THE QUARTERLY NEWS MAGAZINE OF TUCSON AUDUBON SOCIETY | TUCSONAUDUBON.ORG

Vermf li yl ci a to c hn e r January–March 2013 | Volume 58, Number 1

Meetup Tucson Meet Your Birds Tucson Audubon Meet Your Mascot

Adventures Along the Tanque Verde Wash What’s in a Name? Northern Mockingbird Features The QuarT erly News MagaziN e of TucsoN a uduboN s ocieT y | TucsoN auduboN .org 10 What’s in a Name: Northern Mockingbird Vermilionf l y c a t c h e r 11 Adventures Along the January–March 2013 | Volume 58, Number 1 Tanque Verde Wash Tucson Audubon Society is dedicated to improving 10 Tucson Audubon, Meet Your Mascot the quality of the environment by providing education, conservation, and recreation programs, environmental 13 Tucson Meet Your Birds leadership, and information. Tucson Audubon is a non-profit volunteer organization of people with a Departments common interest in birding and natural history. Tucson Audubon maintains offices, a library, and nature 3 Commentary Meetup Tucson Meet shops in Tucson, the proceeds of which benefit all of 4 Events and Classes Your Birds its programs. Tucson Audubon 5 Events Calendar Meet Your Mascot Tucson Audubon Society 300 E. University Blvd. #120, Tucson, AZ 85705 6 Living With Nature Lecture Series 629-0510 (voice) or 623-3476 (fax) 7 News Roundup All phone numbers are area code 520 unless otherwise stated. adventures along the 17 Conservation and Education News Tanque Verde wash www.tucsonaudubon.org what’s in a Name? Northern Mockingbird Board Officers & Directors 21 Field Trips President Cynthia Pruett 24 Birding Travel from our Business Partners Vice President Sandy Elers FRONT COVER: Gila Woodpecker by Elaine R. Wilson. Secretary Ruth Russell 25 Birds & Business Alliance Treasurer Richard Carlson 25 Classified Ads Her bird, wildlife and natural landscape photography can Directors at Large Matt Bailey, Ardeth Barnhart, Gavin be viewed at www.naturespicsonline.com. Bieber, Jennie Duberstein, Dave Dunford, Debra Finch, 26 Nature Shops Bob Hernbrode, Linda Greene, John Kennedy, Linda Stitzer, To have your photograph considered for use in the Claire Zucker Vermilion Flycatcher, please contact Matt Griffiths at Board Committees Conservation Chair Chris McVie, [email protected]. Development Sandy Elers, Education Jennie Duberstein, Finance Richard Carlson, Outreach Vacant, Nominating Linda Greene, Personnel Cynthia Pruett Programs & Activities Field Trips Matt Griffiths Library 629-0510 To Arrive Where We Started and Know Membership Meetings Jean Barchman 629-0510 Rare Bird Alert Andrew Core | Report Rare Birds 629-0510 the Place for the First Time Staff (unless otherwise stated, dial 629-0510 plus extension) Executive Director Paul Green ext 7001 Rob Fergus Accountant Michelle Bourgeois ext 7003 Finance ext 7014 For geographers, place is more than mere a great connection to Utah’s vibrant communities Membership Coordinator Jean Barchman ext 7002 location—it includes all the features, elements, and and landscapes teaming with life. To the extent that Development Manager Erin Olmstead ext 7009 Volunteer and Development Coordinator relationships that make each location unique. Birds I knew the birds, landscapes, and their connection Kara Kaczmarzyk ext 7011 are a vital component of each place. In fact, you to people, I knew the place. Environmental Education Coordinator Bété Pfister ext 7012 can’t really know a place without knowing its birds. I’ve since traveled to all 50 U.S. states and IBA Conservation Biologist Jennie MacFarland ext 7004 Habitats Program Manager Kendall Kroesen ext 7006 I first heard that bit of wisdom from nature writer many foreign countries and enjoyed getting to Restoration Manager Jonathan Horst 971-6238 Terry Tempest Williams when I was a restless know thousands of birds and innumerable local Field Supervisor Rodd Lancaster 256-6909 places. I treasure them all, starting with the birds Communications / Habitat Restoration undergraduate student in Utah. I had been a birder Matthew Griffiths 971-7924 for more than ten years, but I hadn’t been birding in my backyard. No matter how well you know Operations and Retail Manager Sara Pike ext 7008 for a long time. I suddenly came alive and knew your bird neighbors, there is always more to learn Operations and Retail Coordinator Kelly DiGiacomo ext 7007 how to break out of my mid-semester malaise—I and enjoy. Tucson Audubon Nature Shops 300 E University Blvd #120 ext 7015 ditched school the next day and drove out across The birds can be your teachers. As you sit in 623-3476 fax / 629-0510 Shop Manager a snow-covered desert in search of a Northern your yard closely watch the birds there—what are Hours: 10 am–4 pm, Monday–Saturday Shrike! For the next year and they doing and what are they teaching you about Agua Caliente Park, 12325 E Roger Rd 760-7881 Hours: January–March Wednesday 10 am–1 pm, a half I explored all the this place? As you explore local parks, preserves, Thursday 9 am–2:30 pm, Friday–Saturday, 10 am–2:30 pm local haunts in search or even shopping areas, what birds are present of birds, and by the and what are they doing? The more you get to Vermilion Flycatcher is published quarterly. For address time I left school, I felt know Tucson’s birds, the better connected you will changes or subscription problems call 629-0510, or write be to Tucson as a place—a vibrant community and to Membership Coordinator, Tucson Audubon, 300 E. VF University Blvd, #120, Tucson, AZ 85705. Submissions are landscape teaming with life. Enjoy! due the 1st of the month, two months before the date of the Dr. Rob Fergus is an avid birder, urban ecologist, issue. Please send submissions as Microsoft Word or RTF documents, or plain text files, to Matt Griffiths at mgriffiths@ and bird conservationist who also blogs at tucsonaudubon.org. urbanbirdscapes.com Coordinator Matt Griffiths 971-7924 and birdchaser.blogspot.com. Proofreaders Robert Merideth, Tucson Audubon staff, and volunteers Design / Layout Eng-Li Green © 2013 Tucson Audubon Society PYRRHULOXIA, DORIS EVANS

2 Tucson Audubon Vermilion Flycatcher January–March 2013 Visit tucsonaudubon.org for updates and more. COMMENTARY PAUL GREEN | EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR The Lores of Nature Bird Lore was first published in January In 2013 we’ll get the chance to 1899 as an illustrated bimonthly magazine celebrate both kinds of lore since folklorist devoted to the study and protection of Maribel Alvarez of Tucson Meet Yourself birds. It was the official organ of the has invited all of us in Tucson to expand growing National Association of Audubon our definition of neighbors to include our us a shared sense of place if we take the Societies. Bird Lore was set up not bird neighbors. time to notice them. Staff have chosen as a commercial enterprise, but as a Tucson Meet Yourself is an annual Cooper’s Hawk, Gila Woodpecker, cooperative undertaking in the interests of festival of diversity that incorporates Anna’s Hummingbird, Lesser Goldfinch, the readers and partners. people, cultures, activities, and foods. Phainopepla, and White-crowned Early editions published lists of Since 1974 it has been a celebration of Sparrow for this issue of the Vermilion contacts and the editor Frank Chapman who we are as Tucsonans. At its heart it

Flycatcher. THRASHER, DORIS EVANS CURVE-BILLED noted, “The splendid influence of the is an educational experience, and we all Frequently noticed and a source of thousands of men and women working learn from being a part. We come away many questions, these six species are in these groups from the Atlantic to the with an enhanced sense of place. This among those that newcomers to watching Pacific is incalculable to our cause.” The year it takes place October 12–13. birds will find easy to get to grips with. Arizona Audubon Society was established Maribel has graciously welcomed As we frequently explain, Tucson has in 1908, based in Tucson with Thomas Tucson Audubon into the celebration so so many kinds of birds because of our K. Marshall Tucson as President and Mrs that we can invite Tucson to “meet its geography. Our region comprises a Harriet B. Thomber as Secretary. But birds.” Tucson Meet Your Birds is our range of habitats and elevations and is that’s another story. way of helping our human residents, surrounded by varied sources of birds, As Audubon members, we can “immigrants, refugees, Native Americans, including the Rockies to the north and appreciate the dual meaning of the word long-timers and newcomers …Tucsonans the Sierra Madre Occidental to the south. “lore” in common English usage today. all” as Maribel puts it, meet the birds that Kendall Kroesen writes more about this From the Latin lorum (meaning strap or form an integral part of our local culture. on page 13. thong) it applies to the surface between We will introduce Tucsonans to their Another reason we can see so many the eye and the base of the upper bill of birds in person at Tucson Meet Yourself species from our backyard is that many a bird. in October 2013, and of course at the pass through this place we call home. From the Old English lar origins it Tucson Bird & Wildlife Festival August We’ll address our migrants in a later refers to learning, especially that gained 14–18, 2013. (Make sure those dates are issue. As David Wilcove of Princeton, by word of mouth, hence its use to refer to in your calendar and tell your friends in (our Gala guest speaker on January 30) a body of knowledge, as contained in Bird other states about the event.) is at pains to explain, we have to protect Lore and collected by a network of bird We kick off with some birds that we both ends of the journey—breeding and enthusiasts across the country. can expect to see in our region in the wintering grounds as well as the stopover early months of the year, birds that give sites—if we are to assure the continued survival of our birds. You may be working with us to develop urban habitats that play host to our featured species as well as to migrant species. Or you perhaps work with us as a volunteer doing surveys on Important Bird Areas that serve as breeding and migratory stopover sites. We did some calculations recently and discovered that in the first 11 months of 2012 more than 550 volunteers donated nearly 6000 hours of their time to Tucson Audubon, a cash equivalent that approaches $250,000. This gift of your time, together with your financial gift to our year-end appeal, makes possible our work for birds, their habitats, and our quality of life. For this we thank you. VF CACTUS WREN, JOHN KENNEDY

Visit tucsonaudubon.org for updates and more. January–March 2013 Vermilion Flycatcher Tucson Audubon 3 Sparrows: February 7 & 9, 2013 Register online today! Visit TUCSON AUDUBON Birding by Ear: April 18 & 20, 2013 EVENTS AND CLASSES tucsonaudubon.org/education. Education Courses for Contact for all education Winter and Spring 2013 activities: Bété Pfister at Set Your Sights on the For Beginner Birders [email protected], 520-629-0510 x Backyard Birding and Beyond 7012 Outdoors in 2013 Open yourself up to the natural world All non-member prices include a Fun for All Ages and All Levels by gaining skills and knowledge about birding that you can take with you year’s membership with Friends Specialty Workshops 2013 raptoring skills this spring! First, take into your backyard or to any corner of Tucson Audubon. Homer Hansen’s Raptor Specialty of the globe! Topics to be covered Intended as stand-alone classes, Workshop in February and brush up on include: principles of identification, these workshops are a great identification of southwestern species. binoculars and field guides, birding opportunity to focus on a specific If one class and field trip isn’t enough, vocabulary and etiquette, local bird Cost: $125 for members, $160 for group of birds and brush up on your a weekend of raptor immersion with I.D. and lore, seasonal occurrence, non-members identification skills. Instruction will Bill Clark, world renowned expert on family characteristics, and gardening Location: TAS offices on University focus on distinguishing amongst birds of prey, might be what you need to attract birds. You will learn firsthand Blvd. and 5th Ave. similar species, identification to get your birding fix! why southeastern Arizona is such Register online today! techniques, and vocalizations. These a great place for birds and why bird workshops are for advanced Raptors Specialty Workshop with watching is so rewarding. Taught For Advanced Beginner to beginner to intermediate birders. Homer Hansen: February 13 & 16. by Lynn Hassler, longtime birder, Intermediate Birders All specialty workshops take place Raptor Immersion Weekend with educator, and noted author. Course Moving to Mastery over the course of two days. In the Bill Clark: March 15–17 limited to 15 participants. Take your birding to the next level workshop summaries below, the first Friday, March 15: Lecture 6 pm–8 pm Classroom sessions: Saturdays, with our popular Moving to Mastery date listed is the day of the classroom Saturday, March 16: Field trip January 12, 19 (no class Jan. 26), class. If you feel like you are ready to session and the second date listed 6 am–12 noon; Lecture 2 pm-6 pm February 9, 16; 10 am–12 noon move your birding skills beyond the is the field trip outing. The cost for Sunday, March 17: Field trip Field trips: Saturdays, February 2, 23; basics, this is the class for you. Taught all specialty workshops is $110 for 6 am–4 pm 9:00 am; Location to be announced by Wings Over Willcox chairman, members and $145 for non-members. Cost: $165 Cost: $150 for members, $185 for Homer Hansen, this class will build All classroom sessions take place from Location: TAS offices on University non-members upon knowledge that you’ve acquired 5:30 pm–8:30 pm in the conference Blvd. and 5th Ave. Field trip Location: TAS offices on University through experience in the field, in room of the Historic Y building on destinations TBD. Blvd. and 5th Ave. a beginning birding class, or from University and 5th Ave. Workshops are Register online today! Register online today! private study. Homer’s techniques limited to 10 participants. Additional Specialty Workshops: Birding by Habitat focus on structure and behavior to Spring Programming Visit tucsonaudubon.org/workshops Southeastern Arizona offers such bring you to a better understanding of Raptors, Raptors Everywhere! for more detailed descriptions. Both excellent birding opportunities in part bird identification. Over the course of Two exciting opportunities are taught by Homer Hansen. because of its variety of habitats. five weeks, you’ll learn how to identify available for you to to hone your Elevation contrasts result in different some of the more difficult bird groups, temperature and moisture levels, how to use technical references, and which in turn make for different how to understand bird topography. assemblages of plants and animals. Course limited to 16 participants. Riparian areas support their own cast Classroom sessions: Thursdays, of avian characters. Come experience March 14–April 11; 5:30 pm–8:00 pm the fun of birding in different natural Field trips: Saturdays, March 14–April environments with instructor Lynn 6; 7:00 am–5 pm Hassler. One classroom session Cost: $250 for TAS members; $285 for is followed by three field trips to non-members different habitats: desert, riparian Location: TAS offices on University and Sky Island. Course limited to 12 Blvd. and 5th Ave. participants. Classroom sessions: Saturday, April Discover a whole world of 13; 10 am–12 noon resources to support your Field trips: Saturdays, April 20, 27, learning experience at Tucson May 4; TBA; Carpooling encouraged Audubon’s Nature Shops! HARRIS’S HAWK, GATOR GRAY GATOR HARRIS’S HAWK, FOR MORE INFORMATION ON OUR SUITE OF EDUCATION CLASSES AND TO REGISTER ONLINE, PLEASE VISIT WWW.TUCSONAUDUBON.ORG/EDUCATION

