VOLUME 42 | NUMBER 1 | SPRING 2012 SUGGESTED RETAIL: $7.50 CDN Nature Alberta CELEBRATING OUR NATURAL HERITAGE

SEE “ON THE COVERS” (PAGE 2) AND THE FEATURE STORY (PAGE 24). SANDRA HAWKINS

feature article Wildfl owers: Nature’s Laughter NATURE ALBERTA BUFFALO LAKE NATURALISTS ON ONE OF THEIR EXCITING NATURE HIKES; SEE STORY PG 46. CHARLEY BIRD

BISON AROUND A WALLOW; SEE STORY PG 28. RICK PRICE

JOE IS BACK! SEE “ON THE COVERS” (PAGE 2). HOLLE HAHN SPRING 2012 1 Nature Alberta: Nature Alberta is composed of natural history clubs from across the Celebrating our natural heritage province. The aims of the Federation are: (a) To encourage among all Albertans, by all means possible, an increase in their knowledge of natural history and understanding of ecological processes; (b) To promote an increase in the exchange of information and views among natural history clubs and societies in Alberta; (c) To foster and assist in the formation of additional natural history clubs and societies in Alberta; Contents (d) To promote the establishment of natural areas and nature reserves, to conserve and protect species, communities or other features of interest; NATURE ALBERTA VOLUME 42, NUMBER 1, SPRING 2012 (e) To organize, or coordinate symposia, conferences, fi eld meetings, nature camps, research and other activities whether of a similar or Editor’s Page BY DENNIS BARESCO ...... 3 dissimilar nature; (f) To provide the naturalists of Alberta with a forum in which questions Letters to the Editor ...... 4 relating to the conservation of the natural environment may be Alberta Issues in Brief ...... 5 discussed, so that united positions can be developed on them, and to provide the means of translating these positions into appropriate actions. In Memoriam ...... 7 BOARD OF DIRECTORS Nature Diary: A Twelve Year Wait: PRESIDENT: Ted Hindmarch Photographing Cedar Waxwings BY DEBBIE AND ALAN GODKIN ...... 8 VICE PRESIDENT: Vacant SECRETARY: Margot Hervieux Book Review: Wolves in Canada ...... 10 TREASURER: Christine Brown PAST PRESIDENT: Chuck Priestley Nature Alberta News ...... 11 APPOINTED DIRECTORS: Christine Brown, Ted Hindmarch, Geoff Holroyd, Summer means “Living by Water” BY JESSE HITCHCOCK ...... 15 Chuck Priestley, Linda Howitt-Taylor ELECTED DIRECTORS: Chrissie Smith (ANPC); Claudia Cameron, (BLN); Book Review: Arctic Naturalist: The Life of J. Dewey Soper ...... 17 Lynne Colborne (CFNS); Lu Carbyn, (ENC); Grant Henry (FMFNS); Martha Munz-Gue, (GN); Ted Johnson (LLBBS); Lloyd Bennett (LNS); Close to Home: Nature Photography in Alberta BY JOHN WARDEN ...... 18 Margot Hervieux (PPN); Tony Blake (RDRN); Vacant (VRNS); AKAYO’KAKI A’PAWAAWAHKAA BY RYAN HEAVY HEAD ...... 21 STAFF: Petra Rowell (Exec. Dir.); Vid Bijelic Book Review: On Rare Birds ...... 23 CORPORATE MEMBER CLUBS Alberta Native Plant Council, Box 52099, Garneau P.O. Edmonton, AB FEATURE ARTICLE: Wildfl owers: Nature’s Laughter BY SANDRA C. HAWKINS ..24 T6G 2T5 BONES, STONES, and the GRASSLANDS BY ROB GARDNER ...... 28 Buffalo Lake Naturalists, Box 1802, Stettler, AB T0C 2L0 Nature Calgary (CFNS), Box 981, Calgary, AB T2P 2K4 A “Big Day” in Alberta! BY YOUSIF ATTIA ...... 31 Edmonton Nature Club, Box 1111, Edmonton, AB T5J 2M1 Fort McMurray Field Naturalists Society, 152 Cote Bay, Fort McMurray, AB Year of the Bat ...... 34 T9H 4R9 Alberta Tomorrow Now Publicly Available ...... 35 Grasslands Naturalists, Box 2491, Medicine Hat, AB T1A 8G8 Lac La Biche Birding Society, Box 1270, Lac La Biche, AB T0A 2C0 First Hand: A Surprise Dove BY DR. CHARLEY BIRD ...... 36 Lethbridge Naturalists Society, Box 1691, Lethbridge, AB T1J 4K4 First Hand: Goose Attack! BY DENNIS BARESCO ...... 37 Peace Parkland Naturalists, Box 1451, Grande Prairie, AB T8V 4Z2 Red Deer River Naturalists, Box 785, Red Deer, AB T4N 5H2 Wildlife! Starring…What’s Going On under the Snow? ...... 38 Vermilion River Naturalists, 5707 - 47 Avenue, Vermilion, AB T9X 1K5

Up Close Naturally: Green Lakes are Good Lakes BY MARGOT HERVIEUX ...... 40 AFFILIATES: BY FAHIM HASSAN Alberta Lake Management Society Friends of Jasper National Park When Love is in the Air ...... 41 Alberta Lepidopterists’ Guild Friends of Little Beaver Lake Society A Letter to the Future BY LORNE FITCH ...... 42 Alberta Mycological Society Grant MacEwan Mountain Club Alberta Stewardship Network Heritage Tree Foundation of Canada Celestial Happenings BY JOHN MCFAUL ...... 45 Beaverhill Bird Observatory J.J. Collett Natural Area Foundation Beaver River Naturalist Club Lee Nature Sanctuary Society Club Page ...... 46 Big Lake Environmental Support Society Lesser Slave Lake Bird Observatory BowKan Birders Purple Martin Conservancy Calgary Bird Banding Society Riverlot 56 Natural Area Society PUBLISHED QUARTERLY BY NATURE ALBERTA, Cochrane Environmental Action Stewards of Alberta’s Protected Areas Committee Association 11759 GROAT ROAD, EDMONTON, AB T5M 3K6 Crooked Creek Conservancy Society The Wagner Natural Area Society PHONE.780.427.8124 FAX.780.422.2663 Crowsnest Conservation Society Weaselhead/Glenmore Park [email protected] Edmonton Naturalization Group Preservation Society Ellis Bird Farm Wizard Lake Watershed and Lake Fort Saskatchewan Naturalist Society Stewardship Assoc. EDITOR.DENNIS BARESCO Friends of Blackfoot Society [email protected] CIRCULATION.TED HINDMARCH LAYOUT.BROKEN ARROW SOLUTIONS INC. CELEBRATE NATURE ALBERTA THANKS TO THE PROOFREADERS WHO ASSISTED IN PRODUCING THIS ISSUE: SERVING NATURE FOR OVER 43 YEARS!!! ELAINE CATHCART, SANDRA FOSS, ELAINE GERMYN, VAL SCHOLEFIELD, JUNE VERMEULEN. MANY THANKS TO THIS ISSUE’S CONTRIBUTORS EDITORIAL DISCLAIMER WANT TO SUBMIT ARTICLES NATURE ALBERTA DEADLINES ARE: The opinions expressed by the authors in this publication do not necessarily refl ect those of the editor and the Federation of Alberta OR PHOTOS? SPRING ISSUE.FEBRUARY 14 Naturalists. The editor reserves the right to edit, reject or withdraw GUIDELINES ARE AVAILABLE ON SUMMER ISSUE.MAY 15 articles submitted. While due care will be taken of all manuscripts, photos THE NATURE ALBERTA WEBSITE: FALL ISSUE.AUGUST 15 or artwork submitted, FAN cannot be held responsible for any loss or WWW.NATUREALBERTA.CA WINTER ISSUE.NOVEMBER 15 damage to such articles. 2 NatureAlberta On the Covers: FRONT COVER “The warming sun of spring elicits its annual explosion of colour on the prairie,” says Sandra Hawkins in the Feature Story, “Wildfl owers: Nature’s Laughter” (page 24). The cover photos defi nitely testify to that! Can you name the fl owers in the collage? Give it a try; the answers are on page 26.

INSIDE FRONT COVER Buffalo Lake Naturalists, a Nature Alberta Corporate Club, may be small but its members are amazingly active naturalists whose hikes take them to beautiful natural places – such as seen in Past episodes of the weekly TV Claudia Cameron’s photo. For more about Buffalo show, Let’s Go Outdoors, with Lake Naturalists, see the article on page 46. Michael Short, are now posted “Look what came out of the culvert this morning,” writes Holle Hahn. “I named him Joe. Looks like he is pretty old and must be a survivor – just online for on-demand viewing. look at his teeth! I think it’s the same one who came marching down the You can always fi nd them at road last Winter. Sure made us smile!” You’ve seen Holle’s photos before www.letsgooutdoors.ca. in Nature Alberta and they almost always make the rest of us smile, too! Dust rises from a wallow amidst a grazing herd of bison and abundant sage, fl owers and rock. Rick Price’s perfect illustration tells a great story – but it is only part of the story; for the rest, see “Bones, Stones and Grasslands” on page 28.

INSIDE BACK COVER Spring fl owers invariably attract naturalists… but they also invariably attract an overwhelming number of insects: from bees to butterfl ies to beetles to little things you can barely see! paintbrush, orchids, crocus, cinqfoil and…can “You can’t be suspicious you name the butterfl y and its hosting fl ower? of a tree, or accuse a bird or a squirrel of subversion or challenge the ideology of a violet.” HAL BORLAND, SUNDIAL OF THE SEASONS, BACK COVER 1964 Len Pettitt was in the Forestburg AB area on April 4th of this year when a fl ock of Sandhill Cranes fl ew over in tight formation. Len always has his camera (a Nikon D80) at-the-ready, and the result is a great photo of a spectacular bird.

Want to Switch your subscription from hard copy to the full Phone today: (780) 427.8124; or Switch? COLOUR e-version and get even GREATER enjoyment Email us: [email protected] or of Nature Alberta while REDUCING paper use. [email protected] SPRING 2012 3 Editor’s Page BY DENNIS BARESCO

Natural Alberta during spring is delicious, as it is in most regions. The positive quotes and clichés describing spring are endless – and they’re all true! Said Longfellow, summing up:

“Came the Spring, with all its splendor, All its birds and all its blossoms, All its fl owers, and leaves, and grasses.”

Thus, this edition of Nature and humans alike cannot be “No! These things have Alberta celebrates spring with underestimated.” happened, are happening stories and photos of fl owers – now or could happen in the Even the Pembina Institute’s the Feature Story and “Wildlife foreseeable future….Perhaps press release, reprinted in Starring”; birds – like the glorious a dose of reality about those the Issues section, is highly back cover photo of Sandhill things that are important will positive. It is a reaction to the Cranes; fresh beginnings – Nature focus our attention on the federal government’s gutting of Alberta’s 2012-2013 Board; task at hand.” environmental assessment. You’d celebration of the past – Nature have to be pretty jaded, deranged It is impossible, obviously, to fi nd Alberta awards; new seasons – or ethically dead to consider solutions when we don’t even Living by Water; colours – John ecological destruction a positive know the problem. Naturalists Warden’s column; and…well, and informing the public to be and environmentalists are too you’ll see as you read the whole a negative, especially under the often considered alarmist simply edition. reality that very little of Canada has for stating the facts, but if people There’s even positive praise for any ecological protection. Even our seriously and objectively thought the Alberta government in the National Parks – whose mandate about it, they’d probably be Alberta Issues in Brief section is extremely positive – are coming saying: “Wow, I didn’t know that. (page 5). In that same section is a under assault from the feds, as Thank goodness someone out story about a new Nature Canada mentioned in previous Nature there is concerned enough to tell report. At fi rst glance, it may Albertas. me.” seem to be about protestations If you happen to read Lorne It must be said that facts alone and environmental degradation, Fitch’s column, “A Letter to the will not convince most people of but in fact this report, like Nature Future” – and please do; it is very a problem. Our brains are hard- Canada’s other three reports on interesting – you might consider wired to react to emotion long Canada’s National Wildlife Areas it, as Lorne questions: “Is my letter before fact. But emotion-fi rst, fact- and Migratory Bird Sanctuaries, alarmist, engaged in hyperbole; is later is a topic for another time. is a very positive effort outlining it too sardonic, unduly pessimistic, Just remember, naturalists: solutions to maintain areas or overly cynical?” But Lorne is that are, and deserve to be, We are all very positive in what we emphatic in stating the answer to protected. As the article says, say and do; pointing out reality is that: their “importance to wildlife simply one part of being positive. 4 NatureAlberta

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Appreciation for the recognition

Many thanks for sending me an and its intention of getting the knowledge, and commitment to electronic copy of the Winter area recognized as a Biosphere the stewardship workshops that 2012 issue of Nature Alberta. On Reserve under UNESCO’s Man and have been hosted by the BHI behalf of both myself and the Biosphere Program. We are truly and Elk Island National Park over Beaver Hills Initiative [BHI] as a indebted to Nature Alberta for the past number of months. We whole I would like to express our featuring the BHI in your excellent look forward to our continued grateful appreciation to Nature magazine. cooperation in the future. Many Alberta for including the two thanks once again. In addition, we have benefi ted articles in the magazine. They greatly from Ted’s [Ted provide an invaluable exposure GUY SWINNERTON Hindmarch, Nature Alberta and promotion to what the Beaver [Guy is Chair of the BHI’s President] active participation, Hills Initiative is undertaking Protected Areas Working Group.]

