Nesting in the Sonoran Desert Where the Chicks Hang Out

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

Vermf li yl ci a to c hn e r April–June 2012 | Volume 57, Number 2

Nesting In the Sonoran Desert Where the Chicks Hang Out

Upland Desert Grassland Birding: Closer Than You’d Expect What’s in a Name? Brown-headed Cowbird Features The QuA r T erly News MA g A ziN e of TucsoN AuduboN s ocieT y | TucsoNAuduboN .org 11 Upland Desert Grassland Birding: Closer Than You’d Expect Vermilionf l y c a t c h e r 12 Nesting in the Sonoran Desert April–June 2012 | Volume 57, Number 2 14 Where the Chicks Hang Out Tucson Audubon Society is dedicated to improving 16 What’s in A Name? Brown-headed the quality of the environment by providing education, conservation, and recreation programs, environmental Cowbird leadership, and information. Tucson Audubon is a non-profit volunteer organization of people with a common interest in birding and natural history. Tucson Departments Audubon maintains offices, a library, and nature 3 Commentary shops in Tucson, the proceeds of which benefit all of its programs. 4 Events and Classes Tucson Audubon Society 5 Events Calendar Nesting 300 E. University Blvd. #120, Tucson, AZ 85705 In the Sonoran Desert 629-0510 (voice) or 623-3476 (fax) 8 News Roundup Where the Chicks Hang Out All phone numbers are area code 520 unless otherwise stated. Upland Desert Grassland Birding: www.tucsonaudubon.org Closer Than You’d Expect 17 Conservation and Education News What’s in a Name? Brown-headed Cowbird Board Officers & Directors President Cynthia Pruett 21 Field Trips Vice President Sandy Elers FRONT COVER: Violet-crowned Hummingbird 24 Birding Travel from our Business Partners Secretary Ruth Russell © Jim & Deva Burns, Scottsdale, AZ. To see more of their Treasurer Richard Carlson 25 Birds & Business Alliance Directors at Large Ardeth Barnhart, Gavin Bieber, work visit their website, www.jimburnsphotos.com and Jennie Duberstein, Debra Finch, Richard Fray, Bob 25 Classified Ads follow Jim’s birding blog at http://jimburnsphotos.com/ Hernbrode, Linda Greene, John Kennedy, Linda Stitzer, pages/columns.html. Herb Trossman, Claire Zucker 26 Nature Shops Board Committees Conservation Chair Chris McVie, To have your photographs considered for use in the Development Sandy Elers, Education Jennie Duberstein, Vermilion Flycatcher, please contact Matt Griffiths at Finance Richard Carlson, Outreach Vacant, Nominating Linda Greene, Personnel Cynthia Pruett [email protected]. Programs & Activities Field Trips Kate Reynolds Library 629-0510 Membership Meetings Jean Barchman 629-0510 Nests Are For Eggs Rare Bird Alert Andrew Core | Report Rare Birds 629-0510 Mike Hansell, Emeritus Professor of Animal Architecture, Staff (unless otherwise stated, dial 629-0510 plus extension) University of Glasgow, Scotland, UK. Executive Director Paul Green ext 7001 Accountant Michelle Bourgeois ext 7003 Finance ext 7014 Nests are for eggs—well, that’s not entirely true active nest defence but Membership Coordinator Jean Barchman ext 7002 because they can also provide a secure place for mostly that job falls to Development Manager Erin Olmstead ext 7009 Volunteer and Development Coordinator vulnerable chicks. However, if birds reproduced the nest alone. Kara Kaczmarzyk ext 7011 like bats we would not be marveling at their nests! It does this in one of Environmental Education Coordinator Bété Pfister ext 7012 Nest building is a defining characteristic of birds two basic ways: by being IBA Conservation Biologist Jennie MacFarland ext 7004 Habitats Program Manager Kendall Kroesen ext 7006 and, although no other Class of vertebrate has so either inaccessible or invisible. Field Supervisor Rodd Lancaster 256-6909 many accomplished builders, birds generally spend Inaccessible nests are perched on cliff ledges, Communications / Habitat Restoration no more than a few days a year making their nests stuck to the cliff itself, placed high in trees, or Matthew Griffiths 971-7924 Operations Manager Sara Pike ext 7008 and no more than a few weeks using them. hung from the very tips of twigs. This requires University Shop Manager Matt Brooks ext 7007 From a parent’s point of view, an egg is a engineering to prevent the nest falling down Tucson Audubon Nature Shops self-contained system for growing a chick; to a or falling apart. Most nests therefore need two 300 E University Blvd #120 ext 7015 623-3476 fax / 629-0510 Shop Manager predator, it is a very sustaining meal. The nest materials: a lining for insulation, within a firm, Hours: 10 am–4 pm, Monday–Saturday must provide a soft, warm bed for the eggs which robust container. Agua Caliente Park, 12325 E Roger Rd 760-7881 is safe from predators. Large birds or colonial A nest may be made invisible by being placed Hours: April–May, Monday–Wednesday, 10 am–2:30 pm; June, Thursday, 9 am–1pm nesters may be able to protect the eggs through in a cavity or burrow but these may be scarce or require hard work to create. For many small woodland and forest birds the solution is to make Vermilion Flycatcher is published quarterly. For address a nest that is visible but unrecognised. A small changes or subscription problems call 629-0510, or write nest hanging from a branch may have additional to Membership Coordinator, Tucson Audubon, 300 E. University Blvd, #120, Tucson, AZ 85705. Submissions are material sprawling over it or hanging below it, due the 1st of the month, two months before the date of the breaking up its outline. Alternatively, the solidity issue. Please send submissions as Microsoft Word or RTF of a discrete cup may appear to break up or documents, or plain text files, to Matt Griffiths at mgriffiths@ tucsonaudubon.org. merge into the background with the addition of Coordinator Matt Griffiths 971-7924 a scattering of pale lichen flakes or white papery Proofreaders Robert Merideth, Tucson Audubon staff, spider cocoons. These ‘invisible’ nests are made and volunteers of three kinds of material: for insulation, for

2 Tucson Audubon Vermilion Flycatcher April–June 2012 Visit tucsonaudubon.org for updates and more. COMMENTARY PAUL GREEN | EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Political Alignment

If you’ve been paying even a little odds with many of their elected officials attention to Arizona state politics you in Phoenix and in Washington, where cannot help but notice how partisan and lawmakers are trying to dilute the geographic politics have gotten in the influence of state and federal laws that way of our community’s conservation regulate and safeguard natural resources. needs. The “war on Tucson,” as it has Politicians’ statements about the need been labeled in the local press, sees the for a trade-off between environment and State Legislature, a supposed strong jobs in a deep recession are not in accord proponent of small government, telling with views of many western voters that Tucson what to do. Most recently, it is a livable environment and well-managed trying to tell Tucson that it has to supply public lands are compatible with a strong water to areas outside the city—areas economy. classified as “off limits” by a community- In the report, support for protection developed water policy that recognizes of public lands, air, water and other that water supplies are finite. And Arizona natural resources was strong across state legislators as close to home as Arizona, New Mexico, Montana, Utah, those representing Marana and a large Wyoming and Colorado. The poll revealed ARIZONA PHOENIX, WESTCOTT, PAUL chunk of Tucson (Rep. Terri Proud is the a concern for the health of our natural How important are healthy habitats such as this to you? sponsor of HB 2416) are seeking to stop resources, and a desire to ensure Let your representatives know you are watching their votes in the state and national legislatures. Pima County’s ability to bond for public forests, rivers, lakes, and public lands improvements including open space land remain available to the public for hunting purchases. and recreation. Support for resource should still find money to protect land, Meanwhile, the 2012 “State of protection crosses party lines in ways water, wildlife and state parks. Nearly 90 the Rockies” report tells us that the many hot-button issues do not. percent of those surveyed said yes. most recent survey of Arizona voters In Arizona, 79 percent of those The survey asked if reducing demonstrates a strong conservation surveyed consider pollution of rivers, environmental regulations is a good way ethic and support for conservation and lakes and streams a serious problem, to create jobs. Republican lawmakers environmental protections. This even while 78 percent said it is possible to portray environmental regulations as job as US senators from our state, Kyl and protect land and water and have a strong killers and have vowed to roll them back, McCain, voted against the RESTORE economy with good jobs, without having but 63 percent of Arizonans surveyed Act as part of the Transportation bill. The to choose one over the other. disagreed with that approach. About the RESTORE Act will push billions of dollars One half of Arizonans, the highest same number said such regulations are in fines for the Gulf oil spill to the Gulf for portion among the states, said Arizona important safeguards for public health habitat restoration, and boost bird habitat should do more to protect water, air, and safety and not burdensome to the through increased funding for the Land wildlife and other natural resources, while economy. and Water Conservation Fund—$1.4 39 percent said the state is doing enough As we head into State and National billion over two years. The vote was 76 in and only seven percent said the state Elections, Tucson Audubon again support to 22 against, and our Senators should do less. requests that you ask each candidate were among those voting no. Nearly three quarters say the impact about their support of the natural Arizona voters continue to vote for of mining on land and water is a serious environment, and vote on that basis. Representatives and Senators who problem in Arizona, significant because Tell those who do not have strong pro- appear to regard natural environment of recent debates over proposed uranium environment views that you will not be protections as an impediment to jobs mining near the Grand Canyon and giving them your vote, and why. Keep and economic development. How do proposed copper mining near Superior close track of your state legislators at we square this with the results of this (Resolution) and southeast of Tucson azlcv.org, the web site of the Arizona new survey which reveals that nearly (Rosemont). League of Conservation Voters. We’ll 80 percent of Arizonans believe the More than 80 percent believe that continue to post items relevant to the state can protect water, air and other inadequate water supplies pose a serious elections on our website tucsonaudubon. natural resources without hurting the problem even as the state tries to force org/conservationnews so you can judge economy, and oppose efforts to weaken Tucson to supply water outside of its for yourself and vote accordingly. protections? designated service area. The pollsters Read the full “State of the Rockies” The positions revealed by the “State also asked whether, even with all the report at tucsonaudubon.org/ of the Rockies” report put Arizonans at budget problems facing the state, Arizona conservationnews. VF

