Newsletter of the Northern Arizona Audubon Society ™ Volume XLIII • Number 3 • January/February 2014

January Meetings February Meetings From the Andes to the Amazon: Plant, and recovery Condors to Toucans in the forest following the Straddling the equator, Ecuador is one of the world’s most bio-diverse countries. The Schultz Fire of 2010 country is blessed with over 1,600 bird , The Schultz Fire of summer 2010 burned much of the eastern including 120 species with side of the San Francisco Peaks. This fire was in many areas a fanciful names such as the Shining Sunbeam. very hard burn, with 70% of it regarded as moderate to high in With a land area about the size of Nevada, severity, with much of that occurring higher up in mixed conifer Ecuador’s physical geography includes the forests, which include Doug-fir, limber pine, bristlecone pine and Andes Mountains where 19,000’ glacier clad aspen, and killed much of the forest that it passed through. The volcanoes tower over surrounding grasslands. It consequences have been myriad and are continuing to manifest also includes a substantial chunk of the Amazon themselves, often in unexpected ways. In the interim there have Headwaters and Basin where indigenous been some wonderful studies on the recovery of all kinds of species peoples live their lives in the midst of major Andean Cock-of-the-Rock, Photo by Bill Bouton of plants and and most of the news is pretty good. petroleum reserves. Gwen Waring will share with us what she has learned about In June of 2013, Brent Bitz embarked upon a four-week journey with a simple recovery of plants, animals and three years after the fire at goal in mind: experience this bio-diversity through birding. The idea was to start the February 19 (Sedona) and 20 (Flagstaff) meetings. She birding as high as possible and then drop down the eastern slope of the Andes visiting has conducted research in most western ecosystems and taught each ecological zone in turn. Brent will be speaking at our January 15 (Sedona) and natural history in her hometown of Flagstaff. Waring has a strong January 16 (Flagstaff) meetings and will share his experiences and photos of this commitment to teaching her community about the wild world exciting part of the world. around them, based on a belief that this connection is fundamental Starting in the Paramo grasslands at almost 14,000’ and in the shadow of a massive to a healthy world and healthy souls. volcano, Brent was able to see Condors, Carunculated Caracaras and Rufous-bellied The burning of trees which are killed but remain standing Seedsnipes. Living in a cold, high altitude habitat, these birds manage to live on the edge represents a major windfall for wood and bark-boring beetles, whose of what is possible with each carving out its own niche. populations would probably talk about these days for millennia to Moving lower in altitude, the next zone come, if they were so inclined. Of course, these creatures are key in was Tropical Cloud Forest. These moist recycling nutrients from these trees. Not surprising, woodpeckers environments are found at higher elevations have been having a field day in the burn site with its abundance below 10,000’. The extremely steep of boring insects, and also helping to reclaim this damaged mountainsides trap the clouds that then drench landscape. the forest with a fine mist. This creates a very Understory plants, including some that always show up after dense vegetation canopy ideal for supporting fire, are increasing and extensive through most of the burn site, giant tree ferns and many species of orchid. with endless stands of native lupines, locoweed and dogweed, Bird life is extensive and includes dozens and nonnative mullein, cheatgrass, lambsquarters and toadflax. of species of hummingbird, including Sword- All of these weedy species are doing a very important job now Hoatzin, Photo by Kate from UK billed, Chestnut-breasted Coronet, Glowing by stabilizing and enriching soils. Several years after the fire, Puffleg and Tourmaline . Inca Jays flocked to the nearby trees and competed wonderful shrubs such as Fendler’s buckbrush and wax currant are with Masked for the fruiting trees. A personal highlight was the Crested resprouting or re-establishing themselves. And on the Waterline resplendent in iridescent green and red. Road, bitter chokecherry is in its heyday, growing by leaps and Dropping further down the mountain slopes, the next stop was Sub-tropical bounds, after a long time of occurring in the shadow of forests. The Montane Forest. Located in a warmer zone around 6,000, Torrent Ducks dove in the shrubs are going to be very conspicuous for some time to come; rapids of steep mountain rivers. Blazing orange Andean Cock-of-the-Rock , Crimson- it’s as though it’s their turn. Pines are slowly starting to establish mantled Woodpecker and numerous colorful Tanagers live in the canopy. Stalking in themselves. The Forest Service is working hard to protect aspens the underbrush were both Chestnut-crowned and White-bellied Antpittas. that are resprouting from extensive underground stems. Finally reaching an altitude of only 600’ but some three thousand miles from Elk, deer, bear and wild turkeys have been using the burn site the mouth of the Amazon, he reached the Rainforest and the Napo River, a major for several years. Both the Northern Goshawk and the threatened headwaters tributary. Under a hot and humid sky and with daily thunderstorms, this Mexican Spotted Owl are nesting in the area, as well. They are was birding at it’s most intense. Clay licks draw hundreds of Cobalt-winged Parakeets nesting in live pines surrounded by dead trees. An increase in for their medicinal properties. Climbing up 100-meter high metal towers and traversing rodents, which often accompanies fire, is making the burn site all across narrow suspension bridges brought Scarlet Macaws, Toucans and the aptly the more attractive to these predators. named Paradise Tanager. Gwendolyn Waring is a writer, scientist and artist based in Brent is NAAS Board Member and is actively involved in various environmental Flagstaff. After conducting a great deal of research in this area, she organizations, primarily focusing on preserving our water resources and related riparian takes great pleasure these days in recounting the natural history of habitat. this region. She has written a book on the natural history of the Intermountain West which was published by the University of Utah ATTENTION!!! Press in 2011. She is currently working on a book on the natural MEETING TIMES CHANGED TO 7:00 PM!! history of the San Francisco Peaks. Page 2 In f o r m a t i o n ... Bl a c k Ha w k Wa t c h