Albertabird has New List Owner

Albertabird has been in existence Ted did a wonderful job and we to content and tone of your posts. for over 12 years and recently thank him most sincerely. We can then look forward with passed the 20,000 message mark. confi dence to the next decade in We’re pleased to announce that During that time, we have had the life of Albertabird! Gerald Romanchuk, well-known only two Owners: Pat Scholefi eld Edmonton birder and frequent GERALD ROMANCHUK, PHIL CRAM, and Ted Hindmarch. Phil Cram MIKE MULLIGAN contributor to Albertabird, has and Mike Mulligan were among agreed to take over the reins the “founding fathers” and have as Owner. Actually, Gerald has served since the beginning as already been acting as Owner for “alternates”, helping out as and a few months, so he is fully up-to- WHAT IS ALBERTABIRD? when necessary. speed. Phil and Mike will continue AlbertaBird is an unmoderated A while ago, Ted decided that to provide back-up whenever discussion list comprised of other commitments, including Gerald needs it. persons interested in the birds as President of Nature Alberta, Thanks to all of you for your of Alberta. Founded Jan 13, meant he wasn’t able to continue contributions which enhance the 2000, it has approximately 713 with his Albertabird role. The list birding experience for everyone. members. AlbertaBird speaks owes Ted an enormous debt of Keep us informed on your for no group; it is simply gratitude for the several years he interesting sightings and outings, birders talking and sharing put in as List Owner. The Owner tell us about your favorite places thoughts – and photographs – usually works behind the scenes to bird in Alberta and ask your with other birders. to make things run smoothly. bird-related questions. Please Like a good referee in a sporting For more information or to sign remember to sign your posts, event you’re barely aware of his/ up: groups.yahoo.com/group/ and adhere at all times to the list her presence. Like Pat before him, Albertabird. guidelines, especially with respect SPRING 2012 5

ALBERTA ISSUES IN BRIEF

Fish-traffi cking ring bust

On March 11, Nature Alberta sent activities. As well, the investigation that prosecutors will push for the the letter below to Frank Oberle, illustrates the necessity and maximum penalties, if not for all the Minister of Alberta Sustainable potential of a strong, well-funded, twenty-seven of those charged, then Resource Development, copied to the well-staffed, enforcement division. at least for those determined to be the relevant staff. major players. Maximum penalties are Healthy fi sheries in Alberta’s lakes appropriate, considering: the length Nature Alberta would like to are important to Nature Alberta and diffi culty of the investigation; that congratulate our hard-working Fish because they are synonymous this was allegedly a well-organized & Wildlife Enforcement offi cers on with a properly balanced aquatic crime ring; the size and scope of the their recent successful investigation ecosystem that provides numerous illegal activity; and that strong penalties into a fi sh-traffi cking ring that has environmental, social, and will act as a major deterrent. resulted in seventy-two charges. economic benefi ts. The importance of such work by Thank you. The illegal fi sh harvests are undoing enforcement offi cers cannot be a lot of the hard and patient work TED HINDMARCH, under-stated for the future of our President, Nature Alberta (Federation of that went into rebuilding Pigeon wildlife and for sending a message Alberta Naturalists) Lake’s fi sh populations. We hope to those who take part in poaching The Underlying Threat Nature Canada has produced a unlike National Parks, the Wildlife on report, The Underlying Threat: boundaries of National Wildlife a Shoestring Addressing Subsurface Threats in Areas (NWA) and Migratory Budget (2002), Environment Canada’s Protected Bird Sanctuaries (MBS) do not Wildlife In Areas, to draw attention to, and effectively extend below the Crisis (2004), provide solutions to address, land surface to prevent resource and Protecting the increasingly important issue extraction. While the regulations Canada’s of subsurface protection in that protect NWAs and MBSs Wild Species Environment Canada’s protected strictly prevent any mining or oil and Spaces areas. Simply stated, this means and gas-related activities without a (2006). These protecting the natural resources federal permit, it is not clear how reports and other below the land surface in the same well and to what extent permitting Nature Canada publications are available way as the natural resources – like can truly protect these sites under electronically on their website: water, plants, and other wildlife the existing legal framework. www.naturecanada.ca. – on the surface. Subsurface land Yet their importance to wildlife protection is important to the and humans alike cannot be For more information or a copy of the full-length overall ecological integrity of new underestimated. version of The Underlying Threat, contact Nature and existing protected areas. The Underlying Threat is Nature Canada at: This issue is of concern across the Canada’s fourth in a series of Nature Canada, 75 Albert Street, Suite 300, country, including in Alberta where reports highlighting the state of Ottawa, ON K1P 5E7; OR resource extraction is rampant. One Canada’s National Wildlife Areas 1-800-267-4088 (phone) might ask: why would “protected and Migratory Bird Sanctuaries. 613-563-3371 (fax) areas” be under threat? Because Their reports include Conserving [email protected] • www.naturecanada.ca. 6 NatureAlberta

Pembina reacts to federal government plans to weaken environmental assessment

Press Release (April 17, 2012) “At a time when the level of CALGARY — Simon Dyer, policy proposed resource development CONTACT: director at the Pembina Institute, — particularly in the oilsands — is Simon Dyer made the following statement in increasing, the federal government Policy Director response to Natural Resources needs to enhance its oversight of Cell: 403-322-3937 Minister Joe Oliver’s announcement these projects. The government Julia Kilpatrick that the federal government will may say it is committed to more Communications Manager weaken environmental oversight of effi cient and effective decision- Cell: 613-265-5579 resource development projects. The making, but its plans to cut the Pembina Institute is a non-partisan budget of the agency charged BACKGROUND sustainable energy think tank. with making those decisions OP-ED: “Faulty premise underlies by 40 per cent undermines the “With the proposed changes to Budget 2012 ‘streamlining’ of government’s ability to deliver on the federal environmental review environmental review process” that commitment. process, Canadians will get The following documents indicate weaker, less-informed decision- “The federal environmental review that some provinces lack the capacity making, sloppy environmental process is generally more rigorous to properly assess the environmental protection by resource developers, than provincial assessments and impacts of resource development and an increased likelihood of evidence suggests provinces like projects: environmental impacts. Alberta do not have adequate capacity to properly review LETTER: Government of Alberta says it “Independent observers like the projects on their own. There doesn’t have the resources to appear Royal Society of Canada have is no question that the federal at a hearing into a proposed oilsands stated that Canada needs to government’s proposed changes project strengthen its role in environmental will unnecessarily weaken assessment in the oilsands, but the DOCUMENT: Alberta government environmental protection for federal government’s plan takes delegates environmental review Canadians.” Canada in the opposite direction. responsibilities to industry consultants

Advertising in Nature Alberta

Nature Alberta is now accepting a limited Full details, including rates and sizes, are available at: number of advertisements for future issues. online: www.naturealberta.ca Ad rates vary from $35 (business card size) to email: [email protected] $249 (full page), X2 for colour. phone: (780) 427 – 8124 SPRING 2012 7

In Memoriam Tom Maccagno 1939 – 2012 BY GLEN SEMENCHUK Glen Semenchuk was Executive Director of Federation of Alberta Naturalists during Tom’s stint as a Director.

The Lac la the Province with specifi c reference Tom was an avid supporter of Biche Birding to north-eastern Alberta. He was FAN’s Important Bird Areas Program Society fi led quite adamant that the Government and fostered a close relationship a ten page of Alberta was cutting the funding between the program and the membership of fi sheries projects and staffi ng members of his Society. Even after application in Lakeland Country. He indicated leaving the Board, he participated with the that the Sports Fishing guide and in a number of FAN programs. He Federation the Conservation magazine were never failed to contact the FAN LAC LA BICHE POST of Alberta misguided and in fact he had fi led a offi ce when a fi sh or wildlife issue Naturalists (FAN, now called personal complaint with the Auditor arose in Lakeland Country, like Nature Alberta) to be considered at General. the placement of bird monitoring their April 2000 Board meeting in cameras on one of the islands in Lac Over his term as a FAN Director, Medicine Hat. la Biche. Tom continued to raise the issue Their representative at that of underfunding of fi sheries He was not reluctant to share his meeting, Tom Maccagno, gave an management. His contention opinions and advice with the FAN impassioned presentation outlining was that the underfunding was a Executive Director especially when the benefi ts that their organization deliberate action to ensure that fi sh the organization’s positions were not would bring to the Federation. He conservation issues did not get in quite in line with his. Even when it detailed their past participation in the way of resource development. differed, his advice was sound and FAN bird projects, detailing the fact His encouragement was the fi rst respected. He was a friend. that they had recorded 176 species step in FAN adopting a policy on Thomas R. Maccagno passed away in the 1999 May Species Count. The fi sh management in the province. in Edmonton on January 7, 2012. FAN Board accepted the Society It was interesting that when FAN Nature Alberta extends our sincere as a full Corporate Club of the passed this policy and circulated it sympathies to Tom’s family. Federation. Their representative – to the Members of the Legislative Tom – then joined the Board as a Assembly, about thirty Director. of them responded, thanking FAN for the As his fi rst presentation showed, information as it high- Tom put passion into all things lighted issues of which that he held dear. He did not they previously had little take long to encourage FAN to be or no knowledge. more active as advocates for the environment and to expand its normal areas of interest. At his fi rst meeting he shared his concerns A PAIR OF AMERICAN AVOCETS IN regarding fi sheries management in LOCKSTEP AT MISSAWAWI LAKE. TOM MACCAGNO DEBBIE GODKIN

8 NatureAlberta Nature Diary: A Twelve Year Wait: Photographing Cedar Waxwings BY DEBBIE AND ALAN GODKIN

Years ago, we hung a bird feeder from an old poplar tree branch and placed a bird bath nearby, both of which can be seen from our living room window.

The Cedar Waxwings are the of the apple tree and I always last birds to return in the spring. come away with a kinked neck Every year for 12 years a fl ock and several photos of their white pulled down over my ears to stave off of fi ve to fi fteen birds shows up underbellies. the cold wind, but I needed them for between May 28th and June 4th another reason I hadn’t considered: One chilly spring day I spent and descends on the apple tree to droppings, that were fi rm enough to two hours sitting near the tree, feast on the blossoms. While one fl ick off with my gloved hand. waiting for the Cedars to move or two pairs nest here most years, down to feed, but without any But moving under the tree worked, as it’s only during this short one to luck. The window of opportunity these quiet birds that are never in a two hour feeding fest that I get a to photograph the Cedars was hurry started to move down. Then I got close-up look at them. closing fast, as the wind had trigger happy, taking several shots of Every spring, in what’s become picked up and was stripping the them front-on. Finally one bird turned to a yearly ritual, I try for a few tree of its blossoms. I decided to give me that perfect side view, I pressed respectable photographs of these get right in under the tree where the shutter only to hear the whirrrr beautiful birds, but they usually I wouldn’t be as visible. I had of the fi lm rewinding, which sent the remain high up near the top my jacket zipped up and my hat Cedars back up to the top of the tree. I retired to the warmth of the house muttering, “There’s always next year”. Several years later, the weather was nice and there were over thirty Cedar Waxwings in the tree; for a change I wasn’t looking at their underbellies. They were actually feeding down low

Like many naturalists, Debbie and Alan Godkin, from Westlock AB, have numerous stories of their experiences with nature – stories they love to share with other naturalists in this “NATURE DIARY” series!

DEBBIE GODKIN SPRING 2012 9

DEBBIE GODKIN

and not obscured by any branches, to the other, who passed it right and eat their catch, while another nor did they retreat to the top of back. If it could talk I think it may group darted out to fl y-catch and then the tree on my approach. have said, “No thank you, I’m another. The whole scene looked like stuffed”. After they passed it back a well choreographed dance set to Armed with a digital camera and and forth two more times, the fi rst music no less. They were whistling lots of room on the card, I started one ate what was left of it. Dixie with the emphasis on the e-e-e snapping like crazy, making up the whole time. for past years. Several pictures How time fl ies when you’re later I started to pay attention having fun. It was nearly 8 pm, The Cedars all left within a few hours to composition and settings. time to call it a day, when of their arrival except for six birds Satisfi ed that I had captured some suddenly the air fi lled with fl ying which hung around for over a week, respectable pictures, I put the ants. The blossoms became passé cleaning up the remaining blossoms camera down and just observed to the Cedars. Several birds darted and making good use of the bird bath. these sociable birds. out at the same time and caught I only had to wait 12 years to get a the insects with amazing grace Two were sitting side by side on a close up look at these birds, but it was and agility, then returned to perch branch when one passed a blossom well worth the wait.

DEBBIE GODKIN DEBBIE GODKIN 10 NatureAlberta

BOOK REVIEW Wolves in Canada REVIEW BY: MICHELLE BACON It’s rare to fi nd a book about of wolves that have lived in wildlife that focuses solely on a Canada, and does an excellent job species within its Canadian range. explaining the differences – and The book Wolves in Canada by Erin similarities – between the four main McCloskey is an exception, and as a subspecies that still exist in Canada. reader it’s a nice change – especially The second part of the book when the topic is wolves, about describes the changes in the way which there is abundant literature humans have viewed wolves over about their persecution and re- time and in different cultures. By Erin McCloskey. Lone Pine introduction in the United States. McCloskey demonstrates that from Publishing, 2011 Paperback; 5.5” x 8.5”; McCloskey describes her book best the role of wolves as a symbol for 208 pages; 978-1-55105-872-6 • $18.95 when she writes in the preface First Nations stories and cultures, that “this book is neither a fi eld to the vilifi cation by Europeans she talks about have changed guide nor a glossy photographic because they represented the ‘wild’ and/or been cancelled. There is celebration of a charismatic species. that settlers were trying to tame, to no doubt she should describe This book is in recognition of an the Green and wolf conservation management programs, but while icon of the Canadian wilderness: movements that have developed in books are timeless, government the wolf” (p. 11). As a self-professed the 20th Century, the relationship programs are not, and the end wolf conservationist, McCloskey between Canadians and wolves has result is that this section is outdated has clearly done extensive research evolved and is ever-changing. just 2 years after writing it. to write a book that covers all The fi nal section is about wolf Wolves in Canada has provided aspects of wolf biology, history, management strategies in Canada. a lot of information about wolves and management in Canada; her McCloskey summarizes current fur and is nicely written, but I’m topics range from reproduction to trade, followed by hunting and not sure who the audience will the role in Native American cultures trapping regulations throughout be. Readers, especially any to past and present wolf activists. the country. The author provides professional biologists, who are Her opinion that the wolf is an icon an extensive description of various familiar with wolves will fi nd this of the Canadian wilderness, and government control programs that book summarizing information thus part of our national identity, have occurred in western Canada, they already know or can fi nd in creates a bias which is quite obvious and fi nally describes human-wolf scientifi c journals. Readers who throughout the book. confl icts resulting from depredation. enjoy wildlife stories and novels The fi rst section of Wolves in I struggled through this section for will fi nd that the overload of data Canada examines aspects of wolf two reasons: 1) the author’s bias and lack of story-telling makes it natural history and status, with clearly affected the way in which dry. Wolf conservationists will likely extensive detail about population she presented the information appreciate the dedication of the estimates and densities in different about livestock depredation; and author and celebration of wolves parts of the country, pack sizes, 2) McCloskey did not emphasize presented in this book. Those prey species, etc. One of the most that the information she was who seek an unbiased education interesting parts of this section for presenting was current only as of should read the fi nal section with a me was the author’s discussion of 2010 when she wrote the book; in critical awareness that the author’s the taxonomy of wolves. McCloskey the two years since then, several love of wolves has infl uenced the describes the 17 subspecies government management projects objectivity of her writing.

Michelle Bacons was NA’s Living by Water Coordinator in 2011 and is now a biologist with Sustainable Resource Development in Grande Prairie. Her article, “The Prairie Cougar,” was the Feature Story in the Winter 2009 (Vol 38, #4) edition of Nature Alberta. SPRING 2012 11

Nature Alberta NEWS ANNOUNCING Awards Night! the Nature Alberta Board for 2012 At the Saturday April 14th Awards banquet at the Chateau Louis in Edmonton, three The Board of Directors Meeting and Annual General dedicated and highly active naturalists were Meeting, held April 14-15 in Edmonton, is when the honoured by Nature Alberta. Banquet speaker Executive and Appointed Directors are elected by the was Brian Eaton (Ph.D., P.Biol.), from Alberta Board. Innovates (previously the Alberta Research Council). Dr Eaton’s topic was amphibians FOR 2012, THE EXECUTIVE TEAM IS: and their ecology and aquatic habitat. • President: Ted Hindmarch (an Appointed Director)

• Secretary: Margot Hervieux (an Elected Director SPEAKER BRIAN EATON BROUGHT SOME LIFE TO HIS representing Peace Parkland Naturalists) PRESENTATION! VID BIJELIC • Treasurer: Christine Brown (a new Appointed Director and former Nature Alberta Executive Assistant) • Past President: Chuck Priestley (this position is classed as an Additional Appointed Director) • Vice President: The position is vacant at this time.