Visit tucsonaudubon.org for updates and more. April–June 2012 Vermilion Flycatcher Tucson Audubon 3 TUCSON AUDUBON EVENTS AND CLASSES

Lifelong Learning Opportunities with Tucson Audubon NATURESPICSONLINE.COM

Spring Specialty Workshops Fall Programming Field trip times: Saturday, TBA; Homer Hansen, this class will build Intended as stand-alone classes, Come participate in our fall Warblers: August 25; Flycatchers: upon knowledge that you’ve acquired September 15 through experience in the field, in MT LEMMON, JAKE WASDIN; STELLAR’S JAY (INSET), ALAN D. WILSON (INSET), STELLAR’S JAY LEMMON, JAKE WASDIN; MT these workshops are a great workshops. A perfect way to keep opportunity to focus on a specific your birding momentum up after this Cost: $110 for members and $145 for a beginning birding class, or from group of birds and brush up on your summer’s Bird and Wildlife Festival! non-members which includes a year private study. Homer’s techniques identification skills. Instructors go into Each workshop has a classroom membership in Tucson Audubon focus on structure and behavior to detail on similar species, identification session on Thursdays and a field trip Moving to Mastery: A Beginner bring you to a better understanding of bird identification. Over the course of techniques, and vocalizations. on Saturdays. to Intermediate Level Birding JOHN HOFFMAN WARBLER, GRAY BLACK-THROATED DORIS EVANS; FLYCATCHER, ASH-THROATED five weeks, you’ll learn how to identify Birding By Habitat for All Warblers: August 23 & 25, 2012 Course October 18, 2012– some of the more difficult bird groups, Join Homer Hansen as he helps November 15, 2012 Birders: Birds of Mt Lemmon how to use technical references, and you learn to distinguish challenging Take your birding to the next level April 21 & 28, 2012 how to understand bird topography. Our Sky Islands provide elevation fall warblers. Key structural with our popular Moving to Mastery contrasts that result in a great characteristics and similar species class. If you feel like you are ready to Class sessions: Thursdays, October diversity of animals and plants. comparisons will be taught during this move your birding skills beyond the 18–November 15, 5:30 pm–8:00 pm Educator Lynn Hassler will teach workshop, along with an introduction basics, this is the class for you. Taught Field trips: Saturdays, October 18– a one-hour classroom session on to learning warbler vocalizations. by Wings Over Willcox chairman, November 10, 7:00 am–5 pm Cost: $250 for TAS members; $285 for the habitats of the Santa Catalina Flycatchers: September 13 & non-members which includes a year Mountains, describing the varied cast 15, 2012 of avian characters. On the Saturday membership in Tucson Audubon. Ready to leap into the identification field trip, you will bird your way up the Tucson Audubon’s Location: Tucson Audubon offices on of Empidonax and Myiarchus Mt. Lemmon Highway, stopping to University Blvd. and 5th Ave. flycatchers? This workshop introduces Flagship Education experience the birds associated with you to the diverse family Tyrannidae Program: The Institute of Contact for all education activities: assorted habitats. and highlights the ways to separate Desert Ecology Bété Pfister at bpfister@ Classroom session: Tucson Audubon, the kingbirds, pewees, empids, and April 19–22, 2012 tucsonaudubon.org, 520-209-1812 Saturday, April 21, 9 am–10 am flycatchers of southeastern Arizona. This spring’s IDE is full! If you Field trip: Saturday, April 28, 7 am–3 pm Taught by Homer Hansen. still wish to be considered, Cost of the workshop: $90 for contact Matt Brooks at For both workshops: Visit our Nature Shops to discover members and $125 for non-members Classroom sessions: Thursday, mbrooks@tucsonaudubon. which includes a year membership in a whole world of resources to 5:30–8:30 pm; Warblers: August 23; org; 520-209-1807 to be Tucson Audubon. support your workshop experience. Flycatchers: September 13 added to the waitlist.

FOR MORE INFORMATION ON OUR SUITE OF EDUCATION CLASSES, PLEASE VISIT WWW.TUCSONAUDUBON.ORG/EDUCATION

4 Tucson Audubon Vermilion Flycatcher April–June 2012 Visit tucsonaudubon.org for updates and more. EVENTS CALENDAR

April 7. Living with Nature lecture (Green Get Ready Now for the Fall Festival Valley): Sea Birds and Marine Mammals in Your Backyard! with Tad Pfister (see p 6) and Mesquite Milling April 9. Living with Nature lecture (Tucson): by Kendall Kroesen, Habitats Program Manager Live Birds with Anne Peyton of Liberty Wildlife (see p 6) Join Tucson Audubon for the Harvest of the big trees that used to make April 15–May 15. Tucson Bird Count Festival and Mesquite Milling at up bottomland mesquite forests, in (see p 10) our Mason Center on a Saturday in historic times cattle have spread April 19. Birdathon pregame at Birds and November (date to be announced). mesquite and people have planted Beer at Sky Bar on 4th Ave (see p 7)

The festival is about the abundance them in urban areas for shade. KROESEN KENDALL April 19–22. Institute of Desert Ecology of the Sonoran Desert: the natural Mesquites blossom in the spring Tucson Audubon’s Rod Lancaster (left) helps put mesquite pods through the (see see p 4) foods and other products it produces and then set the green pods in the portable stamp mill. April 20. Tanque Verde Wash/Sabino and the opportunities it provides for early summer. They gradually dry out Canyon IBA Recognition Ceremony living sustainably. There will be lots and then fall off the trees. You can Harvest Festival they must be not only (see p 6) dry but clean—no black mold spots of fascinating talks, exhibits, and pick them off the tree before they fall April 20–29. 25th Annual Birdathon shopping opportunities—fun for the or, if you are careful, pick them up and no dirt. They will be put through (see p 7) a portable stamp mill while you enjoy whole family! off the ground. Just make sure to get April 20. Birdathon Big Week begins with And of course there will be them off a clean surface like a patio the festival, and you can then pick up All-Star team Bieber’s Bluebirds (see p 7) your mesquite flour when you leave. mesquite milling! To take full advantage soon after they’ve fallen, to make sure April 21. All-Star Birdathon day: Gonzo of this event, you will want to harvest that they have not gotten dirty or wet. Mesquite is abundant and locally Birders (see p 7) produced, so it has a very small mesquite pods in June, prepare them, You can bake them in the oven at April 21. Earth Day Sale at Nature Shop and store them properly for the milling low temperatures to dry them, and to carbon footprint and contains little (see p 27) embodied energy. If we use mesquite event. More on that below. prevent the growth of small bruchid April 21. TogetherGreen volunteer day An archaeologist once told me beetles. The beetles are not harmful, to replace some of the wheat flour, with optional Birdathon birding before the that remains of mesquite trees are but they eat part of the pod’s interior, or other products, that are shipped volunteer work at Tumacacori (see p 9) the one thing that is always found in reducing the amount of flour they here from far away, we increase our April 21. TAS and SASUN at Reid Park’s archaeological sites in the Tucson produce when ground. sustainability. Plus it tastes good! Pick Earth Day Festival 9 am–2 pm (see p 18) area. The tree provided wood for Full recommendations on how up Eat Mesquite: A Cookbook at the April 21 & 28. Specialty Workshop: Birds of crafting implements, fire wood, and to harvest and prepare mesquite Tucson Audubon nature shop to have Mt. Lemmon (see p 4) of course the pods. As a food source, pods are available at www. a look at the plethora of recipes that April 22. Birdathon Family Outing at mesquite pods—which were ground desertharvesters.org (click on use mesquite flour! Most important, Sweetwater (see p 7) into meal, eaten whole or used “mesquite” on the menu). I highly when you make one of the mesquite April 25. All-Star Birdathon day: to make drinks—had the distinct recommend reading this. cookie recipes, bring in a few for the Wrenegades (see p 7) advantage of being available every Mesquite milling typically takes Tucson Audubon staff! April 28. All-Star Birdathon day: Birds of year without fail. place in the fall after the summer Fray (see p 7) Mesquite pods still have that humidity has decreased. This assures April 29. All-Star Birdathon day: Scott’s great advantage of predictability. And that the pods will have dried out Sign up for Tucson Orioles; Birdathon Big Week ends (see p 7) they are at least as abundant today, completely—they need to be so dry Audubon’s eNews May 3 & 5. Specialty Workshop: Birding perhaps more so, than in prehistoric that they snap when you bend them. By Ear Tucson Audubon sends out a times. Although we have lost most When you bring your pods to the May 3–6. Santa Cruz Nature and Heritage weekly email of news updates to Festival (see p 9) a list of around 2,500 people. In May 4: Deadline to turn in Birdathon pledges addition, we send our supplemental for prizes (see p 7) Walking for the Birds emails to this list, for example for urgent conservation action or May 12. Birdathon Birdy BB-Q on International Migratory Bird Day at the special invitations. Mason Center (see p 6) You can sign up for this list in June 16–24. Special Birding Trip to Ecuador a number of ways. The easiest is for Tucson Audubon Members (see p 24) to go to tucsonaudubon.org and August 15–19. Tucson Bird & Wildlife click on the link that says Sign-Up Festival (see p 8) E-newsletter. Otherwise send an August 23 & 25. Specialty Workshop: email to pgreen@tucsonaudubon. Warblers (see p 4) org with your first and September 13 & 15. Specialty Workshop: last name, or call Jean Flycatchers (see p 4) Barchman on 520-209-