4 Tucson Audubon Vermilion Flycatcher January–March 2013 Visit tucsonaudubon.org for updates and more. EVENTS CALENDAR

Time to Get Your Feet Wet January 5. Living with Nature lecture (Green Valley): Swooping, Soaring, Sandhill Cranes with Mike Smith (see p 6) January 12. Atturbury Wash workday (see p 9) January 12–February 23. Backyard Birding and Beyond course (p 4) January 14. Living with Nature lecture (Tucson): Vanished Birds and Shooting Stars with Chris Cokinos (see p 6) January 17. Birds & Beer (see p 25) January 17–20 Wings Over Willcox (see p 9) January 17 Willcox Playa/Cochise Lakes Global IBA recognition ceremony (see p 7) January 21. Buffelgrass removal workday (see p 9) January 24 & 25. IBA training workshop (see p 7) January 26. Beat Back Buffelgrass! (see p 9) January 30. Tucson Audubon’s 5th Annual Gala (see p28) For Families and Kids (including looking for owls at dusk), the production of grass-fed beef in February 2. Living with Nature lecture (Green Riparian Family Institute black lighting for insects, live mammal a manner that is sustainable and Valley): Connecting Mountain Islands and Desert Seas with Vince Pinto (see p 6) Hosted in cooperation with Pima trapping, and a campfire! Families will preserves biodiversity of native plants February 7 & 9. Sparrows Specialty County Natural Resources Parks also get to participate in an ongoing and animals. Workshop (see p 4) and Recreation and The Nature conservation project on the Preserve Date: April 20–21, 2013 February 9. Sandhill Crane tour to Conservancy, Tucson Audubon is and will be treated to a barbeque Cost: $65 per person. All children Whitewater Draw offering a weekend outdoor program with ranchers from the Double Check under the age of 18 must be February 9. San Rafael Grasslands IBA for the entire family! The program Ranch. While your children are accompanied by an adult. survey (see p 7) focuses on kid-friendly exploration of being led on an exploration at dusk, Location: Nature Conservancy’s February 11. Living with Nature lecture (Tucson): Yellow-billed Cuckoo Habitat and iIs the rich plant and animal life found parents will be treated to a kid-free (!!) Lower San Pedro Preserve near Implications for Riparian Habitat Conservation along the beautiful San Pedro River. presentation on holistic ranching Dudleyville, AZ with Matt Johnson (see p 6) Activities include river walking, birding practices that are revolutionizing Register online today! February 13 & 16. Raptors Specialty workshop (see p 4) February 15. New Volunteer Open House February 16. Atturbury Wash workday Get to Know Your Grasslands (see p 9) February 21. Birds & Beer (see p 25) Institute of Grassland Ecology February 21 & 22. IBA Above and Beyond October 3–6, 2013 | Appleton-Whittell Research Ranch, Elgin, Arizona workshop (see p 7) March 2. Living with Nature lecture The Sonoran Desert has diverse Institute of Grassland Ecology. It used to safeguard this ecosystem. (Green Valley): An Armchair Tour of Arizona’s habitats and over the next three years, will be held at the Research Ranch Expert faculty will impart their IBAs with Jennie MacFarland (see p 6) our adult institute program is going on and topics will cover: the important knowledge, the event will be fully March 9–10. Tucson Festival of Books (see p 8) tour! The institutes will focus in turn ecological role the grasslands of catered and participants will stay March 11. Living with Nature lecture on grassland, sky island, and then southeast Arizona play within our onsite for the duration. Adults ages 18 (Tucson): An Armchair Tour of Arizona’s riparian habitats, before returning region, how its unique plant and and over are welcome. Important Bird Areas with Jennie MacFarland to the Catalina Mountains. We’ll be animal communities differ from those Stay tuned for information on how (see p 6) partnering with friends to deliver these around it, and conservation threats to register. Contact Bété Pfister to March 14–April 11. Moving to Mastery exciting new programs. and management strategies that are secure your spot. course (see p 4) In 2013, Tucson Audubon and the March 15–17. Raptor Immersion Weekend Audubon Research Ranch in Elgin, with William Clark (see p 4) Arizona, are partnering to offer the March 16. Atturbury Wash work day March 21. Birds & Beer (see p 25) April 8. Living with Nature lecture (Tucson): A Delta Once More? with Karl Fliessa (see p 6) April 13. Atturbury Wash work day April 13 & 20. Birding by Habitat course (see p 4) April 18 & 20. Birding by Ear Specialty Workshop (see p 4) April 19–28. Birdathon Big Week (see p 22) April 20–21. Riparian Family Institute

PAUL & ENG-LI GREEN PAUL (see above)

Visit tucsonaudubon.org for updates and more. January–March 2013 Vermilion Flycatcher Tucson Audubon 5 TUCSON AUDUBON EVENTS & CLASSES Tucson Audubon’s Living with Nature Lecture Series

TUCSON Living with January 14 • Tucson magnificent predators as the Mexican the USGS Biological Resources Nature Lecture Series and wolf and jaguar. Division’s Southwest Biological Member Meetings These mountain “islands,” Science Center, Colorado Plateau forested ranges separated by vast Research Station at Northern Arizona NOTE NEW VENUE! Pima expanses of desert and grassland University. Community College Downtown plains, are among the most diverse March 2 • Green Valley Campus, Amethyst Room. Located on ecosystems in the world. As an March 11 • Tucson campus at 1255 N. Stone Ave. See example, the region harbors over half tucsonaudubon.org/lwn for map. the bird species of North America. Wildlife Biologist and Naturalist, The program begins at 7 pm, Vincent Pinto, is the co-founder of SECOND MONDAY of each month Ravens-Way Wild Journeys, based in October through May. Please check Patagonia, AZ. He has been teaching our website for details on topics and people of all ages, interests, and speakers. backgrounds about the natural world

CAROLINA PARAKEET, MATT BOHAN MATT PARAKEET, CAROLINA since 1987. GREEN VALLEY Living with Nature Lecture Series VANISHED BIRDS AND SHOOTING February 11 • Tucson Joyner-Green Valley Library, 601 N. STARS: LIFE AND DEATH FROM

La Canada Dr. 594-5295. The Green THE SKY with Chris Cokinos / ERIN OLMSTEAD SURVEY IBA Valley talks will now be at 10 am on From the stories of extinct North the FIRST SATURDAY of the month, American birds to the seemingly November through April. unrelated subject of meteorites and AN ARMCHAIR TOUR OF For more information, contact Bété their effects on the Earth, author ARIZONA’S IMPORTANT BIRD Pfister, 520-209-1812 or bpfister@ Christopher Cokinos will explore AREAS With Jennie MacFarland tucsonaudubon.org, or visit themes of extinction, life and deep The Arizona Important Bird Areas tucsonaudubon.org. time in a talk that takes listeners (IBA) Program is an exciting, field- from flocks of Carolina parakeets to oriented program rooted in science January 5 • Green Valley swarms of “killer” asteroids. He will and focused on the conservation discuss environmental responsibility of Arizona’s imperiled, native bird YELLOW-BILLED CUCKOO / STEVE BARANOFF YELLOW-BILLED toward the contemporary biosphere populations and their most critical and how we, as keepers of our habitats. Arizona has 42 designated natural world, can act to conserve YELLOW-BILLED CUCKOO IBAs, 8 of which have Global Status, and protect what we value. HABITAT USE AND ITS and cover 3.38 million acres of Christopher Cokinos is the IMPLICATIONS FOR RIPARIAN habitat. Join Jennie MacFarland, author of Hope Is the Thing with HABITAT CONSERVATION co-coordinator of the program and Feathers: A Personal Chronicle of With Matt Johnson staff at Tucson Audubon as she takes Vanished Birds and The Fallen Sky: Did you know that Yellow-billed you on a photographic tour of these An Intimate History of Shooting Cuckoo populations fluctuate IBA’s and highlights the different bird

SANDHILL CRANE / GLEN SEPLAK SANDHILL Stars. He has won several national significantly in response to local populations that depend on them for writing awards and is currently an SWOOPING, SOARING SANDHILL caterpillar populations? Or that they survival. Associate Professor of English and CRANES With Mike Smith often lay eggs in the nests of other April 8 • Tucson Affiliated Faculty with the Institute of birds? The Western Yellow-billed Did you know that cranes are A DELTA ONCE MORE? the Environment at the University of Cuckoo is a candidate for listing among the oldest living birds on the PROSPECTS FOR RESTORING Arizona. under the Endangered Species Act. planet? Fossil records place cranes THE COLORADO RIVER DELTA Populations of these striking birds in Nebraska more than nine million February 2 • Green Valley With Karl Flessa, Director of the have severely declined throughout years ago, long before there was CONNECTING MOUNTAIN School of Earth & Environmental their range mostly because of the a Platte River! Mike Smith will take ISLANDS AND DESERT SEAS: THE Sciences at the University of Arizona loss of critical riparian habitat for you on a virtual tour of the cranes’ SKY ISLANDS OF SOUTHEASTERN breeding. Matt will tell you more The damming of the Colorado River stopover at Rowe Sanctuary, on the ARIZONA With Vince Pinto about the populations, behavior, and significantly altered important habitats Platte River and share the immense The 70,000-square-mile Sky Islands ecology of this species and what for birds and other wildlife in the Delta knowledge he has developed over region of southeastern Arizona, information is needed to best to that cross the borders of the U.S. years of observing these amazing southwestern New Mexico, and conserve their populations. and Mexico. Karl will illustrate how birds! You will see video of crane northwestern Mexico is globally Matt has 21 years of experience these habitats have been altered and “dancing” and remarkable footage important because of its rich diversity VF studying avian populations and present efforts to restore them. of thousands of birds coming toward of species and habitats. It is the last behavior. Currently, he is with and circling viewing blinds. North American stronghold of such

6 Tucson Audubon Vermilion Flycatcher January–March 2013 Visit tucsonaudubon.org for updates and more. TUCSON AUDUBON NEWS ROUNDUP

Your Library is Ready and at Your Fingertips

In an effort to make the Tucson and is open Monday through Saturday Audubon Library more user-friendly, from 10 am to 4 pm. We have more you can now access the collection’s than 1200 titles in subject areas catalog from our website. Go online ranging from birding, bird species, and search by Title, Author, Keyword, hiking, botany, reptiles, mammals, and Subject, ISBN, Publisher, or Call much more.

Number, then come down and check For more information on the JENNIE MACFARLAND the book out. Library and the online database This update to the library would of volunteers Sherry Massie, Hal The physical library at our Main of available books please visit: not have been made possible without Myers, Carol Eagle, Olga Harbour and Nature Shop is available to all Friends tucsonaudubon.org/library. the generosity of past volunteer the Sherry Kistler. of Tucson Audubon in good standing late Gene Loring, and the dedication

Important Bird Areas Program Tucson Audubon at Tucson Festival Jennie MacFarland, IBA Conservation Biologist of Books force of volunteer survey experts, this Please come and visit Tucson is the workshop for you! Audubon at the upcoming Tucson If you would like to see for yourself Festival of Books March 9–10, 2013 what the IBA program is all about, on the University of Arizona campus. consider joining us February 9 We will have two tents again this year. for the particularly fun San Rafael One will be for our nature shop and Grasslands IBA survey. This will be outreach, where we will feature books, a one day mass effort to monitor the stuffed animals and other items for abundant sparrows and longspurs that sale. We will also be playing the bird winter in this beautiful habitat. This is game here for prizes! Our other tent a driving survey with some walking will be in the Science City and will and the focus species is the Chestnut- feature citizen science opportunities collared Longspur a bird of global

MATT GRIFFITHS MATT that advance our knowledge of birds. level conservation concern. Cochise Lakes State Wildlife Area, an excellent waterfowl and Sandhill Crane viewing area We will be playing a kid-friendly bird You are also cordially invited to in the Willcox Playa/Cochise Lakes Global Important Bird Area. On Jan 17th a new viewing habitat game with prizes and will have deck will be unveiled here. the celebration of a particular IBA that several bird survey demonstrations recently gained Global IBA status. On in which families will be welcome to This New Year brings some exciting There will also be a new kind of IBA January 17 we will have an official participate. For further information on times for the Arizona Important Bird workshop in February intended for Recognition Ceremony for the the time and meeting place for the Areas (IBA) program. Right out the those who are already IBA volunteers. Willcox Playa Cochise Lakes IBA. surveys, check the Tucson Festival gate we have an opportunity for you February 21–22 we will have a free This event will be held in conjunction of Books information flyer. We will to join the proud ranks of IBA survey IBA Above and Beyond workshop with the Wings Over Willcox festival once again be raffling off a pair of volunteers. There will be a free IBA where those who already know how and the event will also include the binoculars. To enter you only need Training workshop the mornings to do an IBA survey will learn some ribbon cutting of a new viewing deck to visit both Tucson Audubon tents. of January 24–25 to learn all of the of the newer more specialized survey that looks out onto the IBA. This will Please come on down to the Tucson survey techniques and protocols techniques used by other agencies. be a great event with a bird walk, lots Festival of Books and share our love that we use to monitor existing IBAs These other surveys such as nightjar of information about the area and its of reading and learning. and to gather data on areas that we surveys, Yellow-billed Cuckoo call special birds and free food! Look for would like to nominate as new IBAs. back surveys and Coordinated Bird more specific details closer to the After this training, you would be an Monitoring surveys have specific event on our website. official IBA volunteer and could adopt protocols and could really use the With so much happening in the first a regular survey route (4 times a expert help of our volunteers. If you part of 2013, I can’t wait to see what year) and would be eligible to help on would like to expand on your IBA the rest of the year looks like for IBA! backcountry IBA survey expeditions. knowledge and join a special task JEAN BARCHMAN

Visit tucsonaudubon.org for updates and more. January–March 2013 Vermilion Flycatcher Tucson Audubon 7 TUCSON AUDUBON NEWS ROUNDUP

Ways to Give MATCHING GIFTS: YOU COULD FREQUENT FLYERS HELP CREATE YOUR LEGACY BE SEEING DOUBLE! TUCSON AUDUBON SOAR: THROUGH PLANNED GIVING THANK YOU! There are a number Signing up to become a “Frequent of ways to invest in Flyer” is an easy and convenient the future of wildlife

way to maximize your support for conservation and ADAM KERFOOT-ROBERTS Tucson Audubon throughout the year. environmental A monthly giving plan is the perfect education. By Blackbird Singing in choice for donors wishing to help designating Tucson the Dead of Night! Tucson Audubon on a continuing basis Audubon Society May 23–June 3, 2013 and who would like to budget their in your will or estate plan, you contributions. You choose the amount, can make a lasting gift to protect Beatle Paul McCartney wrote about automatically charged to your credit the precious birds and habitats of this songster, Turdus merula, the card each month, and your member Southeastern Arizona for generations European Blackbird. I invite you to benefits never expire! Your fully tax to come. come and share the songs of this deductible contributions will be listed To receive our updated pamphlet and other European species in May on your credit card statement, and we “Naming Tucson Audubon Society 2013 with me, and Arizona guide Rick DAVID QUANRUD DAVID will send you summary receipt of your In Your Will” please contact Paul Taylor of Borderland Tours, Richard Many companies offer matching gift annual gifts in January, making tax Green at ext. 7001 or pgreen@ Fray of Fun Birding Tours (and former programs to encourage employees time that much easier. tucsonaudubon.org For tax and estate Tucson Audubon Board member), and and retirees to contribute to charitable Special thanks to Frequent Flyer planning advice, please consult your British bird artist Andrew MacKay. organizations. Some also provide Donors for their contributions: Myrna attorney or other financial advisor. We’ll spend time in the birders’ matching funds to support employee Beards, Melanie Builder, Andrea If you decide to arrange a bequest mecca of north Norfolk, then head volunteer hours. Most of these Cohen and Mary Beth Bolen, Mich or planned gift to Tucson Audubon, we north to Scotland to explore the birds programs match contributions dollar Coker and Kate Galloway, Christine hope you will notify us. We value the and wildlife of the Isle of Skye and for dollar, and some will even double Curtis, Karl and Sandy Elers, Peggy opportunity to express our gratitude the Cairngorms. You’ll be birding with or triple the amount of your gift! Ford, Robert King, Susan Kozacek, for your commitment and honor you three Brits and an Arizona native, Procedures vary; you can get more Nora Miller, and Deborah Vath. as a member of the Vermilion Society. and we’ll make sure that you enjoy information from your employer’s For more information about the birds, the banter, the beer, and human resources department. Frequent Flyer monthly giving the food. We thank those employees plans, Matching Gifts or Tucson More information from Borderland and retirees of IBM, Grainger, Audubon’s Vermilion Society, or to Tours .borderland-tours.com, or by American Express, Microsoft, make a contribution, please contact email [email protected] Freeport–McMoRan, Pfizer, and other Erin Olmstead at 209-1809 or visit or call 520-882-7650. Paul Green, employers who have generously tucsonaudubon.org/donate. Executive Director multiplied the impact of recent gifts. DAVID QUANRUD DAVID