President’s Corner Springs/Bubbling Ponds that are being put in place after being By Bea Cooley designed by Randy Miller and Matt Crozier has put in many January / February 2014 hours on the ground for the project. Zack Zdinak designed and implemented the signage. Dena Greenwood has been the leader in establishment of the Sedona Wetlands Preserve and What in the world does NAAS do? is awaiting word on a Heritage Fund Grant to build a viewing Well, we do programs, sixteen every year to be exact. And, deck to allow sighting into the large pond that is currently off- judging by your attendance, you appreciate the subjects and limits. We are party to Western Rivers Action Network and the presenters and enjoy the programs. We do field trips and have just visited our Congresswoman Ann Kirkpatrick and will you seem to enjoy those as well. We do Citizen Science and be participating in a day at the Arizona legislature in March. have been collectively responsible for data gathered at Picture The above is a quick overview of what we are currently doing Canyon, Page Springs, The Arboretum at Flagstaff, backyard and it likely omits a few things. The message is: WE DO A LOT. feeders, FIVE Christmas Bird Counts every year. Our members And we need your help. In the coming months, we will be asking have been responsible for the surveys that resulted in several for your help on the Board of Directors and board committees. Important Bird Areas and much more. We maintain and The more folks we have working on carrying out our mission, support several Northern Arizona Bird Sanctuaries. the smaller the work load for each person. If you have interest And there are a number of things we accomplish that you and skills – notice that few of us can be considered Expert at may not know about. Debbie James has shepherded four what we do - please consider offering your talents, energy and Boy Scouts through their Birding Badge requirements. Matt ideas to the Board and our Mission. While we will be working Crozier has parsed the Coconino National Forest Plan and to identify individuals to work, we may not have information recommended an alternative for our support. Brent Bitz has about what you like to do, so please give us a hint and offer to been overseeing trail and viewing improvements at Page work on some aspect of our Mission.

