next we heard a Great-horned Owl calling trepid birders traveled to the Central Valley Yellowthroat. Maury Stern in the dark night. A second bird responded to view the Sand Hill Cranes. After meet- to its call. Moving on to our next location, ing up at Westgate Landing Park, where Rossmoor vs. Roger called for a Northern Saw-whet we birded on the levee, we carpooled up Melanerpes Owl. Within minutes, a bird responded; to the Eisenberg Sand Hill Crane Refuge however, it remained hidden in the thick on Woodbridge Road. Initially, we did formicivorus branches above us. Satisfied with hearing not see many cranes, but waterfowl were and learning the calls of three owls, we The fight to save the Acorn Woodpeck- aplenty including a rare Eurasian Wigeon ers in Walnut Creek at Rossmoor has not returned to the dining hall at the BML for and some Mute Swans. Towards the end some hot chocolate and snacks. yet been won or lost. As of this writing, of the road the Cranes became much more it was reported that US Fish and Wildlife On Sunday, we again worked the tidal numerous. We then proceeded to the Co- Service had dictated a temporary hold on marshes and open waters of Bodega Bay. sumnes Wildlife Refuge and walked the the shooting to conduct a survey of the area We were able see all six North American wildlife viewing trail where we again saw and determine the number of woodpeckers grebes, including great looks of one Red- quite a few cranes. The highlight was the actually present. The Rossmoor Mutuals, necked Grebe already showing signs of its spotting of a Wilson’s Snipe barely visible in their request for a depredation permit, alternate plumage. We spent time working in the brush. A few of the group stayed on had claimed there were 500 birds. As in- on the distinct field marks that separate after lunch. We saw a total of 60 species! dicated in the report of Dr. Eric Walters Western and Clark’s Grebe, as well as those All in all it was a great trip and thanks to printed in the February Quail, this is more of the Horned and Eared Grebe. Working all who participated. than 30 times the highest density of this our way up the coast, we stopped at Goat Ethan “Chick” Chickering species ever recorded. Audubon California Rock State Beach, which provides direct Lake Merritt and Arrowhead Marsh, is confident that this census will convince access to the mouth of the Russian River, January 31. On a cold drizzly day, some USF&WS to withdraw the permit, but just below Jenner. There we scoped the 15+ intrepid birders traveled to Lake nothing is yet assured. massive gull flock, and studied the nu- Merritt to find the rare Tufted Duck. We ances of first, second and third cycle gulls. It is vital that we act quickly to stop were joined by two fine birders from the this totally unnecessary and ineffectual Although quite challenging, with patience Golden Gate Audubon Society. One of the field marks separate one species from killing. It has not been widely publicized them lived in one of the apartments at the that a year ago the Rossmoor Mutuals another. We found six species; among the Lake so he was an expert on the wildlife flock were Heermann’s, Mew, California obtained a depredation permit to kill 15 there. We saw many Scaups, both Greater Acorn Woodpeckers, and they did shoot and Glaucous-winged Gull. A distant and Lesser and had a rare opportunity to Peregrine Falcon was perched atop a rocky the birds. Does this mean that next year compare them close up. We finally spotted they will want to kill all 500? outcropping. the Tufted Duck at the east end of the Lake. We tallied 108 species for the weekend, Please sign the petition at http:// Also spotted were a Mute Swan and many audubonaction.org/campaign/woodpeck- under unseasonably warm temperatures in Clark’s Grebes. We then traveled to Arrow- the mid 70s! Terry Colborn ers_revoke_permit. head Marsh where there was a flood tide of Please contact the following and ask Las Gallinas/Rush Creek/Shollenberger about 8 feet. Many California Clapper Rails that Permit M 164975-1 (Killing Acorn It was a 4-heron, 4-teal, Park, January 24. were seen on the thatch islands along with Woodpeckers) be revoked: Congress- 15-waterfowl kind of day, always threaten- quite a few Soras. The boardwalk was abso- woman Ellen Tauscher, www.tauscher. ing and cold, but never quite raining. Seven lutely packed with Godwits, Willets and a house.gov. Click on “Contact Me” in the members walked around Las Gallinas few Black Turnstones. We also got superb upper right portion of the page. Marie Sewer Ponds. Though we never found the views of Marsh Wrens and Common Yel- Strassberger, US Fish and Wildlife Ser- reported