PAUL & ENG-LI GREEN PAUL October 18–November 15. Moving to 1802 and she will Mastery course (see p 4) Brad Storey, who is walking across the U.S. to raise funds for Audubon and the Important take your details. Bird Areas program, visited Tucson Audubon’s Mason Center recently on his way from New Mexico to Yuma. He’s pictured above with his dog Xena, and Tucson Audubon staffers (left to right) Erin Olmstead, Jean Barchman, and Paul Green. Follow Brad’s

progress at web4.audubon.org/bird/iba/. JOHN HOFFMAN

Visit tucsonaudubon.org for updates and more. April–June 2012 Vermilion Flycatcher Tucson Audubon 5 TUCSON AUDUBON EVENTS & CLASSES Tucson Audubon’s Living with Nature Lecture Series

TUCSON Living with April 7 • Green Valley of California to track large whale USFWS

Nature Lecture Series and SEA BIRDS AND MARINE populations, eradicate introduced Member Meetings MAMMALS IN YOUR BACKYARD! species from important seabird Traditional venue of DuVal Auditorium with Tad Pfister colonies, and to help the Mexican (NE section of the University Medical government better manage their fish Join us as Tad treats us to a visual Center, Bldg. 501 N Campbell populations that are directly linked to exploration of the Gulf of California Ave) may change. Please check the success of seabird colonies. and its islands that support nesting tucsonaudubon.org for updates. seabirds such as Brown Pelicans, April 9 • Tucson BALD EAGLE, STEVE HILLEBRAND Program begins at 7 pm, SECOND Black and Least Storm Petrels, and WILD IN THE CITY with Liberty MONDAY of each month October Yellow-footed Gulls. Be amazed by Wildlife. through April. its diversity of marine life including In January, we heard from Dr. Bill GREEN VALLEY Living whales, dolphins, and sea lions! Hear Mannan on the challenges that with Nature Lecture Series firsthand from Tad about conservation urban raptors face as they navigate Joyner-Green Valley Library, 601 N efforts taking place in the Gulf life in the city amongst humans! We La Canada Dr. 594-5295. The Green became more aware of the threats Valley talks will now be at 10 am on they face and the injuries they can Arizona since 1981. They will present the FIRST SATURDAY of the month, sustain as a result. Come hear from live birds that now have a new November through April. Anne Peyton and Craig Fischer mission in life: to educate the public about the organization’s programs, For more information, contact Bété of Liberty Wildlife Rehabilitation and to show us what we can do to Pfister, 520-209-1812 or bpfister@ Foundation, the organization that help injured wildlife and to reduce the tucsonaudubon.org, or visit has been helping sick, injured and risk of injury. tucsonaudubon.org. orphaned native wildlife throughout BROWN PELICAN, DORIS EVANS

B irdathon Birdy BB-Q Important Bird Areas Awards Ceremony, Recognition Ceremony for Tanque Verde Wash / Featuring The Big Year! Sabino Canyon IBA Saturday, May 12, Jennie MacFarland, IBA Conservation Biologist Mason Center Birdathon participants and supporters April 20, 2012 are invited to the after party Come out and help us celebrate this celebrating Birdathon on International amazing Important Bird area right in Migratory Bird Day! For our 25th Tucson’s backyard on April 20! Annual Birdathon, we’ve re-envisioned In October 2011, the Arizona the Birdy Brunch of years past into Important Bird Area Science a Birdy BB-Q Awards Ceremony. Committee approved the addition of Plus, your Birdathon supporters are Tanque Verde Wash to the existing invited! Celebrate birds and bird- Sabino Canyon/Bear Creeks IBA friendly habitats with the competitors, resulting in the Tanque Verde Wash/ SEARCHNETMEDIA see what team received the coveted Sabino Canyon IBA. This event is title of Most Species, who was the be recognized. There will be a brief to officially recognize this IBA and highest fundraiser, and talk about why this Important Bird celebrate all of its qualities that make share highlights of Area is so special and what the IBA it so important to birds. your Big Week. program is hoping to achieve. If you All interested in participating in a After celebrating The would like a pleasant morning full of Big bird walk in the Tanque Verde Wash your Big Week birds, good company and fun, please portion of the IBA should meet in the accomplishments, Agua Caliente Park parking lot at come join us! Year join us for an For more information please 7 am. outdoor viewing of contact Jennie MacFarland at The recognition festivities will take The Big Year extended cut! [email protected]. place at Agua Caliente Park starting Want to join the fun? Donate at This event also kicks off the at 10 am. There will be delicious least $10 and you’re invited! RSVPs

25th annual Birdathon fundraising SEARCHNETMEDIA refreshments and the amazing required by May 8 to kkaczmarzyk@ competition, a week-long contest to volunteers that surveyed Sabino Tanque Verde Wash (top) and Sabino tucsonaudubon.org. Details at see the most species in 24 hours! Canyon. Canyon and Tanque Verde Wash will www.tucsonaudubon.org/birdathon.

6 Tucson Audubon Vermilion Flycatcher April–June 2012 Visit tucsonaudubon.org for updates and more. TUCSON AUDUBON EVENTS & CLASSES 25th Annual B irdathon The Birdathon “Big Week” April 20–29, 2012

This year celebrates the 25th Annual Birdathon with many ways to join the fun. Since 1987, Birdathon has garnered support for birds and bird-friendly habitats and for Tucson Audubon’s work to conserve these unique natural resources and to educate our community on their importance. Remember to: u Register (online at tucsonaudubon.org/birdathon or on paper), v Collect Pledges, and w Go Birding!

Friday, April 20 “Bieber’s Bluebirds” with Gavin Bieber of WINGS. Enjoy a full day of Sky GUIDED TEAM OUTINGS Islands birding. Start at dawn and hit HEIJLTJES SASKIA JUST FOR YOU! the Santa Cruz Lowlands, Tucson, The Big Week of Events: “Give or get” the suggested and the Catalinas. A relaxed pace to Saturday, April 28 “Birds of Mark Your Calendars! donation to join one of these see 130–150 species. ($250) Fray” with Richard Fray of Fun Birding Tours. Start the morning April 19: Pregame at Birds & Beer expert-led trips. No experience Saturday, April 21 “Gonzo Birders” right at Sweetwater then head to at Sky Bar on 4th Ave, 5 pm. necessary and transportation is with John Yerger of Adventure Madera Canyon, Las Cienegas, and April 20: Birdathon Big Week arranged. Does it get any better? Birding. We’ll get prime Santa Cruz Patagonia on a laid-back attempt to GEORGE WEST YELLOWTHROAT, COMMON begins! Bieber’s Bluebirds County spots like Patagonia, Madera see 100 species. ($250) Canyon, and Greaterville Rd. on a April 21: Gonzo Birders; Mason dawn-to-dusk-plus trip to see 130+ Sunday, April 29 “Scott’s Orioles” Center Bird Walk; Volunteer day at species. ($250) with Scott Olmstead of Tropical Tumacacori Birding. Meander the trails of Mt. Sunday, April 22 Youth Birding April 22: Family Fun with Birdy Lemmon during this daylight birding Bingo WWW.NATURESPICSONLINE.COM

/ Extravaganza at Sweetwater trip. If you’re new to Birdathon or WWW.NATURESPICSONLINE.COM

/ Wetlands. Kids join in this family April 25: Wrenegades renewing your interest, don’t miss this Earth Day celebration of birding and trip! ($150) April 28: Birds of Fray; Mason bird conservation. All ages! Center Bird Walk Wednesday, April 25 “Wrenegades” April 29: Scott’s Orioles; Birdathon VERDIN, ALAN D. WILSON VERDIN, with Jennie MacFarland of Tucson Big Week ends Audubon. It’s an avian adventure THE COUNTS May 4: Deadline to turn in pledges/ with Mt. Lemmon, Agua Caliente Park, BIG DAY: the classic, take 24 materials to be eligible for prizes Sweetwater, and Madera Canyon! The hours to count as many species action packed day will start and end at May 12: Birdy BB-Q on as you can LADDERBACK WOODPECKER, ALAN D. WILSON LADDERBACK WOODPECKER, “reasonable” times. ($150) International Migratory Bird Day at BIG SIT: pick an area, sit back, the Mason Center and let the birds come to you All Big Week: Dine at Renee’s PLUS: BIG WEEK: take the whole week Organic Oven or Thunder Canyon Photo Contest: Submit your best bird photo taken in to rack up species Brewery and a percent of your bill SIX-HOUR TRIBUTE: is donated to Tucson Audubon!. VF the last year. No team necessary. Winner published in compete the next issue of the Vermilion Flycatcher. like the original teams did 25 years ago, great for first-timers Dining: After a day of birding, eat out at a sponsor restaurant and a percent of your bill is donated to Tucson Audubon. Thanks to our Birdathon Raise $50 and earn a limited-edition t-shirt featuring 2012 Sponsor the artwork of Ben Johnson (right). Donations are tax-deductible and support Tucson Audubon’s conservation and education programs. Details online at tucsonaudubon.org/birdathon Texas Roadhouse, April 24, flyer required VERMILION FLYCATCHER, BEN JOHNSON VERMILION FLYCATCHER,