NEW DIRECTORS FROM CORPORATE CLUBS ARE: • Martha Munz-Gue (Grasslands Naturalists); Marty Drut will be the Alternate • Lynne Colborne (Nature Calgary); Scott Jubinville will be the Alternate NA DIRECTOR CLAUDIA CAMERON AND OTHER GUESTS GET THE APPOINTED DIRECTORS: FEEL OF NATURE! VID BIJELIC • New Appointed Directors are Dr.Geoff Holroyd, Linda Howitt-Taylor and Christine Brown, all from Edmonton. They will join the other Appointed Director Ted Hindmarch.

RETIRING DIRECTORS: • Four appointed Directors have retired from the Board after many years of volunteer service: Dennis Baresco, Dawn Dickinson, Sandra Foss and Don Stiles. However, they will all continue in their other volunteer roles with Nature Alberta. For a full list of all Directors, Executive and Clubs, see the Contents page, right-hand sidebar. 12 NatureAlberta

HONOURARY LIFE MEMBER Margot was once President of the child, birding mostly by ear until he AWARD: MARGOT HERVIEUX Edmonton Natural History Club and could afford binoculars. He moved The Honourary Life Member a director of the Edmonton Bird to Calgary in 1993 and became an Award recognizes individuals for Club. active member of the Calgary Field substantial volunteer contributions Naturalists’ Society (now Nature Those who know Margot know over a period of time furthering Calgary) and other conservation she has always been a passionate Nature Alberta’s goals and organizations in our area. natural history ambassador. From objectives. the Nature Alberta Board of Gus has taught hundreds of people Directors’ perspective, her excellent from Nature Calgary and other and long-term service, intelligent organizations how to identify reasoning, creative ideas and sense plants and animals, how to record of humour have been absolutely observations, and how to relate wild invaluable. species to habitat characteristics. On any outing, he constantly fi nds LORAN GOULDEN MEMORIAL things to teach about – birds, animals, AWARD: GUSTAVE J. YAKI fl owers, lichens, invasive species, The Loran Goulden Memorial seasonal changes, the history of an Award recognizes life long area, and threats to biodiversity. MARGOT HERVIEUX …OUT IN THE FIELD! dedication to natural history Gus has organized Calgary birding Margot Hervieux, of Grande Prairie, education. competitions, worked with has spent over 20 years on the Knowledge and energy have been undergraduate students at St Mary’s Federation of Alberta Naturalists a key part of Nature Calgary’s University, led St Mary’s students and Nature Alberta Board of activities, and Gustave Yaki’s love on walks in Fish Creek Provincial Directors and has probably been of the natural world has inspired Park, developed detailed plant lists an active participant on more and informed thousands of people for most of the natural areas in the committees than anyone else: from through his nature outings and Calgary region, conducted biological Personnel to Birds and Bylaws talks. inventories (“bio-blitz’s”) for several to Young Naturalists; from the Nature Conservancy properties, “Gus”, as he is known, grew up Trumpeter Swan Recovery team contributed species descriptions in rural Saskatchewan and learned to Nature Canada. She has been and birding data to the Weaselhead to observe the natural world as a involved with several Nature Society’s website, been a very active Alberta publications as well as our two magazines, Nature Alberta and NatureWild (the Young Naturalists NA PRESIDENT TED HINDMARCH PRESENTS GUS YAKI (RIGHT) WITH A FRAMED PRINT. publication). VID BIJELIC Locally in Grande Prairie, she has a weekly newspaper column and weekly radio show, coordinates Young Naturalists at a local high school, and helped get land set aside for conservation (Kleskun Hills). As well, she is a founder of the Peace Parkland Naturalists, which was created in 1990, and she has been an active member both on and off the board. That group joined Nature Alberta in 1991 as a Corporate Club. In addition, SPRING 2012 13

writer and editor…and that’s just a Observatory (BBO). His work Al brings interested new bird partial list! in helping BBO to remain a observatory staff with him as he tremendous success is simply bands and is always sharing his Nature Calgary, as a Nature amazing. He transports logistical passion with people. Al also fi nds Alberta Corporate Club, items to and from the lab, time to participate in the Alberta nominated Gus in appreciation of installed a complex of solar panels Nocturnal Owl survey program, and the key roles he has performed and six batteries, drafted (in his has been involved almost since its for the club in the last eighteen fi rst years on the Executive) some inception. He also volunteers time years. However, his impact on the publicity material and public for our annual Steaks and Saw-whets public’s natural history knowledge brochures, built and transported event and our casino. and values in the Calgary area new nest boxes for the Tree outweighs even this notable Al has attended and participated Swallow research grid after cows contribution. His passion for in most of the executive’s monthly damaged many boxes in the natural history, impressive breadth meetings throughout the last 20 years mid-90s, was lead carpenter in and depth of knowledge, and even though the meetings are always building a new bunkhouse, has ability to teach and engage people in the evening in Edmonton and he organized work bees to update truly made him deserving of the lives more than one hour’s drive and repair the lab, and assisted Loran Goulden Memorial Award. north in Redwater! His input at the in building the new kiosk and meetings is positive and critical as he visitor’s parking lot. In fact, over FRANK & ALICE HARPER helps BBO to accomplish its goals the past two decades, he has been MEMORIAL AWARD: effi ciently and effectively. AL DEGROOT involved in all construction and Throughout this time, he has The Frank & Alice Harper maintenance activities at the BBO completed all these tasks cheerfully Memorial Award is for consistent fi eld station. and with a smile! service by a Club member As a raptor bander, each year towards the betterment, effi ciency, he visits known hawk and owl administration, operation and/or stick nests and a nestbox trail he fulfi llment of a Club’s mandate – a established for American Kestrels “Club Builder” recognition. and bands the young. He recently Thanks Judy! co-authored a paper on American Al (Eelco) deGroot is a long- Judy Boyd, of Red Deer, has been Kestrels (see Nature Alberta, Fall standing volunteer and board a Nature Alberta (NA) volunteer for 2009, Vol 39, # 3). member of the Beaverhill Bird many years; she has been honoured by NA with a Volunteer Award for 2008 and the Loran Goulden AL DEGROOT (LEFT) RECEIVES HIS FRAMED PRINT FROM NA PRESIDENT TED HINDMARCH. Memorial Award for 2010. However, VID BIJELIC she has not slowed down a bit! Earlier this year, she travelled to Edmonton to do a presentation to Alberta Conservation Association on NA’s Young Naturalists program. Thanks to her efforts, NA will get the full grant requested. She also did a couple of TV spots for Michael Short’s “Let’s Go Outdoors” show promoting Young Naturalists. Nature Alberta succeeds because of dedicated volunteers; many thanks, Judy! 14 NatureAlberta Interesting Social Media Results Helping out BY CHEYENNE KEAN Nature Alberta could use your help to carry out the many Beginning February 2012, of these new tasks that are required to keep Nature Alberta contracted a contacts can our organization operating Communications Coordinator be attributed to Nature effectively. We hope you will to increase the visibility of the Alberta being interactive on consider volunteering your time. organization and engage current social media. Where you live doesn’t matter, and potential members of NA. as there are always things that The core activities of this position FUN FACTS: can be done from wherever. If were around expanding social • As expected the majority of you’re interested, please contact media contacts, establishing and users are from Alberta fi rst, Executive Director Petra Rowell maintaining regular contact with Canada second; but there at 780.427-8124 or petrar@ members through an electronic are users in the USA, Jordan, naturealberta.ca. Your contribution newsletter and a variety of Philippines, Mexico, Belize, is greatly appreciated! communications-related projects. Romania, Nepal, UK, Taiwan, This included implementing Germany, Chile and India. surveys, posting events of interest • 56% of Nature Alberta to NA members and updating Facebook users are female; news and events on the website. 30% of these females are As summarized in an April report between the ages of 25-44 A BIG Summer to the Board, the results showed • 38% of NA Facebook users are for Naturalists! considerable activity on NA’s male, 21% are between the Facebook and Twitter accounts. ages of 25-44; The Red Deer River Naturalists (RDRN) Total social media contacts as Note: some users do not identify has scheduled a fantastic summer of fi eld of April 2012 was 740; of these their sex, which is why the trips and programs. Each year from April contacts, 351 have joined since above percentages do not add to September, RDRN invites the public February 2012 and represent an up to 100 – not because the to share their love for natural history. An almost 50% increase. The majority other 6% is neither sex! RDRN member, along with local experts, leads the outings. Join in and go birding, observe unique fl owering species, visit HANS MUELLER the interesting and representative ecosystems. Funny Summer Birds at Ellis Bird Farm; Butcher Creek Natural Area; Bjorge Farm in the thing about Battle River Hills – just three of the many exciting possibilities for naturalists or crocuses anyone interested in getting into nature. For all the details, go to www.rdrn. You might think that, fanweb.ca. after thousands of years of coming up too soon And while you are on the website, and getting frozen, the check out their nesting Peregrine crocus family would have Falcon live webcam! had a little sense knocked into it. ROBERT BENCHLEY Red Deer River Naturalists SPRING 2012 15

Summer means “Living by Water” BY JESSE HITCHCOCK

Living by Water is one of Nature Alberta’s core projects, aiming to promote and restore shoreline health in Alberta through education of shoreline property owners.

The project operates under Nature and suggestions pertaining to The Living by Water Project is Alberta’s mission that if Albertans their properties. extremely excited to introduce become educated and aware of its new Shoreline Advisors for In order to accommodate the province’s natural history, the 2012 season. They will the growing interest in these they will be motivated to make be working toward shoreline consultations from the 10 lake changes that will protect it. health province-wide in the communities, Living by Water coming months! The students This season, Living by Water is has hired 4 Shoreline Advisors “are all super keen on water, fortunate to be working with 10 – all post secondary students so it is going to be a good lakefront communities across with backgrounds in biology/ summer!” said coordinator Jesse the province; half of these environmental studies. We are Hitchcock. communities are new to the looking forward to a summer program and half are returning full of successful program participants. Residents in each outreach and Homesite of these communities will have Consultation recruitment thanks the opportunity to sign up for to the enthusiasm of our new Homesite Consultations, during summer staff as well as the which Living by Water’s Shoreline local stewardship organizations Advisors will meet with them one- that we partner with! Thanks to: on-one and provide knowledge A number of agencies have

LIVING BY WATER COORDINATOR JESSE HITCHCOCK DURING HER WORK ON THE BC COAST recognized the importance of Living by Water by supporting the program with funding. For 2012, our funders are: Alberta Conservation Association, Government of Alberta Community Initiatives Program, TD Friends of the Environment, Shell “Fueling Change” and the Pigeon Lake Watershed Association. Our thanks to all for their invaluable support. 16 NatureAlberta

THE STUDENTS Nature Alberta takes pride in introducing you to the four student Shoreline Advisors:

Marissa Gutsch is an Elynne Murray is Dana Stromberg is a Laura Edwards is a fourth Environmental Studies a fi rst year Resource third year Environmental year ecology student at the student at the University Management student in Conservation and Native University of Alberta with of Alberta with a Land the Offi cer of Technology Studies student at the honors in Ecology; she has Reclamation major. She program at Vancouver University of Alberta. She taken fi eld courses with believes that aquatic Island University. She has a strong personal an emphasis on botany. ecosystems are very feels that the program will and academic interest She feels the Living by diverse and important allow her to get involved in shorelines, lakes, and Water program will allow and wants to be in what we can do to water as a whole. She her to interact with people involved in teaching help conserve and protect thinks that working for in Alberta and share her people how they can water in Alberta. As a Living by Water will be knowledge of ecology and improve these sensitive life-long lake resident, it an opportunity for her to biology. ecosystems. Throughout will allow her to gain new educate people and have Throughout the course her degree she has perspectives on what has a voice pertaining to local of her degree Laura become passionate been changing and how and regional issues. This became passionate about about demonstrating we can mitigate those past spring, she traveled to conservation. She realized environmental processes. Cozumel, Mexico with her that more than ever, it is responsibility and scuba group where they Growing up at Pigeon becoming critical to talk about helping others were able to participate in Lake AB, Elynne is no to people about science learn the importance of the local shoreline cleanup stranger to the impacts and help bridge the gap being proactive. Early activities. Growing up that development can have between academia and this year she traveled spending summers on shoreline and lake the public. In 2009, she to India to volunteer at Pine Lake AB, has health. She is passionate traveled to Kenya to study for community service given her an awareness about forming meaningful sustainability and the projects in local of issues facing lake connections with those Maasai Culture. She tries villages, where she ecosystems as well as a whom she works with, to convey her knowledge was involved with, passion for environmental and she has an academic by educating friends among other things, stewardship. After her background focusing on and family about current educating villages about degree, Dana is hoping environmental regulation conservation issues, sustainable agriculture to fi nd an environmental of fi sh and wildlife, and hopes to eventually in their communities. organization that she can knowledge of invasive pursue graduate studies stick with and develop species as well as regional that will allow her to link a place for herself in environmental issues. biological conservation Alberta’s active water with cultural studies. community. SPRING 2012 17

BOOK REVIEW Arctic Naturalist: The Life of J. Dewey Soper REVIEW BY: LU CARBYN It is somewhat fortunate that I accurately recorded on the labels for review a book about a person each study skin. who I knew at a time when I was It was therefore exciting to beginning my career as a biologist. read about the background and I fi rst met Dewey Soper when I was achievements of Dewey Soper. a graduate student at the University The wonderful black and white of Alberta. He was an elderly man photographs in the book take the then [born in 1893, he passed away reader into the fi eld and add much in1982], yet by the energy exhibited to the biographical material. Not in all of his appearances in the By Anthony Dalton. Dundurn Group known to me at the time was that Zoology Department, he did not Publishers (2010); Paperback: 392 Soper also was an accomplished show his age. pages. ISBN 554887461 pianist and carpenter. He had a jolly, friendly and Although boisterous at times, he in Ottawa and the prairie provinces. boisterous countenance. He loved was also reserved in other ways. There is an almost complete absence going over the extensive small He joined the Edmonton Bird Club, of information of his early education. mammal and bird collections in but rarely participated in any of From a zoological perspective, it the vertebrate museum, constantly the club’s activities. He did not should have been mentioned that he adding new specimens to it. There often make public presentations, was assiduously committed to sub- are some gaps in the biography, but something for which he would species designations. It was the fashion let me begin by stressing the very have been eminently qualifi ed. of the times and modern zoology good points in the book. Neither the book nor my personal completely ignores that subject today. The author, Anthony Dalton, is experiences indicated that he gave On balance though, this is an excellent to be congratulated for taking on freely of himself to the public. contribution to our Canadian literature the subject and rescuing a great Defi ciencies in the book relate on an important naturalist/scientist. Canadian from potential obscurity, to numerous errors in dates and I am grateful to the author for the or at the least, reviving the story spelling of names (too numerous efforts to bring back the exploits of a of a great explorer who has been and tedious to elaborate) of those great man. He was obviously helped relegated to not much more involved at the time. Also, there by having access to a rich source of then a name on a map. Dewey are a number of incorrect place personal diaries and reports written by Soper was the fi rst biologist to names listed. Most readers would Dewey Soper himself. I do have copy systematically explore parts of the not notice this and therefore that of a taped interview with Soper, and eastern Arctic, and by so doing shortcoming does not detract it reveals the compassion of a man provided a wealth of information from the overall effectiveness of dedicated to mankind and to the work on the fauna, fl ora and geography the book. The title is somewhat he so loved. of the region. He was a meticulous misleading, as only eight years of and highly disciplined individual It can be said that Dewy Soper his professional life was spent in as demonstrated by the detailed “never worked a day in his life but the Arctic. He was much more than records that he left behind. All the that he worked very hard”. His an Arctic naturalist. More time (over biological specimens were carefully accomplishments are considerable. 40 years) was spent as a biologist prepared and the information

Lu Carbyn is an Adjunct Professor at the University of Alberta in Edmonton and the Edmonton Nature Club’s representative on the Nature Alberta Board of Directors. 18 NatureAlberta

Close to Home: Nature Photography in Alberta Colours of the Earth BY JOHN WARDEN

Most of the snow is gone now. It’s that time of early spring when the grass is a dirty, dusty brown. Lifeless. Crunchy even.