EXPAND YOUR Review of Remarkable Video ABILITY TO IDENTIFY BIRDS on Biology of Juncos Verde River Valley Nature Organization and by Zack Zdinak Northern Arizona Audubon Society are offering you an opportunity to learn to After watching this video, you’ll never look identify local, common birds with an emphasis on having fun. out at the Dark-eyed Juncos at your winter feeder the same! Two biologists and a filmmaker at Indiana University wrote, produced and directed the video, “Ordinary Birding 101 Classroom: January 17& 24 Extraordinary Junco“ in 2012. This film St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church ~ Sedona delves into the past to present research 6:30 – 8:30 PM of the Dark-eyed Junco and Yellow-eyed Field trips: January 18 & 25 Junco. Without concepts going over your Page Springs Audubon Birding Area head, the clear narration, effective graphics VVPOA River Walk and filming take you into the research of several biologists to 8:30 – 11:30 AM BIRDS CONSERVATION EDUCATION GET OUTSIDE ABOUT US learn about junco migration, evolution, behavior and ecology. BIRDS CONSERVATION EDUCATION GET OUTSIDE ABOUT US One historical reenactment reviews William Rowan’s simple, Landing Landing albeit initially unsupported, experiment with juncos to test ForQUICK registration GUIDE FAMILY COMMON NAME informationADVANCED SEARCH ZIPCODE visit VRVNO.org photo-period’s effect on birds. An interview with present QUICK GUIDE FAMILY COMMON NAME ADVANCED SEARCH ZIPCODE The Online Guideor to call North 928.28American Birds2.2202 day ornithologist Dr. Borja Mila looks at how quickly juncos This online guide to North American Birds features 750 species of birds in 22 Orders and 74 families. The guide covers all ofThe North America'sOnline regular Guide breeding birds-approximately to North 580American species - as well asBirds ana additional 180 or so nonbreeding species that regulary or occasionally visit North America north of Mexico. more about the guide may have diversified since the last ice age into the varieties This online guide to North American Birds features 750 species of birds in 22 Orders and 74 families. The guide covers all of North America's regular breeding birds-approximately 580 species - as well as ana additional 180 or so nonbreeding and patterns we see today. The insights just don’t stop! The species that regulary or occasionally visit North America northResources of Mexico. more about the guide ResourcesAboutAudubon this guide Online Bird Guide 88 minute film can be viewed at your own speed online in How to Bird AboutThis this convenient guide online guide features 750 8 chapters on Vimeo. The project also provides options for e.g. Long-legged Waders, Duck-like Birds... How to Identify Birds Howspecies. to Bird Search and identify hundreds of Plumage and Molt showing the film at schools or birding events. Go to the video’s e.g. Long-legged Waders, Duck-like Birds... How to Identify Birds PartsNorth of a Bird American birds with text, photos, Plumage and Molt website, juncoproject.org, for project details and viewing links. Classificationsounds, of Birds range maps and more. Parts of a Bird Bird Families Then throw another cup of sunflower seeds outside for the Classification of Birds Naturalwww.audubonbirds.org History of Birds e.g. Ducks, Geese & Swans... Bird Families little gray guys! Endangered and Threatened Birds Natural History of Birds e.g. Ducks, Geese & Swans... Bird Conservation Endangered and Threatened Birds Glossary After viewing, join discussion on the AZ Birding Forum to read Bird Conservation Glossary and share what others are discovering about our feathery gray Northern NewsArizona from Audubon Audubon Society e.g. Yellow-billed Loon NewsNew Directors from BringAudubon Science, Conservation, Finance friends. Read or post on The Chip forum at azbird.net, then & Education Expertise to the National Audubon e.g.northernarizonaaudubon.org Yellow-billed Loon NewSociety Directors Board Bring Science, Conservation, Finance choose “The Chirp” and “Remarkable Video on Juncos.” Statement& Education of Expertise David Yarnold, to the AudubonNational AudubonPresident & Tell CEO,Societyyour regarding Board friendsproposed Upton, Inhofe legislation Statementthat would ofundermine David Yarnold, Clean AudubonAir Act President & TexanCEO, regarding Named Top proposed Audubon Upton, Educator Inhofe legislation e.g. Shape, Region, Habitat, Color and Size that would undermine Clean Air Act Audubon President Comments on Report by the NationalTexan Named Commission Top Audubon on Gulf Educator Oil Disaster & e.g. Shape, Region, Habitat, Color and Size AudubonRecommendations President Comments on Report by the National Commission on Gulf Oil Disaster & Recommendations

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Northern Arizona Audubon Field Trips Below the Rim Field Trips Every Saturday and Sunday, January through March San Francisco Peaks Winter Field Trip Wednesday, January 22 Northern Arizona Audubon Society is offering Leader - Zack Zdinak field trips throughout the winter season at both the new Sedona Wetlands Preserve and Montezuma Well Though the mountain will be deep with snow, lets go look for Clark’s EVERY weekend January - March. This is the Nutcraker, Red-breasted Nuthatch, Golden-crowned Kinglet and Three- season of ducks and geese coming to winter in the “warm” toed Woodpecker along the edge of the Kachina Peaks Wilderness. Check waters of the Southwest. We will have experienced the weather the day before and dress for cold with gloves and boots for snow guides to help you learn the many species of ducks and walking. Wear sun protection since we’ll be near 10,500 feet. Bring birding other wintering birds at these two wetlands. gear (I’ll have one scope; bring more), snacks/lunch, water and maybe a Saturdays meet at Sedona Wetlands Preserve 9 am hot drink in a thermos. The Snowbowl lodge has restrooms; we may all go - 12 pm in the parking lot. Located 7 mi. outside Sedona inside for a warm break! Note: this is a weekday date to hopefully avoid on Hwy 89A. weekend crowds. Meet to car pool at 8:00 am in the west side of the Basha’s Sundays meet at Montezuma Well in the picnic area parking lot at the top of Humphrey’s Street. Plan on getting back by noon. 9am - 11am. Montezuma’s Well is located near the town Zack, [email protected] or 928-774-4229. of Lake Montezuma on Beaver Creek Rd. Come dressed appropriately for the weather. Bring binoculars, water, hats, gloves and snacks to keep you going through the cold morning. How Do Birds Cope With Cold If snow or rain prevents bird watching the trip will Edited from National Audubon articles by Daisy Yuhas And Susan J. Tweit be cancelled for that week. Please call the guide listed Each autumn as many birds begin epic journeys to warmer below to confirm your place on the walk climates, there are always some species that stay put for the

winter. These winter birds have a better chance of maintaining On the left: Sedona Wetlands Preserve their territory year-round, and they avoid the hazards of On the right: Montezuma Well migration. But in exchange they have to endure the cold.