Visit tucsonaudubon.org for updates and more. April–June 2012 Vermilion Flycatcher Tucson Audubon 7 TUCSON AUDUBON WELCOME NEW MEMBERS NEWS ROUNDUP Eileen & Bruce Aird, Jim & Peggy Alexander, Andy Andrews, Myra & Dave Appel, Cela Archambault, Margaret Armbruster, Donald Armes, Kevin Balser & Cydney Turner, Anne Bancroft, Patrice Barkley, Ardeth Barnhart, William Birthday Club & Catherine Bartlett, Carl Bauer & Brooke Bedrick, Michael Benson, Katelyn Blakemore, Claudia Bowman, Gail Brandt, Martie Brean, Pamela Bridgmon, We invite you to share your birthday celebration by making a Coleen Brown, Kathleen Brown, Dr. Barney Burns & Mehina Drees, Arlene gift to Tucson Audubon and help us save birds and the places & Allen Burt, Brad & Carly Carlton, Connie Casebolt, Martin Christiansen, they live in southern Arizona. Will you join us? We will send you a specially Frank Clark, Susan Clark, Brian & Patricia Clymer, Billie & Olive Cochran, designed birthday card during the month of your birthday and a 15 percent Jan Coleman, Juanita Collins, W. Ralph & Susan Corbett, Enrico Cordova, discount voucher for one purchase at the Audubon Shops during the month. Glen & Meghan Corey, Steve Covey, Cox Communications, Ruth Coykendall, Please provide your name, address and your birth date by emailing jbarchman@ Sidney Crawford, Phil & Leigh Creighton, Colleen Crook, Alex Dalenberg tucsonaudubon.org or by calling Jean Barchman at 520-209-1802. If you wish & Heather Price-Wright, Karen Dansby, Kate Dawes, David Day, Julio De to send a card to one of your Tucson Audubon friends whose birthday is in April, Jesus, Lydia De Robertis, Dick Dennes & Louise Hammond, Stephanie May, and June, we have published a list on our website. You can check the list Duisberg, Michael Dunn, Linda Dunnam, Bill & Martha Eccher, Vanessa by going to tucsonaudubon.org/joinnow.html. Edwards & Family, Rhea Elliott, Richard England, Elmedia Farrand, Patricia We wish to thank Larry Johnson, Scott Olmstead, and Marion Weber for their Figuli, Howard Fischer, Klaus Fohlmeister, Diane Fordney, Margaret Franklin, generous donations to the birthday fund in the first quarter of this year. Freeport-McMoRan Copper & Gold Inc, Dietmar Gann, Stephen Garrod, Cheryl Gehrke, Lynda Gibson, James Gilroy, Michael Gray, Pat Grediagin, Sadie Hadley & Sage Goodwin, Jim Guest, Michael Hall, Sally Hall, Linda & Chris Hanson, Elizabeth Harding, Jerry & Sunny Harness, Mike & Jenny 2012 Nominees for Directors Hartung, Jim Hawkins, Heidi Herboldsheimer, Jim Hershberger, Faye Holzman, Bachihike Isoe,William Jessberger, Janet Jimenez, Judy Johnson, The following names have been Nominees for a first Charles Jonas, Jr., Patsy Jones, Susheel Jones, Jack Joppa & Felice Cohen- submitted by the Nominating three-year term: Joppa, Mike Judd, Mary Keane, Dawn & Jim Kerwin, Jackie Klieger & Kathy Committee for election at the Annual Matt Bailey Dunham, Susan & Rich Knutson, Kent LaPorte, Garvin Larson, Annelise & Meeting of the Tucson Audubon David Dunford Leon Leopard, Paul & Phyllis Lindberg, Jerome Linser, Beda Lovitt, Robert Society on Monday April 9, 2012, & Betty Maddox, Summer Marshall, Steve Martin, Jim Marx, Gary & Eileen at the Duval Auditorium, University Nominee for a second McCluskey, Naomi McCay, Liza McCraren, Dale McCray, Meghan McGhee of Arizona Medical Center, 1500 N three-year term: & Anthony Doran, Molly McKasson Morgan, Sarah McKenzie, Joan Metzger- Campbell Ave, Tucson. Cynthia Pruett Minnamon, Thomas Miller, Joe Molina, Larry & Anita Morgan, Donna Moulton, For bios of prospective board Linda Mount, Kenneth Muroya & Christine Highnam, Ed & Gretchen Murphy, members, visit tucsonaudubon.org. Patricia Mustacci, Bob & Angie Muzzy, Lavonne Newman, John & Judy Newton, Charles Norrell, Katherine & Will O’Neil, Sarah Oakes, Sheree Oesterling, C. Lee Oler, Bill & Barbara Oppenheimer, Mitchell Ost, Miriam TUCSON BIRD & WILDLIFE FESTIVAL RETURNS! Otte, Connie Ownby, John & Mary Padgett, Donald & Tricia Page, David Palzkill, Susan Parker-Hotchkiss, Willis Parmley, Jean Patton, Richard Patze, August 15–19 Howard Pavitt, William Paxton, Mike & Rebecca Peralta, Kent Pflibsen & Mary Durham-Pflibsen, Roland Popken, Clark & Sarah Porter, Sue Pratley & Celebrate the special birds and wildlife of Margaret Pratley, Patti Purcell, Ronald Quinn, Margaret Ramlow, Joseph & southeast Arizona at our second festival. Maryann Reuter, Doris Riehm, Melissa Rife & Dyland DeRobertis, Jerry Roe, Prepare to be amazed by nature in the Jim Rogers, Susan Romero, Lee Roop & Kathleen Young, Janet Roozboen, Sonoran Desert and Sky Islands. Rebecca Salazar, Tom Schneller, Jean Schroeder, Shelby Schuck, Jan Schwartz & Judith McDaniel, David Seibert, Irene Sheppard, Sara Shifrin, Join us for hummingbird safaris, high-elevation excursions, Bill & Linda Sievers, Kathy Sjogren, Tom Slawson, D.P. & Connie Sloterbeck, borderland adventures, and more festival fun! MATT BROOKS MATT Farwell Smith & Linda McMullen, Todd & Jane Smyth, Nancy Sopwith, Arthur Featuring keynote addresses by Rick Taylor and Richard Crossley and Sowls, Mike & Donna Spooner, Constance Stevens, Arlene Stevenson- small-group birding field trips Booth, Don Streubel, Anna Summers Fulton, Susan E Swanberg, Susie Plus workshops by Sheri L. Williamson, Richard Crossley, Homer Hansen, Tharp, Richard & Marjorie Tipton, Kitty Tobin, Tawsha Trahan, Royden Tull, Lynn Hassler, and other experts. Jerry Van Cleve, Matthew & Karen Vandzura, Glenn Vavra, Kathryn Vega, Don’t miss the free, family-friendly Nature Expo at the Riverpark Inn: FREE Carolyn Vemulapalli, Taunya Villicana, Susan Voelker, Dorie Voight, Wayne natural history talks, nature-related vendors, live critter exhibits! Warrington, Judith Whitcomb, Daisy Whitten, Thomas Wiewandt, Laurel Wilkening, Aileen Williamson, Joanne Wilson & Judith Thomason, Bonnie REGISTER NOW at tucsonaudubon.org/festival. Winslow, Julie Wohlers, Larry Wollam, Mort Womack & Linda Phelan, Kerren Wood, Pam Yeager, Bill Yohey, Josephine & Saad Zara, Ric & Betty Zarwell, Richard & Anne Marie Zimmerman We welcome Cox Communications as a Silver Level Birds & Business Alliance member and Freeport-McMoRan Copper & Gold, Inc as a Gold Level Birds & Business Alliance member. Jean Barchman, Membership Coordinator

Visit tucsonaudubon.org for updates and more. 8 Tucson Audubon Vermilion Flycatcher April–June 2012 LIESE LARRY VOLUNTEER SPOTLIGHT