JOHN WARDEN

Except for one yard. There, the lawn. The only thing I can think Real grass breathes, producing lawn is green, bright green. of though is that you wouldn’t oxygen and absorbing carbon It’s always that colour. Even have to mow it. But then, you dioxide. I don’t know what kind of under the snow in the dead also don’t ‘get’ to mow it. And off-gassing there would be from a of winter, the lawn is bright when you’re done, you don’t ‘get’ yard full of plastic, synthetic green green. It’s artifi cial of course. A to walk barefoot through the fresh stuff cooking in the afternoon sun, manufactured lawn of some sort cut grass. There’s also that cycle but I fi nd myself holding my breath of synthetic, chemical-based, of life thing: you don’t ‘get’ to as I walk by. plastic-like substance, no doubt. see your grass come back to life, changing from dirty dusty brown I used to teach karate, and as soon From ‘the glass is half full’ to a lush, vibrant green that is full as it got warm we’d have our classes perspective, there must be of life and energy. outside. We’d meditate with the sun something good about an artifi cial on our faces, do cartwheels on the grass, climb old trees and do push- ups in the mud puddles. We got up close and personal with the ground that we walk on. By connecting with the earth, our white karate uniforms took on the colours of the earth, black, brown, red and green. Just by looking at us, you could see we’d been having fun. The colours of the earth must have rubbed off my karate uniform and somehow penetrated my skin. They must have got right inside me because they’re part of me now and they call out to me.

JOHN WARDEN SPRING 2012 19

JOHN WARDEN

“You need some green. Green is personal. I go for the solitude and water thousands of years in the calming, nurturing, restful, go fi nd the tranquility; I go, to connect making. some green”. with the ancient and of course, for Further down the Parkway at the colours, natural colours. “Hey, there’s some red over Jonas Creek, the rock is ancient, there, pay attention to red, feel At Mount Edith the demanding, hot energy of Cavell, the red.” earth is massive and imposing. “You’re antsy, jumpy, all over Smooth white the place; you need the organic glaciers contrast structure and stability of the earth. the jagged Sink your hands into the brown orangey brown richness of the earth and feel its moraine, and the warmth.” rock and ice are And so responding to the refl ected by the language of colour, I go. I grab turquoise melt my cameras and I take ‘the waters of Cavell Parkway’, through the mountains, Pond. Splash where the earth is up close and your face with 20 NatureAlberta

www.jwardenphotography.com

John Warden’s website (www. jwardenphotography.com) is defi nitely worth a visit for excellent photos of wildlife and landscapes in Alberta and beyond. John also posts articles on his blog (http:// jwardenphotography.blogspot.com/) from previous Nature Alberta magazines. Drop in and say hello!

and then, leaving the parkway, Lake Louise and Moraine Lake, jewels of mountain colour. My journey takes me past Vermillion Lakes and Mount Rundle to Kananaskis Country where in places, the rocks burn red. In the twilight, I linger at Wedge Pond. The mountains in shadow soar above me as the colours of the earth grow dark with the setting sun. It’s a long four hour drive home but my spirit is fi lled with the colours of the earth. It’s late and dark by the time I get home, a long day. I put my cameras away and take the dog for a walk. Leaf buds are JOHN WARDEN thick on the trees, silhouetted against the starry night sky. We won’t have leaves by geological accounts – 500 haven, a retreat; one of those for six or maybe even seven weeks million years of ancient. The earth places where the connection is so yet, but the buds hold the promise of here is spectacular, pinks and strong you can both fi nd yourself spring. Walking the dog each evening, orange and purple, the colours and lose yourself. I’ll anticipate the grass turning green. It of the Gog Quartzite, rock that is will be weeks yet, but the grass will turn hard as steel, and as beautiful as a Further south, the Weeping Wall green and I will revel in it. I’ll take off my rainbow. is a vista of blue, grey and silver. shoes and practice Tai Chi barefoot in the Wispy waterfalls streak the rock dewy grass with the sun on my face. At nearby Horseshoe Lake, the face here with spectral mists. This earth is a study of motion, the is a place to practice the long With the changing of the seasons and rock angled, layered and striated, slow look. the changing colours of nature, we are by the forces of nature. Despite offered the gifts of hope and promise the hard lines of the rock here, I follow the parkway south and – except for that one yard over there, the colours speak of tranquility, the mountains are a study of where the grass is always green. I have to peacefulness and calm. It is a colour, Tangle Ridge, Bow Lake wonder, who would refuse such gifts? EDITOR’S NOTE: This article is a condensing of Ryan’s April 2012 blog; to read more, plus his past walks through ecology, see http://akayokaki.blogspot.com. SPRING 2012 21 AKAYO’KAKI A’PAWAAWAHKAA BY RYAN HEAVY HEAD; SIKOOHKOTOKI, KAINAISSKSAAHKOYI My Walk through Ecology, Dreams, Natural Education and Experience in Blackfoot Territory.

SCAVENGING WATER BEETLE out in abundance right now all a shallow gravel bed. I suspect they’re (28 MAR 2012) over the region, and defi nitely looking for crawdads and freshwater The big phenological events of around lakes and ponds. clams, though both retreat upstream the day for Sspopiikimi - or the before I can confi rm. most obvious, given how quickly MOURNING DOVES, TIGER 14:11. When I reach the riverbend I made my round - is the presence BEETLES, AND LOOPERS (1 and the mouth of the (dry) oxbow, I of kaayiiksi (Ring-billed Gulls) at APR 2012) follow the edge zone between sandbar the wide south pool, and thousands 13:58. Making my way toward the willows and the sandstone cliff, and of tiny scavenging water beetles in river confl uence, I hike along the here I begin to encounter some of the the air around north-pond. They’re base of the sandstone cliffs where, insects that always emerge during this about the same size as a ladybug, not long ago, I’d been surveying moon. The fi rst is the black-morph but without the bad taste. I know, the activities of Sagebrush Voles Cowpath Tiger Beetle, who I expect because the male Robins tipped me and Western Jumping Mice. One of to see mating already. They probably off to a little puddle where a lot of the last times I walked this route, got a start on it yesterday, but today’s these beetles were landing, then on a relatively warm day during winds might pose an obstacle. Several wading back out to dry their wings, the moon Ka’toyi, I’d observed of them lift off the ground in retreat and it made for easy plucking and the early emergence of Bluebottle as I walk along. Then, closer to where munching. In addition to the ones Flies, and the thin-legged Wolf the willows meet the forest treeline, I ate on site, I collected about Spiders who were hunting them. I see my fi rst Clover Looper Moth of two-dozen for Derrick and Keira Both species are still here today, the year. In another week or so, they (homecoming gifts). I saw these seven weeks or so later, behaving should become abundant. same beetles at Fincastle yesterday, the same as when I’d seen them so it’s fairly safe to assume they’re last, as if not a day had been lost in 14:26. Continuing to follow the oxbow between. corridor through the forest…a pair SCAVENGING WATER BEETLE. of Mourning Doves appear. They are There is a Raven fl ying near-to and RYAN HEAVY HEAD picking around in the Chokecherries. following the coulee rim, probably And as I stop to watch them, a searching for the Rock Doves who inhabit these cliffs in small numbers. Out on the river, where it COWPATH TIGER BEETLE: GREEN MORPH (LEFT) AND bends sharp BLACK MORPH (RIGHT) RYAN HEAVY HEAD at the old beaver lodge, there are two Ring- billed Gulls fl oating over 22 NatureAlberta

Mourning Cloak butterfl y fl utters close to my face. I saw my fi rst Mourning Cloak of the season a couple weeks ago, but that was under different conditions. I had been turning logs on the wet- meadows of Sspopiikimi, and just happened to fi nd one of the butterfl ies newly transformed. Its antennae weren’t even out yet. This one fl uttering by today marks the real emergence. RYAN HEAVY HEAD 14:57. The rest of the way an alternate route nearer the river through the forest, upstream to proper, and again scanning the the confl uence, I’m scanning the trees for owl nests. I don’t fi nd trees for this year’s owl nest. The any. However, the walk is not resident kakanottsstooki couple has without its rewards. At one point, really eluded me this time around, I come upon a juvenile Bald abandoning the old hawk nest by Eagle, perched in one of the the mid-forest meadow. cottonwoods overlooking the willows and river. And just At one point as I’m walking, I beyond the eagle, there are notice that the deer trails have two Porcupines, both sleeping all shifted to the other side of the soundly in the branches of the oxbow corridor. It seems strange, RED-TAILED HAWK. RYAN HEAVY HEAD forest canopy. because there aren’t any obstacles on my side, like fallen trees or jams 16:01. The river itself is a bit of driftlogs. Just as I’m considering more exciting on my return this, and still scanning high for owl along the sandstone cliffs. When I nests, I catch sight of something initially arrive, I can hear the calls of just above me (and making an extra pass below me in my peripheral vision. soyottakska, a Killdeer, on the wide to see what I’m about) is a gorgeous Red- It’s a huge Bald-faced Hornet nest gravel bar of the opposite shore. tailed Hawk from last summer, anchored to a This is the fi rst to return to either 16:32. Finally I arrive back at my vehicle. small bit of Buckbrush, and almost of my sites for the season. There’s Just as I’m loading my pack into the truck, sitting on the ground. This is a pair of geese on that other shore and preparing to climb behind the wheel obviously why the deer chose to go as well, a bit downstream. And myself, I could swear I hear the songs of a around. further beyond them, a lone miisa’ai Meadowlark. Others have already spotted (Mallard) drake 15:43. Just before crawling back out the fi rst Meadowlarks of the season at of the Hawthorns, I’m visited by an There’s also forest on the opposite their sites, but not me. I start up the car insect I did not expect to see. It’s bank from the cliffs, and as I and drive out of the coulee, then follow a new one for me, tiny, delicate, walk along I glass the trees for a fenceline along the rim in search of mantis-like, and orange…a Damsel nests. There is one large nest the song’s source, but no luck. Could be Bug [according to my research later that would be perfect for the the bird was down a bit lower on some in the evening] kakanottsstookiiksi, but they’re not Skunkbrush. Oh well, something to look there. While I’m conducting this forward to for my next visit. Then I make my return journey survey, gliding along the coulee rim through the forest, this time taking

Ryan Heavy Head and his wife Adrienne are caretakers of a Beaver Bundle for the Blood Tribe of southern Alberta. He works as the coordinator of Kainai Studies at Red Crow College, on the Blood Reserve, where he teaches fi eld courses in phenology and traditional foods. SPRING 2012 23

BOOK REVIEW On Rare Birds REVIEW BY: LISA PRIESTLEY

The historical portrait of a The next six chapters are about Kingfi sher on the cover of this birds that are rare or threatened book invites the reader into a according to Anita. Although I compilation of fascinating stories question some of the species she on the natural history and mythical believes are rare or threatened, I and cultural background of ten still enjoyed reading about each rare or extinct bird species. From species she chose to cover. Being the moment I opened the book, an owl researcher and lover, I I was captured by the detailed learned much more about the stories that Anita Albus has put Barn Owl than I had known By Anita Albus, translated by Gerald together. before. She covers her chosen Chapple; Greystone Books, 2011; birds’ ecology and talks about We start with four extinct species Hardcover; 6.75” x 9.5”l; 288 pages; why these species are suffering of birds. Each chapter brings ISBN: 978-1-55365-477-3; $35.00 CDN declines. I felt hopeful as I the reader the feeling of a sense fi nished reading the last chapter of loss. The great numbers of on the wise Kingfi sher. Like other books I have enjoyed Passenger Pigeons that once in the past 20 or so years, each roamed the skies in such large Finally, for the deep thinking chapter is its own entity so can fl ocks are gone. The Carolina birders out there, the “Afterword” be read in one sitting. I’m not Parakeet, with fl ocks of several and “Discourse on the Nature worried that I will forget parts hundred birds that would alight on of Birds” gives us much to think of the previous chapter if I don’t a big sycamore tree like ornaments about. Why do we continue have time to get back to the book at Christmas, has disappeared. to have bird species that are for a few weeks. I rarely have With a name like Great Auk, declining, some with the same time to read books (apart from who would have thought that issued that plagued other birds in work-related ones) with my busy mass exploitation would result centuries past? Is it because we schedule, and I like that I can read in its demise? And fi nally, the continue to think of the Mother one chapter and have the whole brightly-coloured Guadeloupe Earth as serving humans, that we story, yet each chapter relates to Violet Macaw, with scarlet, blue, separate ourselves from nature, or the other in its topics. I read this and lazuli plumage lost their we think of ourselves as higher book over a few months and I am specialized habitat and vanished beings? These chapters give us so glad I took the time to do so. I before a specimen could be kept things to ponder whether we was sad, I was happy, I laughed, in a museum. These stories are believe in religion or not. At some and I almost cried (page 17). well-researched and well-written. points I feel that Anita rambles on Anita brings the reader into the a little bit too much, and brings in If you love birds you will love past to learn about how and why too many thoughts in too short of this book. And if you simply these birds perished. She also a space. But, this did not change appreciate birds this book will shares stories of how smart birds my mind about how much I make you love them. And, we are, and how trusting they are of enjoyed this book. hope, help protect birds and their humans. habitats.