Like us, birds are warm blooded, which means their bodies SWP-Sat Guide Phone # MW- Sun Guide Phone # maintain a constant temperature, often around 106 degrees Fahrenheit. To make enough heat, and maintain it, they’ve Jan. 4 Jan. 5 Julie Wills 928-300-9775 evolved many different strategies. Wayne Johnson 928-204-5900 Sparrows, for example, seek out shelter in dense foliage or cavities to avoid the elements. They also huddle, bunching Jan. 11 Tim Weber 928-380-0555 Jan. 12 Ele Espinosa 928-300-8088 together to share warmth, and try to minimize their total surface area by tucking in their head and feet and sticking up their feathers. Cardinals, impossible to Jan. 18 Rich Armstrong 928-282-3675 Jan. 19 Jeff Tanner 602-677-4053 miss against the snow, and other smaller birds puff up into the shape of a little round beach ball to minimize heat loss. Birds can also put on fat as both an Jan. 25 Vic Nelson 360-471-7195 Jan. 26 Vic Nelson 360-471-7195 insulator and energy source. More than 10 percent of winter body weight may be fat in certain species. Feb. 1 Tim Weber 928-380-0555 Feb. 2 Ele Espinosa 928-300-8088 Some birds save energy by allowing their internal thermostat to drop. are a famous example of this, undergoing torpor nightly as their Feb. 8 Rich Armstrong 928-282-3675 Feb.9 Julie Wills 928-300-9775 body temperature drops close to outside temperatures. But torpor is not too common in winter birds, because the morning warm up would take too much Feb. 15 Vic Nelson 360-471-7195 Feb. 16 Dena Greenwood 928-567-3007 extra energy. Instead, chickadees and other species undergo a more moderate version of torpor, reducing their body temperature as much as 22 degrees Feb. 22 Rich Armstrong 928-282-3675 Feb. 23 Julie Wills 928-300-9775 Fahrenheit from their daytime level in a process called regulated hypothermia. At night chickadees also cram themselves into tiny cavities and shiver, burning Mar. 1 Tim Weber 928-380-0555 Mar. 2 Ele Espinosa 928-300-8088 the day’s fuel to keep from freezing. This isn’t the familiar tremble that mammals use to generate heat. Birds shiver by activating opposing muscle groups, Mar.8 Kristen Rothrock 928-634-3633 Mar. 9 Jeff Tanner 602-677-4053 creating muscle contractions without all of the jiggling typical when humans shiver. This form of shaking is better at retaining the bird’s heat. Mar. 15 Rich Armstrong 928-282-3675 Mar. 16 Dena Greenwood 928-567-3007 You can help chickadees and many other birds by planting native shrubs and trees yielding the right berries. Choose plants that are native to your region Mar. 22 Julie Wills 928-282-2556 Mar. 23 Vic Nelson 360-471-7195 because birds recognize them and thus spend less energy foraging. Make sure to pick types that will thrive in your soil and environment. Planting native Mar. 29 Rich Armstrong 928-282-3675 Mar. 30 Julie Wills 928-300-9775 species is a surefire winner for everyone: You can have your beautiful berries and the birds can eat them.

Northern Arizona Audubon Society Mission Statement To promote the understanding and appreciation of birds and other wildlife and the conservation and restoration of their natural habitats. Page 4 Fi e l d Tr i p Re p o r t s & In f o r m a t i o n ... Bl a c k Ha w k Wa t c h