WELCOME NEW MEMBERS THANK YOU TO OUR DONORS

Eleanor Alden, Kristina Allen, Haefner, Peter Hardin, Diane Harris, Rhonda Robbins, Irene Robinson, Birthday Fund: We thank Rich Jo Andersen and John Coinman, Lynn Hassler, Liz and Russ Healy, Alan Rose, Lois Rose, Roggie Ross, Barchman, Lori Bryant, Daniel Dr. George and Barbara Ball, Glen Cheryl Helwig, Mike Heston, Philip Beth and Will Russell, Lawrence Davis, Sandy Elers, Joanne Garner, Mary Habib, Ann Tousley, and Joan and Melody Ballard, Grant Bashore, and Annalora Horch, Melanie Huegel, Schmahl, Marcia Scott, Susan Sferra, Warfield for their generous donations Mr. and Mrs. Martin Baumrind, Marcia Richard Johnson, Kathy Jorgensen, Sukhi Singh, Sarah Smith, James to the birthday fund. Becker, Dr. Mindy Blaski, Ron and Margaret Kopriva, Wendy Kreider, Spinhirne, Tim (and Benjamin and Sue Bridgemon, Robert Bulechek, Anne Leight, Sharon Long, Robert Claudia) Stellar and Pat Machelor, Gifts in Honor/Memory: We thank Shirley Burke, John and Brooke C. and Roseann Marsett, Stephen Elizabeth Strong, Paul Suchanek, these donors for their special gifts: Bushman, Marilee Cowan, John Mattix, Linda McMullen, Dr. Richard Craig Thayer, Eugene and Anita In honor of Julia Gordon from the and Eva Cross, Richard and Bonna and Judith Meyer, Charles and Kim Thomas, Mike Unger, James Barton Family Foundation Cunningham, Sally Darcy, Elizabeth Miller, Christopher Miller, Don Mills, Veltman, Marie Vergata and Jack In memory of Elizabeth Edwards from Davis, Dane and Di Dawkins, Karen Moulder, Jon R. Nelson, Jill Smith, Dr. Frances Ann Walker, Beverly Bechtel Gabriella and William Duncan, Nelson-Debord, Karen Nichols, Geoffrey Williams, Karen Zipser, In memory of Liz Edwards from Gene Murray Eden, Joe Eigner, Lois Estok, Carol Ovorkin, Mickey Ray Parker, Sylvia and John Zwick and Sandy Gerner Elizabeth Fennema, Catherine Cole Meredith Parson, Merri Pendergrass, Jean Barchman, Ferandelli, Mary Lou Fragomeni- Gary Platford, Dan and Jane Powers, Membership Coordinator In memory of Beth Rubio from Karen Nuttall, Laurie French, Donna Gill, Roland Provost, Henne Queisser, Greene, Margaret MacLeish, and Mary Gossick, John Haddix, Gay Virginia Reynolds, Bruce A. Ries, Betty Ord

8 Tucson Audubon Vermilion Flycatcher January–March 2013 Visit tucsonaudubon.org for updates and more. TUCSON AUDUBON NEWS ROUNDUP VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR

Volunteer News Roundup Congratulations to Kara Kaczmarzyk, Volunteer & Development Coordinator Tim Helentjaris, the Tucson Audubon Society 2012 Volunteer While the weather is still cool, Welcome New Volunteers of the Year! Tim volunteers for we will continue Saturday morning Marcia Becker, Chris Bjorgaard, the Important Bird Area (IBA) efforts to Restore Atturbury Wash. Mike Hayes, Susheel Jones, Alice program, and the Nature Shop, and Already, over 150 volunteers have Kennedy, Kristin Leger, Susan restoration workdays, and tabling dug rainwater basins and planted Romero, Brad Steinagel, Christine events, and field trip leading, and natives at the site, but there is more Schirmer, Linda Tabor, Jason writing articles for the Vermilion to be done! Thomas, and Jessica Sue Wiles. Flycatcher, and the Institute of On January 30th, the River of Desert Ecology…wow! Farewell Kate Birds Gala promises to be a lovely Tim was a volunteer spotlight Reynolds evening, raising funds and awareness. MARKHENGESBAUGH a few years ago in the Vermilion Thank you for a On the day of, join us to help decorate on Monday mornings. His birding Flycatcher, where we noted his spectacular year the Hilton El Conquistador’s ballroom skills are excellent and he can talk background as a plant geneticist of coordinating and set up the silent auction. birding with anyone who comes in and former UA scientist. But, we Tucson Audubon’s Those interested in the Important the door. neglected to mention his crime- free field trips! Bird Area program can attend a Volunteering for offsite events, solving work. The PBS show two-day training, January 24–25th, Tim is flexible to help “wherever Your Volunteer Season: Scientific American Frontiers once to learn all about the field survey he’s needed most.” Afterwards, January–March 2013 featured a story about the first time and data collection methods of this he provides thoughtful, detailed The next three months might be the DNA fingerprint of a plant was conservation-based program, in time feedback on each. Tim has the most active time of the year for used in a criminal trial. It was 1993, to adopt a route or participate in group supported the IBA program since volunteering at Tucson Audubon, and and detectives needed to match surveys in the year. 2007. He participated in all of the a perfect time to join the fun! Tabling Palo Verde seedpods to their mother Jumping ahead, April will see group back country surveys this year events beginning in January are ways tree at the scene of a murder. After myriad education and outreach (Chiricahuas, BHP San Manuel, to meet lots of interesting people. fourteen geneticists turned down the opportunities during Earth Day Pinalenos, Harshaw Creek, San Cavort with birders from near and far challenge, the detectives contacted festivities. From Agua Caliente to Rafael Grasslands), in addition to his during Wings Over Willcox, January U of A geneticist Tim Helentjaris. The Reid Park to Patagonia and beyond, regular Cave Creek route. 17–20. We’ll have a large Nature rest was history. ways to participate in this celebration Jennie MacFarland, the IBA Shop, membership, and outreach In the last year, Tim took on of sustainability abound. Program Coordinating Biologist, booth there. On March 9–10, our additional responsibilities in the Some unique individual projects notes that Tim shows all the time largest offsite booth of the year is at Nature Shop. Besides his weekly are also available. Help coordinate that he cares deeply for Tucson the Festival of Books. Over 100,000 shift, Tim now opens and closes free field trips, or capture events as Audubon. He is upbeat, interested, people come to the UA campus for the shop when employees are an amateur event photographer. and engaged in what we do at IBA, the event, and we’ll have our Nature absent. Matt Brooks, former Nature Stellar volunteer captain Sherry often helping with the planning Shop and info booth in one area, and Shop Manager, raved that Tim sells Massie, who recently upgraded process of a back-country survey the IBA and Tucson Bird Count in the binoculars like a “Wildman” and the member library with a group of or event. He is helpful to less Science City area. wants people to be matched up with volunteers, is looking for someone to experienced surveyors. Lastly, she their perfect fit. He’s engaged in help check in library books. says “I am always happy to see Tim new products and often has great These and more exciting walking up to me in the office to razz product suggestions. Personable opportunities are in store in 2013! me about something.” Even when and knowledgeable, he is just an Please contact me at volunteer@ he is not volunteering with IBA at all-around great volunteer. Sara Pike tucsonaudubon.org or 520-209-1811, that moment, he is still caring and echoes that Tim is such a positive or visit www.tucsonaudubon.org/ thinking about it. VF and enthusiastic volunteer. He volunteer for more details. VF brings a different energy to the shop Kara Kaczmarzyk KENDALL KROESEN KENDALL

“Tweet Dreams” Quilt Raffle All proceeds to benefit Tucson Audubon. Buy tickets online at tucsonaudubon. org or in our Nature Shops. KENDALL KROESEN KENDALL BRAD STEINAGEL KENDALL KROESEN KENDALL Thanks to everyone who helped at the Harvest Festival, we had a great time! From top The quilt measures 44” x 44” and is embellished with embroidery, beads, hand painting, left: Sorting mesquite pods; Deb Vath at kids’ table; Dennis Weeks; and Donna Ribka. and some original artwork in addition to the heirloom bird squares.

Visit tucsonaudubon.org for updates and more. January–March 2013 Vermilion Flycatcher Tucson Audubon 9 Interesting stories about birds with interesting ­names Northern Mockingbird LARRY LIESE IN A NAME

“Where is that Crissal Thrasher? I know through before reaching that particular bird. The he’s in there somewhere but all I see is that … fact that this occurs strengthens the presumption of WHAT’S WHAT’S mockingbird. … Oh.” I think most birders have the very high fidelity of imitation. a story like this to tell, but luckily being able to The word mockingbird comes from Middle discern when it’s a mockingbird that is singing does English mokken (itself from the Old French word get easier with experience. mocquer), which had both meanings of “to Northern Mockingbirds (Mimus polyglottos) are wipe the nose” and “to deride,” with year round residents of the lower forty-eight states Italian and Latin words of similar and much of Mexico, with entry into Canada’s nature. We use the word mock lower tier of provinces with some seasonal to imitate in fun, which seems movement there. It is the most northern of roughly somewhat appropriate as ten mockingbirds that populate the New World, these birds imitate the songs most with fairly similar body shape and ability to of many other species. The genus imitate other birds’ songs. Both males and females name is from the Latin mimus “a sing, with unmated males sometimes singing mimic,” with the Greek poly and glotta for “many” occasionally they mate for life. Nests are located through the night. Less time is spent singing in the and “tongue” respectively, of course alluding to the fairly close to the ground, with up to six nests built fall, and females sing somewhat less than males. bird’s varied mimicry. by a pair observed in one breeding season (not Luckily for birders, mockingbirds will usually Northern Mockingbirds are highly territorial all nests received eggs). Young are highly altricial, give about three repetitions of the imitated song year round, with smaller winter territories. Territory born without feathers, blind, and quite helpless. then switch to a new species’ song. Other clues borders are defended at times by the “boundary They fledge in about twelve days, with parents still to keep in mind are whether the habitat or season dance,” where birds (usually males) face off at the providing food for up to three weeks and protection fits or not. Many male mockingbirds’ repertoires boundary, stepping to the side while still facing from predators. of songs exceed 150 distinct song types, and each other, sometimes moving up and over bushes You shouldn’t have any trouble running into the quality of imitation is such that it prompted a while continuing the face-off for several minutes. these birds. Most areas of desert scrub with compilation of bird song recordings all made by There are three recognized courtship displays. some semi-open areas have them, and Northern mockingbirds! Interestingly, detailed studies of The first involves a swift paired flight through the Mockingbirds often live their entire life on their spring and fall repertoires have shown only about territory. A second is the interesting display where a chosen territory so if you like you can follow 1% overlap. Furthermore, the following spring will male flies upwards from a perch while continuously individuals through time after you’ve found only include from one-third to two-thirds of the singing then parachutes back down to the same them. Be careful though! Northern Mockingbirds previous springs’ songs with the rest new songs or nearby perch. The remaining display involves recognize humans that repeatedly enter their both learned directly or from other the male running along tree branches, thought to territory and will attack those who get too close to mockingbirds. I’ve personally perhaps be a showing of potential nest sites in the nests in the breeding season while letting one-time recognized songs given by territory. Pairs are generally monogamous, usually passers-by go through unmolested. Good luck

mockingbirds of species for the length of a breeding season, but avoiding that! VF that they shouldn’t ever have had contact with. I’d wondered how many AVAILABLE IN OUR NATURE SHOPS­ mockingbird individuals Tucson Audubon’s Nature Shops have an a wide range of birding, natural history, and other

ILLUSTRATIONS BY GEORGE WEST BY ILLUSTRATIONS those songs had gone book titles. Call us at 520-629-0510 x2 and ask if we have a book you’re looking for. If we don’t, we can often get it for you quickly.

10 Tucson Audubon Vermilion Flycatcher January–March 2013 Visit tucsonaudubon.org for updates and more. Adventures Along the Tanque Verde Wash BRIAN NICHOLAS

I discovered a birder’s paradise rarely SEE BIRDS TO visited by other birders. Its diversity of habitats is remarkable, including the junction of two major washes, mesquite bosque, agricultural fields, desert scrub, a large lake, cattail marsh, cottonwoods, grassland habitat, and even a pecan WHERE TO GO grove. Although it is considered lowland riparian habitat with little elevation gain it has also attracted mountain species such as Mexican Jay, Arizona Woodpecker, Yellow- eyed Junco, Greater Pewee Tanque Verde Wash and Rufous-crowned Sparrow. (above) is local birder In fifteen years I have recorded Brian Nicholas’s favorite over 240 species over just a 4 ‘secret’ hotspot. Long-eared Owl (below) can be found mile section of this lush riparian in the area. Check Wentworth habitat along the Tanque Verde and Road for Red-breasted Nuthatch Agua Caliente washes. I consider my (left) during an irruption year. Don’t skip the south shore of large pond at Castlerock (right). skills average and have to wonder what would turn up if more birders frequented welcome retreat. Woodland Road, with this local “hotspot.” its fields, mesquites, and pecan groves, past Bonanza Road and La Mariposa One of the great benefits of the has attracted rarities such as Bay- resort, whose cottonwoods have lots of Tanque Verde watershed is that it is TANQUE VERDE WASH, MARK ROGERS, RED-BREASTED NUTHATCH, JIM & DEVA BURNS, WWW.JIMBURNSPHOTOS.COM JIM & DEVA MARK ROGERS, RED-BREASTED NUTHATCH, VERDE WASH, TANQUE breasted Warbler, Arizona Woodpecker, variety to round out your bird list.