Lisa Priestley is the Executive Director of the Beaverhill Bird Observatory and co-owner of STRIX Ecological Consulting. Lisa has written a number of book reviews for Nature Alberta, as well as the Feature Story, “The Nesting Phenology of Northern Saw-whet Owl and Boreal Owl in Central Canada” (Fall 2008, Vol 38, #3). 24 NatureAlberta

FEATURE ARTICLE Wildfl owers: Nature’s Laughter BY SANDRA C. HAWKINS

A wise man, Ralph Waldo Emerson, once thoughtfully remarked that “the world laughs in fl owers.”

Alberta’s wild prairie landscape oil and gas development and boasts wildfl owers of every overgrazing. colour and description. With a Albertans are visiting their meager fi ve percent of this national and provincial parks prairie remaining, and recreation areas in ever- however, further increasing numbers. They relish loss of habitat leaving the pressures of big city will increasingly living behind them. Unfortunately, mute or even many insist on bringing almost silence that all of their urban amenities along laughter. In reality, for the ride. Motorized toys and the province’s grasslands other perceived recreational are presently producing only “necessities” contribute to the shrinking isolated bursts of anemic further destruction of the natural giggles. landscape. Where once there were While other jurisdictions such ripples on the wind of purple as Texas (via their Highway lupines and bright yellow blanket Beautifi cation Act of 1965) take fl owers, there now exist paved RV great pride (and reap copious parking pads, tennis courts, golf fi nancial benefi ts from the courses and endless varieties of resultant tourism opportunities) eateries and souvenir shops. by planting and protecting Ironically, with this ever- wildfl owers along the roadways increasing human encroachment, throughout the state, Alberta’s the prairie and its wildfl owers offi cial policy seems to thrive on now confront destruction in the the destruction of the prairie’s very parks that are sworn to beauty. Instead of championing provide for their protection. Along wildfl owers, it cultivates the highway that leads to the Belly monocultures (e.g. potato farms), River campground in Waterton feed lots, massive housing tracts Lakes National Park an offi cial and industrial parks, out of control

HAREBELL (CAMPANULA ROTUNDIFOLIA). SANDRA HAWKINS SPRING 2012 25

BUCKS IN BLOOM!. SANDRA HAWKINS parks sign proudly proclaims the young in nests hidden on the of this scenario, one has only to visit following: ground or in a low shrub. Remain the areas immediately adjacent to the as still as the early morning or park’s boundaries. The same may be What are National Parks? late evening air and catch a said for Banff and Jasper as well. National Parks are living museums glimpse of a wily Coyote or fox of nature preserved for the On a brighter note, all hope is not lost. as they go about their business benefi t, education and enjoyment While autumn’s leaves and winter’s of hunting for prey, perhaps an of this and future generations. snows blanket a world of dormant unsuspecting Columbian Ground beauty, the warming sun of spring Help us maintain them unimpaired Squirrel. Be patient and you might elicits its annual explosion of colour for those yet to come. be privileged to see a Badger on the prairie. In celebration of this scurrying toward its den in some One may only wonder what event, Waterton Lakes National Park nearby cut bank. And do not be defi nition of “unimpaired” was is the venue for the Waterton Wild surprised if a deer rises from its used in making this plaque! Flower Festival (June 15-24, 2012). bed amidst the wildfl owers to feed Fortunately, there are still many at the cooler ends of the day. Fie folk who do not visit our parks on those individuals who believe to purchase antiques, dine on the prairie to be a bald wasteland gourmet meals or indulge in the good only for growing potatoes or latest fl avour of lattes. They come irrigated corn. to revel in and appreciate the joys of nature. They believe in No matter what the inherent preserving the parks for today and bureaucratic shortcomings may for the future. With fewer tracts of be regarding their organization, wild prairie to enjoy, the precious we cannot do without our parks. land that presently exists, with its Waterton Lakes National Park is kaleidoscope of fl owered beauty, an exceptional showplace for demands even greater protection. the prairie landscape and its wildfl owers – a “last stand” in I would challenge any one who the relentless human onslaught remains skeptical of the need to tame and destroy the wild for such protection to feed his prairie for some perceived better or her soul by wandering over purpose. Without the existence the prairie in the quiet of the of Waterton, the entire front dawn or twilight hours. Listen range and its foothills would for the twittering of tiny prairie be increasingly subdivided and sparrows as they tend to their developed. If one has any doubt

LUPINE (LUPINUS PERENNIS). SANDRA HAWKINS 26 NatureAlberta

BLANKET FLOWER (GAILLARDIA ARISTATA). PRAIRIE SMOKE (ERYTHROCOMA TRIFLORA). BEAR GRASS (XEROPHYLLUM TENAX). SANDRA HAWKINS SANDRA HAWKINS SANDRA HAWKINS

Festival promotional literature higher elevations to seek such rare REFERENCES: states that the park is “home to Alberta delights as Bear Grass (also www.fhwa.dot.gov/infrastructure/beauty. more than 50 per cent of Alberta’s known as Indian Basket Grass or cfm (Highway Beautifi cation Act of wildfl owers…more than any other Soap Grass — Xerophyllum tenax). 1965) Rocky Mountain national park. http://canadianbiodiversity.mcgill.ca/ The mountains are lofty and english/ecozones/prairies/prairies.htm Over 50 of Canada’s rare fl owers beautiful, but consider taking some www.pbase.com/richo/ grow in Waterton, 30 of which time to pay a visit to the prairie. You bluebonnets&page=all are found only in this park”. will discover a whole new world of www.watertonwildfl owers.com/ (Waterton During this time, visitors not wonder. Wildfl ower Festival) only have the joy of viewing and www.anpc.ab.ca/assets/gardener_ photographing prairie wildfl owers, guidelines.pdf (Alberta Native Plant but they may also venture to Council on growing native plants)

Sandra Hawkins grew up in the Red River Valley of Manitoba. After teaching college-level math and English Name the Flowers? for several years, a lifetime love of nature demanded greater fulfi llment. The fl owers on the cover collage are, clockwise from top left: Photography became the avenue for preserving memories of days passed Western Wood Lily (Lilium philadelphicum); Wild Rose bud amidst wild places. Part of each summer (Rosa acicularis); Sticky Geranium (Geranium viscosissimum); is usually spent in Alberta. Although she has travelled to every corner of the Indian Paint Brush (Castilleja sp); Parry’s Townsendia province, one of her favourite locations (Townsendia parryi); center fl ower: Mariposa Lily (Calochortus for photography is Waterton Lakes apiculatus). National Park and its adjacent prairie. SPRING 2012 27 In Praise of Flowers Literature is abundant with praise, appreciation, and love for fl owers – from authors as varied as Ruskin and Princess Grace. So sit back, relax, and slowly read these emotion- stirring expressions. “Perfumes are the feelings of flowers.” Heinrich Heine

“When at last I took the time to look into the heart of a flower, it opened up a whole new world; a world where every country walk would be an adventure, where every garden would become an enchanted one.” h Princess Grace of Monaco “The actual flower is the plant’s highest fulfillment, and are not here exclusively “For myself I hold no preferences among for herbaria, county floras and plant flowers, so long as they are wild, free, geography: they are here first of all for spontaneous. Bricks to all greenhouses! Black delight.” John Ruskin thumb and cutworm to the potted plant!” Edward Abbey

“To“T“ be overcome by the “The ‘Amen!’ of Nature is ” fragrance of flowers is a always a flower. delectable form of defeat.” Oliver Wendell Holmes Beverley Nichols

Look at the trees, look at the birds, look at the “I perhaps owe having become clouds, look at the stars…and if you have eyes a painter to flowers.” you will be able to see that the whole existence Claude Monet is joyful. Everything is simply happy. Trees are happy for no reason; they are not going to become prime ministers or presidents and they are not going to become rich and they will never have any bank balance. Look at the flowers – for no reason. It is simply unbelievable how happy flowers are. Osho “The lily was created on the third day, early in the morning when the Almighty was “Every child is born a naturalist. His especially full of good ideas.” eyes are, by nature, open to the glories Michael Jefferson-Brown of the stars, the beauty of the flowers, and the mystery of life.” R. Search

“People from a planet without flowers would WILD BERGAMOT think we must be mad with joy the whole time (MONARDA FISTULOSA). to have such things about us.” SANDRA HAWKINS Iris Murdoch 28 NatureAlberta BONES, STONES, and the GRASSLANDS BY ROB GARDNER

The stones we see piled in the corners of wheat fi elds once played a pivotal role in prairie ecology.

Giant herds of bison have long equivalent of a forest’s stumps, Tens of millions of stones left behind by dominated our vision of the fallen logs and other micro- the glaciers litter the prairie. The runoff pre-historic prairie, but let’s look habitats? from their surface gives the surrounding closer. By considering the tiny patch signifi cantly more moisture. The Diversity in the grassland components of our ecosystem, we distance this infl uences varies with the ecosystem is limited by two may be able to understand the intensity of the rainfall, but the adjacent factors: low precipitation and little richness that once was. soil can receive up to double the topographic variation. Any means moisture as other nearby prairie. In a very When gazing across the grassland, of infl uencing these factors can dry year, this could mean the difference maybe from a pull-off near Hanna bring dramatic changes. between grasses surviving or not, or, for the more adventurous, south When the individual action occurs between setting seed or not. Scattered of Manyberries, what do you see? literally millions of times each day, plants, growing near rocks, would survive Most people see a land of macro- even a tiny change will add up to even the most devastating drought, ready habitats: vast plains, rolling hills a powerful force. The following to provide seed for the surrounding area and sun-blasted prairie. What could factors seem to have played when moister years returned. At the same possibly make one square metre of signifi cant roles in the growth and grass more valuable for a longspur distribution of native plants and the than another? What is the prairie animals that depend on them.

BISON ARE THE ICONIC SYMBOL OF THE NORTH AMERICAN GRASSLAND. ROB GARDNER SPRING 2012 29

into the soil for better germination, while the steady grazing kept the grass in check. Some land managers use cattle as a more tractable replacement for the bison. At the macro scale, this seems BREEDING BULLS TEAR UP SOD WITH THEIR HORNS TO MAKE A DUST BATH, AND THE to work. But when you look at the OTHER BISON ARE QUICK TO MAKE USE OF THEM. ROB GARDNER details, you can see the shortcomings. It is like expecting the same time, perching song birds will Ground squirrel burrows have performance from a Chevrolet and a bring nutrients to the larger rocks’ long been recognized as important Ferrari. microhabitat. refuges for small animals that Bison graze more intensely and in need shelter from the winter cold In the Arizona desert, Zuni people a tighter herd than cattle, then they and summer heat. Species largely grew corn by using stones as spontaneously move to an entirely dependent on ground squirrel mulch, concentrating the meagre fresh site. This leaves patches burrows include other rodents, rain at the roots of their plants. of heavily grazed prairie, often Swift Fox, Burrowing Owl, snakes Here in Alberta, settlers dumped heavily trampled if the herd is large, and salamanders. Black Widow stones in piles, often fi lling in surrounded by tall and ungrazed Spiders seem to be found mainly at their precious wetlands. This grass. When herds were comprised of the entrance to burrows, perhaps simplifi cation of the landscape may thousands of animals, these patches benefi ting from the smelly “gophers” have ensured the frequent failure could limit wild fi res and were re- attracting fl ies. The closely cropped of crops. vegetated by forbs that provided food grassland between burrows is for Pronghorn. Ground squirrels are synonymous favourable for the growth of forbs. with the prairie, so it is not In deep snow, bison will push the In the last forty years, progressive surprising that these critters have a snow to the side with their heads range management practices have signifi cant impact. Yes, they are a to expose grass. These openings, led to thicker, taller stands of grass foundation for the grassland food locally called craters, will melt out and a corresponding decrease in pyramid, but some of their impacts sooner than undisturbed areas, leaving ground squirrel numbers. Yes, the are more subtle. potential grazing for the more delicate grass is healthier and more cattle Pronghorn. Millions of craters could The small hills of earth piled up can graze, but the diversity of signifi cantly impact the amount of around burrows offer several wildlife has declined. We should not snow-free terrain available. important resources. The bare be surprised that Burrowing Owls Walking bison and Elk would break ground is attractive for the are disappearing. germination of some plants, the icy crust on the drifts, allowing Bison are the iconic symbol of especially forbs. Colonizing Pronghorn to move more easily during the North American grassland. wildfl owers are often found winters with heavy snow. Herds thousands of animals on abandoned ground squirrel strong thundered mounds. This impact is particularly across the plains, obvious in the fescue grassland turning the prairie where the often dense litter can to dust. Their prevent forb germination, but hoofs pounded where pocket gophers regularly wheatgrass seeds deposit fresh seedbeds.

IN DEEP SNOW, BISON WILL PUSH THE SNOW TO THE SIDE WITH THEIR HEADS TO EXPOSE GRASS.” THIS PHOTO WAS TAKEN TWO DAYS AFTER A BIG BLIZZARD. RICK PRICE 30 NatureAlberta

Breeding bulls tear up sod with ensure that the prairie vegetation their horns to make a dust bath, was constantly renewed. Large and the other bison are quick dead animals act much like to make use of them. No doubt bison manure, on a larger scale, the rolling brings relief from by providing a concentration BISON FECES CONTAIN PLANT SEEDS, SURROUNDED insects, but wallowing is also of nutrients in a larger patch of WITH A NUTRIENT-RICH MULCH THAT SMOTHERS used as a threat display by bulls. prairie worn bare by scavengers. COMPETING PLANTS. WHAT AN IDEAL SEED BED FOR The resulting depression collects NEW PLANTS… ROB GARDNER With upwards of a hundred rainfall, making a temporary million ungulates on the Great watering place especially popular Plains there would have been with birds. Because wallows were quite a lot of carcasses. Keep in widespread, they facilitated the mind that in much of Canada’s distribution of amphibians such as prairie, a shortage of phosphorus Spadefoot Toads that fl ourish in in the soil limits plant growth. ephemeral wetlands. The early settlers systematically We have heard that the native stripped the prairie of all people had a use for every part accumulated bones. Since then,

of the bison – so too, the prairie livestock has been sent away for WALLOWS “COLLECT RAINFALL, MAKING A animals. Ground-nesting birds slaughter, with the phosphorus TEMPORARY WATERING PLACE ESPECIALLY POPULAR are eager to use bison hair in in their bones not being returned WITH BIRDS. ROB GARDNER their nests, and will fl y quite to the soil. Wild plants benefi t some distance when they fi nd a from nutrients, of course, and to encourage further growth. If the bison source. Nests with large quantities the modern prairie is doubtless didn’t fi nd the patch that year, the taller of fur receive protection through stunted to some extent. dead stems would trap snow to encourage olfactory camoufl age, resulting What phosphorus that remains next year’s growth. If mice fl ourish in in signifi cantly lower predation. will not be readily available for the protection of the tall grass, their At the same time, the high use by plants, due to the alkaline phosphate-rich droppings may further insulation and water repellency nature of typical soils. However, increase the growth. Even if each action also helps the young birds. Staff when rodents chew the bones, raised productivity by only one percent, at Grasslands National Park tiny fragments of phosphate will the total impact across the prairie was have noted signifi cantly greater be deposited within the acidic enormous. numbers of grassland birds since mouse droppings, making the bison were re-introduced just Acting together over the vast range of nutrient much more useful. seven years ago. the northern Great Plains, and over ten Mice are leaving tiny pellets of thousand years, these inconspicuous Bison feces contain plant seeds, balanced fertilizer scattered in the ecological forces helped form a dynamic, surrounded with a nutrient-rich grass. exciting and fi nely balanced web of mulch that smothers competing The cumulative effect of these animals and plants. The micro-impacts plants. What an ideal seed bed small impacts is hard to fathom, act as glue binding the components of for new plants, and a way to but could be tremendous. Imagine the ecosystem. The myriad minuscule tufts of grass growing among variations, acting alone and together, a scattering of rocks. In a dry endow the native grassland with a year, this would attract bison that powerful resilience to extreme climatic would leave abundant fertilizer conditions.