NAAS FIELD TRIP REPORTS Bluebirds, a few Ravens, some Juncos, White Crowned and Chipping Sparrows. In all, 20 species were recorded. Garland Prairie - November 21, 2013 Wayne Johnson Five chilled birders birded Garland Prairie this morning. The temperature when we arrived was 34 degrees with dense cloud cover Beaver Creek - November 24, 2013 that didn’t seem to want to go away. Finally, around 10:30 the sun Dena, Randy, Vic, Loretta and I (Tim Weber) met at the Wet Beaver broke through and the temp rose to 40. We all agreed that some light Creek Picnic Area on a wet, drizzly day to what can be described at thermals would have been good. Overall number of species was low, the very least as a “pleasant surprise.” We were barely able to leave but we enjoyed great looks at Bald and Golden Eagle, Red-tailed and the parking lot when we were treated to flocks of Western Bluebirds, Ferruginous Hawk and Northern Harrier and American Kestrel. A Bridled Titmouse, and Lesser Goldfinch; the calls of Cedar Waxwings, target bird was any kind of longspur, and we had a very tantalizing several subspecies of Dark-eyed Juncos, plus Ruby-crowned Kinglets, rattle call note when a group of about 20 Horned Lark was flying Northern Flickers, Ladder-backed Woodpecker, Gila Woodpecker, around. We never got on the bird though. No birds on Scholl’s Lake Abert’s and Spotted Towhee. We barely crossed the street to the and no Rough-legged Hawk. A nice day of birding. - Tom Linda campground, and were again frozen by spectacular looks at titmice, White-breasted Nuthatch, Brown Creepers (4 total, great for this area), Dead Horse Ranch State Park - October 5, 2013 and an awesome side-by-side look at a Hutton’s Vireo and a male Ruby- Five Audubon folks joined me for the field trip to Dead Horse State crown Kinglet flexing his crown. We walked past the V-Bar-V, which Park 10/5. Highlights included scope views of Common BlackHawk, was closed due to wet and slippery trails, and hiked the forest road. We Gila and Ladderback Woodpeckers, Bridled Titmice, Western heard Bewick’s Wren, House Finch, and Townsend’s Solitaire, which Bluebird, Audubon’s Yellow-Rumped Warbler, and Northern Flicker. Vic was able to scope from over 200 meters. In the grasslands at the top There was also an Orange-crowned Warbler, a Ruby-crowned Kinglet of the hill we saw Brewer’s Sparrows and flocks of Western Bluebirds and Spotted Towhee in a flock of Lesser Goldfinches. Weather was flying overhead, mixed with several Mountain Bluebirds. We walked excellent as well. the fence line toward Secret Mt. Here we spotted a Loggerhead Shrike Rich Armstrong and found the mother lode of American Robins roosting in and eating the juniper berries, producing a chorus rivaling spring conditions. Montezuma’s Well and other Water Holes - There were also many Chipping Sparrows. Vic nailed a Phainopepla and November 9, 2013 Western Scrub-Jay, and a Cactus Wren chattered in the background. Meeting at the forest service visitor center south of Village of Oak Satisfied with our results with so many good looks and hundreds of Creek four sharp-eyed birders joined me for a tour of some local bodies wintering birds, we walked back to our vehicles agreeing that birding of water. Before we left the parking lot we saw a Cooper’s Hawk. the non-breeding season on cold, rainy days can still be a very special At our first stop at Oak Creek Country Club we saw a beautiful pair experience. Thanks to all who braved the wet conditions to share in a of Hooded Mergansers (a lifer for some) as well as a male Common great bird walk! Merganser, American Crow (a Village of Oak Creek specialty) and Tim Weber Western Bluebirds. The second stop was a tank off Beaverhead Flats Road where we saw 15 species including Loggerhead Shrike, Mountain Bluebirds, Sage Thrasher, Western Meadowlark and six We are proud to be a supporter of the species of sparrows. A quick stop at Lake Montezuma added Coots, Mallards, and some feral Egyptian geese and a Snow Goose released by an aviculturist. Moving to the picnic area at Montezuma’s Well we Northern Arizona walked through the mesquites to the riparian areas along Wet Beaver Audubon Society Creek where we had 4 species of woodpeckers in one area. Closer to the parking lot a couple of the group saw a White-throated Sparrow Producing and mailing before it disappeared into a tangle of wild grape vines. We all got a the “BlackHawk Watch” newsletter good look at a Lincoln’s Sparrow with its finely marked features. At the well we added Rock Wren, American Wigeon, and a cooperative Sora (thanks Jeff) to the bird list. We ended the day with 42 species, including 10 species of sparrows and not counting the geese. It was a nice morning with pleasant companions. Thanks to the group. Vic Nelson Spring Creek and Juniper Tank - November 15, 2013 Our group of nine enthusiastic birders entered the Spring Creek ★ Full Service Printing Bulk Mailing - Our staff is up-to-date riparian corridor, finding more mayhem than avian species. A ★ High Speed Copying on postal regulations for efficient ravenous band of Castor canadensis (beaver) have recently been delivery at the lowest possible rate. ★ Digital Color Copying ★ List Maintenance ★ Bulk Permits running amok among the ash and willow trees that line this beautiful ★ Graphics & Layout ★ Presort Service waterway. The rotund semi-aquatic rodents, with their webbed hind ★ Automated Bar-Coding ★ Zip +4 feet and fast-growing teeth, have felled dozens of trees. Forced to ★ Full Bindery Services ★ Delivery to the P.O. maneuver under and around the stumps and trunks, we managed to spot just two Abert’s and one Spotted Towhee, along with Ruby- 2708 N. Fourth St., Ste. F 3 & 4 crowned Kinglets and a Sharp-shinned Hawk. Flagstaff, Arizona 86004 Our second destination of the morning proved more fruitful and (928) 526-1650 fax ★ [email protected] far easier to navigate. At Juniper Tank, we found a flock of Western (928) 526-5011 Bl a c k Ha w k Wa t c h CBC & Ot h e r In f o r m a t i o n ... Page 5 It’s December Bought your So We Must Be Out Counting Birds 2013-14 duck by Zack Zdinak stamp yet? (2013-2014) This year we started off the Christmas Bird Counts season with a Pre-CBC (2013Common- 2014)Goldeneye Birding Workshop that Troy Corman and John Yerger sent up to us. Eight people by Robert Steiner Post offices and some joined us at the Flagstaff Public Library and a brisk walk to Frances Short Pond Common Goldeneyesporting goods stores have on December 7th to learn tips on identification, counting and selecting birding them. Buy one. The duck stamp is a means to Bought your -­ 2013 14 duck stamp yet? locations. Several were planning on joining their first CBC this year. raiseby Robert funds forSteiner wetland conservation, with The next week, local counts were in full swing. As of this writing on the 18th, three 98% of the proceeds of each sale going to the of NAAS’s counts and three more northern Arizona counts have been completed. Post offices and some sporting goods stores have them. Buy one. The