local, and can be birded around your BRIAN NICHOLAS Yellow-eyed Junco, Greater Pewee, Tanque Verde Loop usually has good schedule. You can walk your dog, clean Red-breasted Sapsucker and Lewis’s warbler action just north of the wash in the house, or even check out your backyard Woodpecker. Scan the blackbirds for tall cottonwoods, and birding a hundred birds before heading over. Some of my Rusty Blackbird or Common Grackle, and yards in either direction along the wash unusual finds were from short afternoon listen for mountain species while enjoying gives you most of the birds with little effort. birding “breaks.” Others have been while the woodpeckers, raptors, meadowlarks, Start early since traffic picks up quickly. conducting surveys for the Important Bird and scores of Vermilion Flycatchers. Look for Inca Dove, Bridled Titmouse, Areas Program, Christmas Bird Count, At the east end of Woodland is a place Orange-crowned and Black-throated Gray and the Tucson Bird Count. to park and a trail going to the wash. A Warblers, robins, bluebirds, and wintering Walking up to a point count to discover walk east along this stretch can produce White-winged Dove. Rarities have a Tricolored Heron took me totally by a good variety of sparrows and raptors, included Fox Sparrow, Purple Finch, and surprise. Or the Sage Thrasher which flew especially falcons. This area is great Yellow-throated Vireo in summer. up on a fence during a transect count. for Western Meadowlark, Lark Bunting, Wentworth Road has the best warbler Stopping the clock to watch a young bear Grasshopper and Vesper Sparrow. More flocks, and has water when other sections run circles around a family of bewildered unusual sightings here have included are dry. This area could be a great place coyotes was a priceless moment. Ferruginous Hawk, Bobolink, and Sage, for Red-breasted Nuthatch during this I love to bird this wash in winter, Cassin’s, and Clay-colored Sparrows. irruption year, especially around the especially during or after a rain when The large pond in the Castlerock cottonwoods by the golf maintenance yard. I can have the wash all to myself. development can be birded from the Birding the Tanque Verde lets you Mountain species escaping the cold and south shore, and has turned up some recharge your batteries without filling your snow on Mount Lemmon see this long interesting waterfowl including Greater gas tank or rearranging your weekend. green ribbon of riparian habitat as a White-fronted Goose, three merganser You can drive to various points or walk species, Surf Scoter, Snow Goose, the wash, reconnecting with nature and Western Grebe and Wilson’s Snipe. East forgetting all your cares as you appreciate of the lake is the Isabella Lee refuge, our local wildlife. VF where you can get lost in the bosque of mesquite, Arizona walnut, soapberry and Brian Nicholas’s passion for birding started desert willow. Look for Long-eared Owl over twenty years ago in Connecticut. His (semiannual), Clay-colored Sparrow, and enthusiasm for nature prompted his move Gray Hawk in late summer. Taking a left to Arizona where he loves to explore its rich up the Agua Caliente Wash brings you diversity of wildlife. BRIAN NICHOLAS

Visit tucsonaudubon.org for updates and more. January–March 2013 Vermilion Flycatcher Tucson Audubon 11 Tucson Audubon, Meet Your Mascot MASCOT BOB BOWERS SELMAN LARRY

Sixty-three years ago, when twelve flycatcher’s adaptability to urbanization friends met to organize what was to (they’re commonly found near the water become the Tucson Audubon Society, features of parks and golf courses) also choosing a bird to represent the adds weight to its selection. In addition, organization might have been on the the bird has exotic, neotropic credentials. agenda. We don’t know for certain, since Common in Mexico, you can also find TUCSON AUDUBON’S little information about those early days is our mascot in Central America and as far readily available. If not that night, though, south as the tip of Argentina. Surprisingly, it wasn’t long before a mascot/logo, iconic the Vermilion Flycatcher is even found bird, was chosen to symbolize the group, in the Galapagos Islands, only one of a its newsletter and mission; the strikingly half-dozen species resident both in the beautiful Vermilion Flycatcher. U.S. and the archipelago. There is even a In researching this article, I tried colorless, melanistic subspecies found in unsuccessfully to discover the story and around Lima, Peru. behind that selection. I wondered if the However, if our bird were the melanistic Male (above) and female (below) Vermilion Flycatcher, choice had been unanimous, or if it had version, we might be reading The and nest with eggs (inset below). Icons at left show the evolution of the Vermilion Flycatcher logo. been hotly contested, maybe between the Rufous-winged Sparrow after all, since flycatcher and the state bird, the Cactus there is little doubt that the flycatcher’s perhaps none so much as the color of Wren. As we all know, birders are rarely selection had much to do with the male’s the male. In the first place, ‘vermilion’ quick to agree on anything. However, I striking color. I remember vividly my first suggests something extra, raising the wasn’t able to dig up any dirt, and encounter with the Vermilion Flycatcher. ante on ‘red’, and ornithologists competed finally agreed with those old-timers It was on the San Pedro River in spring, poetically to name the bird. The scientific I did reach that the choice was a good and I caught my breath as I watched what name is Pyrocephalus rubinus, or one, regardless. Selecting a single bird appeared to be an exotic, brilliantly red ‘ruby firehead’, and the Spanish name, from the 600 plus species documented butterfly flutter above the trees and spiral Mosquero cardinal (Cardinal-colored in Arizona might seem a daunting task, back down to a perch, repeating this fly-killer), evolved from the more colorful but the Vermilion Flycatcher was an unique courtship display again and again. Brasita de fuego (little red-hot coal of excellent choice for lots of reasons. Some other tyrant flycatchers also have fire). Author Herbert Brandt’s descriptions First, naturally, is its range. It’s not dramatic courtship displays, but none are epitomize poetic reference, as found in U.S. exclusive to southeast Arizona, like as stunning as this. However, courtship his Arizona and Its Bird Life. Brandt’s the Rufous-winged Sparrow, but you is but one of several characteristics that five-pound classic was published just can count its other states on one hand, differentiate the Vermilion from other two years after that first meeting of the so it’s not seen in 90 percent of the North American flycatchers. While all fledgling Tucson Audubon Society, and country. Besides, as a magazine title, but one other of our flycatcher females might well have influenced their choice ‘The Rufous-winged Sparrow’ lacks and males look alike, the Vermilion of mascot. In those days, the Vermilion the zing of ‘The Vermilion Flycatcher’. sexes differ markedly. Females lack the Flycatcher was also known as the Even though many of our Vermilion male’s brilliant color, but are beautiful Firebird, and it was obviously one of Flycatchers winter in Mexico, many nonetheless, with streaked white breast Brandt’s favorites. His book mentions the others are year-round residents. This colors gradually darkening to salmon flycatcher on 27 pages, and his eloquent

FEMALE, BRYAN SMITH; EGGS, BOB BOWERS FEMALE, BRYAN twelve-month presence, coupled with the undertail coverts. Additionally, immature descriptions range from crimson, fiery, Vermilion flycatchers stand apart from rich ruby, blazing comet, brilliant fire adults, again unlike almost all of our other jewel, splendor, gem, gorgeous flame, flycatchers. Young males are mottled, blazing livery to ‘glowing like firebrands while first year females have yellow against the flawless blue of the sky.’ bellies, rather than pink. Could those early founders have picked a The eggs of Vermilion Flycatchers better mascot? I don’t think so. VF are unique, as well. Unlike the plain- colored eggs of other flycatchers, those Bob is a birder and freelance writer specializing of the Vermilion are special, wreathed in in nature and travel articles. He writes a patterns of soft olive, brown and lavender. monthly birding column for an Arizona Discovering a well-camouflaged nest with newspaper, and lives with his wife, Prudy, three of these is like finding a cache of in SaddleBrooke, in northwest Tucson. Easter eggs. He writes a birding and travel blog, www. Many things make this bird birdingthebrooke.com, and his email is appropriately special as our mascot, but [email protected].

12 Tucson Audubon Vermilion Flycatcher January–March 2013 Visit tucsonaudubon.org for updates and more. CELEBRATING SOUTHEAST ARIZONA’S BIRDS TUCSON meet YOUR BIRDS

From the rarest migrant to the most Rockies to Mexico’s Sierra Madre, a pricy spotting scope, or staying in a bed

common backyard finch, for most of us influences from Sonoran, Mojave, and and breakfast on a trip—you are part of SELMAN VERDIN, LARRY AMERICAN KESTRL, JOHN KENNEDY; birds are the most colorful, charismatic Chihuahuan deserts, migratory flyways, the action. and accessible part of nature. Tucson and tropical areas south of the border. Bird watchers are you! Whenever you Audubon encourages anyone who has an Tucson is such a good place for birds see a backyard hummingbird or that hawk interest in wild birds. Birds really are for that the most comprehensive urban bird in the local park, you are joining the ranks everyone to enjoy. count in the world—the Tucson Bird of a popular hobby! Tucson Audubon If your interest in birds is new, the Count—was developed to study them. stands as the unique southeast Arizona following pages provide you with an Nearly 100 volunteers count birds on an outlet for information and expertise about introduction to some of Tucson’s birds. We annual or quarterly basis at over 1,000 wild birds. Whatever your bird interests, cannot cover them all because more than different locations around Tucson. make us your “go to” organization. 300 species are found in the metro area! The huge number of bird enthusiasts Find out more at our website or come There are so many species to see and and other wildlife watchers who live in, to our Nature Shop (see below). The shop they are around us almost all the time. or visit, Arizona contribute a surprising staff can answer all your questions about This diversity comes about because annual “total economic impact” of $1.5 birds, binoculars and many other things. of our range of elevations, mild seasons, billion to Arizona’s economy. It doesn’t Kendall Kroesen Sky Island mountains that link the matter if you are buying some bird seed, Habitats Program Manager Special 4-page Pull-Out

“A” MOUNTAIN IN SENTINEL PEAK PARK, the crowded tourist spot overlooking downtown Tucson, is an unlikely birding hot spot. But on windy days this steep little

hill becomes our local “Hawk Mountain.” Seven kinds of raptors have been seen, often ROAD WARRIOR ROAD at eye level, including Zone-tailed Hawk, Sharp-shinned Hawk and Peregrine Falcon. Common Ravens, White-Throated Swifts and migrant swallows also swoop low over the upper parking lot. A surprising variety of Sonoran desert birds can still be found in this urban “sanctuary.” Forty-seven observed species include Greater Roadrunner, Black-tailed Gnatcatcher and Rock Wren. Five kinds of warblers migrate through the park, such as Wilson’s, Townsend’s, Hermit and Black-Throated Gray. During the summer Purple Martins, Ash-Throated Flycatchers and White-Winged Doves are easy to find. Five kinds of sparrows and towhees are seen, especially in the winter and spring. The park opens at 8 am (walk in) but upper road does not open until 9 am. John Higgins GREAT BIRD PLACES IN TUCSON BIRD PLACES GREAT

OUR MISSION: Tucson Audubon promotes the protection and stewardship of southern Arizona’s biological diversity through the study and enjoyment of birds and the places they live. FREE Birding Field Trips: tucsonaudubon.org/fieldtrips Nature Shop: 300 E. University Blvd. 520 629-0510X1 Birding Classes: tucsonaudubon.org/education Rare Bird Alert: tucsonaudubon.org/rba or 520 629-0510X3 Tucson Bird Count: tucsonbirds.org • Volunteer: tucsonaudubon.org/volunteer Tucson Bird & Wildlife Festival: tucsonaudubon.org/festival tucsonaudubon.org 520-629-0510

Visit tucsonaudubon.org for updates and more. January–March 2013 Vermilion Flycatcher Tucson Audubon 13 TUCSON MEET YOUR BIRDS GATOR GRAY GATOR JAMES PRUDENTE ANGELA PRITCHARD ANGELA

Anna’s Hummingbird Gila Woodpecker Lesser Goldfinch MEET YOUR BACKYARD BIRDS BACKYARD MEET YOUR Any hummingbird feeder in urban Tucson probably Gila Woodpecker is the woodpecker commonly There is nothing lesser about the sweet tune or has a resident Anna’s Hummingbird defending it seen in Tucson suburbs and parks. They are a rich, striking and colorful wing patterns of a Lesser from all intruders. This beautiful and large hummer creamy brown with fine horizontal black and white Goldfinch. These small finches, of the family is a common sight in backyards across the city bars on the back, wings and tail. Males have a Fringillidae, are a charm to find flocking in your and the male’s striking rosy-pink flashing head small red patch on their heads. backyard or local park. plumage makes it a compelling reason to keep In the U.S. Gila Woodpecker is mostly seen in Stephen H. Long’s expedition to the Rocky your feeders full of nectar. In the first half of the last the southern half of Arizona, but its range extends Mountains in 1819–20 collected the first known century this bird’s breeding range was limited to down much of Baja California and the coastal plain specimen of this species on the banks of the southwestern California. As the century progressed of western Mexico. Arkansas River between Colorado Springs and parks were created and gardens were planted Yes, this is the bird that drums annoyingly Pueblo, Colorado. The Lesser Goldfinch name and the birds steadily expanded their range north on your eaves and your evaporative cooler! became official on the 5th edition of the AOU into Oregon and east into southern Arizona. Some Fortunately, it only lasts a short time in the spring Check-List. Anna’s Hummingbirds live in Tucson year-round when males are establishing and defending a Did you know that the Lesser Goldfinch is an but from December to May their numbers increase nesting territory. accomplished mimic? It is surpassed in North as birds come to urban Tucson to nest and take They are aggressive not only toward rival America in the number of species it can mimic in advantage of the abundant flowers and feeders woodpeckers, but toward other birds as well. I once one song only by Lawrence’s Goldfinch. While this our yards provide. This time of year you may also saw one mercilessly pecking a House Finch to bird is the smallest of the American goldfinches, witness the spectacular courtship display of the death. It may have been preparing to eat the finch to sit and watch a treasury of Lesser Goldfinch male Anna’s Hummingbird right in your yard. The because Gilas have a diverse diet, including mostly congregate, communicate, and consume from Pull-Out

Special 4-page 4-page Special male flies to a high point above an available female insects but also fruit, eggs and sometimes other feeders or flowers, is a much greater experience for and then dives straight down and suddenly pulls birds (mostly small nestlings). any lover of birds than the name implies. up right over her with an explosive popping sound Gila Woodpeckers are one of two species that To enjoy Lesser Goldfinch in your urban yard, try (caused by air passing at just the right velocity over make nest holes in saguaros (along with Gilded planting seed bearing flowers or bushes (such as special feathers in the tail). It is an amazing thing to Flickers). Its old saguaro holes provide nests for sunflowers, Desert Marigold or Clevlandii sage). Or, witness and happens all over Tucson all winter and many other bird species as well, from Ash-throated put up a nyjer feeder and water feature, and then early spring. Flycatchers to Purple Martins. enjoy the sights and sounds of this beautiful bird. Jennie MacFarland, IBA Conservation Biologist Kendall Kroesen, Habitats Program Manager Sara Pike, Operations Manager

THE UNIVERSITY OF ARIZONA CAMPUS AND ARBORETUM features plants adapted to arid regions throughout the globe and represents some of the most diverse, unique, and lush plantings in urban Tucson. Common desert residents and a nice variety of unexpected species can be found here at all seasons. Verdin, Ruby-crowned Kinglet, Northern Cardinal, Lesser Goldfinch, and other residents are ubiquitous. Winter and early spring should also produce Orange-crowned and Yellow-rumped Warblers and lusher patches may produce a Cassin’s Vireo, Plumbeous Vireo, or a wintering Black- throated Gray Warbler. White-throated Swift (near the stadium) and Broad-billed Hummingbird are probably as easy to see here in winter as anywhere in the city. Birds can be found throughout campus but the best areas include the Main Gate area along Park Avenue, the cactus garden on the mall south of the student union, and near the community garden and park on Mabel Road north of the Highland Parking Garage. Carl Lunblad GREAT BIRD PLACES IN TUCSON BIRD PLACES GREAT

CARL LUNBLAD 14 Tucson Audubon Vermilion Flycatcher January–March 2013 Visit tucsonaudubon.org for updates and more. TUCSON MEET YOUR BIRDS DORIS EVANS GATOR GRAY GATOR MURIEL NEDDERMEYER MURIEL