WHEN RODENTS CHEW THE BONES, TINY FRAGMENTS OF PHOSPHATE WILL BE DEPOSITED WITHIN THE ACIDIC MOUSE DROPPINGS, MAKING THE NUTRIENT MUCH MORE USEFUL. ROB GARDNER WESTERN TANAGER. YOUSIF ATTIA SPRING 2012 31

A “Big Day” in Alberta! BY YOUSIF ATTIA

JUNE 2, 2011 small storm system On a last minute whim – and a and spent the night in turn of good fortune – I convinced Vermilion. good friends and colleagues Jody Allair (former Albertan, currently JUNE 3, 2011 of Port Rowan, ON) and Stu The following morning Mackenzie (Clear Creek, ON) to we scouted our reunite for an Alberta Big Day. way up to the Cold lingering at Cold Lake, a fl ock of The three of us left Calgary on Lake area. The conditions were White-winged Crossbills along the evening of Thursday June unfavorable with heavy smoke Primrose Lake Road and a nice little 2nd and drove northeast towards in the morning from nearby fi res, group of peeps near Bonnyville. the boreal. Likely the best bird of and high winds throughout the [“Peeps” are the smaller sandpipers the trip was an adult light-morph day. Fortunately we were more in the genus Calidris, including the Parasitic Jaeger fl ying north enroute interested in planning a route and Western, Semipalmated, and Least along Hwy 21. What are the setting a schedule than actually Sandpipers.] chances?! The exact location was nailing birds down, but better We had really only given ourselves approximately 10 km south of the conditions would have helped. one day for the attempt so we could intersection of Hwy 21 and Hwy 9 Highlights for the day included 2 only hope weather would cooperate south of Three Hills. We continued White-winged Scoters at Kehewin tomorrow. The afternoon was very on through the darkness and a Lake, numerous Sabine’s Gulls windy and as the wind howled when we went to bed, we prayed that the forecast would deliver and tomorrow would be a cool, calm morning. An attempt to get a solid night’s sleep that evening around 8:00 pm proved to be insuffi cient as we planned to be on the road at 00:00 hours.

JUNE 4, 2011 (THE BIG DAY) The prolonged and cold north winds had died down in the evening but the effect would cripple

WILSON’S PHALAROPE. YOUSIF ATTIA YELLOW-HEADED BLACKBIRD. YOUSIF ATTIA 32 NatureAlberta

us regardless. Temperatures had the three-toed dropped well below zero with woodpeckers the coldest part of the morning a in the region. chilling -6 degrees Celsius! As one We scoped the can imagine, neotropic warblers lake and added do not enjoy temperatures this Red-breasted low and we would end up Merganser, spending more time in the boreal Western Grebe than our schedule had allotted for. and a Pacifi c Fortunately the wind was nearly Loon but failed to absent and our combined hearing fi nd the Sabine’s efforts enabled us to track down of the previous most of the boreal targets in small evening. One last numbers. scan from the Provincial Park Our efforts began with owling; a and a fl ock of disappointing miss was a scouted Franklin’s carried Great Horned Owl fi rst thing one, then two, near the Cold Lake town site. then at least four We managed to fi nd a Northern Sabine’s Gulls in the numerous drive-by additions. The Saw-whet Owl at the Provincial it! Shorebirds in the area were biggest highlight of the long prairie Park, Barred Owls at numerous more or less a bust and the cold drive was a Richardsonii Merlin – a stops and most notable of all was must have been too much for notorious miss on big days. Just before a hooting Great Gray Owl along Common Nighthawk which we descending into the Red Deer River Primrose Lake Road at fi rst light. would not get for the day. valley we noticed a Golden Eagle being We also located all three species mobbed by a Short-eared Owl! We all of rail, Sedge Wren and of course We were behind schedule as conceded that it would be hard to top Nelson’s Sparrow during the pre- we left the boreal towards our a rare interaction such as that today. dawn hours. As our list grew, we parkland stop but decided that We continued on to our badlands stop noticed the impact the cold was we could cut out some stops where all the expected were fi nally having with far less vocal activity further down the route. During tallied along with some surprises. Our than we were accustomed to for a construction stop parallel to only Blackpoll Warbler of the trip was the area. Nevertheless we scored Kehewin Lake we searched for a nice bonus but we didn’t expect to most of the warblers including our scouted White-winged Scoters get both Olive-sided and Yellow-bellied Nashville and Palm Warblers. when a surprise pair of Surf Flycatchers after we missed them up Scoter fl ew by. We also added Another somewhat unexpected north. What a huge relief!! Great Crested Flycatcher and highlight was a male Black-backed Philadelphia Vireo, but searched We were far behind schedule at this Woodpecker near English Bay in vain for Broad-winged Hawk point and needed many more prairie which is the more elusive of and Turkey Vulture, species to go. A drive by a lake near both of which were Brooks provided a Caspian Tern which probably too cold to we did not expect to get. The town soar this morning. of Tilley provided Eurasian Collared- Dove among the houses and a female We began our long Bobolink on the outskirts of town. At trek south and our prairie spot we listened for Baird’s eventually added Sparrow and pulled out a surprise a single Turkey Grasshopper Sparrow in the process. Vulture among We tried not to linger as we continued

AMERICAN BITTERN. YOUSIF ATTIA SPRING 2012 33

AUDUBON WARBLER. YOUSIF ATTIA

southwest but stopped at a few the new additions near the town What’s a Big Day? sloughs adding Black-bellied site. We nearly drove past a male Plover and Stilt Sandpiper. Despite Dusky Grouse during our ascent BY DENNIS BARESCO being four days into June, it was to higher elevations. Townsend’s apparent that migration was still Warbler, Pacifi c Wren and White- going strong in the province. A winged Crossbill were added First and foremost, a Birding Big Day woodlot south of Brooks had along Cameron Lake road as the Count may well be the most exciting numerous Swainson’s Thrushes light fi nally died. The chiming and challenging event in which and a Gray-cheeked Thrush among of Varied Thrushes in the valley birders can take part! A Big Day the scattered neotropic migrants. would be one of our last species. Count is a single-team effort within The biggest shocker was a Broad- With what little energy we had any geographical area in which the winged Hawk perched in a tree left, we checked the river with primary objectives are (1) to identify as near Taber, far from the expected fl ashlights hoping for a Harlequin many bird species as possible during range, and a species we had Duck without success. a single, 24-hour calendar day and given up on after missing it in the All said it was a respectable effort (2) to strive to have all team members parkland. with numerous surprises along identify all species recorded. There are We had ever diminishing daylight the way. Most shocking perhaps offi cial rules, including that birds must left as we approached the epic was the evident migration we be conclusively identifi ed by sight or scenic entrance to Waterton Lakes encountered at such a late date. sound; if there is doubt, it cannot be National Park. Every species was We completed the day with 210 counted. critical at this point. We quickly species and irrefutably the best found MacGillivray’s Warbler and single day of birding any of us The Canadian Record Big Day is 218 Dusky Flycatcher although a few experienced yet. This was one for species (see the story in Nature Alberta, other locals eluded us. Barrow’s the memory books that will last a Summer/Fall 2011), established on June Goldeneye, Rufous and Calliope while. 1, 2011 in Alberta. The North American Hummingbirds, American Dipper record is 264 species, from a team in and Cassin’s Finch were among eastern Texas on April 22, 2011. 34 NatureAlberta

Year of the Bat

“Bats provide WNS ‘endangers’ tremendous Canadian bats value to the economy as White-nose Syndrome is killing natural pest Canadian bats in such catastrophic control for numbers that the Committee on farms and the Status of Endangered Wildlife forests every in Canada is recommending an year and may emergency order to add three bat play an species to the nation’s endangered important species list, Postmedia News role in reports. helping to control insects that The wildlife disease, discovered spread disease to people.” U.S. White-nose Syndrome in a New York cave in 2006, is so researchers have estimated the bat Update deadly that it poses a “serious and die-off will cost North American A research team led by the imminent threat to the survival” agriculture $3.7 billion annually. of these bats, the committee of University of Winnipeg in The committee says the fungus wildlife experts concluded after an Canada recently confi rmed likely impacts many bat species, emergency meeting, according to that the Geomyces destructans but it is hitting these three the nationwide news service. The fungus that causes White-nose Canadian species especially species are the Tri-colored Bat, Syndrome (WNS) in North hard. They all hibernate in caves Little Brown Myotis and Northern America originated in Europe, or mines, which are cold and Myotis. Federal Environment where it is still found but does not damp and hospitable to the WNS Minister Peter Kent would make cause mass deaths of bats. This fungus. the decision on listing the species suggests that European bats may as endangered. The little brown myotis has been have faced WNS sometime in the quite common, but the committee past and the bats that survived “This is one of the biggest events said recent population counts evolved to have immunological in terms of a massive decline in a at infected hibernation sites in or behavioral resistance to the common mammal in such a short eastern Canada show declines of disease. period of time ever recorded,” up to 99 percent within two years committee member Graham This research also demonstrates of exposure, Postmedia reports. In Forbes, of the University of New that the WNS fungus was almost the United States, scientists have Brunswick, told Postmedia News. certainly carried, inadvertently, predicted local extinctions of little “This is dramatic.” WNS has by humans from an infected brown myotis within 15 years battered bat populations in four European cave to North America. because of WNS. Northern myotis Canadian provinces. Since it was fi rst reported on the is also facing disastrously high muzzles of little brown bats in The committee also warns that the mortality rates. New York’s Howes Cave, WNS impact of White-nose Syndrome From: BCI E-Newsletter, March 2012, has killed more than 5.7 million will be felt far beyond bat caves, Vol 10, # 3 bats in North America, according reporter Margaret Munro writes. SPRING 2012 35 to federal biologists. Mortality as well as strict adherence to go to Bat Conservation International’s rates approaching 100 percent decontamination procedures website: www.batcon.org. have been reported at some bat- outlined by the U.S. Fish and From: Bat Conservation International. hibernation sites. Wildlife Service. We must all do April 13, 2012 everything we can to prevent or This new evidence that humans at least slow the spread of this can carry and spread the fungus To learn more about Alberta’s bats, see: tragic disease. To learn more reinforces the need for targeted Feature Story, Nature Alberta, Spring 2009, about WNS and bat conservation, closures of caves used by bats, Vol 39, # 1. Alberta Tomorrow Now Publicly Available Alberta Tomorrow gives you the • Improve your understanding cutting edge GIS technology, a power to better understand land- of Alberta’ ecosystems and unique “drawing tool” that allows use issues in Alberta so you can environmental resources; you to draw the future, and social make engaged and informed • See what is happened in your media sharing of data, photos, decisions that will affect you, your area in the last century and what videos and observations children, and your grandchildren. it might look like 30 years from You can create your own account And now, a new version is publicly now; at www.albertatomorrow.ca and available. • Track and share water quality design the future of Alberta! For “Best of all,” says Jennifer Janzen, and land-use observations with further information or comments, Executive Director, “just like the other Albertans; contact: previous version, this new version • Develop your own plan for Jennifer Janzen, Executive is completely free for everyone to Alberta’s future. Director, Alberta Tomorrow use. And, we’ve added a whole set Key software features include Email: [email protected]; of new features.” the most recent satellite imagery, Ph: 403-464-4107 Alberta Tomorrow is an effective educational tool for teachers, students and all Albertans that helps Albertans understand the process of sustainable planning that balances land-uses such as agriculture, oil and gas and forestry with ecological integrity. Lesson plans are available for the Alberta Curriculum, and teachers are now using Alberta Tomorrow in the classroom. With Alberta Tomorrow, you can: • View videos and discover the potential benefi ts and impacts of different land-uses and land-use practices in Alberta; CHARLEY BIRD 36 NatureAlberta

First Hand: A Surprise Dove BY DR. CHARLEY BIRD

On March 21, I was walking home after getting my mail when I heard a distinct “Coo Coo” call. This is weird, I thought. Mourning Doves (Zenaida macroura) don’t occur here in the winter. Then I realized that the call wasn’t right.