duck stamp is a means to raise Migratoryfunds for wetland Bird conservation Conservation, with 98% of the Fund. proceeds It of is each sale going to the Migratory also Bird Out in the Mormon Lake CBC circle on Saturday, December 14th, Elaine Morrall Conservation Fund. It is also used to National gain entrance to Wildlife Refuges that normally charge for usedadmission to. The gain stamps, entrance which cost to $15, National are valid through June 30, 2014. Wildlife had seven birders to help tally up 29 usual winter species including several Bald Refuges The that Fund is normally used to purchase charge and for protect wetlands that not only admission. provide habitat for Eagles, ducks and other two Ferruginous Hawks, 10 Red-tailed Hawks, eight Wild Turkey, and a water birds but also offer breeding and migration habitat for hundreds of species of non-­‐game birds -­‐-­‐ TheBought songbirds, stamps, waders, which grassland your cost birds, $15, the -­ 2013 14 kind are of valid birds duck you through go out stamp to see. The idea that duck stamps are for whopping yet? 28 White-breasted Nuthatches. Junehunters 30, only 2014. is wrong. Birders benefit as much or more. Then on December 22nd, 34 counters descended on Camp Verde to pull The Fund is used to purchase and protect out, unofficially, 104 plus two for count week. Highlights included Hammond’s wetlands that not only provide habitat for ducks Flycatcher, Hairy Woodpecker, Hutton’s Vireo, Hooded Merganser, as well as and otherPost water offices birds but and also some offer breeding sporting goods Downy Woodpecker, stores have them. Buy one. Snow The Goose, duck Evening stamp is a means Grosbeak, to White-throated raise Sparrow, andfunds migration for wetland habitat conservation for hundreds, with of species 98% of of Grasshopper the proceeds Sparrow of and each due sale going to the Migratory to the early Bird morning diligence of Rob Hunt, 12 non-gameConservation birds Fund -- .songbirds, It is waders, also grassland used to National gain entrance to Great-Horned Wildlife Owls. Refuges that normally charge for birds,admission the . kind The of birds stamps, you go which out to see. cost The $15, are The Jerome valid through June 30, 2014.CBC circle takes in a wide variety of habitats and elevations, idea that duck stamps are for hunters only is from the Verde River to the top of Mingus Mountain. On December 15, Julie Wills wrong. BirdersThe Fund benefit is as used much or to more. purchase sent and her protect 27 wetlands that not birders only out in provide seven teams habitat throughout for the area. ducks and other They came back with water birds but also offer breeding and migration 109 species. habitat Some for notable hundreds of species species of non-­‐game were a birds Common-­‐-­‐ Golden Eye and Greater songbirds, waders, grassland birds, the kind White-fronted of birds Geese, you a Merlin, go two Barn out Owls, to a N. see. Pygmy The idea that duck stamps are for Owl, a Golden Crowned hunters only is wrong. Birders benefit Sparrow as much or more. and 30 Pinyon Jays at low elevation near the Verde River. Two Vermillion Flycatchers and two Green-tailed Towhees were unexpected at this time of year. One birder put in extra hours after dark locating 16 Great Horned Owls and two Western Screech-Owls. They also had a Fox Sparrow in count week. (There was Verde River Blue Trail also a sighting of a former Flagstaff resident-now-migrant birder from Tucson by the initials of JL, but verification is still under review). Designation On the Arizona northern borderlands with Utah, Andrea Bornemeier conducted by Matthew Crozier her long-running Pipe Spring CBC on Friday, December 13th. Three birders joined the count. It was a really beautiful day, as Andrea laments, “I usually have the most In an effort to preserve the Verde River and connect luck when the weather is nasty!” The 25 species tallied were of usual winter birds local communities to the river through recreation and plus two new species – a Great Horned Owl and a single female Ring-necked Duck wildlife watching, American Rivers has designated (There’s a very small pond beneath the spring.) the Verde River a Blue Trail. (A Blue Trail is a river Brian Gatlin ran his second Grand Canyon CBC on the 15th (This count adopted by local communities that are dedicated to previously ran from 1968 to 1986.) With 15 birders on the rim and nine on foot improving recreation and advancing conservation on trails around Indian Gardens, Plateau Point and Phantom Ranch, the teams goals.) However, increasingly frequent groundwater logged a record 53 species (the lack of snowstorm this year helped, too). Highlights water pumping is severely depleting the river’s flows. included one each of California Condor, Sharp-shinned Hawk, Mexican Spotted Through the creation of a Blue Trail, we will raise Owl, American Three-toed Woodpeckers, Hammond’s Flycatcher, Varied Thrush, awareness about the river and the benefits it provides, Marsh Wren, and Black-throated Sparrow. build support within the community for flow protections, As this newsletter is delivered, Terry Blows will probably be crunching numbers and conserve critical habitat for birds and other wildlife, from the December 28th’s Flagstaff/Mt Elden CBC. including the threatened Western Willow Flycatcher. Haven’t been out yet? Getting excited? On January 4th, Sedona and Glen The Verde River is an important tributary to the Canyon Counts may still need birders. So, call those compilers and get out there! Colorado River and a unique resource in Arizona. One For the Sedona CBC, call Rich Armstrong at [email protected] or 928-282- of the few perennially flowing rivers in the Southwest, 3675. For the Glen Canyon CBC, contact John Spence at the Park Service office the Verde sustains lush riverside forest, a large and in Page at [email protected] or 928-608-6267. diverse wildlife population, and provides critical National Audubon says all CBC count data will be online within a month. You’ll drinking water to many Central Arizona communities. be able to read reports on the website, Audubon.org. Go to the Christmas Bird Come experience the 2014 Verde River Runoff, a Counts web page. In the right menu, look for “Results, Data & Research” and this ten-mile canoe race along the beautiful Verde River. year’s counts by CBC name. Social activities, including live bands, vendor booths, The National Audubon Society has conducted Christmas Bird Counts since 1900. and food, begin in Camp Verde after the race launches These records now comprise an extensive ornithological database that enables and continue throughout the day on Saturday, March monitoring of winter bird populations and the overall health of the environment. 29rd. The canoe race begins Saturday morning, March Thanks to everyone who added to Northern Arizona CBC’s this season – whether 29rd at 10:00 a.m. by car, on foot, from your window! Here’s to another enjoyable CBC season birding with your birding friends! Page 6 In f o r m a t i o n ... Bl a c k Ha w k Wa t c h