Northern Shrike, we did have lowthroats. We were even able to scope vice, [email protected]. Ask four heron species, Green-winged, Cin- the wrens, something that is very hard to Walnut Creek Police Dept. at (925) 943- namon, Blue-winged and Eurasian (Com- do under normal circumstances. Around 5844 how shooting can occur within city mon) Teal, as well as wonderful views of noon, Chick and Ruth left for the Flyway limits. Contact Senator Diane Feinstein at a brilliant male Eurasian Wigeon. The day Festival to staff the MDAS table while the (415) 393-0707 or email from her website, started with a Merlin in the trees on the rest stayed on to bird other parts of the 0http://feinstein.senate.gov. the Quail —— March 2009 American Kestrel • Falco sparverius NEWS nesting cavities. They rely heavily on abandoned nesting cavities FROM of woodpeckers, squirrels, and WILD BIRDS magpies. In the Southwest, they UNLIMITED often find hollow Saguaros. They will also nest in holes in cliffs, American and Lesser Goldfinches are crevices in barns and building present at the feeders in more abundant numbers than we have seen in recent years. roofs, walls, and ledges. They will Pine Siskins are almost non-existent in local also readily accept nesting boxes backyards. We only had two reported sight- for their use. ings all winter. This irruptive species is very In winter, female and male nomadic and is not always seen in . American Kestrels may use Dark-eyed Juncos have been quite abun- different habitats. The female dant. We have also received many reports migrates first and establishes a of Nuttall’s Woodpeckers, Oak Titmice, and territory in the preferred more Chestnut-backed Chickadees visiting peanut open habitat; the male then and suet feeders. It’s such a delight to hear the titmice uses areas with more trees. calling–a sure sign of spring. Chickadees and The American Kestrel is almost titmice are already starting to nest. It’s not The American Kestrel is a handsome always seen as a single individual, as it too late to put out birdhouses. Both of these bird of prey, the smallest of the falcons is not a social bird. During the mating species, along with woodpeckers, nuthatch- and most colorful of all raptors. Formerly season, males and females pair up and es, bluebirds, wrens, and others will readily use nesting boxes. Birdhouses should have known as a Sparrow Hawk, the Kestrel is have joint territories. With the female on drainage, ventilation, and cleanouts. These still called by that name in some localities, the nest, the male will defend the nest and elements provide a safe, secure home for the but it is not at all the Sparrowhawk will bring food whole to his mate, who will birds. Also, depending upon the species you of Europe, which is an accipiter. And, tear it apart to feed the chicks. The male are trying to attract, specific hole sizes and although small birds may be on their menu, does not have the instinct to prepare the floor dimensions are required. Kestrels feed mostly on small rodents, food. When the chicks are three weeks old, Workshops at Wild Birds Unlimited large insects, reptiles and amphibians. though, they will beg from their father. Saturday, March 7 • 10 am In agricultural areas, the Kestrel has a Kestrels are known for their keen beneficial role in keeping insect and small Rise and Shine Workshop! vision, which enables them to be successful Your Garden is Awakening! rodent populations in check. hunters. There are cones in their eyes that Our trees are already beginning American Kestrels are cavity nesting detect ultraviolet light, allowing them to to bloom. It is time to start planning birds, but they do not excavate their own see the iridescent trails left by voles. for a bird and butterfly friendly gar- den this year. WBU’s own Plant Lady, Yvonne Breukers, has been busy on Connecting People to Nature your behalf all winter. On March 7, her By Brian Murphy famous plant cart returns to the store for 2009. Find some early treasures to pollinate their flowers. European honey enhance your habitat. Join Yvonne’s bees are having problems, so native bees first workshop this year on wildlife and are a good investment in the event honey native gardening. bees continue to decline. We cut the beams into 46 large native- Saturday, March 14 • 10 am bee nesting blocks. We are in the process of Pelican Rescue and the Internation- having groups drill various size holes in the al Bird Rescue Research Center blocks to provide nests for native bees. The This organization is located in Fair- field and is in the forefront of the battle blocks will be installed in various habitat to save the pelicans. Over 100 pelicans