Phainopepla White-crowned Sparrow Cooper’s Hawk

MEET YOUR LOCAL PARK BIRDS PARK LOCAL MEET YOUR This bird’s questioning “wurp?” call is a common After a long scorching Tucson summer, a welcome The Cooper’s Hawk (Accipiter cooperii) is a sound in desert habitat in and around Tucson. sign of the cooler weather to come is hearing the common year-round resident in Tucson. This With the male’s handsome glossy black plumage, first White-crowned Sparrow sing in mid-September. medium-sized hawk has a long tail and gray back, flashing white wing patches and ragged crest this Chances are good that this first sparrow is of the and adults have a salmon-colored breast (hawks bird is often described as a ‘black cardinal with Rocky Mountain sub-species (oriantha) which are in their first year of life have a white breast with a red eye.’ The matte slate gray female is quite more likely to be seen in early fall on their way to brown streaks). Although common in Tucson, the beautiful in a more understated way. In winter Mexico for the winter. In Tucson, the more common Cooper’s Hawk is not especially conspicuous these birds aggregate in areas of high mistletoe gambelii sub-species arrives from the forests and in January, unless you are lucky and have one concentration, fiercely defending clumps of native tundra of Alaska and northwestern Canada a bit visiting your yard to hunt for doves and other small mistletoes in Palo Verde and Mesquite trees against later to spend the winter here. birds. Cooper’s Hawks clearly know the yards other Phainopeplas, males and females holding These birds are fairly common in Tucson, where people feed birds, and take advantage of their own feeding territories. The slim silhouette of frequenting even small natural patches in the city. the concentration of prey. In February, the nesting this bird may seem a common sight in regions of You can easily have White-crowned Sparrows cycle begins anew, and Cooper’s Hawks become Tucson with desert vegetation, but this bird has a in your own yard if there’s adequate vegetative easy to see, especially early in the morning, complicated seasonal migration pattern that is still protection and a good seed source for food. They when both males and females participate in not fully understood by scientists. Phainopeplas are also easy to identify because you can stumble courtship flights and nest building activities. They Special 4-page

may actually be one of the only birds in North into a small flock and spend countless minutes also vocalize (kek-kek-kek-kek) regularly during Pull-Out America to nest first in one habitat and then again studying the black-and-white striped crown of these this time of year. Cooper’s Hawks typically build in another all in the same year. In the spring these large sparrows. their nests in relatively large trees (Eucalyptus birds nest in Sonoran Desert habitat, often in a Songs of White-crowned Sparrows are or pine) and occupy many of the parks, golf tree that is hosting native mistletoe so a steady among the most studied of any bird. Sub-species courses, cemeteries, and apartment complexes food supply is always within wing’s reach. When and sometimes breeding populations can be throughout Tucson. Next time you are out birding, temperatures begin to rise in early summer, these distinguished by their dialects. Some males along don’t forget to listen for their calls, and look on the birds gather in nearby riparian woodlands or higher breeding borders are “bilingual,” singing the songs ground under groves of large trees for piles of bird elevation oak woodlands (such as Madera Canyon) from both breeding populations. Soak up these feathers, and streaks of “white-wash”—tell tale and then raise another brood. songs now—before you know it, White-crowns will signs of their presence. Jennie MacFarland, IBA Conservation Biologist leave and the heat will return! Bill Mannan, Professor of Wildlife Ecology, Matt Griffiths, Communications and University of Arizona, and specialist in urban raptors Restoration Specialist

RILLITO WEED PATCH On the northern end of central Tucson’s Columbus Boulevard there is a small parking area with direct access to the Rillito River path. Head west ¼ mile along the paved walking path to the bridge and check the numerous hackberry trees and wolfberry shrubs, both of which provide berries for local winter species such as thrushes and sparrows. This path runs along the southern end of the locally famed “weed patch,” which is full of seed producing tall grasses and maybe one of the 14 species of sparrows recorded here! Back at the parking area continue east along the paved bike path as it skirts a large restoration area that frequently hosts a lesser- known southeastern Arizona specialty, the Rufous-winged Sparrow. Don’t forget to look up at the tall electric towers that run down the middle of the typically dry riverbed. They provide excellent perches for many raptor species, like Peregrine Falcon. Jake Mohlmann

JAKE MOHLMANN GREAT BIRD PLACES IN TUCSON BIRD PLACES GREAT

Visit tucsonaudubon.org for updates and more. January–March 2013 Vermilion Flycatcher Tucson Audubon 15 TUCSON MEET YOUR BIRDS

There are scores of places to see birds in Tucson. Here are a few places that might

surprise you, contributed by some of Tucson’s top Tucson bird experts. ANGELA SALMON

TUCSON AUDUBON MASON CENTER SW corner of Thornydale and Hardy Rds: Twenty acres of desert dominated by saguaros, ironwoods, and several species of cholla. On a slow walk of the 1-mile well-defined loop trail, which starts 100 feet north of the buildings, expect to see 12 to 15 bird species such as American Kestrel, Gambel’s Quail, Mourning Dove, Eurasian Collared-Dove, Gila Woodpecker, Verdin, Cactus Wren, Curved-billed Thrasher, Phainopepla, Black-throated Sparrow, House Finch, Lesser Goldfinch. Gilded Flickers, Red-tailed Hawks and Cooper’s Hawks are other regular sightings. Up-close views of Gila Woodpeckers and Gilded Flickers provide opportunities

GREAT BIRD PLACES IN TUCSON BIRD PLACES GREAT to appreciate differences between similar species in behaviors and in color patterns, and differences between the males and females. Along the trail many plants are labeled. Jim Gessaman

ORO VALLEY MARKETPLACE URBAN BIRDING PATCH Between the Oro Valley Marketplace and Canyon del Oro Wash is a wonderful patch of habitat that is especially productive in winter. This area, located right across from Catalina State

Park, is easily accessible near the In-N-Out. In mitigation for the habitat lost to the JENNIE MACFARLAND JENNIE stores, the adjacent area was enhanced and provides excellent birding. The planted native trees are still on the small side but this area will only improve over time. It has also been planted with so many native grasses that it is excellent winter habitat for native birds. A recent field trip produced many Western Bluebirds, Lawrence’s

Pull-Out Goldfinches, Green-tailed and Abert’s Towhees, and numerous species of sparrows.

Special 4-page 4-page Special For those living on the northwest side of town, this is an easily accessible place to go birding and see for yourself just how important relatively small patches of urban habitat can be for native birds. Jennie MacFarland Merlin at Rio Vista Park RIO VISTA NATURAL RESOURCE PARK Located at the top of Tucson Boulevard where it meets the Rillito, this pleasant and underbirded park is always worth a couple hours in the morning. It contains about a mile of meandering, unmarked trails through desert scrub with a few larger trees. Typical desert species like Costa’s Hummingbird, Greater Roadrunner, Black-tailed Gnatcatcher, Cactus Wren, and Northern Cardinal can be found here. Lucy’s Warbler nests in spring. Phainopepla can be abundant in winter. The small manicured grass field and playground area attract Vermilion Flycatcher, Say’s Phoebe, and Cassin’s Kingbird. These flycatchers sometimes stay late into wintertime. Nearby, dense mesquite bosque surrounded by tall weeds can hold migrant sparrows. Migrating swallows can be seen moving along the Rillito in the proper season. Finally, this park is as good a location as any to watch for the Prairie Falcons that patrol the Rillito during the winter months. Water and restrooms are available. Scott Olmstead

JOAN GELLATLY

Tucson Audubon’s eighth edition of Finding Birds in Southeast Arizona, brings together the latest information on finding birds in southeast Arizona in its 372 pages. This is your best source of detailed information to help you plan

bird watching adventures throughout southeast Arizona. Available from Tucson Audubon’s Nature Shops. VF

16 Tucson Audubon Vermilion Flycatcher January–March 2013 Visit tucsonaudubon.org for updates and more. CONSERVATION AND EDUCATION NEWS No News on Rosemont CHRIS MCVIE, PAUL GREEN, KENDALL KROESEN, AND BÉTÉ PFISTER is Good News

At a media event on November 16, SunZia Update Coronado Forest Supervisor Jim Upchurch said he doesn’t know We have reported before on the revised EIS, as the initial draft EIS was The Cascabel Working Group has when he will be issuing a Final proposed SunZia Southwest deficient in many respects. reviewed the entire BLM presentation Environmental Impact Statement. Transmission Project, designed to The BLM’s preferred alternative to the Tohono O’odham Nation Nor does he know whether a carry power over two 500-kilovolt follows the west side of the San Pedro on preferred SunZia routes and Supplemental or New EIS is needed. (kV) lines from central New Mexico Valley for approximately 45 miles, has identified multiple falsehoods, The Forest Service website had been to central Arizona, and how it could opening an entirely new corridor for misrepresentations, and omissions that saying for months that a Final EIS threaten the Lower San Pedro River much of this distance. they intend to contest with the BLM. would be issued this December, but Global Important Bird Area. Meanwhile, we have learned that Many groups, including Tucson as the time grew closer, it became The Bureau of Land Management the BLM, which should be an impartial Audubon, have called for the “No clear that such action was extremely (BLM) is evaluating alternative routes, arbiter in the National Environment Action” alternative, recommending unlikely. some of which pass through the Lower Protection Act (NEPA) process, has that this project not be built, and Upchurch re-emphasized the San Pedro River Valley and Aravaipa introduced an egregious bias in some comments have provided clear complexity of the project and said Canyon. If constructed, up to 300 presentations made to Congress, the alternatives for addressing energy that he still needs more information sixteen-story towers would run down Tohono O’odham Nation, and others, transmission needs in the region. The relating to the mine’s impacts, the valley, with an access easement which is not in keeping with the proposed Southline Transmission including air quality, endangered up to 1000 feet wide and access agency’s role. Project is a sound example. species, cultural resources, lighting, roads to every tower. Vegetation In sum, the BLM has claimed The BLM’s timeline for the project and the changes in the mining plan. beneath the lines would be kept clear during presentations that major originally called for releasing the final It is important for everyone to to avoid potential fire damage. organizations and agencies (including environmental impact statement for understand that even if the Forest In addition to the initial access the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, public comment toward the end of Service issues a Final EIS, the project corridor, SunZia’s planners have National Parks Service, and The 2012, although this has clearly been is by no means ready to start. At requested that a one-mile-wide Nature Conservancy) concur with delayed now. According to the BLM’s that point the U.S. Army Corps of corridor be approved by the BLM the BLM preferred route down the Adrian Garcia, the official scheduled Engineers will begin their analysis of for future expansion. It is difficult to San Pedro River Valley when in fact date for the Record of Decision (ROD) the impacts of “dredging and filling” conceive of the potential cultural and they do not. The External Affairs Office is May 3, 2013. on the watershed of Cienega Creek biological devastation of a mile-wide of the FWS has formally requested SunZia’s majority owner has a and Davidson Canyon. These streams utility corridor along the narrow San that the BLM inform the Tohono long-standing interest in providing are both “Outstanding Waters” of Pedro River Valley. O’odham Nation that the FWS is not transmission capacity for its large the state of Arizona and their water The comment period for the SunZia in concurrence with the preferred planned and permitted natural gas- quality cannot be degraded. We think Draft Environmental Impact Statement alternative. The BLM also made false powered plant in Bowie, Arizona. it is highly unlikely that Rosemont (DEIS) ended on August 22, 2012, and claims regarding TNC in October to a Many of the formal comments made can cover 4,000 acres of the eastern the next step will be for the BLM to congressional delegation. While TNC by agencies and organizations on slopes of the Santa Rita Mountains issue a revised or final Environmental has corrected BLM on this point, BLM the SunZia Draft EIS are available at with tailings and waste mountains Impact Statement (EIS) for public has persisted in making these false www.nmeader.com/sunzia/route/deis. over 70-stories in height without that review. We believe they should issue a claims since those complaints. html. material having a toxic impact on downstream waters. And, as you may know, photos Gray Water Ordinance Under Review of one or more jaguars (listed since In 2007, Tucson Audubon was part of drinking water for landscape irrigation Instead, Council referred the matter 1997 as an endangered species) are a working group that developed a new that has been extracted from the back to council offices who are now known from the vicinity of the Residential Gray Water Ordinance Colorado River and pumped 350 miles holding meetings and consulting to proposed mine. that was adopted by the Mayor uphill, using electricity generated look at all water-saving options. They Gayle Hartmann, President, and Council in September 2008. It by the Navajo Generating Station, will report back to the City Council Save the Scenic Santa Ritas. required builders to include a stub-out Arizona’s largest carbon emitter? in April 2013. As citizens we need to enable gray water usage in new Following the long and inclusive to ensure that at least part of the homes. The innovative, forward- process that led to the gray water gray water ordinance survives so looking ordinance was designed, in and rainwater harvesting ordinances, that this resource is not lost from our part, to address the possibility of a the City Council recently discussed landscaping. We recommend that time when our CAP supply is reduced. completely dismantling the ordinance above-grade stub outs for passive Currently, more than 40 percent of as recommended by the Joint irrigation be implemented. our potable water is used for outdoor Consolidated Code Committee landscaping by City Water customers. for local amendments of the 2012 Does it make sense to you to use International Residential Code. CHRISSY KONDRAT-SMITH CHRISSY

Visit tucsonaudubon.org for updates and more. January–March 2013 Vermilion Flycatcher Tucson Audubon 17 CONSERVATION & EDUCATION NEWS

Voters Give Landslide Approval for Spending on Conservation Nationwide The Trust for Public Land reports on Prop 119 provides us with a way the state renewable-energy mandate, that all of us---in different states to conserve the most culturally and citing higher standards in other states. and of all political leanings--- gave biologically significant state lands for Incumbent Republican Commissioner overwhelming approval in the future generations via an open and Bob Stump, former Senate President November 2012 elections to taxing transparent public process. Bob Burns and cable-industry ourselves to establish new parks in Arizona’s State Legislature has executive Susan Bitter-Smith won four- DAVE BEZAIRE DAVE our communities. repeatedly demonstrated that it is year terms on the five-member panel. Of the 57 measures on local unable to manage the resources The newcomers and Stump will join The GOP candidates said they and statewide ballots, 46 passed, currently under its jurisdiction in Commission Chairman Gary Pierce would keep the standard as is and an approval rate of 81 percent. The a fiscally responsible manner for and Commissioner Brenda Burns, consider increasing it only after measures in 21 states will provide the public benefit. By voting No on creating an all-GOP utility regulating studying the long-term costs. more than $2 billion overall, including Proposition 120, a Constitutional panel for the first time since 2009. All Burns said his main priority was $767 million in new money to support Amendment, you wisely refused to members are from Maricopa County. to keep utility rates low to avoid protection of water quality, new parks, give them exclusive control over all Much of the campaign centered damaging the fragile economy. other natural areas, working farms air, land and water in the state. on support for solar and other Bitter-Smith, a longtime cable and ranches. Complete results can be Meanwhile, renewable-energy renewable energy sources. An all- industry executive and past President found on The Trust for Public Land’s promoters Paul Newman and Sandra Republican commission adopted the of the Central Arizona Project Board, LandVote website www.LandVote.org. Kennedy, running with political current standard in 2006, requiring ran largely on a platform of reforming In Arizona, Tucson Audubon newcomer Marcia Busching on a state-regulated utilities to generate regulation of small water companies to had encouraged voters to Vote Yes “Solar Team” ticket, were ousted from power equal to 15 percent of their make it easier to adjust rates to avoid on Prop 119 (you did) and NO on the Arizona Corporation Commission. retail sales from renewable sources insolvency or huge rate increases. Prop 120 (you did!). The Yes vote They had advocated an increase in by 2025.