Volunteer News Roundup Ruth Russell is a perfect volunteer Kara Kaczmarzyk, Volunteer & Development Coordinator to spotlight this season! Besides her team winning the first-ever New Volunteers Santa Cruz Nature & Heritage Tucson Audubon Birdathon (and Welcome new volunteers Candy Festival later going on to hold the record for Bagley, Susan Colony, Stephanie May 3–6th—Join us for Tucson most species seen), Ruth has also Griffiths, Twila Hulbert, Patricia Orosz- Audubon’s first tabling event at this been a devoted Tucson Audubon Coghlan, Luke Schwarz, Brad Tatham, festival in Rio Rico. volunteer for more than 30 years! In Jim Watts, and Caleb Weaver! Earth Day Festivities: this time, Ruth has been involved in April 21st—Patagonia Trails Day myriad projects and programs, was Keeping in Touch a driving force behind developing This month we are launching a April 21st—Earth Day Festival with the Birdathon fundraiser 25 years monthly volunteer email. Wait, keep SASUN at Reid Park (see p 18) ago, and served as the Chair of the reading! This outreach will show off Tucson Bird & Wildlife Festival Board of Directors for four years gone through an extensive formal what our current volunteers are doing, Aug. 15–19—There are more ways (she’s now the Board Secretary). process (state permits, federal convey important Tucson Audubon to help with this second annual Ruth is especially excited to be a licensing, and other certifications) news that is of special interest to you, festival than you might think. Keep volunteer and board member today, and are two of only about 150 and feature upcoming opportunities. volunteering in mind as you plan your as Tucson Audubon and National people authorized to band Please take a few minutes to check personal festival schedule. Audubon are both launching new hummingbirds in the country. For these emails out; they are developed Flyer Distribution strategic plans that entail new and about 20 years, they have been for you. Each of our volunteers plays Bring a flyer or two announcing our exciting endeavors for the future of banding hummingbirds primarily a unique part in our success, and events to a favorite business or our environment. in Colorado, but don’t think they we are always looking for ways to organization that you already visit Ruth enjoys volunteering at are snowbirds! In fact, Ruth enjoys engage you. And for all the soon-to-be (library, gym, bookstore, etc). It’s that Tucson Audubon for a reason summers in Tucson, especially when volunteers, sign up for the emails and easy, and it’s a huge help! we can all relate to: birds and the monsoons come and transform who knows, maybe an opportunity will conservation are deeply important this arid desert into a lush valley. present itself that you can’t pass up… Visit www.tucsonaudubon.org/ to her. When Ruth began birding, Ruth has plenty of other hobbies volunteer for complete listings! Volunteer Needs she increasingly discovered that this too; she sews, reads (she’s currently Contact volunteer@tucsonaudubon. We have many varied opportunities recreational activity led to an interest hooked on Thinking Fast and Slow), org or 520-629-0510 x7011 for you to get involved, or grow your in conservation. Her service and does crafts, and gardens. involvement, with Tucson Audubon involvement have grown from there. Ruth is a fountain of knowledge TogetherGreen Society. Whether you have a few One of Ruth’s favorite places to on all things Tucson Audubon- April 21st—Tumacacori workday: hours a month or are free the whole go birding is also one of Tucson’s related, but I just had one more It’s Birdathon, Earth Day, and Global month, want to work in the field most convenient, Sweetwater question. Does Ruth have any Youth Service Day combined! A pre- or stay at home, you can still be a Wetlands. Besides the bird watching, pointers for people thinking of work bird walk is followed by water Tucson Audubon volunteer! Ruth enjoys seeing people take participating in Birdathon? After harvesting, invasive removal, and tree pleasure in an outdoor destination years of experience, Ruth has planting. Nature Shops Both our University-area and Agua that the city and county have worked switched her sponsor “ask” strategy. Rather than pledge per species, she RAINWATER HARVESTING, LEE PAGNI HARVESTING, RAINWATER Caliente Park Nature Shops need together to develop. Does Ruth have volunteers! Shifts available on a favorite bird? It’s quite often what urges supporters to donate what Mondays, Fridays, and Saturdays. she is looking at in the moment, they can. In return, Ruth guarantees though Black-throated Sparrows she’ll do her best. That way, even if and Cactus Wrens are especially the chosen Birdathon day turns out interesting to watch and remind her to be less successful than hoped (if it’s cold or rainy, etc.), everyone is Tucson Audubon volunteers at work (below, left to right): of how lucky Tucson is to have these still happy in the end. We at Tucson Jim Watts ready to make a sale or answer a question at our University-area Nature Shop inquisitive species. Audubon are so happy and fortunate Luke Schwarz and Carol Palmer keeping our Mason Center property looking great In their spare time, Ruth and Linda Greene signs up a new member at the Festival of Books her husband Steve are Master to have Ruth as a volunteer, board Tim Helentjaris talks to visitors at our IBA booth in the new Citizen Science pavilion of the Hummingbird Banders. They have member, supporter, and friend. Festival of Books LEFT TWO PHOTOS KARA KACZMARZYK KARA TWO PHOTOS LEFT RIGHT TWO PHOTOS JEAN BARCHMAN TWO PHOTOS RIGHT

Visit tucsonaudubon.org for updates and more. April–June 2012 Vermilion Flycatcher Tucson Audubon 9 TUCSON AUDUBON NEWS ROUNDUP

Party Fun at Our Fourth Annual Gala Year-end Appeal

Thank You JOHN KENNEDY

The migratory exploits of one particular Rufous Hummingbird, probably on its way back to Alaska as we go to press, captured our imaginations over the New Year season. We reached out to ask you to help support the further development of our urban programs in order that Tucsonans learn how to better provide for migrant and resident birds in our area. You responded generously. You helped Tucson Audubon surpass our $30,000 target by 50 percent! Thank you, as a valued member of Tucson Audubon, for making our work possible.

ALL PHOTOS BY MATT GRIFFITHS MATT BY PHOTOS ALL If you have yet to donate to Tucson Audubon’s Fourth Annual Gala on February 7 at Loews Ventana Canyon had people Tucson Audubon, we’ll give you laughing and wondering where the time went. Clockwise from top right: former Tucson another opportunity this spring. As Audubon Vice President Mich Coker and his new wife Kate Galloway; Pima County you enjoy the Gambel’s Quail in your Supervisor District 5 Richard Elias, Nancy Young Wright, Tucson Audubon Conservation Chair Chris McVie, Ron and Nancy Barber; Scarlet Macaw, one of the birds of our evening; yard this year think how you can help our speaker Prof John Kricher and his wife Martha Vaughan with National Audubon’s VP for more people appreciate their yard Program Development Les Corey and his wife Bonnie. Nearly 200 people enjoyed live music by birds through Tucson Audubon. Entre Peruanos, friendship, a silent auction. Many will return next year. We hope you will join us.

Tucson Bird Count Comes to Tucson Audubon June Hirsch 1923–2011 June Hirsch passed away peacefully birding! Any birder who can quickly at age 88 on December 17, 2011 in and easily identify the birds commonly Lakewood, Colorado. She was the seen in Tucson is invited to contribute. wife of Dr. Fred Hirsch and is survived Every spring for over 12 years (and The TBC would not exist without the by her daughters, Barbara Ohms of counting!), the Tucson Bird Count amazing local birders that donate their Lakewood, Colorado, and Susan Hunt (TBC) has surveyed an average of time every spring. of Bellingham, Washington. 800 sites in urban Tucson and in The findings from the TBC are June was a relentless volunteer for the surrounding non-urban habitat vital to determining what steps can be Tucson Audubon, the Arizona-Sonora of Saguaro National Park. So far, taken to make the urban habitat more SCOTT WILBOR SCOTT Desert Museum, and the Friends of it has counted more than 449,000 hospitable to native wildlife. These Sabino Canyon among others. June birds representing 246 species. For principles of Reconciliation Ecology was the director of Tucson Audubon’s all these years the TBC has been depend on people living in Tucson Institute of Desert Ecology from 1982 primarily a University of Arizona and urban areas all over the world to until 1985. Her tenacity and creativity project, but beginning this year the take the care and time to alter their lives on in her daughters. A memorial count will be coordinated by Tucson landscapes to make their land useful is planned for the spring at Christ Audubon in partnership with UA. to wildlife. With some knowledge and Presbyterian Church where she was Participating is fun and easy! You effort, we can work to share our living a charter member. Donations can can adopt an available route and space with wildlife. be made in June’s honor to Tucson survey each of the 10 designated If you would like more information WILBOR SCOTT Audubon Society. Her daughter Sue stops for five minutes on any morning or to sign up, please contact Jennie Participating in the Tucson Bird Count and her family will be coming to is fun and easy. These volunteers are of your choice between April 15 & MacFarland at jmacfarland@ conducting five-minute point counts at Tucson this spring to plant a tree in May15. That’s it, just one morning of tucsonaudubon.org. designated stops on their routes. her memory at Catalina State Park. VF

10 Tucson Audubon Vermilion Flycatcher April–June 2012 Visit tucsonaudubon.org for updates and more. Upland Desert Grassland Birding