The Walnut Creek Open Space Founda- areas, the Gardens at Heather Farm, and have been found with mysterious tion received a Civic Pride Grant from the other locations to help increase the native maladies. Come learn about this inter- esting and valuable organization. City of Walnut Creek to include removal bee population. We will have scout groups of trailers and ‘junk’ from Quail Gully at clean and redrill the holes (remove remains Borges Ranch in addition to restoring a of old nests) every three years. Mike and Cecil Williams pond and building enclosures to complete The Civic Pride project was to excavate Wild Birds Unlimited a wildlife corridor. The old trailers were silt to restore a pond, enhance a wildlife 692 Contra Costa Blvd. headed for a metal recycling center; some corridor with enclosures to grow plants, Pleasant Hill, CA 94523, 925-798-0303 old beams were headed for the dump. Our and remove debris. The native-bee blocks Visit us at www.wbupleasanthill.com nectar-feeding birds depend on bees to are a nice addition to the project. the Quail —— March 2009 Ornithological Opportunities the Quail is published 10 times a year by the Wings & Wildlife Festival of Southern Did you know that our web site, http:// Mount Diablo Audubon Society , Laughlin, NV, March 12-15. Where Nevada, California and Arizona www.diabloaudubon.com/index.php has P.O. Box 53 • Walnut Creek, CA 94597-0053 come together. Field trips: Colorado a calendar of birding field trips and other (925) AUD-UBON • (925) 283-8266 River, Havasu NWR, Lake Mead NRA, events not just for MDAS but for other MDAS Board of Directors Henderson Bird Viewing Preserve, Topock Bay Area venues as well?. President: Jimm Edgar, 510-658-2330 Gorge, many others. Birds: Yuma Clapper Vice President: Mike Williams, 376-1631 Rail, Gilded Flicker, Juniper Titmouse, spring migration bird festival. California’s Treasurer: Steve Buffi, 938-0929 Board Secretary: Diana Granados, 963-9753 Bendire’s Thrasher, Crissal Thrasher, North Coast offers towering redwoods, Sales Manager: Diane Malucelli, 674-0920 Gambel’s Quail, Least Bittern, Abert’s rocky ocean coasts, wild river valleys, Programs: Alice Holmes, 938-1581 Towhee, Verdin, lots more. www.snbwtp. expansive mudflats of Humboldt Bay, and Field Trips: Hugh Harvey, 935-2979 org. Southern Nevada Birding and Wildlife the world-renowned Arcata Marsh and Membership: Beverley Walker, 952-9925 Partnership. Wildlife Sanctuary, where 271 species of Volunteer Coordinator: Olympic BirdFest 2009, Sequim, birds have been sighted. This Festival has it Moses de los Reyes, 755-3734 Washington, April 3-5. Join the celebration all: 111 field trips and other events include Hospitality: Gerry Argenal, 768-6325 at the Dungeness River Audubon Center, birding by kayak, river raft, harbor tour, Education: Cecil Williams, 376-1631 Corresponding Secretary: where you’ll find a protected island bird pelagic trip. Beverly Hawley, 947-0479 sanctuary on the Strait of Juan de Fuca; Heron Festival and Wildflower Brunch, Webmaster: Patrick King, 510-642-6522 wetlands, tide pools, rainforests, and Clear Lake State Park, Kelseyville, Chapter Development: Paul Schorr, 757-5107 lush river valleys. Marbled Murrelets, April 25-26. This annual event combines Hands-On Conservation: Rhinoceros Auklets, Harlequin Ducks, a wide range of activities for everyone Nancy Wenninger, 938-7987 Black Oystercatchers, and Pygmy Owls who loves nature and wants to learn more Christmas Count: Jimm Edgar, 510-658-2330 will be sporting their finest spring plumage. about it. All activities are free, except Member-at-Large: Brian Murphy, 937-8835 Enjoy birding trips, boat tours, and a the pontoon boat tours to the Heron Jean Richmond, 837-2843 traditional salmon bake at the Jamestown rookeries and the Wildflower Brunch. Quail Editor: Ellis Myers, 284-4103 S’Klallam Tribal Center. Check at www. The State Park entrance fee is waived that 215 Calle La Mesa olympicbirdfest.org or call 360-681-4076. weekend for Heron Festival attendees. Moraga, CA 94556-1603 [email protected] Follow your BirdFest weekend with a www.heronfestival.org. The Quail is printed on 30% post-consumer waste three-day, two-night birding cruise of the Kern River Valley Spring Nature Festival, recycled paper. The deadline for the April issue spectacular San Juan Islands on April 5–7. April 29-May 5. Field trips to Butterbredt is March 10. e-mail [email protected]. Spring, Canebrake Ecological Reserve, Godwit Days, Arcata, April 16-22. Kern NWR, Kelso Creek Sanctuary, Kern Extraordinary birding opportunities River Preserve, Owens Lake. http://kern. ( await you at the 14th annual Godwit Days audubon.org/KRVSNF.htm.