Winter Flagstaff

Bird Coaching

by Zack Zdinak

• Can’t make our scheduled field trips? For more information contact: Naturally Yours • Need beginning birding guidance Karen Bowers FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 305-766-1053 3 December 2013 at your own pace? [email protected] • Can’t figure out the trails at Elden Spring or Page Springs? What bird is that?

• Could use a tour of local birding (Cottonwood, AZ) Come find out at Birding 101! The Verde River Valley Nature hot spots? Organization (VRVNO), a non-profit organization that is raising awareness of our natural resources by providing recreation, education and nature tourism opportunities that • Want initial help for a neighborhood support the stewardship of the Verde River Valley is partnering with the Northern bird walk? Arizona Audubon Society (NAAS) to introduce the hobby of birding to the beginner who is curious to find out what birding is all about. Birding 101 is a four-part workshop beginning Friday, January 17th with classroom work from 6:30 to 8:30 PM provided by OK, so “NAAS’s Birding Elixir” is a euphemism for a trial Bea Cooley and Jim Logan at St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church community room in birding service we’re trying in the Flagstaff area. Sedona. On January 18th, beginning at 8:30 AM, a field trip to the Page Springs Audubon birding area with the instructors gives the students a chance to practice the basic skills they learned the night before. Then it’s back to the classroom on January No imbibing necessary! Active NAAS members are offering 24th followed on the 25th for a field trip to the Verde Village Property Owners Association to help other members on bird walks of your own, give you River Walk. identification tips, show you how to use bird books, binoculars or a scope. Plan it for your family, a small group of friends Just how much of a beginner do you need to be for Birding 101? We welcome everyone – especially if you’ve always wanted to know about the local, common birds in your own or we could post it on the NAAS website calendar for other backyard. You’ll learn how to choose and use binoculars, how bird field guides work and members to join. Become an active NAAS member by trying how to identify birds using these tools, with emphasis on having fun. our elixer and cure your birding blues this winter! Contact Zack to discuss your ideas and available dates in January & There is a limit to the number of participants that can be accommodated and the event organizers are suggesting that the earlier you register the better. The deadline for February. Or would you like to be a Bird Coach too? wildlife@ signing up is January 13th. The registration form can be downloaded from lifedraw.com or (best) call 928-774-4229. www.VRVNO.org or from VRVNO’s Facebook Page under the Events Tab. Mail to POB 2224, Cottonwood, AZ 86326. If you have questions or would like additional information you can email [email protected] or call 936-282-2202. The Birding 101 workshop is $20 for all four sessions.