Closer Than You’d Expect SEE BIRDS TO DOUG JENNESS

North of Tucson, between Oracle mesquite, that lace the area. In the thick Junction and Oracle in Pinal County, vegetation of the washes, Bell’s Vireo there is an upland desert grassland that is and Lucy’s Warbler nest, and in winter WHERE TO WHERE TO GO splendid for birding. The best way to enjoy the washes may offer shelter and food to this area is to access Willow Springs bluebirds, robins, Sage Thrashers, Green- Road from Hwy. 77 and drive slowly tailed and Spotted Towhees, sometimes along the road. On both sides, the desert Lawrence’s Goldfinch, and other species. stretches for miles and an interesting The washes are also a year-round home variety of species can be seen at all times to many Great Horned Owls and Western of the year. This upper Sonoran Desert Screech-Owls and sometimes in fall and habitat, at an elevation of 4,000–4,500 ft., winter to migrant or wintering Long-eared features scattered mesquite, soaptree and Barn Owls. yucca, turpentine bush, several species Several roads off of Willow Springs of cactus, assorted wildflowers, and a Road, some of them often navigable variety of grasses. Many desert bird with passenger cars, lead to cattle tanks, species such as Black-throated Sparrow, which attract ducks, grebes, shorebirds, Curve-billed Thrasher, and Cactus Wren swallows, nighthawks, flycatchers, and are common year-round and can be seen migrating warblers. One recent spring a and heard from the road. Fairly consistent Tropical Kingbird was even observed. Above top to bottom: Willow Springs Grassland looking are Harris’s Hawks and Rufous-winged Fourteen miles from Hwy 77 you come toward Black Mountain; Harris’s Hawks along Willow Sparrows. In summer, nesting Scott’s to a road that heads up to Black Mountain Springs Rd. and Hooded Orioles are found along with (elevation 5,600 ft.) which has an oak- Below top to bottom: Big Wash; White Virgin’s Bower in Big Wash (inset); Patterson Tank Ash-throated Flycatcher and Western juniper habitat favored by year-round and Cassin’s Kingbirds. The extensive Rufous-crowned Sparrow, Black-chinned grasslands also attract flocks of sparrows Sparrow, Western Scrub-Jay, Bushtit, summer rainfall. Another species also in the winter. You may want to stop and and Crissal Thrasher, and by wintering partial to grassland habitat is Chihuahuan walk up one of the many washes, fringed Townsend’s Solitaire. A cattle corral on Raven, which has been confirmed in the with netleaf hackberry, soapberry, and the road up the mountain draws wintering Willow Springs area year-round and likely robins, bluebirds, Chipping Sparrows, and nests there. Dark-eyed Juncos. Willow Springs Road is well maintained There are accounts that 60–70 years and can be birded by car but may be ago this vast grassland area was a prime slippery when wet. The road into Black site for hunters seeking Scaled Quail, and Mountain, which includes opening and references were also made to grassland- shutting a gate, has been recently nesting species such as Cassin’s and improved and can be navigated by Botteri’s Sparrows. A few Scaled Quail a regular passenger car. The area is are occasionally reported today by game popular with hunters so if you are there officials checking hunters bags. In 2006 during dove, quail, and duck season be Cassin’s Sparrows began being reported. alert. Much of the 182,000-acre area is They have been found skylarking and state trust land so carrying a state permit singing during nesting season so are is advised. An individual annual or one- likely breeding. A few Botteri’s Sparrows time group recreation use permit is $15 have been confirmed in an ungrazed and can be purchased at www.land.state. grassland tract in nearby Oracle the past az.us/programs/natural/recreation_permit. two years. These two sparrows typically htm. VF nest in late summer on the ground or very near the ground in grass clumps or Doug Jenness lives with his family in low shrubs. Botteri’s is more sensitive to Catalina. He is treasurer of the Arizona Field grazing so is less likely than Cassin’s in Ornithologists, coordinator of the Dudleyville the Willow Springs area, much of which is CBC and the annual Santa Cruz Flats Raptor regularly grazed. As is typical for Cassin’s, Count, and Pinal County coordinator for the the number fluctuates depending on North American Migration Count. ALL PHOTOS BY DOUG JENNESS BY PHOTOS ALL

Visit tucsonaudubon.org for updates and more. April–June 2012 Vermilion Flycatcher Tucson Audubon 11 Nesting in the Sonoran Desert FEATURE CHRIS MCCREEDY

The desert is dry. We are in the midst

NESTING of a double-dip La Niña this winter, the second consecutive winter of colder- than-normal conditions in the central and eastern Pacific Ocean. La Niña conditions generally result in dry weather patterns during the winter in the southern United States. The 2011 and 2012 winters have followed this trend. If not for a series of storms last November and December, Tucson would be facing extreme conditions similar to 2011, when we received only 24 percent of our average winter rainfall. I am in Lake Havasu City to set up our upcoming field season. Point Reyes Bird Observatory (PRBO) Conservation Science’s Xeric Riparian Project has

surveyed the desert washes of southern KYLE HORTON California and southern Arizona since Preliminary results from studies (supported in part by Kofa National Wildlife Refuge, bottom right) on Black-tailed Gnatcatcher and Verdin (above left and right) indicate that increased predation and cowbird (including the Brown-headed 2003. Our project is funded by the Cowbird, middle right) activity may be important factors in low nest success rates later in the season. California Off-Highway Motor Recreation Division, the California and Arizona immediately following wet winters and Thus when Sonoran Desert species Bureau of Land Management (BLM), and later after dry winters. begin nesting may be one of the most the Arizona Bird Conservation Initiative. Nest success rates in turn play a large important drivers of their population Our task is to assess potential impacts of role in how many birds we count during stability. It may play an important role in off-highway vehicle use on the resident our surveys. We tend to record higher future population regulation of many of and Neotropical migrant bird species that breeding abundance and diversity the our Sonoran Desert species, as many rely on these important habitats. year after a wet winter (e.g. numbers climate models predict a higher frequency Long-term projects are valuable were high in the spring of 2006, one year of dry winters in our future. because they enable us to see year-to- after 2005, which was one of the wettest I think about this as I drive through the year trends in measures such as species winters on record), and we record lower deserts, watching those creosote leaves. abundance and species richness. Long- breeding abundance and diversity one They are looking brown to me. I am afraid term projects are particularly valuable year after a dry winter (far lower numbers that nesting will begin late this year and in arid habitats due to wide variation in in 2007, one year after the epically dry that nesting success will be low. We begin climatic conditions from year to year; winter of 2006). our surveys on March 15, and our new if we sampled the washes for just one Drought-caused delay in nesting has season will begin to record the story of or two years, our surveys may occur become the focus of my thesis research the 2011 drought. I cannot wait to find out. during periods that are not representative at the University of Arizona, supported (PS: I’ve been on several washes in the of longer term averages of species by the US Geological Survey Sonoran Lower Colorado River Valley and have abundance and richness due to unusually Desert Research Station and the Kofa found species to be 1–2 weeks late and wet or dry conditions. National Wildlife Refuge. We studied counting out here as we speak). VF During the course of our study, we Black-tailed Gnatcatchers and Verdins have been fortunate to survey during a in the Kofa NWR in 2009 and 2010. Chris McCreedy is a student at the University wide variety of climatic conditions, ranging Our preliminary results tell us that nest of Arizona, and he supervises projects for from the very dry to the very wet. We success rates decrease markedly as the PRBO Conservation Science in the Mojave have observed important, climate-related breeding season progresses, and that and Sonoran Deserts. He enjoys birding, patterns from our results. One of these early nests have higher odds of success photography, his Jeep, and talking to lizards. is that nest success rates are highest than nests with a later initiation date. He’s worked in the Chihuahuan, Great Basin, during the springs immediately following Increased predator and cowbird activity Sonoran, Mojave, and Antarctic deserts, and wet winters and lowest immediately later in the breeding season may play an he dreams of visiting and working in as many following dry winters. Another is that the important role in low nest success rates of the Earth’s other deserts as he can. nesting season begins earlier in springs found later in the season.

12 Tucson Audubon Vermilion Flycatcher April–June 2012 Visit tucsonaudubon.org for updates and more. HELPING BIRDS TO NEST

Sometimes birds can find food, water, and Finally, you can try nest boxes. Next boxes shelter but they lack a place to nest. So along benefit birds that nest in cavities but can’t find Nesting in the Sonoran Desert with providing the former in our yards and natural cavities. Vegetation in many suburban CHRIS MCCREEDY neighborhoods, we should think about helping neighborhoods is not large or mature enough to birds to nest. Here are some things you can do. have many nest holes created by woodpeckers or First, as always, create naturalistic habitat. other processes. The best way to provide food, water, shelter and In our climate nest boxes may become too nesting opportunities is to landscape in a way that hot for successful nesting, so you will need to put provides for their needs. them where they are shaded much of the day. There are several elements to landscaping You also need to design the box for specific kinds for bird nests. For some birds, simply providing of birds. Commercially available nest boxes may their food will give them the opportunity to be used by our invasive and aggressive House nest. Phainopeplas will nest where ever there Sparrows or European Starlings. is an adequate supply of their principal food: If you want to provide a nest cavity for one of mistletoe berries. So include native trees in your our native species, you’ll need to regularly remove landscape—such as velvet mesquite, ironwood, the nesting attempts of the aliens or design the acacia and palo verde—and then infest them with house with characteristics that discourage them. the native desert mistletoe! And be sure to leave This might be done by providing an opening too existing mistletoe in place. small for House Sparrows to enter, or by using In her doctoral studies Rachel McCaffrey a design that is attractive to other species such found that in Tucson the presence of dense, as owls or kestrels. Western Screech-Owls thorny native trees and large shrubs often successfully nest in the Tucson area—probably predicted the presence of several species of even in suburban areas—in boxes of the right size

LOIS MANOWITZ native birds. This is probably in part because they that are mounted at least 10 feet off the ground. afford familiar vegetative structures for nesting. One source of plans for a Western Screech- Along with the trees mentioned above, consider Owl box is at www.utahbirds.org/featarts/2004/ large shrubs like desert hackberry, wolfberry, OwlBox/OwlBox1.htm. graythorn and condalia. We are just beginning to learn what native And, of course, she found that the presence of species can be accommodated by nest boxes in chollas strongly predicted the presence of Cactus southern Arizona. If you have had success with Wrens. Surely this is due to their preference for nest boxes, please contact me at kkroesen@ nesting in chollas. tucsonaudubon.org or 520-971-2385 and let me NATURESPICSONLINE.COM Another thing birds need for there nests is know what has worked for you! We will publish /

fiber. Landscaping with a wide variety of native the results in a future issue of the Vermilion plants increases the likelihood that birds will find Flycatcher. VF the right fibers—from coarse sticks to fine, soft Kendall Kroesen, Habitats Program Manager ALAN D. WILSON materials. You can provide some of the finer fibers by putting dryer lint and hair from hair brushes In her doctoral studies, Rachel McCaffrey found that the (human, dog, cat) outside where birds can presence of chollas strongly predicted the presence of find them. Cactus Wrens, which is surely due to their preference for nesting in chollas.