Getting closer, I heard the call in Red Deer for the past ten years. royalalbertamuseum.ca/natural/birds/ again, then saw a large dove They started off with a pair over- birdlist/pdf/Offi cialList(NatureAB).pdf) on top of a power pole. As I wintering in Oriole Park and went and has been expanding its range approached, it fl ew, landing on from there to about nine birds in Alberta ever since. It is now well top of a TV aerial. Realizing that within a few years. There are now established in southern Alberta. Records I had never seen a bird like this Eurasian Collared-Doves all over north of Red Deer are still relatively few anywhere before, let alone in Red Deer. Eileen Ford has them in (Beaverhill Lake, 23 September 2002; Erskine, I continued home and Penhold; Lloyd Bennett has them West Edmonton, 1 April 2007), but got my digital camera with 18 X down in Taber.” certainly rising.” zoom. The bird was still there There were no dots for Alberta Jocelyn also mentioned that the spread when I got back and I was able to on the map in my Sibley Guide to of the bird in Alberta is documented take a number of images. Birds (it was published in 2000, in the annual summary reports of the The bird was almost twice the 6th ed. in 2001), nor on the map Great Backyard Bird Counts which are size of a Mourning Dove, had a in my 2008 Peterson Field Guide held in mid February. This year the bird more robust build, and a shorter to Birds of North America. The showed up in counts in the following tail with a rounded end. I realized bird doesn’t show up in older bird Alberta locations: High River, Taber, that it was in the Dove and Pigeon books because it wasn’t here back Lethbridge, Rimbey, Pincher Creek, family, but which species? I then then. It was apparently introduced Stirling, Brooks, Calgary, Claresholm, sent the image with my comments and escaped in the Bahamas in Granum, Jarvie and Redcliff. to Judy Boyd in Red Deer. She the 1970’s, reached Florida in 1980 Remembering that Elmer Gross, who replied that a bit of a black collar and has spread rapidly northward lives in Stettler, had mentioned seeing was showing on the back/nape ever since. It is an invasive Mourning Doves in his yard and around of the bird’s neck and therefore, species. his feeders, John Beggs and I visited it was either a Eurasian Collared- Judy suggested that I send the him yesterday morning. Elmer had Dove (Streptopelia decaocto) observation to Jocelyn Hudon, based his identifi cation on an older bird or a Ringed Dove (Streptopelia the chair of the Alberta Bird book that did not include the Eurasian risoria). The bird’s larger size and Record Committee. I received the Collared-Dove. After discussion with distinctive call ruled out a Ringed following in reply. him it appears highly likely that what Dove. he was seeing was that species. Elmer “The Eurasian Collared-Dove fi rst Judy commented in a later email: said that two birds showed up in showed up (and bred!) in Red “The Eurasian Collared-Doves March of last year, had four young last Deer, Alberta in 2002 (see www. have been expanding their range summer and that at least two birds were SPRING 2012 37

showing up off and on in his yard this winter. When there, they foraged on the ground for sunfl ower seeds. Our daughter, Mrs. Debbie Sawatzky, mentioned seeing a bird which was very likely First Hand: Goose Attack! a Eurasian Collared-Dove in BY DENNIS BARESCO Lacombe around two months ago. This is an old but true story of a man on a bike The birds are year-round experiencing Spring. It is April 27, 1996. Kent is enjoying a residents and do not migrate. In the winter, they frequent areas leisurely bicycle ride on a fi ne day along a path beside the where grain can be found, South Saskatchewan River in Medicine Hat. Suddenly, a such as below bird feeders. An excellent account of the honk rings out! Eurasian Collared Dove is at Kent looks up. He discovers a up some more. Honking wildly, it http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ Canada Goose fl ying alongside lands on Kent’s shoulders. Eurasian_Collared_Dove. him. Now, an expert in avian Convinced he has been thrust into behaviour he wasn’t, but Kent Keep watching. You never a Hitchcock movie, Kent frantically deduces that the goose is not know what you might see, even ducks. His face slams into the trying to be friends. He speeds up in an area that you frequent handlebars – which, in great irony, – the goose speeds up. He speeds often. are attached to the bike frame by a up some more – ggooseneck. Cuts and bruises are the the goose resuresultslts – andand MotherMother Goose’s workwork speeds is ddone.one. Charley received and shared other comments. Jim Arnup observed a fl ock of about twelve-plus in Rosalind (six showed up about three years ago). Glenys Smith of Camrose reported that the species has “been nesting on our street for at least three years and stay the winter; the young come with parents to feed at our feeder and use the water.” Barb Frank, also of Camrose, “had three here all last summer but have we no idea where they went for the winter.” As well, Camrose resident Deanne Morrow mentioned: “We have been feeding a pair of Eurasian Collared- Doves on our back deck since the summer of 2010. We feed them Dove Mix as well as bird gravel.” If you have a fi rst-hand In the southeast of the province, Eurasian experience withh nature, Collared-Doves have been continuous year- send it in and ssharehare iitt wiwithth round residents in Medicine Hat since May other naturalists.ts. AfterAfter allall – therethere 2003 when fi rst observed in Ben Velner’s are 8 million storiestories in the Nature CitCity.y. yard. Yours…could be oonene of tthem.hem. THINKSTOCK.COMTHINKSTOCK.COM 38 NatureAlberta

Wildlife! Starring… What’s Going On under the Snow?

Snow can act as an insulating blanket, keeping the plants under it warm and protecting them from frost damage. But what are the plants doing under that blanket? GLACIER LILY. PARKS CANADA/JULIA MILLEN

“It seems that some are napping, factors like depth and density of the as soon as they are in the open. These some are sleeping deeply, and some snow). tend to be the early spring bloomers are just waiting around for spring.” like Glacier Lilies (Erythronium Some plants, like Mountain grandifl orum). Turns out, enough of the sun’s Cranberry (Vaccinium vitis-idaea), radiation can penetrate the snow stay green in the winter but turn Some of the fast-growing taller species that plants know the time of day, off photosynthesis. Once snow- like geranium actually start growing as time of year, and when to start free, it takes about two weeks soon as they emerge from the snow growing. Even under snow depths for these plants to become fully and then turn green later. of up to 2 metres, the radiation photosynthetic again. And lastly there are the annuals, with levels are strong enough to trigger Then there’s the more conventional seeds that germinate at snow melt. sprouting and seed germination. strategy of going dormant or SIX STRATEGIES ALPINE inactive, with PLANTS USE TO SURVIVE UNDER SNOW new green leaves emerging after Some plants have bark or leaves snow melt. which stay green in the winter, allowing them to continue But some species photosynthesis when conditions start leaf growth are right. Mosses and lichens can while still under actually grow under the snow, the snow, so indicating that they are using light they can turn to convert carbon dioxide into green and start organic molecules (depending on photosynthesis

MOUNTAIN CRANBERRY. PARKS CANADA SPRING 2012 39

WHITE GLOBEFLOWER (TROLLIUS ALBIFLORUS) [ABOVE] AND PRAIRIE PASQUE FLOWER OR CROCUS (ANEMONE PATENS)[BELOW]: BOTH BLOOM JUST AS THE SNOW MELTS. PARKS CANADA/JULIA MILLEN

The longer the snow cover lasts, LICHENS AND MOSSES. PARKS CANADA/JULIA MILLEN the less well this strategy works. It is rare for an alpine plant to be an annual – it takes too long to germinate, grow, fl ower and Parks Canada’s “Fire and Vegetation set seed again when the growing Fire & Vegetation Management Newsletter Management Newsletter” is a twice yearly season is so short. So what are Summer/Fall 2011 publication specifi c to Northern Banff, the plants doing under that snow Yoho and Kootenay National Parks. It is an blanket? It seems that some are interesting illustrated read – in an e-version napping, some are sleeping – that does a good job summarizing what deeply, and some are just waiting - July 2011 National Park training in Kootenay Wildland Fire Basic A wet season so far, but there is a lot going on and we’re Parks Canada has been up to, or will be up What’s Inside: around for spring. thinking ahead Fire Duty? In this wet weather? to, regarding fi re management. And, it is brief A Northern Experience Here are the burning questions... Prescribed Fires in the Parks • What prescribed burns are proposed for the fall of 2011? Upcoming Prescribed Fires and to the point: the Spring 2012 issue is only These provide great opportunities to stop, watch and References: Smoke Advisory Information learn about this amazing natural process. Export Duty Alien Invaders: Be on the lookout! • What does mean for Parks Canada crews? (hint: it’s not a government tax!) six pages, with lots of illustrations. It is very

• There are green invaders in our mountain national parks. Korner, C. 1999. Alpine plant life. What is Parks Canada is doing, and how can you help? Information: worth signing up for; send a request to Julia Functional plant ecology of high Fire Communications Officer: 403-522-1256, [email protected] mountain ecosystems. Springer Millen via llyk.fi [email protected] and she will Heidelberg. add you to the list.

Original article by the Alberta Native Plant Council, adapted and used with permission. (www.anpc.ab.ca) in Parks Canada Fire and Vegetation Management Newsletter, Spring 2012. 40 NatureAlberta Up Close Naturally: Green Lakes are Good Lakes BY MARGOT HERVIEUX

For many people, summer means time spent at the lake, but many of the lakes in Alberta don’t always get high marks. Our lakes are full of life, but they aren’t always perfect for swimming.

Prairie lakes tend to be much look closely at a bucket of lake scavenge for bits and pieces. shallower than lakes in B.C. or water you might spot moving A lake full of algae and plankton Ontario. Many are actually the specks. These are daphnia or may not appeal to swimmers last pockets of water left over copepods, miniature crustaceans but it certainly attracts birds. from huge lakes that covered that spend their short lives Dabbling and diving ducks parts of the province at the end feeding on microscopic plants feed on plants, insects and of the last ice age. Some of the and animals. crustaceans. Black terns and more northern lakes are part of Another common creature in Franklin’s gulls swoop above larger boreal wetlands and likely nutrient rich lakes is the side- the water catching fl ying insects. started their life as beaver ponds. swimmer or fresh-water shrimp. Grebes dive for fresh-water Over time, lakes fi ll in with These multi-legged creatures are shrimp and stickleback while nutrient-rich silt and those rarely more than 2 cm long and shorebirds probe the shallows for nutrients feed a thriving natural are important food for fi sh and mud worms and midge larvae. community. The foundation of ducks. The lakes in our province are that community is algae. These Shallow lakes are full of fi sh naturally rich but human activity tiny plants love warm, shallow food but during the winter there aggravates the situation. Nitrogen water and tint our lakes summer- may not be enough oxygen and phosphorous from farm green. to support fi sh larger than and lawn fertilizers, rural septic Once or twice every season, stickleback and other minnows. fi elds, and livestock support the blue-green algae also multiply Fish may also die from lack of growth of algae while changes and become visible in the water. oxygen after a summer algae in run-off due to land clearing These algae release toxins that bloom because oxygen is used and development increase the can be harmful if you or your up as the algae decays. amount of silt and affect the fl ow pets drink the water but there of fresh water in and out of the Healthy lake communities also is no risk to fi sh or other lake system. need scavengers and that role is residents. fi lled by creatures like leeches. It is easy to think of lakes only as Algae are food for a Despite their reputation, only places to boat, swim and fi sh but multitude of tiny two out of more than twenty these water bodies are a special creatures that we types of leeches in Alberta are part of our prairie landscape. collectively call actually blood suckers. Most feed As far as the plants and animals plankton. If you on small creatures like snails and are concerned, a green lake is a good lake.

Margot also writes a column for the Peace Country Sun, archived copies of which are available at www.peacecountrysun.com. SPRING 2012 41 When Love is in the Air BY FAHIM HASSAN

FIG. 1 The spring of 2011 burst into Edmonton in late April. Random green patches started appearing on trees and bushes. Warmth was everywhere and signs of life in the natural world became more apparent.

Spring is always a good time to ice, the air was full of a warm photograph wildlife activities spring romance. The pair softly and I decided to visit the William nuzzled, tapped each other’s FIG. 2 Hawrelak Park. This park is easy beaks with excitement and to get to, prime habitat for urban exchanged affection in pure wildlife and an ideal spot for delight (Figs 3 & 4). I spent the bird watching. The whole place afternoon watching them bonding was teeming with magpies, gulls with each other and making love and ducks – fl ying, foraging and (Fig 5). perching on tree branches. We get so busy with our everyday A sudden high pitched call lives that we often overlook the FIG. 3 drew my attention – I saw a amazing aspects of the natural pair of Ring-billed Gulls (Larus world surrounding us. In city life, delawarensis). At fi rst I thought natural parks can not only give us they were fi ghting (Figs 1 & some mental relief but also rare 2), since I had often seen gulls opportunities to build personal fi ghting over food in the park. connections with nature and Soon I saw their wings vigorously wildlife. Even a common bird like fl apping; then they stopped and the gull can really make you feel started preening each other. spring and the loving behavior this season brings. FIG. 4 Although the ground was still covered in sheets of half melted

PHOTO INFORMATION of Brightness and Contrast. The aspect ratio The photos in this article have been of all the photos is 16:9. uploaded and shared in Facebook, Flickr, and personal website. None of the photos Camera: Canon EOS 40D, equipped with FIG. 5 appeared in any printed publication before. Canon EOS 300mm L IS USM, Canon EOS 70-300mm IS USM. All the photos are originally taken in RAW format and then converted to JPEG through TECHNICAL ASPECTS: All photos, except # Canon Digital Photo Professional Software. 5, were taken May 3 2011, Aperture (F stop No digital manipulation was made during #) of 6.3, shutter speed of 1/1250, and ISO the process. I did not remove or add any 400. Photo # 5 was taken May 2 2011, F object in the images. Postproduction stop of 8, shutter speed 1/1600, ISO 400. process includes: cropping and adjustment 42 NatureAlberta

A Letter to the Future BY LORNE FITCH, P. BIOL.

How many of you have children, subject of responsibility for future colleagues, the research fi ndings are contemplating having generations. of many and trend analysis, I children in the future, associate tend to worry about their future. I I don’t have children but I have with the children of others, or think it is paradoxical to continue a grandnephew Alex and a think children are our future? on this growth trajectory and grandniece Monica. They are If you remain unmoved at this still profess we want a bright young and will inherit Alberta in point, were you a child in the future for our children. I have a decade or two. I spend a lot past, secure in the notion that penned a letter to them as an of time pondering their future. adults were operating with your act of contrition, to help them Based on my years of travel over best interests at heart? I hope understand their future, if the the length and breadth of Alberta, I’ve achieved some level of trends continue. I hope I don’t my observations and those of my solidarity amongst you, on the have to send it.

Dear Alex and Monica, To you, my grandnephew and grandniece, I apologize for the world you inherit from my generation. My generation lived better than we could afford but you got stuck with the bill for our excesses. I can remember clean water that didn’t require straining and filtering and chemical manipulation to make it potable. As I remember, there was also lots of it but we conspired to drain, dredge and otherwise speed it on its way, out of our backyards and lives. We fought first with water; now you are faced with the prospect of fighting over what remains. The sky was blue, and blue on just about any given day. It didn’t take an article of faith to breathe in a lungful. In fact it was a pleasure, but one which we didn’t appreciate. No, it seemed we Albertans would rather drive than breathe and the air of our cities darkened with the result. We reveled in large bank accounts, individually and provincially with the administrative and geological luck of petroleum and coal underlying our feet. Did we save some for you? Not much. No, we were fearful some alternative would eclipse its use so we liquidated it as quickly as we could manage. We blindly mined your future and you are stuck with the cost of a quick liquidation. We invested in starter castles that ever spread like mushrooms around cities and towns and throughout the rural landscape. We commuted, often for hours, in vehicles slightly smaller than our houses, and just as fuel efficient. We complained about the high cost of living, but like drug addicts it was really the cost of living high. The soil that attracted your great, great -grandparents lies buried now, under asphalt and concrete. What was left became too expensive to farm and was transformed into golf courses and equestrian facilities. Perhaps you could block off a few rooms in those now drafty mansions and excavate some asphalt from the long driveways to heat them. That would expose some soil to grow things again. We forgot that the basis of society is soil and the ability to grow things. We lived in a province that should have been called “denial”. SPRING 2012 43