Your Chance to Comment on Pima County’s Multi-species Habitat Conservation Plan It has been 15 years since the listing (Service) for an Incidental Take Permit December 7th, www.gpo.gov/fdsys/ to the Internet, a printed or CD-ROM of the Cactus Ferruginous Pygmy- (ITP) under Section 10 of the ESA. If pkg/FR-2012-12-07/html/2012-29391. copy of these documents is available owl under the Endangered Species approved, the thirty-year ITP would htm. A public meeting will be held on upon request to Ms. Julia Fonseca, Act (ESA) prompted a community- authorize incidental take of forty animal February 21, 2013, from 4:00 pm to Pima County Office of Sustainability wide dialogue that resulted in Pima species, five of which are currently 6:00 pm at the Pima County Natural and Conservation, 201 N. Stone, 6th County’s award-winning Sonoran listed under the ESA and four of which Resources Parks and Recreation floor, Tucson, AZ 85701, phone (520) Desert Conservation Plan (SDCP). are currently designated candidate Conference Room at 3500 W. River 740-6460, or email mscp@pima. With the goal of balancing growth and species for listing. Thirty-one identified Road, Tucson, AZ 85741. The gov. Additionally, persons wishing to the conservation of our unique cultural species will be covered if they are Service is seeking data, comments, review the Draft MSCP, Draft IA, and heritage and biodiversity, Pima County listed during the term of the permit. new information, or suggestions. Draft EIS may obtain copies by calling launched an overarching process that The Service published Notice Public comment will be accepted on or faxing the U.S. Fish and Wildlife went beyond mere compliance with of a Draft Environmental Impact or before March 15th, 2013. Submit Service (520-670-6144, phone; 520- federal law. Yet that need to comply Statement (DEIS) and Draft Multi- YOUR written comments or data 670-6155 fax). Copies of the Draft is what has led Pima County to apply species Habitat Conservation Plan to the Field Supervisor, Arizona MSCP, Draft IA, and Draft EIS are to the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service (DMSCP) in the Federal Register on Ecological Services Office, 2321 West also available for public inspection Royal Palm Road, Suite 103, Phoenix, and review at numerous Pima County AZ 85021. Comments will also be Public Libraries. accepted by fax at 520-670-6155, as FOR FURTHER INFORMATION well as by email to PimaMSCP@fws. CONTACT: Jeff Servoss, by mail gov with the subject line “Pima County at the Arizona Ecological Services Draft MSCP and Draft EIS.’’ Office --Tucson Suboffice, 201 N. Downloadable copies of the Bonita Avenue, Suite 141, Tucson, Draft MSCP and Draft Implementing AZ 85745; by telephone at 520-670- Agreement (IA) may be found on the 6150 extension 231; or by email at Internet at www.pima.gov/cmo/sdcp/ [email protected]. MSCP/MSCP.html and the Draft EIS is available at www.fws.gov/southwest/ es/arizona. For those without access KEN LUND

18 Tucson Audubon Vermilion Flycatcher January–March 2013 Visit tucsonaudubon.org for updates and more. CONSERVATION & EDUCATION NEWS

Your Chance to Comment on Tucson’s New General Plan

Tucson Audubon encourages Thursday, January 31, 2013—7:00 pm YOU to get involved in developing to 8:30 pm. Ward 2 Council Office, Tucson’s new General Plan which Conference Room, 7575 E. the City is required by State law to Speedway Blvd update every decade. The new draft Each Open House begins with a General Plan is available for public half-hour presentation followed by comment, and includes consideration an opportunity to review the Plan, fill of our natural environment, parks out comment forms and talk one-on- and recreation, arts and culture, one with members of the City’s Plan public infrastructure and facilities, Tucson Team. The Draft Plan may revitalization and redevelopment, land also be viewed and commented on use and transportation, and economic at the Plan Tucson website, www. development. A series of Open House tucsonaz.gov/plantucson. Comments events will be held as follows: received will be shared with the Wednesday, January 9, 2013— Mayor and City Council, the Planning 7:00 pm to 8:30 pm. Tucson Police Commission, and considered in the Westside Service Center, Meeting preparation of the Final Draft Plan. Room, 1310 W. Miracle Mile The Plan will be on the November 5, 2013 ballot. For questions regarding Trekking Rattlers Club: Saturday, January 12, 2013—9:00 am the Open Houses or Plan Tucson in to 10:30 am. Tucson Police SASUN’s New Look general you may call Maria Gayosso Department Hardesty Multi-Service at (520) 837-6972. For the last two years, the Sunnyside We are currently raising funds Center, Meeting Room, 1100 S. Audubon Student Urban Naturalists to continue this program into the Alvernon Way met as an afterschool ecology club spring and the upcoming school year. at Billy Lauffer Middle School. This One of the ways we are doing this year, we formed a hiking/birding club is asking you to direct your Arizona Birds of Ancient Egypt in partnership with Inner City Outings state income tax credit to this club to Saturday, March 16, 2013 writing system and the Sunnyside School District fund transportation for their outings, 2:00 pm, Westin La Paloma and diet. For the to offer the student population one entrance fees to their destinations, first time in the United outing a month to a different local and materials*. This contribution costs FREE AND OPEN TO States, a special exhibit at the Oriental destination. The program provides you nothing! Instead of paying the THE PUBLIC Institute of the University of Chicago an important and rare opportunity state tax to the government, you are A program offered jointly by the local is entirely dedicated to the avifauna for inner city children to deepen their redirecting those monies to directly chapter of ARCE (American Research of ancient Egypt and illustrates the understanding of nature, birds, and support the students at Lauffer Middle Center in Egypt) and Tucson Audubon omnipresence of birds in this ancient our local environment through hands Schoo and you will receive a tax credit Speaker: Rozenn Bailleul-LeSuer society. Using the artifacts on display on exploration. when you file. Between Heaven & Earth—Birds in this exhibit, learn how, at every This school year, students have HOW CAN YOU MAKE YOUR in Ancient Egypt stage of a person’s life, birds were already explored Madera Canyon, CONTRIBUTION? Pick up your tax Birds and bird imagery filled the present as deities and protectors; as the fall colors on Mt. Lemmon, credit forms in our Nature Shop, check world of the ancient Egyptians. Every rulers and citizens; as food supply and planted seeds at Atturbury Wash with Lauffer Middle School and next to the fall, the arrival of millions of waterfowl commodity. Tucson Audubon staff and volunteers, school’s name, write SASUN Club in the Delta marshes coincided with Rozenn Bailleul-LeSuer is a splashed around Tanque Verde Falls OR contact Bété Pfister at bpfister@ the Nile flood. The Egyptians saw in PhD candidate in Egyptology at the and hiked to see the petroglyphs on tucsonaudubon.org or 520-629-0510 these natural and cyclical events a University of Chicago and guest the Wasson Peak/King Canyon Trail. x 7012 for electronic copies of the symbolic reenactment of the moment curator of the exhibit Between Heaven The schedule for the spring looks forms. of creation when, according to and Earth: Birds in Ancient Egypt at just as exciting! In January, on Martin some versions of the myth, a divine the Oriental Institute. After studying Luther King Day, they will participate *For public school donations an Arizona goose laid an egg on the first mound Chemical Engineering in France in the third annual buffelgrass pull in tax credit is available up to the maximum emerging from the water. From this and completing a MA in Greek & the wash behind their school along $200/yr (single) or $400/yr (married filing egg hatched the sun god, who flew Latin in Vermont, she is now able to with Tucson Audubon staff. Other jointly). These monies are not used to fund high in the sky and created the combine her passion for birds and spring destinations include: Saguaro regular school activities. The donations you other gods and humanity. her academic interest in ancient National Park, Reid Park, Ramsey make can only be used for extra-curricular From cradle to coffin, Egypt. Her dissertation is entitled Canyon Preserve, and an overnight activities, and you are allowed to specify birds permeated most “The Exploitation of Avian Resources camping trip at Catalina State Park to which programs you’d like your donation aspects of Egyptian in Ancient Egypt: A Socio-Economic end the school year! to support. society: religion, art, Study.”

Visit tucsonaudubon.org for updates and more. January–March 2013 Vermilion Flycatcher Tucson Audubon 19 CONSERVATION & EDUCATION NEWS

The Nature Shop Wildlife Garden

If you’ve been to the Audubon shop at include Alice Kennedy, Kristin Leger, University and 5th Ave recently, you and Miriam Kogan. Kristin and may have noticed some changes in Miriam are becoming Bermuda grass the garden out front. removal pros, and Alice has almost Botanist/gardener/birder Lynn singlehandedly uprooted many of the Hassler is spearheading a volunteer Queen’s wreath tubers—extremely KENDALL KROESEN KENDALL effort to upgrade our wildlife garden. difficult and heavy to boot. Thank you Visit a New Garden at Mason Center For those of you who don’t know her, to our stalwart volunteers! Lynn has been writing a bimonthly Goals for the upcoming spring Several board members recently Of course we are always trying column on birds and gardening for include: installing an automated helped to plant three Kino Heritage to be sustainable in our landscape Bird Watcher’s Digest since 2001 and irrigation system; adding to the plant Fruit Trees at the Mason Center. design, so lots of harvested rainwater teaches various classes for Tucson palette to expand wildlife-attracting These trees represent broadly will be available to the garden. The Audubon. capabilities (in particular, to lure in adapted genetic stock descended northwest side of the bathroom Emphasis to date has been on more butterflies) and to ensure color from fruit trees brought to the building drains directly to an innovative removing and/or transplanting non- and interest at every season. On Southwest by the earliest European “French drain” located in the midst of performers as well as eliminating that note, we could use donations for explorers. These are real survivors, the trees. Other water from the house same-species plants that have purchasing plants and upgrading the believed to be well adapted to our and bathroom roof is captured in new volunteered or were initially over- irrigation system. desert conditions. cisterns, to be used when the ground planted. Major battles are being We are confident that the Audubon The trees—in our case quince, around the trees dries out. Scarce and waged against Queen’s wreath vines garden will become a go-to inspiration pomegranate and sweet lime—are expensive potable water, rather than along the western fence line and destination for Tucson urban the backbone of a new demonstration being the first option, is now the third invasive Bermuda grass throughout. gardeners looking to create habitat in garden that combines useful habitat option. I personally have contributed quite their own backyards. for birds with food production for The demonstration is part of our a few hours to the project (yanking We’re always looking for people. In addition to the trees, the TogetherGreen Innovation Grant, invading Queen’s wreath is particularly volunteers, so if you are interested garden will eventually contain a small which promotes innovative, wildlife- satisfying) and fellow board member in helping out in the garden, please demonstration of seasonal heritage friendly and sustainable landscaping. Linda Stitzer has also added her contact Volunteer and Development vegetable crops like those sold at TogetherGreen is a program of gardening skills to the undertaking. Coordinator, Kara Kaczmazyk at Native Seeds/SEARCH, as well as National Audubon Society, funded by But most of the work has been 520-629-0510 ext. 7011, or email to native shrubs that are useful for wildlife Toyota. accomplished by Lynn and her team— [email protected] VF and that have edible or useful parts for Kendall Kroesen, egged on by a couple of Curve-billed Cynthia Pruett humans. Habitats Restoration Manager Thrashers. Volunteer gardeners Board President

problem we are not changing is global Conservation Corner! warming. Our leaders are failing to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The lack of strong urban planning come. We spend huge amounts on That means we will be forced to rules in most of the U.S.—of the fuel and our taxes are not enough to adapt to higher temperatures. Biking sort more common in other western fill potholes in the streets that connect and public transportation reduce nations—has led to urban sprawl. our huge metropolitan area. The City greenhouse gas emissions. Take a look at Tucson when you come of Tucson alone has almost 1,900 I challenge you to do the same. down from Mt. Lemmon: free-market miles of streets! A well-planned urban Watch the Tucson Audubon blog for capitalism coupled with low fuel area would concentrate people in a posts about my attempt to get around prices and car ownership rewarded smaller area, resulting in fewer miles sans auto! speculative developers who built on of streets per capita (not to mention You can get lots of information the urban fringe, gobbling up valuable fewer miles of water lines, sewer about how to get around Tucson wildlife habitat. In recent years, the lines, electrical lines, cable TV lines, without a car at http://cms3.tucsonaz. Kendall and his bicycle Sonoran Desert Conservation Plan sidewalks, streetlights, stoplights and gov/transportation. There was a heartwarming news has made strides to arrest this pattern. other amenities). do it, so can I. Two members of the item today (December 9, 2012) in the (How many people have you met who Now, unable to change this Tucson Audubon staff, Matt Griffiths say that there used to be more wildlife system, we are now forced to Arizona Daily Star about an 86-year

and Jonathan Horst, ride to work TYNDALL BETH MARY around their home, but as more adapt to it. old man in Minnesota who didn’t know almost every day. VF houses were built they’ve seen less I pledge to ride my bike or take if he would ride the bike his family and less?) public transportation at least one day gave him. But now he’s a bikeaholic, Kendall Kroesen, Now fuel prices are high and the per week, in spite of the sprawling even riding a short newspaper Habitats Restoration Manager inevitable economic downturn has distances. Why? Because the next delivery route every morning. If he can

20 Tucson Audubon Vermilion Flycatcher January–March 2013 Visit tucsonaudubon.org for updates and more. WEEKLY BIRD WALKS TUCSON AUDUBON FIELD TRIPS KATE REYNOLDS | FIELD TRIP COORDINATOR Thursdays—January–March: 8:30 am. Wake Up With the Birds at Agua Caliente 35 miles. Leader: Melody Kehl melodysbirding@ Park. A stroll through the bosque and

YOSTY cox.net 245-4085 along the ponds. Loaner binocs available, meet in front of the ranch house. For more January 19—Saturday 7:30 am info call Pima County Parks and Rec., Patagonia Sonoita Creek 520-615-7855. Preserve Saturdays—8–9:30 am. Join Tucson Audubon for a winter romp through the Tucson Audubon’s Mason Center. Nature Conservancy’s Preserve for looks at those Families and birders of all skill levels challenging brown winter sparrows and more. A late are welcome. Visit tucsonaudubon.org/ morning visit to the Paton’s is likely as well. Meet in masoncenter for details. the preserve parking lot at 7:30 am. Standard Nature Conservancy fees apply ($3 for TNC members, $5 Saturdays—November to April: 8:00 am for non-members). Please register with the leader Arivaca Cienega of Buenos Aires National Clifford Cathers at [email protected] or 520-647- Wildlife Refuge. All skill levels welcome. For 3273. Limit of 20 participants. more info call Bob Rolfson at 520-399-2873.