See p 26 for a selection of books on nests

PAUL WESTCOTT, PHOENIX, ARIZONA PHOENIX, WESTCOTT, PAUL and nesting DORIS EVANS Visit tucsonaudubon.org for updatesð and more. April–June 2012 Vermilion Flycatcher Tucson Audubon 13 FEATURE WherePINAU MERLIN the Chicks Hang Out NESTING KENDALL KROESEN KENDALL KEN SLADE ELFNER AXEL

I was hidden, camouflaged under Most altricial birds build elevated extra measure of safety for their host’s a scrawny mesquite tree watching the nests in cup shapes, platforms, hanging chicks by giving an alarm call if predators goings on at a Crested Caracara nest. pouches, or they use cavities. Since a threaten, which alerts the parent raptors The parent bird had just chased down a nest of baby birds is like a lunch box to danger. Nesting here may seem like rodent and now two cute baby carcaras for predators, concealment is of prime daredevil behavior, but the wrens are not with oversized beaks and huge feet importance. Most nests are small for in danger sub-leasing from the hawks, sat contentedly in the nest, their crops keeping a low profile and decorated with as raptors usually don’t hunt at their own bulging full. Perhaps the most fun time to plant parts or lichens for camouflage. nest site. observe birds is when they’re nesting and Passerines employ a diversity of Thermoregulation is a major issue, raising young, but this is also when they methods for hiding nests. Many species, especially as baby birds don’t control their are most vulnerable—they become sitting such as Black-tailed Gnatcatcher, body temperature well. ducks for predators. Birds and their chicks Pyrrhuloxia, Canyon Towhee, Bendire’s Anna’s Hummingbird nests in winter not only face the threat of predation, but Thrasher, Rufous-winged Sparrow, Elf and early spring when storms and must deal with issues of thermoregulation Owl, Loggerhead Shrike, and Cactus freezing temperatures are common. Her (making sure they don’t get too cold or too Wren either roost or build their nests thickly insulated and downy nest may be hot) now as well. They have developed within the concealing shelter of mistletoe. 40° F warmer inside than out. This not ingenious adaptations to these problems, Not only are the nests safely hidden, only keeps the eggs warm, but also helps which are often reflected in the form and the mistletoe clumps provide a shaded the mother hummingbird conserve energy structure of the nest itself. microclimate. since she does not usually enter torpor Ground nesting birds, such as quail, Barn Swallows, which don’t hide at night while incubating. Late spring nighthawks, Common Poorwill, and their nests, deal with predation issues and summer nesting hummers, such as Killdeer, have precocial chicks. When by building their nests on vertical faces Costa’s, are more concerned with shade hatched the chicks arrive covered in within one to two and a half inches of and seek sites with overhead branches down, wide-eyed, ready and able to follow an overhang. The tight space prevents for mottled sun and shadow. their parents on foot. They generally quit access by most predators, including Although Verdins don’t hide their nests, the nest site shortly after hatching since cowbirds. the round shape, thorny twig construction the odor of open eggshells may attract The Great Blue Heron does not do well and small (1–1.2 in) entrance hole reduce predators. Most ground nesters usually at being inconspicuous, and the bulky predation, especially by cowbirds. The don’t construct much of a nest since it nests of this species are not subtle, so the tiny Verdins use nests year round, will be abandoned at hatching. Such birds solve the problem of not being able building three different kinds (winter species may rely on camouflaged eggs as to hide their nests by nesting colonially in roosting, summer roosting, and baby nighthawks do, or hide their eggs under rookeries. With herons coming and going nests) for the various seasons. The thickly vegetation (or in backyard flowerpots) as there is always a pair of eyes to watch for insulated winter nest reduces the Verdin’s do quail. predators and sound the alarm. energy requirement for thermoregulation Those birds that produce altricial young Cactus Wrens occasionally build their by up to 50 percent. Other birds also that are naked, blind and helpless, need nests incorporated into the base of the take advantage of these warm shelters. a safe refuge in which their young can nest of a Red-tailed Hawk or other raptor. Wildlife biologist Barry Spicer filmed develop. The wrens glean bits of leftover food from 30 Black-tailed Gnatcatchers emerging the raptor’s young, but also provide an from a Verdin nest one freezing winter

14 Tucson Audubon Vermilion Flycatcher April–June 2012 Visit tucsonaudubon.org for updates and more. WherePINAU MERLIN the Chicks Hang Out WWW.JIMBURNSPHOTOS.COM

HELPING BIRDS RICHARD DITCH

JIM & DEVA BURNS JIM & DEVA TO SUCCESSFULLY

Clockwise from far left: FLEDGE THEIR YOUNG Curve-billed Thrasher on nest in staghorn cholla at The While nesting birds are fun to watch, we Nature Conservancy building in Tucson. have a responsibility not to harm them, even Barn Swallow nest within two inches of overhang. There inadvertently, by our attentions. Parents may is often a landing platform of some type nearby for the parents to land on or take breaks. Piles of scat are typical abandon nests with eggs when disturbed under these nests. by people. Once the eggs have hatched Lucy’s Warbler nests in several different kinds of cavities. the parents are more reluctant to leave, but More experienced Cactus Wrens nest in cholla or may still become stressed. Often cowbirds saguaro. or predators are attracted to the nest by the Great Horned Owl parent and young. activity of people or by the bird’s alarm calls. Anna’s Hummingbird nest (inset top) is fluffy and thick for PINAU MERLIN insulation during winter cold fronts. Sometimes older nestlings may jump from PINAU MERLIN BY PHOTO HUMMINGBIRD NEST ANNA Broad-billed Hummingbird on nest shaded with mottled the nest at the intrusion and are then lost to sun and shadow; they don’t want full shade. predators. Lesser Nighthawks nest on the ground without making a It is best to observe nesting birds with nest. They rely on camouflage coloring on the eggs. binoculars from a respectful distance, since it provides the observer a chance to watch natural behaviors without disturbing the birds.

morning! Verdin nests are placed on the PINAU MERLIN Even nests that appear inactive should be outside periphery of the tree, hackberry approached with caution during spring and or cholla, along a wash, pathway or open or roosting by adults or fledged young. In summer. I remember once a group of birders area that provides a clear flight path to the early spring parents carry away the fecal saw an apparently empty nest but then the nest, denying a landing platform to other sacs of the nestlings, dropping them away parent bird returned with food, three begging birds. First brood nests are oriented away from the nest so as not to alert predators nestling heads popped up. from prevailing winds in early spring, to the nest’s location. In summer though, State law (ARS 17-236) makes it illegal while second brood nests (around late parents leave the fecal sacs in the to harass nesting birds or to remove eggs or April) are aligned towards the breezes nest providing additional humidity and bird nests — even old ones — from the wild. in summer. The nest’s position (and evaporative cooling. Remember, some birds re-use nests or the therefore microclimate), often on the east Whatever strategies nesting birds use, nesting materials that they have taken much side of a cactus or tree, is directly related they are wildly successful, filling nearly time and energy to collect. to breeding success for Verdins. every habitat on the planet. VF When taking photographs, never break Cactus Wren nests are also positioned or remove branches or foliage from around on the periphery of a cholla, facing Pinau Merlin is the author of A Guide to the nest, as the birds have chosen the site outwards to facilitate quick escapes. Southern Arizona Bird Nests and Eggs specifically for its concealment and shade. The wrens are perpetually occupied with (see p 26) and writes frequently about the Birds are especially sensitive during nest building, since storms, high winds natural history of the Southwest. One of her breeding season, so always avoid the use of and rampaging thrashers destroy many main interests is bird and animal language. recorded songs or calls at this time. nests. The numerous nests are not Birds have extensive vocabularies of calls, Always leave the upclose examination and dummy nests, as almost all are used at telling us exactly which predators are moving photography of nests until after the baby birds some point during the year for breeding around them and what’s happening in an area. have fledged.