MDAS MEMBERSHIP/RENEWAL APPLICATION c Please enroll my family and me as a member of Mount Diablo Audubon Society The Garden Center for $25 for one year. Mount Diablo Audubon Society meets on the c I’m enclosing an additional tax-deductible donation of $______. first Thursday of each month, except July and c For an additional $20 (new NAS members only) or $35 (returning members), August, in the Camellia Room of The Gardens please enroll me in the National Audubon Society to receive four quarterly issues at Heather Farms, 1540 Marchbanks Drive, of Audubon Magazine. Walnut Creek. Everyone is invited., Please send The Quail by: c E-mail c US mail

Name______Address______City, State______Zip______Phone ( ____ )______E-mail______Card Number:______Visa ____ MasterCard ______Expiration Date Name on Card:______Please make your check payable to: MT. DIABLO AUDUBON SOCIETY and mail with this application to: Membership Chair, 1932 Golden Rain Road #4, Walnut Creek, CA 94595 the Quail —— March 2009 Mount Diablo Audubon Society Non-Profit Org. P.O. Box 53 U.S. Postage Walnut Creek, CA 94597-0053 PAID Return Service Requested Permit No. 66 Concord, CA

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These are a few of the American White Pelicans that visited the North Marsh at Coyote Hills Regional Park last September.

Coyote Hills Coyote Hills Regional Park is remarkable for its abundance of natural, Regional Park cultural and scenic resources. The range of hills, extending for a length of more Coyote Hills is one of the most than two miles, at the edge of the San productive of the East Bay Regional Francisco Bay is a striking landmark along Parks for birders. At press time, the the shoreline. Trails along the undulating EBRP District was reporting large groups ridgeline provide sweeping 360-degree of American Avocets, sandpipers, and views of the region. The geology of these Snowy Plovers seen from the trails. Great hills is also important for the natural Egrets, Great Blue Herons, and Snowy history that the rocks reveal. Egrets can be seen throughout the day The park is composed of a mosaic of as they move from the salt ponds by the The Coyote Hills Butterfly Garden, adjacent wetland and upland plant communities to the Visitor Center, contains host plants for bay, across the hill sides, and down to the that support many native, migrating and freshwater ponds. Common Goldeneyes, the caterpillars that hatch into butterflies, seemingly by magic. state and federally listed wildlife species Mallards, Canvasbacks, and Green-winged (such as the salt marsh harvest mouse). Teals can be seen in the North Marsh. Goldfinch, White-crowned Sparrows, and There are about 500 acres of grassland American White Pelicans are moving Marsh Wrens. Western Meadowlarks are primarily on the hills; a willow woodland back and forth from the bay side of the on the open grasslands of Red Hill, and which has the greatest diversity of bird park to the marshes. A Golden Eagle has this spring their melodic trills will be heard species within the park; and an almost 500- been reported hunting along Red Hill for once again. In other seasons the diversity of acre fresh water wetland system. The plant rabbits, as White-tailed Kites hover for species depends on the amount of water in communities and their seasonal changes voles on the hillsides and marsh edges. the marshes and ponds, and factors such as help to create much of the park’s visual Along Tuibun Trail a pair of American migration; but birding is equally impressive quality and landscape character. Kestrels has been seen hunting American in any month of the year. Continued on Page 3 » the Quail —— March 2009