Reddington Pass January 22—Tuesday 7:00 am Tubac-Tumacacori Visit tucsonaudubon.org/ January Meet at 7:00 at the Fry’s parking lot just east of I-19 fieldtrips for more trips and on Irvington Road. We’ll head down to the DeAnza the latest or expanded field trip January 5—Saturday 8:00 am trail seeking out sparrows, wintering flocks of Keystone Peak Trail migrants, and riparian species around Tubac and information or call us at 520-629-0510. Plan to spend a few morning hours exploring Tumacacori for the morning, returning to Tucson mixed habitat in this very seldom birded area in the by about 1 pm. Please contact the leader, Gavin General Information Sierrita Mountains. We will bird the hillsides while Bieber at [email protected] to sign-up or for Tucson Audubon field trips are free. For general walking dirt roads and will check a wash. Expect any logistical questions. information call 520-629-0510. For specific uneven terrain and steep climbs along a couple of information about a trip, contact the leader of January 26—Saturday 7:00 am stretches. Please note there are no rest facilities that trip. Please dress appropriately for your after leaving Tucson. Rain cancels. No limit but you El Sewer de Tucson Meet at 7:00 at the Fry’s parking lot, corner of field trip. Always wear sturdy shoes, a hat, and must contact leader to sign up. Leader: Darlene Ina and Thornydale (Gold Canyon Plaza).Take use sun protection. Bring plenty of snacks and Smyth [email protected] an oderiferous tour of some of the Tucson area’s water for yourself. Always bring your binoculars, field guide, and for most trips a scope can be January 8—Tuesday 7:15 am more bird friendly watering holes. We will look Peña Blanca Lake for wintering water fowl, raptors, sparrows and useful. Bring money to cover your share of the Join me for a walk around beautiful scenic Peña whatever else happens along. Dress for the carpooling and any required entry fees (e.g. for Blanca Lake, one of the best birding spots in SE weather, bring water, snack, lunch and scope, state parks). Arizona especially in Spring Migration. We will walk if you have one. Nose plugs/clothes pins at the Arrival Times to the dam and back, about 2 miles, so wear sturdy discretion of participants. I can’t guarantee specific Please arrive before listed departure times. Trips shoes, bring water, sunscreen, snacks and lunch. species but will promise a garderobe at every will leave promptly at the time given. Meet at the Green Valley McDonald’s exit 63 I-19 stop. Back by 3:00 pm. Leader: Michael Bissontz at 6:30 am for the hour long drive to the lake. Limit [email protected] Carpooling Sites 8, contact leader, Sally Johnsen after January 1. January 27—Sunday 7:30 am Tucson Audubon strongly encourages 520-399-4050 [email protected] Tanque Verde Wash carpooling and for some trips it may be January 12—Saturday 7:00 am Great trip for new birders. Come explore the lush required. Check our website for frequently used Reddington Pass in the Rincon and varied habitats supported by the Tanque Verde carpooling sites. You are expected to reimburse Mountains Wash. Areas covered will be Woodland Road, the the driver for the actual cost of fuel. Drivers and Meet at Catalina Highway and Tanque Verde at the Castlerock lakes, and Tanque Verde Loop. We will trip leaders are not expected to contribute. McDonald’s at 7:00 am. We will make a short stop search for falcons, waterfowl, and winter warblers Rare Bird Alert at Wentworth to check the wash, then head into and sparrows. Bring sturdy shoes for walking Listen to the latest rare bird alert at the Rincon Mountains as far as Bellota Pond. High- washes and weedy fields, sunscreen and water. 520-629-0510 ext. 3. Report rare birds clearance vehicles are desired. Short excursions Meet at the Mcdonald’s at the northeast corner at 520-629-0510 or rarebirdalert@ over uneven terrain is to be expected. With any of Tanque Verde and Catalina Highway. Limit 20. tucsonaudubon.org luck, we should find Western Scrub Jay, Juniper Leader: Brian Nicholas [email protected] Titmouse, Black-chinned Sparrows, Western (Read about Brian’s birding adventures along the Bluebirds, Crissal Thrasher… maybe??? Return Tanque Verde Wash on p 11) Don’t forget to stop in our Nature Shop after lunch. Bring plenty of water and your lunch. for your field and ID Guides, and other birding supplies.

Visit tucsonaudubon.org/fieldtrips for updates and more January–March 2013 Vermilion Flycatcher Tucson Audubon 21 FIELD TRIPS DAVE KUTILEK DAVE LARS HAMMAR MATT GRIFFITHS MATT

Tanque Verde Wash LeConte’s Thrasher Wildflowers

January 29—Tuesday 7:30 am Highway at 7:00 am. Please register with the excellent opportunities for studying identification Atturbury-Lyman Bird & Animal leader Clifford Cathers at [email protected] or 520- challenges. Also many raptors and other wintering Sanctuary, Lincoln Park 647-3273. Limit of 20 participants. birds can be seen. About 120 miles. Limit of 12 Join us to find resident and wintering birds (and participants. Contact the leader to sign up starting February 19—Tuesday 10:30 am early migrants?) at Atturbury Wash, located at February 15. We will finish in early afternoon. Lincoln Regional Park, on Tucson’s east side. This Reid Park Bring a lunch. Meet the leader at Bashas’ parking We will ramble around the park for two hours is one of Tucson’s premier washes and the site of lot in Catalina, on the northeast corner of Oracle looking for wintering waterfowl, warblers, wood- a Tucson Audubon project to improve habitat. The Rd. and Golder Ranch Rd. Leader: Doug Jenness peckers and raptors. Easy pace on flat ground. All location is lower Lincoln Park off Escalante east of [email protected] 520-909-1529 Pantano Road (not upper Lincoln Park off Pantano ages and birding abilities invited. Meet in front of March 9—Saturday 8 am south of Escalante). Meet at lower Lincoln Park Edith Ball Adaptive Recreation Center, which looks Wildflowers of the Tucson Hills at 7:30 am. Bring water and sunscreen; finished like a big white tent near the zoo. Do not go to the Let’s go find the early spring wildflowers in the before lunch. Call leader for exact directions: zoo entrance. No need to sign up before the trip, Tucson Hills. Depending on how much rain we Kendall Kroesen [email protected] or but call leader if questions. Leader: John Higgins get, the flowers here can be great in early March. 520-971-2385. 520-578-1830. [email protected] Lets meet at the Saguaro National Park West February 23—Saturday 5:00 am Visitor Center at 8 am. Expect some walking so February LeConte’s Thrashers bring walking shoes and water. A lunch would also A long trip for some great birds. With any luck we February 2—Saturday 8:00 am be a good idea since there are no restaurants on should have Sage Sparrow, 4 species of thrasher Sabino Canyon Recreation our route. Go ahead and bring your binoculars with the LeConte’s as the dessert to entice us. Area too. $5 National Park entrance fee (or a National Terrain is uneven and you will want good walking We’ll bird Sabino Canyon Recreation Area walking Park pass) required. For questions, call Anthony shoes. On our way back, we will take a side a 4-mile loop that includes both Sonoran desert Mendoza 520-219-0366 or email me at anthony_ trip into Santa Cruz Flats and see what we may uplands and the riparian area of Sabino Creek [email protected] or just turn up. along rocky uneven trails. Meet at the ramada see. Meet at Ina Road at the Motel 6 parking March 12—Tuesday 6:00 am by the Visitor’s Center. $5 parking fee or a pass area at 5:00 am. 400 miles. Leader: Melody Kehl Patagonia Lake State Park required for Sabino Canyon Recreation Area. [email protected] 520-245-4085 There are almost always plenty of birds at Return by 11 am. Sunhat, water and walking shoes February 22–24—Friday, Saturday, Sunday Patagonia Lake at this time of year. We’ll walk a recommended. Leaders are Sabino Canyon Departure time: TBD. mile or two on mostly level but not always clearly Volunteer Naturalists. Group size limited to 15, Rosy Finch at Sandia Crest, marked trails. Expect some mud. Bring lunch email to reserve a spot. Leaders: Jean & Mark Albuquerque, N.M. and park fee or pass. We may visit other sites in Hengesbaugh [email protected] Depart Tucson early Friday morning arriving in Patagonia and its environs as well. Meet at Fry’s Albuquerque for dinner and a good night’s sleep. February 9—Saturday 7:00 am at Irvington and I-19 at 6:00 am or at the Green Saturday, up Sandia Crest in quest of all three Sweetwater Wetlands Valley McDonald’s (Continental Road Exit) by species of Rosy-Finch, even if that means coming Meet at the parking lot on Sweetwater Drive at 6:30 am. (140 miles round trip). Trip limited to 12 back the next day. Time permitting, we’ll enjoy 7:00 am. Winter is a great time to visit Sweetwater participants. Call or email leader Dave Dunford some of the area’s other birding hotspots. Sunday, to view ducks and waterfowl along with other after February 15 at 520-909-1809 or ddunford@ we’re back to Tucson via a quick trip through species. Plan to spend a couple of hours of easy dakotacom.net to sign up. walking. Bring water and snacks as needed. Bosque Del Apache. Limited to 12. 1200 miles. March 16—Saturday 6:30 am Use the Ruthrauff/El Camino del Cerro Exit 252. Contact leader for more details, sign up after Tubac Black-hawk Lift Off Participants limited to 10 people. Trip leader: January 1. Leader: Vivian MacKinnon 520-323-

Join Tucson Audubon for the annual / NED HARRIS COMMON BLACK-HAWK Janine Spencer [email protected]. 520-245- 6452 or [email protected]. $50 fee to spring ritual of watching 6200 cover leader expense. Common Black-hawks lift off February 16—Saturday 7:00 am March from the riparian corridor at Northeast Tucson Areas Tubac. Hopefully we’ll catch March 2—Saturday 7 am Join Tucson Audubon for a late winter romp the first few spring migrants through a few of NE Tucson’s key birding spots Santa Cruz Flats—Focus on as well. Meet at the Green including Tanque Verde Wash, Agua Caliente Park Sparrow Identification Valley McDonald’s on A wide variety of sparrows can be found in this and/or Woodland Road. Meet at the McDonald’s at Continental Road at 6:30 am. area of Pinal County northwest of Tucson offering the corner of Tanque Verde Road and the Catalina You must register with the leader

22 Tucson Audubon Vermilion Flycatcher January–March 2013 Visit tucsonaudubon.org/fieldtrips for updates and more FIELD TRIPS

WPLYNN Birdathon 2013: Because you love birds! All April features fun Birdathon events, and Elephant Head the Big Week is April 19–28! AY GR Clifford Cathers at [email protected] or 520-647- OR AT 3273. Limit of 20 participants. Join a team and see how many species you can G count in a day. Or, go on a trip: expert led Big Days March 19—Tuesday 5:30 am The Pond at Elephant Head or less intense half day outings. Join us for a few hours of bird/nature photography in Amado. We’ll visit the property of the owner Birdathon is fun for everyone, of PhotoTrap, a high speed photographic trigger system. We will sit in the blinds by the pond and kids, adults, beginners, experts photograph desert birds and whatever else shows up. The PhotoTrap owner will later demonstrate his and more! products. Meet at Green Valley McDonalds. Use How does it work? Join a team or a trip, and go out JIM B the Continental Rd. exit off of I-19 and turn right URNS to the McDonald’s. Take your camera, tripod etc. birding. Raise money for your “-athon” from supporters. and plenty of water & snacks. Back before noon. After Birdathon, we all celebrate with a party, and Limited to four participants. Contact Kate Reynolds donations are used by Tucson Audubon Society for to sign up. [email protected] conservation of bird habitats. May Celebrate migration! May 24–27 (Memorial Day Weekend)— Friday/Saturday/Sunday/Monday 8:00 am Southern Arizona is one of the most fascinating Q Ranch/Mogollon Rim/Tonto areas for birding in the United States, with over National Forest 400 species each year. Southern Arizona birds also On Friday, drive to Q Ranch where 150 species of birds have been identified. Dark clear night face significant conservation challenges through effects skies at 5600 feet with plenty of stars. Visit to on their habitats by development and groundwater IN N the 1000-year-old Q Ranch Mogollon-Culture U pumping. This Birdathon, celebrate the birds and K

N Pueblo ruins. Ranch is cell-phone dead zone, I V L help to conserve their habitats. A but Verizon service available within a few miles. C Depart Monday after breakfast. All meals included. $135/person/night for shared room (we will link up Great birding and a great cause sharers if possible). $175/person/night for single room. Full online payment due by March 29, 2013 Raise awareness during Birdathon. Do you (http://www.qranch.com). Limited to 12 people know people who would be interested in Tucson total. Riders will pay $50 each for drivers’ gas cost. Audubon’s conservation work? Our education For reservations and more info, contact trip leader activities? The recreational birding opportunities? Steve Buck ([email protected]). Birding guide (present at Q Ranch only): Ken Furtado ken@ qranch.com. VF

ADDITIONAL BIRD WALKS IN TUCSON AND SOUTHEAST ARIZONA For information on weekly regional bird walks

from Agua Caliente Park to Ramsey Canyon JENNIE MACFARLAND Preserve, please see our website, www. tucsonaudubon.org/fieldtrips Visit www.tucsonaudubon.org/birdathon for details, events, teams, and more! DORIS EVANS

Visit tucsonaudubon.org/fieldtrips for updates and more January–March 2013 Vermilion Flycatcher Tucson Audubon 23 BIRDING TRAVEL Birders Mean FROM OUR BUSINESS PARTNERS Business! ADVENTURE BIRDING COMP­ ANY through semideciduous tropical forest, over the Four Ways to Help www.adventurebirding.com continental divide’s treeless paramos and down [email protected] • 520-495-0229 to lush, wet, foothill forests of the eastern Andes. Within these varied, pristine habitats, the evolution Birds Today … Big Bend Nat’l Park, Texas: Colima of many fine endemic species has occurred; and Warbler short tour May 1–5, 2013, $1095. on our new South Ecuador Endemics tour, we Show your support for birds, habitat, Leader: John Yerger. Big Bend is one of the most will sample seven distinct habitats in search of and local birder-friendly businesses by remote birding hotspots in the U.S., and home these endemics and other specialties. Targets exercising your consumer choices wisely. to some of its most spectacular scenery! It’s the include El Oro and White-breasted Parakeet, Some easy and impactful ideas: only place in the country to find Colima Warbler, El Oro (Ecuadorian) Tapaculo, Watkins’s and the focus of one long day hike. A surprising the fantastic Jocotoco Antpitta, White-headed 1. Support your Tucson Audubon Nature number of habitats and oases are found within Brush Finch, Henna-hooded Foliage-gleaner, the Shops when shopping for gifts and Park boundaries. Ideal for anyone desiring lots fabulous Long-wattled Umbrellabird, Rainbow of birding and sightseeing on limited vacation Starfrontlet and the vociferous, colorful and gear! Our knowledgeable staff and time. Lucifer Hummingbird, Painted Bunting extremely localized Orange-throated Tanager. volunteers actively seek out the best and Golden-fronted Woodpecker are just a few books and binoculars. others we’ll seek on this fun-filled adventure! SOLIPASO TOURS www.solipaso.com 2. Choose Bird-friendly shade-grown South Texas: Rarities and Specialties coffee and help birds while satisfying short tour February 27–March 3, 2013, $1195. Colorado Prairie Chicken and Sage your caffeine cravings! Several tasty Leader: John Yerger. Limited vacation time? Grouse: April 2–10, 2013. $3000. Leader: David This “short tour” will target some of the rarest MacKay. Colorado is the best and most beautiful options are available in the Nature birds in the ABA region! Our main focus: find place to see the species of Prairie-chickens and Shops and in local grocery stores. Ask mega-rarities in the Lower Rio Grande Valley. In Grouse! The geographic position and geologic for it when dining out. recent years, species included Crimson-collared diversity creates a great array of varied habitats 3. When you’re booking travel or Grosbeak, Golden-crowned Warbler and Black- ranging from prairie grasslands through high plains business services or making other vented Oriole. In addition, we’ll seek rare residents to subalpine forests and alpine tundra! Although like Brown Jay and Red-billed Pigeon. And of we will have our sights on finding all of the grouse, purchases, wear your birder colors course, spectacular South Texas specialties there are plenty of other birds to look for, including proudly! Consider patronizing a bird & like Green Jay, Altamira Oriole and Buff-bellied Mountain Plover, Three-toed Woodpecker, birder-friendly business like those who Hummingbird will round out the trip! See website Williamson’s Sapsucker, Rough-legged Hawk, have supported Tucson Audubon’s for details and extended alternative to this tour. Black, Brown-capped, and Gray-crowned Rosy- work—you can learn more about Finch, McCown’s, Chestnut-Collared Longspur these companies through our Birds & ROCKJUMPER—WORLDWIDE BIRDING and many others. And because it is Colorado, the Business Alliance or in the 8th edition ADVENTURES opportunities for encountering fantastic scenery [email protected] and other interesting wildlife abound. Starts and of Finding Birds in Southeast Arizona www.rockjumperbirding.com ends in Denver, CO. Limited to 7 participants. guidebook. These businesses have (USA & Canada toll-free): 1-888-990-5552 evidenced, in a variety of ways, an Northwest Mexico: August 8–15, 2013. Cameroon — Rockfowl, Rainforests & $2100. Summertime in the Sierra Madre of interest in bird and habitat conservation Sahel: 12 March to 02 April 2013 (22 days) Chihuahua and Sonora is a sight to see! Green and/or accommodating birders. Tour Price (per person): US$6,030 (Single meadows, blue sky vistas, lakes and waterfalls 4. The most important thing is to wear supplement US$340, approx cost of flights everywhere! In Madera, we see the endangered your birder colors proudly as a US$360) Please note: these prices are subject to Thick-billed Parrot and Eared Quetzal. We visit customer! Let businesses know you’re foreign exchange fluctuations. Our comprehensive the ruins of Cuarenta Casas and get to see the three week Cameroon birding tour provides a magnificent Basaseachic waterfall in full summer a birder and Tucson Audubon member thorough coverage of Central Africa’s richest flow, the second highest in Mexico! In the mountain and that you value their support of birdwatching destination. Forming the intergrade town of Yecora, we pick up more montane species birds and habitat. between West and Central Africa, Cameroon including Mountain Trogon, Northern Trogon For more info on the economics of harbors a wide range of habitats from vast and Aztec Thrush. Starts and ends in Tucson, birding and how local business and lowland rainforests, montane forests on some of AZ. Limited to 7 participants. (Another way to Africa’s highest peaks, broad-leaved woodlands, see the Thick-billed Parrot and Eared Quetzal decisionmakers are taking notice, visit and in the far north, extensive Sahelian semi- is on our Madera trip, August 19-22, 2013) tucsonaudubon.org/birdingeconomics desert, and our unbeatable Cameroonian birding adventure visits and explore all of these zones. TROPICAL BIRDING­ Ecuador — South Ecuador Endemics: www.tropicalbirding.com 26 March to 10 April 2013 (16 days) Tour price [email protected] • 1-800-348-­5941 VF (per person): US$3,975 (Single supplement US$450) Please note: these prices are subject AVAILABLE to foreign exchange fluctuations. Our South IN OUR Ecuador endemics birding tour takes us to one NATURE ­ of the most diverse range of habitats in the world SHOPS tucsonaudubon.org/alliance to learn more about the products and services offered by our Bird & Business Alliance partners to look for a whole host of special and endemic birds. Within 200 miles of the Pacific Coast, $19.95