For more information about Verde River Valley Nature Organization, visit feathered dinosaurs FOUND IN UTAH www.VRVNO.org. If you’d like to be a volunteer for one of the VRVNO events or committees, contact Bruce Maurer at [email protected]. Find out more about NAAS at www.NorthernArizonaAudubon.org. Scott Richardson, a BLM fossil hunter from Flagstaff, found this new tyrannosaur fossil north ##### of Lake Powell in Utah. It is smaller than T. Rex but scientists are calling it “King of Gore”. Mark Loewen, a University of Utah paleontologist said, “ It was 24 ft. long and 8 ft. at the hip and, what I think is neat, was covered in scales and feathers.” This find is more evidence that birds are feathered dinosaurs, the only dinosaurs living today! Bl a c k Ha w k Wa t c h In f o r m a t i o n ... Page 7

NAAS Directory Officers President Bea Cooley [email protected] Previous Pres. Zack Zdinak [email protected] MATT CROZIER KATHY & DON NELMS Vice President Open BETSY FEINBERG LISA C. OLIVER Secretary Sue Ordway [email protected] DAWN GARDNER JANET QUINN Treasurer Julie Wills [email protected] ORVILLE & ALICE GILMORE DAVID SEVERN DAVID & VIRGINIA HAYES JIM & SARAH WILCE Directors at Large JANE JACKSON ZACK ZDINAK Brent Bitz Dennis Tomko John Hildebrand To see when your membership expires, look at the date next to your address Standing Committee Chairs and Co-chairs on your newsletter. Programs Phyllis Kegley [email protected] Field Trips Dena Greenwood [email protected] Zack Zdinak 928-774-4229 [email protected] Purchase Northern Arizona Audubon Society birding guides on our website: www.northernarizonaaudubon.org. Publications/Book Sales Terry Blows [email protected] Conservation Matt Crozier 928-202-1201 [email protected] Birding the Flagstaff Area (including the Grand Canyon South Rim, Membership Barbara Hirt [email protected] Navajo and Hopi Lands), or Birding Sedona and the Verde Valley Helen-Marie and Paul Holmgren [email protected] Hospitality Nanette Armstrong [email protected] Only $14.95 Betty Kahrl [email protected] Publicity Phyllis Kegley [email protected] Have a story you would like Education Suzy Clemenz 928.284.2524 [email protected]

to share? Special Project Team Leaders • The BlackHawk Watch is published bi-monthly September through May. Verde Valley Bird and Nature Festival • Articles are welcome from members and non-members. Send proposed Karin Slavey [email protected] articles by email to Debbie at [email protected] Deadline for copy is Page Springs Development Committee Brent Bitz, Anita MacFarlane the 15th of the month. Dena Greenwood Volunteer Coordinator - Logan’s Crossing Mea Stees Arizona Birding Network Forums Roger Radd [email protected] Newsletter Editor Debbie Compton [email protected]

Tuzigoot/Dead Horse State Park IBA Celia Holm [email protected] Lower Oak Creek IBA Roger Radd [email protected] Anderson Mesa IBA Elaine Morrall [email protected]

Upper Oak Creek Bird Sanctuary John Grahame [email protected] Willow Bend Bird Sanctuary Debbie & Tom James [email protected] Elden Spring Bird Sanctuary Jason Wilder [email protected] Picture Canyon Bird Sanctuary Bea Cooley [email protected] Logan’s Crossing Bird Sanctuary Mea Stees [email protected]

Birders, Go to northernarizonaaudubon.org and check for new Field Trips on the calendar!

Northern Arizona Audubon Society northernarizonaaudubon.org Tell your friends Non-profit BLACKHAWK WATCH U.S. Postage Northern Arizona Audubon Society PAID PO Box 1496, Sedona, AZ 86339 Flagstaff, AZ Permit No. 163

Have you visited our web site? northernarizonaaudubon.org ✁ january-february Meetings Jo i n Us! Guest Speaker - Brent Bitz “From the Andes to the Amazon: Condors to Toucans” No r t h e r n Ar i z o n a Au d u b o n So c i e t y Sedona - January 15 (Wed) Please enroll me/our household as a Chapter Sedona Public Library • 3250 White Bear Road Member of Northern Arizona Audubon Society Flagstaff - January 16 ( (Thurs) (NAAS). Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church Name: 1601 N San Francisco St. Address: Guest Speaker - Gwen Waring City, State, Zip “Plant, bird and animal recovery in the forest Phone: following the Schultz Fire of 2010”

Email: ✁ Sedona - February 19 (Wed) Sedona Public Library • 3250 White Bear Road Enclosed: Flagstaff - February 20 ( (Thurs) $18 for 1 year Check here if this is a Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church change of address 1601 N San Francisco St. $30 for 2 years Check here if this is a Meetings start at 6:45 pm with social time. renewal Formal meeting begins at 7:00 pm. Please make checks payable to NAAS and mail to: Membership Chair, NAAS PO Box 1496, Sedona, AZ 86339 • The BlackHawk Watch is published bi-monthly September through May, and is sent to members of the Northern I am interested in: Arizona Audubon Society as a membership benefit. ___ Volunteer opportunities • Articles are welcome from members and non-members. Send ___ Receiving NAAS newsletter via e-mail proposed articles by email to Debbie at [email protected] ___ Receiving NAAS news update e-mails Deadline for copy is the 15th of the month.