You have every right to hate us for our wastefulness, our lack of foresight, our greed and our thoughtlessness. Some tried to remedy this; their efforts were laughed at, their concerns were marginalized, their modest gains mocked. The name calling: ecofreak, environmentalist, the word often spat out as an epithet, and the ever popular “tree hugger”. Maybe you can still find a tree to hug in western or northern Alberta. Concerned people used the courts, the institutions, politics, education and the marketplace to try and affect change. But they were up against powerful interests whose sole pursuit was profit. Beware of the pursuit of profit that externalizes most of the costs to society and the environment. That form is malevolent and because of it the banquet of consequences is now set for you. I wish I could have done more. All I can do now is to remind you not to repeat our mistakes (that’s one we failed miserably at despite all of the evidence in front of us). Ironically, there were ample examples from elsewhere in our world and a long history of societal collapse because of degradation of natural resources. But we failed to heed those warning signs. I hope generations following you applaud your wisdom, innovation and foresight. My generation was apparently bereft of most of these qualities. Erect no statues in our honour; we don’t deserve them. We were called the “baby boomers”; in time the strength of our generation would influence politics, music, consumerism and, unfortunately, the health of Alberta. History may reflect we were an aberration, a cohort of people too inwardly focused, too arrogant and too narcissistic for the good of this place. We inherited a land from our parents and grandparents that was still rich in possibilities, opportunities and integrity. What we didn’t inherit was their thriftiness, their understanding of community and cooperation and, their sense of limits. In my era we called it stewardship but we were too obsessed with wealth generation to understand the implications and the responsibility the word entails. We thought the frontier of Alberta’s pioneers would satisfy all of our needs and, unfortunately all of our wants too. We didn’t know (or wouldn’t accept) the frontier was gone; because it existed only in our minds, we continued the headlong, heedless rush to get our “share”. Regrettably we did get our share and yours too. We ended up rich but with the type of wealth that comes without understanding, especially what the price was to acquire it. We cut and plowed and dug and drilled and built and paved like tomorrow would never come. We used up most of the inherent possibilities and fouled what was left with our footprint. We said we were doing this for you, so you would have the chance to revel in the wealth we had accumulated. That was the excuse for our perverse moral justification for selfishness. As it turns out, it was the wrong measure of wealth. I wish you could have seen the flash of a trout in crystal clear water, a splash of liquid sunshine. We clear-cut the forests, especially the old growth portion which held and stored most of the water trout depended on. Sediment from the roads, trails, fields and cut blocks clouded the water and smothered the gravels. We built more and accessed more for business and pleasure; in the end there was no refuge left where trout could escape hook, heat or mud. The sight of a grizzly as it materialized at a bend in the trail terrified and excited us. It was the symbol of wild country, more elusive than a wisp of wind but a powerful metaphor for integrity, space and possibilities. We carved up the landscape with our roads and our activities until the remaining islands could not meet the needs of those majestic beasts. Old growth forest was anathema to our economic “wisdom” and as it disappeared, shrouded with the arboreal lichens that typified its ancientness, so too did the woodland caribou. They were derided by some as a species evolutionarily unfit because they couldn’t change quickly enough to survive in the landscape as manufactured by us. On reflection, maybe it was us who were evolutionarily unfit. I wish you could have heard, on a calm spring morning on the prairie, sage grouse on their strutting, or as some called them, “booming” grounds. They were a symbol of prairie, like grizzlies were of mountains. But we couldn’t bear to leave big tracts of “old growth” prairie alone. Sitting there, on that calm spring morning, you probably would have also heard 44 NatureAlberta

a chorus of frogs. They were the audible harbinger of spring and their presence was a litmus test for atmospheric and aquatic health. The silence you hear now should fill you with dread about your health. I wish you could have rolled in grassland dominated by rough fescue. It was Alberta’s provincial grass but I expect now it is like the California grizzly, emblematic of our failure to appreciate what it meant. It had only taken rough fescue about 15000 years to figure out how to survive in the face of fire, flood, drought and grazing. We came along thinking we knew better and replaced it with stuff that didn’t know drought, didn’t cure well and could only produce well with lots of rain. Been getting much rain lately? I think not, given the trend in climate even as we recognized it. With fervent hubris we thought we could restore fescue, after we’d ripped up the landscape. We discovered we knew lots about disassembling but precious little about putting things back together again. Lastly I wish you could experience space and quiet and solitude. Reflecting on what Wallace Stegner, a prescient writer of a generation before me, said, “Something will have gone out of us as a people if wild spaces disappear, if we drive wildlife to extinction or zoos, if we pollute the last clean air and dirty the last clean streams and push roads through the last of the silence so that never again can we see ourselves as separate and individual in the world, part of the natural world and competent to belong to it.” I’m sad you’ll never find this antidote for noise and clutter and crowding. There isn’t enough money to turn back the hands of time to a world with fresh water, clean air, productive soil, rich biodiversity and space. That stuff can’t be purchased; it can only be stewarded and passed on in good condition to the next generation. My generation’s folly was to think that money could substitute for all these essentials. We were wrong. I’m sorry! Your (not so) Great Uncle, Lorne

What letter will you write? What Now, if my instincts lead me astray, accept lower rates of return on their will your legacy be and how will my grandchildren or perhaps their investments and lower salaries if you be judged? grandchildren will starve.” That is these come with assurances of water the cost of a misstep now in our to drink, air to breathe, food to eat Is my letter alarmist, engaged planning for Alberta’s landscape and a place to live with ecological in hyperbole; is it too sardonic, and resources. integrity. unduly pessimistic, or overly cynical? No! These things have My instincts tell me we have Alternatively, we could wait and see happened, are happening now or exceeded some thresholds in how many of these essentials we are could happen in the foreseeable Alberta, are advancing quickly on able to buy as they become scarcer, future. In fact, the future has others, have no real remediation and let the marketplace decide already arrived. We don’t plan and are dealing with unrealistic the outcome. The harsh reality is acknowledge its arrival because it expectations for returns from change isn’t necessary; survival isn’t isn’t evenly distributed just yet. Alberta’s landscape and resources. mandatory. No future is inevitable; If we can agree on that, there is but taking the future for granted, Perhaps a dose of reality about a light at the end of the tunnel. If that it will mirror the past, is a those things that are important will we can’t agree, we will simply add gamble of monumental proportions focus our attention on the task at more tunnel until the light goes and risk. One can only hope hand. Robert Francis said, “It wasn’t out. The public and shareholders that raising children inspires and too long ago that my ancestors may want it all but that Pollyanna- motivates us to think of the future starved if they made a mistake by ish world doesn’t exist. With time and the risk those children face following their instincts to draw and explanation, most people will through inaction, greed or denial. sustenance from the natural world. Lorne Fitch is a Professional Biologist, Adjunct Professor with the University of Calgary and a retired Alberta Fish and Wildlife Biologist. He is a well-known speaker, writer and photographer, living in Lethbridge AB. “A Letter to the Future” is the fi fth in a series of articles by Lorne. SPRING 2012 45

CELESTIAL HAPPENINGS Starry Nights Summer: June to August BY JOHN MCFAUL

FEATURED CONSTELLATION: LIBRA

Libra is a member of the around the dwarf star Gliese 581 in size and is thought to be located in the Zodiac which consists of the about 20 light years from Earth. habitable zone where liquid water could 12 constellations that the sun This star is located about 2 degrees exist. However there are some who debate passes through on its 12 month north of beta Libra. It is thought the existence of this planet. journey across the sky. that one of the planets is Earth-like In ancient times, about the 11th century BC, the sun was located in the region of the CELESTIAL HAPPENINGS sky occupied by Libra at the Sun: Rise – June 1 (5:11 MST), July 1 (5:10 MDT), August 1 (5:50 MDT) Autumnal Equinox (when the Set – June 1 (21:54 MST), July 1 (22:06 MDT), August 1 (21:29 MDT) length of the days and nights are equal). This balancing of the Moon: Full – June 4, July 3, August 1 & 31 day and night is aptly refl ected New – June 19, July 18, August 17 in Libra being depicted as a Planets: Mercury may be seen very low above the WNW horizon just after sunset in the set of scales. These scales are latter half of June. On June 21st a very thin crescent Moon will lie just below the often shown being held by planet. By the Middle of August Mercury, becomes a morning planet rising just the goddess Astraea, goddess before the Sun. of justice. The bordering Venus will transit in front of the Sun on June 5 starting about 16:08 at the constellation Virgo is often 11 o’clock position and will slowly cross the front of the sun over the next 8 associated with the goddess hours. The transit can be viewed by projecting the image of the sun through Astraea. a spotting scope or binoculars on to a white paper. The next transit will not occur until Dec. 11, 2117. Do not attempt to look directly at the sun!! Interestingly, the two brightest Venus is visible in the morning sky above the eastern horizon from early July stars in Libra are named through August. It will form a nice grouping with the crescent moon and Jupiter Zubenelgenubi (alpha Libra) on July 15 and with the Moon on August 13th. and Zubeneschemali (beta Mars can be found about 40 degrees above the SW horizon in early June. From Libra), which are Arabic for the then to the middle of August it gradually gets closer to the western horizon each southern and northern claws evening until it is joined by Saturn just above the horizon at sunset. On August of the scorpion. Thus at one 21st a thin crescent moon joins this pair. time Libra was considered part Jupiter is to be found above the ENE horizon in mid-June. Over the next two of the constellation Scorpius. months it will appear higher and higher above the horizon each morning. On the Some authors indicate that the morning of July 15th it will appear only a few degrees above the Moon and Venus scales were separated from and close to the Moon on August 11th. the scorpion at the time when Saturn remains about 5 degrees above the bright star Spica in the constellation Julius Caesar created the Julian Virgo throughout the summer months. In June it stands about 30 degrees above calendar in 46 BC. the southern horizon at sunset. By August 13th it will be just above Mars low in Of special interest to modern the western sky just after sunset. day astronomers is the discovery Meteor Shower: Delta Aquirids (July 28th, 20/hour in a dark sky), Perseids (August 11th, of a family of four or six 50/hour) exosolar planets revolving The rate of meteors observed is for dark skies well away from city lights and with no Moon. 46 NatureAlberta

CLUB PAGE

Buffalo Lake Naturalists BY CLAUDIA CAMERON

If you ever venture through east central Alberta, perhaps along highway 21 or 56, about one hour east of Red Deer, you would be in Buffalo Lake Naturalists’ territory.

Buffalo Lake itself is the largest body of water in central Alberta and is bordered by the Counties of Camrose, Lacombe and Stettler. Some club members also hail from the County of Paintearth farther to the east. Our monthly meetings are held in Stettler, with hikes and outings spread throughout the surrounding areas. Club members have numerous opportunities to enjoy the outdoors as a group and to learn from each other. The Christmas Bird Counts seem to be a popular draw for getting people interested in what the BUFFALO LAKE NATURALISTS ON A FIELD TRIP TO THE CHURCHILL WELSH PROPERTY. club does. Three large circles STANDING (LEFT TO RIGHT): THOMASINA PAYNE, MARK HIGGINS, MARIE PAYNE; SITTING: are designated as the Stettler, CLAUDIA CAMERON (ON THE LEFT), MARY ROY (ON THE RIGHT). Buffalo Lake, and Erskine/Red Deer River Counts, with each area being traversed on consecutive vehicle over their designated areas Our best practice is taking a Sundays. Participants travel by recording each creature that they camera along, to prove that your see. Everyone should experience group really did have the most the camaraderie that develops exciting fi nd en route. The annual when a group of three to four Owl Survey in late winter/early witnesses are confi ned to a spring also has great appeal for vehicle for a couple of hours. It’s newcomers, and especially for never a competition unless your youth who may be studying owls group has found the most exotic in school or just like to stay up late. species!

HOW FORTUNATE IS BLN TO HAVE CHARLEY BIRD (FAR RIGHT) AS ONE OF ITS HIGHLY ACTIVE MEMBERS! OTHERS IN THE PHOTO ARE (LEFT TO RIGHT) CONNIE BARRITT, ELIZABETH BAGDAN AND KURT BAGDAN. CLAUDIA CAMERON SPRING 2012 47

BUFFALO LAKE NATURALISTS’ ANNUAL BIG KNIFE PROVINCIAL PARK CAMPOUT PROVIDES A WORLD OF DISCOVERY AND FUN! PICTURED, LEFT TO RIGHT, ARE: PAT EDGERTON-MCGHAN, ANDREW PAUL AND DR. CHARLEY BIRD. LEE CAROTHERS

The annual Big Knife Provincial Park campout is held in a unique landscape and offers hiking, a guided nature walk and canoeing, as does the annual Lady Slipper Walk at the Narrows Provincial Recreation Area. A very popular club event is the Dry Island Buffalo Jump Provincial Park Annual survival skills, conservation Volunteer Stewards, when the reserve Butterfl y Count hosted by Dr. research data and international was known as a Buck for Wildlife Charles Bird in early July. Here you travel expeditions. We have been Site. It lies along the south shore of can be one of about thirty want-to- able to share these learning Buffalo Lake and is managed by the be entomologists who contribute to opportunities with local youth Alberta Conservation Association. Charley’s scientifi c fi ndings, where such as Scouts and Junior Forest When the Buffalo Lake Naturalists his records date back to 1999. Wardens. Club came into being in 1973, it A guest speaker is invited to each Twice yearly, the club schedules became one of the eight original of the Buffalo Lake Naturalists’ a stewardship walk at the Buffalo Corporate members of the Federation monthly meetings. Guest speakers Lake Conservation Site, which is of Alberta Naturalists. Throughout present their areas of expertise referred to locally as the Churchill 39 years of club activities, focus which range from studies of fi sh, Welsh Property. It was in 1974 has remained on fostering an birds, plants, amphibians and that the Buffalo Lake Naturalists appreciation of the natural history of insects, to local history, winter signed on as Alberta’s fi rst the area surrounding Buffalo Lake. 48 NatureAlberta

A great introduction to tropical birding! Join Carolyn Parbery Hernandez, a long-time Manitoba birder, in a 9-day birding tour of Los Tuxtlas Biosphere Reserve in Veracruz, Mexico. The expansive reserve consists of coastal plains, mangroves, montane forest, rainforest and Lake Catemaco. Some of the sought after bird families include toucans, parrots, hummingbirds, woodcreepers, tropical fl ycatchers, tanagers and our own neotropical migrants on their wintering grounds. Bird Tour of Los Tuxtlas, Veracruz, Mexico

This is also the time of year to see hundreds of thousands of migrating raptors passing through the area. Carolyn has regularly birded the area for ten years and is eager to introduce others to the beauty of Lake Catemaco and the Sierra de Los Tuxtlas. The next trip is planned for October 13 – 21, 2012. For details, please call Carolyn at (204) 489-2483 or e-mail to [email protected]. LUC VIATOUR / WWW.LUCNIX.BE

Nature Alberta Celebrating our natural heritage!

Nature Alberta welcomes submissions of articles, photos, humour and other suitable material on Alberta’s natural history. Submission guidelines for articles and photos are available on the NA website at www.naturealberta.ca. Join Today! E-VERSION » Individual*: $20/yr; $35/2-yr Donations welcome! MAIL TO: Nature Alberta Family**: $35/yr; $65/2-yr Your support means Attn: Membership Life: $1,000 ($450 tax receipt) a great deal to 11759 Groat Road Edmonton, AB Nature Alberta and its * add $10/yr for hard copy of magazine T5M 3K6 ** add $15/yr for hard copy of magazine conservation objectives. SANDRA HAWKINS

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HOLLE HAHN SANDRA HAWKINS VOLUME 42 | NUMBER 1 | SPRING 2012 Naturegallery

SANDHILL CRANES FILL THE SPRING SKY! LEN PETTITT

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