Visit Visit one can travel from the arid xerophytic habitat, JENNIE MACFARLAND $25.95 24 Tucson Audubon Vermilion Flycatcher January–March 2013 Visit tucsonaudubon.org for updates and more. Tucson Audubon thanks our Birds & Business TUCSON AUDUBON’S Alliance Members, who have shown their support for bird BIRDS & BUSINESS ALLIANCE 2010- 2011 conservation through annual contributions and in-kind donations. Please show them you appreciate Birds & Business Alliance their support for us by supporting them. Visit tucsonaudubon.org/alliance for more join ToDAY information, including links to member websites. and connect with the GOLD Costa’s Hummingbird / VirEo Freeport McMoRan Copper & Gold, Inc Tucson Audubon community Riverpark Inn • 800-551-1466 For more information and to join, contact Erin Olmstead at [email protected] or 520.629.0510 ext 7009. STERLING Adventure Birding Company • 520-495-0229 • www.adventurebirding.com Rockjumper BirdingTours • [email protected] • www.rockjumperbirding.com Solipaso Tours • www.solipaso.com Tropical Birding • 800-348-5941 • www.tropicalbirding.com Birds & Business EE n

gr SILVER i ALLIANCE Cox Communications TUCSON AUDUBON SOCIETY Paul & Eng- l Fiore Tile Works • 520-971-0677 Loews Ventana Canyon • 520-299-2020 • www.loewshotels.com Pima Federal Credit Union • 520-887-5010 COPPER THE TAS-IFIEDS Associated Benefits Specialists, Inc. • 520-219-1950 Bed and Bagels of Tucson • 520-603-1580 CLASSIFIED ADS RAMSEY Borderland Tours • www.borderland.tours.com Classified and display ads are accepted from Brooklyn Pizza Company • 520-622-6868 individual members and members of our Birds Casa de San Pedro B&B • www.bedandbirds.com & Business Alliance. Visit tucsonaudubon.org/ Country Inn & Suites • www.countryinns.com/ vfly for rates or contact Matt Griffiths mgriffiths@ tucsonaz_citycenter tucsonaudubon.org to book an ad. Down By the River B&B • 520-720-9441 Farmers Investment Co (FICO) • sahuaritafarms.ocm SOUTHWESTERN RESEARCH STATION, ROOST Financial Architects • www.financial-architects.com Portal, Arizona. http://research.amnh.org/swrs/ Six-day birding tours in April, May, and September Hughes Federal Credit Union • 520-794-8341 2013. Round trip is included from Tucson Inn at San Ignacio Condo Hotel • 1-888-450-5444 airport. Newly remodeled rooms! Also, individual Vacation Home Kimberlyn Drew, Realtor • 520-237-1408 accommodations are available for birders, hikers, Sierra Vista, Az. Leica Sport Optics and naturalists. Rates include meals, pool, and The Living Fence • 520-795-5300 great birding. For more information contact: 520- CLEAN. COMFORTABLE. AFFORDABLE. Merrill Lynch • www.fa.ml.com/Lori 558-2396; [email protected] This sprawling 1970’s home is set on 2 acres Metropolitan Tucson Convention & with great birding at 5,000 ft on the Huachu- Visitors Bureau • VisitTucson.org ca Mountains and famous Ramsey Canyon. A Naturalist Journeys • 866-900-1146 Nature & Heritage Festival: comfortable retreat for couples, families and Quailway Cottage • 520-558-0019 small groups. 4 bedrooms, 2.5 baths. Right Birding & History Radisson Suites Tucson • 520-721-7100 on the edge of the National Forest—birds along the Santa Cruz River Ravens-Way Wild Journeys • 520-425-6425 and wildlife in the yard. Walk out the door May 2-5, 2013 to great hiking and cycling in Brown and Sierra Vista Ranch • Sasabe, AZ Birding trips to Mexico: San Lazaro, Ramsey Canyons. Night Skies Community. Spirit Tree Inn B&B • 520-394-0121 Sonora; Rancho El Arababi and Sundance Press • 800-528-4827 Cocospera, Sonora. Southern phone 1-877-417-9224 Sunglow Ranch • www.sunglowranch.com Arizona: Sycamore Canyon, Pena www.VRBO.com search 406192 Blanca Lake, Patagonia Lake State Tucson Electric Power • www.tep.com VF Park, Sonoita Creek State Natural Area, Santa Cruz River and Las Lagunas. Program and registration: BIRDS & BEER Third Thursdays at Sky Bar: santacruznatureheritage.org 5–7 pm. Free slice of pizza, beer at happy hour *NEW prices, share your bird photos.

Visit tucsonaudubon.org for updates and more. January–March 2013 Vermilion Flycatcher Tucson Audubon 25 Support Tucson Audubon... TUCSON AUDUBON Become a Friend Today! NATURE SHOPS ANNUAL MEMBERSHIP SUBSCRIPTION ‰‰$35 ­Individual Contributor $100 q Tucson Audubon’s Nature Shops provide for your needs in natural history books and ‰‰$50 Family Supporter $25­0 q guides, birding optics and accessories, and gifts right here in Tucson. We offer a great ‰‰$30 ­ Senior Supporter* Guardian $500 q selection, the best prices, and member discounts. Remember to shop locally. ‰‰$25 ­Student* Steward $1000 q Leadership Circle $2500 q *Individual January to March 25% Off Specials Present the coupons below with your purchase at the Nature Shop to receive the discount. Name

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Email 25%off one regularly priced SEED item during the Phone month of January ‰‰ New ­membership q Renewing ­membership ‰‰ Please email me about Tucson Audubon events ­and conservation ­issues. *No other discounts apply. In store only. Valid in 2013 only. ‰‰ Please do not share my contact ­information. ‰‰ Please do not mail me Vermilion Flycatcher. I’ll read it online. DONATION ‰‰I would like to support Tucson Audubon Society with ­an additional contribution of q $25 q $50 q $100 q $­250. ‰‰ Tucson Audubon Frequent ­Flyer Monthly 25%off one regularly priced Donor ­Program: I authorize the charge of $____ per month for ____ months to my CLOTHING, HAT OR credit card ($10/month minimum). Tucson Audubon Society will ­use the full amount of your ­tax-­deductible JEWELRY item during gift for its environmental, educational and recreational ­programs. the month of February METHOD OF ­PAYMENT *No other discounts apply. In store only. Valid in 2013 only. ‰‰ Check (payable to Tucson Audubon Society) ‰‰ MasterCard q Visa q AMEX

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Signature 25%off one regularly priced Please send your application with payment ­to TOYS & ACTIVITIES Tucson Audubon Society,­ 300 E. University Blvd, #120, item during the month Tucson, AZ ­85705 of March (Attn: Jean Barchman, *No other discounts apply. In store only. Valid in 2013 only. Membership Coordinator) OR join, renew or ­donate online at www.tucsonaudubon.org Be sure to visit the Tucson Audubon Nature Shop at these upcoming festivals. Wings Over Willcox: January 16–20 Tucson Festival of Books: March 9–10 (see p 8)

26 Tucson Audubon Vermilion Flycatcher January–March 2013 Visit tucsonaudubon.org for updates and more. AUTHOR SPOTLIGHT Showing Us the Way

Tucson is proud to host David Wilcove on the When he served as Senior Ecologist for The and reveals a meticulous attention to detail coupled evening of January 30 at our fifth Annual Gala Wilderness Society, he developed the scientific with enormous feeling. Enjoy these illuminating where he will share with us his insights on foundation for the Society’s campaign to protect the books, have David sign your copies at the Gala, animal migration. David is an avid birder. He ancient forests of the Pacific Northwest. and feel his passion when he talks with us. is also Professor of Public Affairs and Ecology David’s passion for nature guides the work of a For a preview, listen to him interviewed on and Evolutionary Biology at the Woodrow group of distinguished research students that uses the radio by Terry Gross at npr.org/templates/ Wilson School and an accomplished popular a combination of ecology, economics, and policy story/story.php?storyId=16919118, and search for communicator. research to find workable solutions to challenging David’s interviews on YouTube. David was formerly Senior Ecologist at conservation issues. Paul Green Environmental Defense in Washington, DC David has published more than 100 books, Executive Director where he focused on developing economically reports, book chapters, and a variety of popular and scientifically sound policies for protecting articles and columns, including the two books endangered species. reviewed below. Each book is completely gripping,

AUTHOR DAVID WILCOVE IS THE SPEAKER AT OUR FIFTH ANNUAL GALA, JANUARY 30

The Condor’s Shadow: $16.50 as well as a basic resource for environmentalists outfit dragonflies with transmitters weighing less With gripping narrative power, The Condor’s and policy makers.”—Publishers Weekly (starred than one one-hundredth of an ounce. Shadow traces the ways in which human greed review) Scientific discoveries and advanced and ignorance have wreaked havoc on our technologies are helping us to understand ecological landscape. No Way Home: $24.95 migrations better, but alone, they won’t stop sea The heir apparent to Peter Matthiessen’s 1959 Animal migration is a magnificent sight: a mile- turtles and songbirds from going the way of the classic Wildlife in America, The long blanket of cranes rising from a Nebraska bison or passenger pigeon. What’s required is Condor’s Shadow is a brilliant river and filling the sky; hundreds of thousands the commitment and cooperation of the far-flung and compulsively readable of wildebeests marching across the Serengeti; a countries migrants cross—long before extinction study of the state of North blaze of orange as millions of monarch butterflies is a threat. As Wilcove writes, “protecting the American wildlife and what spread their wings to take flight. Nature’s great abundance of migration is key to protecting the is being done to reverse the migrations have captivated countless spectators, glory of migration.” No Way Home offers powerful damage humans have caused. none more so than premier ecologist David S. inspiration to preserve those glorious journeys. VF With equal respect for the Wilcove. In No Way Home, his awe is palpable—as Common Ground smallest feather-mite and the are the growing threats to migratory animals. fiercest grizzly, the frailest We may be witnessing a dying phenomenon among many species. Migration has always been TUCSON AUDUBON flower and the stateliest NATURE SHOPS redwood, David S. Wilcove arduous, but today’s travelers face unprecedented When you support your local Tucson illustrates—in jargon-free, often witty dangers. Skyscrapers and cell towers lure birds Audubon Society you are supporting birds prose—nature’s delicate system of checks and and bats to untimely deaths, fences and farms and bird habitat conservation. Thank you! balances, examining the factors that determine block herds of antelope, salmon are caught en a species’ vulnerability and the consequences of route between ocean and river, breeding and SHOP HOURS losing even the tiniest part of any ecosystem. An wintering grounds are paved over or plowed, and global warming disrupts the synchronized MAIN SHOP examination of both the heart-wrenching failures Monday–Saturday 10 am–4 pm, and stunning successes of our conservation efforts, schedules of predators and prey. The result is a Phone: 629-0510 ext 7015 The Condor’s Shadow chronicles the destruction dramatic decline in the number of migrants. On the southeast corner of University Blvd and 5th Avenue. and resilience of our American wilderness and Wilcove guides us on their treacherous journeys, AGUA CALIENTE PARK SHOP offers an insightful, eloquent overview that will describing the barriers to migration and January– March Wednesday 10 am–1 pm, appeal to avid conservationists and recreational exploring what compels animals Thursday 9 am–2:30 pm, Friday–Saturday, 10 am–2:30 pm nature-lovers alike. to keep on trekking. He also brings to life the adventures of Phone: 760-7881 “Well conceived and very well written—It should From Tanque Verde Rd and Houghton, continue east on scientists who study migrants. Tanque Verde 2 miles. Turn left (north) onto Soldier Trail, serve to clarify hard decisions that our nation Often as bold as their subjects, continue north for 2 miles. Turn right (east) onto Roger Rd, must face in regard to habitat preservation for researchers speed wildly along continue ¼ mile to the park entrance on the left (north). the future.”—Peter Matthiessen deserted roads to track birds When you need a book, think of “This engaging report, sprinkled with sensible, soaring overhead, explore glaciers Tucson Audubon Nature Shops first! targeted solutions to specific problems, is in search of frozen locusts, and Support your local book store. essential reading for concerned nature lovers,

Visit tucsonaudubon.org for updates and more. January–March 2013 Vermilion Flycatcher Tucson Audubon 27 NON-PROFIT ORG US POSTAGE PAID TUCSON, AZ 300 E University Blvd, #120 PERMIT #1345 Tucson, AZ 85705

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Vermilion Flycatcher Volume 58, Number 1, January–March 2013 © 2013 Tucson Audubon Society The Vermilion Flycatcher is the newsletter of the Tucson Audubon Society, a chapter of the National Audubon Society. National Audubon Society members and members of other chapters may receive the Flycatcher by becoming a Friend of Tucson Audubon. See membership at www.tucsonaudubon.org.

Our rivers, A River of Birds our birds TUCSON AUDUBON’S FIFTH ANNUAL GALA JANUARY 30, 2013 • HILTON EL CONQUISTADOR RESORT

Silent Auction • Live Birds • Banquet • With your help, Presentation by Professor David Wilcove, author, researcher, birder both will thrive Call Jean Barchman at 520-209-1802 or Reservations from $150. For sponsorship information or to reserve your place, visit tucsonaudubon.org/donate to make please contact Erin Olmstead at 520-209-1809 or [email protected] your tax-deductible donation today.

EVENTS CALENDAR page 5 • LIVING WITH NATURE page 6 • Visit tucsonaudubon.org for event updates

28 Tucson Audubon Vermilion Flycatcher January–March 2013