Visit tucsonaudubon.org for updates and more. April–June 2012 Vermilion Flycatcher Tucson Audubon 15 Interesting stories about birds with interesting names Brown-headed Cowbird LARRY LIESE GEORGE WEST IN A NAME

Taking a lunch break on a Tucson Audubon field trip one summer at the WHAT’S WHAT’S end of Carr Canyon Road, a group of us had the good fortune to see a fascinating event unfold before us. We had noticed that a small group of Buff-breasted Flycatchers was nesting in the oak trees nearby, right in the picnic area. Our attention was drawn to a passing bird, later seen to be a Brown-headed Cowbird female, heading towards the nests. the egg is an advantage, and though the Inset top to bottom: norm is 20 to 40 seconds, taking only Yellow Warbler nest Suddenly a pair of “defending” flycatchers with a cowbird egg; zoomed in straddling the cowbird on 4 seconds has been recorded. Though Wilson’s Warbler each side, shuttling it through the nest many species have become “rejectors” feeding a young cowbird (on the left). area without any chance for the cowbird of a cowbird’s attempts to parasitize to detour onto a nest. The cowbird tried their nests, this style of breeding is repeating its efforts a number of times but successful with many host species. studies in some the diligence of the flycatchers prevented More than 220 host species have been areas sometimes find its success. Though presumably documented as having cowbird eggs cowbird eggs in the finches’ nests, instinctive, we got the impression the laid in their nests, and 144 species have no cowbirds survive as that diet lacks JAMIE CHAVEZ flycatchers “knew” what would happen if actually reared cowbird young. For those certain nutritional components the they let down their guard. Fascinating! species that do thwart the attempt, three cowbirds need. As most birders know, cowbirds are main strategies are used. The host may Brown-headed Cowbird was named brood parasites. They do not build nests remove the cowbird eggs, abandon the by Swainson as Molothrus ater. An error of their own but rely on other host species nest entirely, or construct a new nest had crept in as what was meant was the to incubate, feed, and raise their young. on top of the old—usually with its own Greek molobros, for “a parasite or greedy They rely on the innate feeding response eggs left with the cowbird’s. One Yellow person.” The species name ater is Latin that parent birds have to feed hungry Warbler nest reportedly had six layers for “black,” referring to the plumage color chicks—even if they look a little funny! of nest levels due to extreme cowbird of the male, and of course the name If we take a look at cowbirds’ life history, parasitism presence. The female cowbird brown-headed comes from the males’ it becomes apparent why this breeding finds suitable nests to parasitize in most distinctive plumage feature. The method fits their lifestyle so well. three ways—sitting silently in the upper common name cowbird is a shortened Cowbirds generally forage for seeds branches of bushes watching for nest- form of cowpen-bird, an older name and insect prey by walking on the ground, building, walking about on the ground derived from its tendency to frequent frequently following herd animals as their watching other birds’ activity, or noisily cattle pens. movements disturb insects on the ground making short flights landing in leaves Here in Southeast Arizona, Brown- making them easy to acquire. Originally looking for birds flushing from their nests. headed Cowbirds aren’t hard to find. strongly tied to bison herds, the migratory Bird species in our area that are more Though they avoid closed forests, in behavior of those herds made brood- commonly targeted by cowbirds include summer they can readily be found along parasitism a favored way of reproduction Yellow Warbler, Song Sparrow, Spotted forest edges and in grasslands. In winter as they could not remain at traditional Towhee, Common Yellowthroat, Yellow- they congregate with other blackbirds, nest sites as those herds moved on. As breasted Chat, Red-winged Blackbird, sometimes in large flocks at feedlots adaptations to this lifestyle strengthened, Willow Flycatcher, and Bell’s Vireo. and lowland agricultural areas. They are cowbirds came to hatch earlier, and Species that have developed the ability common throughout in migration. Though to aggressively demand food (to the to notice and eject cowbird eggs include often put in the category of “evil pest” bird detriment of the “legal” nestlings). Without Western Kingbird, American Robin, and species, cowbirds should perhaps not the demands of incubation and rearing of Bullock’s Oriole. One notable exception be thought of so harshly. They are native chicks, female cowbirds evolved into egg- to birds’ vulnerability to cowbird brood birds that adapted a reproductive strategy laying machines. In a breeding season of parasitism is the House Finch. Though copasetic with their lifestyle. The fact that about 45 days she can lay 40 eggs. Eggs the adult finches sometimes include a they have a large impact on some species are dispersed, with only one egg per host small amount of insect prey in their diet, in peril is more a result of man’s rapid nest with the cowbird often taking a host nestlings are fed a 100% vegetarian alteration and fragmentation of habitat egg from the nest. Quick deposition of diet of seeds buds and fruit. Though than something more sinister. VF

16 Tucson Audubon Vermilion Flycatcher April–June 2012 Visit tucsonaudubon.org for updates and more. CONSERVATION AND EDUCATION NEWS CHRIS MCVIE, PAUL GREEN, KENDALL KROESEN, AND BÉTÉ PFISTER

Watching the Effects of the Monument Fire Prior to European settlement, Madrean After six days of fire, the Spotted least temporarily support more open- pine-oak forests burned every three Owl territory at Ash Canyon was gone. country birds like Eastern Bluebirds. to fifteen years. The frequent, cool, Parts of Miller Canyon were black. Emory oak is superbly adapted to fire, surface fires favored large fire-resistant Ramsey Canyon wasn’t touched. and where fire burns the tops of the pines and maintained open stands Birds survived. Robert Weissler oaks, they respond by resprouting. by killing small trees and shrubs. emailed us after returning home to In Stump Canyon the base of nearly Without these fires pines became Stump Canyon, “We awoke to the every black Emory oak is flanked less abundant while oaks became sound of Anna’s Hummingbird, Ash- by a child-sized green sprout. The Top to bottom: Mosaic of Monument burns denser. Oak savannas lower on the throated Flycatcher, Rufous-crowned amount and timing of precipitation will and unburned areas at upper elevations; Pine forest near Carr Reef with open mountain had also become denser. Sparrow, Bridled Titmouse, and have a strong influence on how much understory as a result of fire. Would this extra fuel result in a fire that Bewick’s Wren.” Best of all, the fire regeneration occurs and how open the would burn so hot that soil damage was patchy, and the burn effects on savannas will remain. Northern Goshawks and Mexican and erosion would destroy the forest? soil were light to moderate over 90% About half the Monument Fire Spotted Owls will forage through How would tree species composition of the fire’s area. The fire had brought burned in mid-elevation oak-pine these forests looking for small prey change, and what would happen to tragedy to some individuals, but in woodlands. It opened their understory, that would not have been visible the birds? most areas it promised to restore the providing better habitat for flycatchers before. Other areas were untouched,

Crews worked with staff at The forest community. such as the Dusky-capped. An open some severely burned. This spring FREDERICK TERRY COURTESY BOTH PHOTOS Nature Conservancy’s Ramsey Eight months later, the burned understory will provide not only Huachuca Audubon volunteers will Canyon Preserve to step up thinning areas look different. In lower Miller more room to fly, but more light for revisit bird survey plots that they efforts in preparation for fire in the Canyon burned oaks stand lifeless understory plants, which means more started three years ago to monitor the canyon. Thinning at Ramsey Canyon on hillsides. We see large rock food for insect prey. The remaining success of thinning treatments. In time had been going on for years to allow outcrops we never knew existed. oaks will have more room to grow we will see how much the vegetation for safer management of wildfire, Before the fire, birding up this slope large canopies for warblers and will change as a result of the fire, and to protect the Arizona sycamore was an exercise in birding by ear develop cavities for secondary cavity- which bird species will respond best. gallery so important to specialties for I couldn’t see three feet beyond nesters such as Bridled Titmouse. This monitoring will help managers like Sulphur-bellied Flycatcher and my scratched and bleeding arms. In the less severely affected do a better job maintaining the Elegant Trogon, and to open up tree Now we watch Mexican Jays careen areas at upper elevations the fire Huachucas for future generations. canopies in woodlands where natural across the hillside from a quarter mile cleared the understory and left large Terry Frederick, Senior Biologist, fire had been excluded. away. Oak savannas like this will at pines standing in a restored forest. Harris Environmental Group

Naturalist and Author Gale Wendell Monson: 1912–2012 Gale Wendell Monson passed away Checklist of Arizona Birds and also Afternoons were compilation time, at his Albuquerque home on February authored and edited numerous other with Gale determining, through his 19, 2012. Born in Munich, North related publications. persistent and patient questioning Dakota, Gale spent his professional Tucson Audubon Board whether everyone had truly seen what life working for the U.S. Bureau of Member Ruth Russell recalls the they thought they had seen. Says Indian Affairs, the Soil Conservation partnership Gale and Steve Russell Ruth, “He made honest birders of Service, and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife formed to write the The Birds of us all.” By mid to late afternoon the Service. His work assignments took Sonora. Research included many area was usually thoroughly covered him and his family to Albuquerque, trips to Sonora over a number of and the group would move on to the Gallup, and Socorro, New Mexico; years, sometimes with a fleet of next site. Campfire times were when Parker, Yuma, and Tucson, Arizona; vehicles carrying students, visiting Gale, a great storyteller who never and Washington D.C. Gale loved ornithologists, and any local friends tired of sharing his many adventures Steve Russell, lead author of The the Sonoran Desert and spent the interested enough in birds to spend in the field, was at his best. He was Birds of Sonora, bulk of his life’s work there, where he time in Sonora scouting out new an amazing man, who made a great arranged many contributed greatly to its study. His locations and determining bird many important contributions to our trips to Sonora, gathering students greatest passion was ornithology, but populations as we went. A trip would understanding of birds and their and others interested in he had an abiding love for the study last from four to ten days, and habitats. Contributions in his memory helping. Gale Monson (far left, of the natural world in its entirety. destinations could be anywhere in can be made to the Gale Monson main photo and inset) went on almost every trip. Others in the main photo are He co-authored several books: The Sonora not yet extensively covered. Research Grant fund of the Arizona (left to right): Arnie Moorhouse, Sherman Birds of Arizona, The Desert Bighorn, Each morning was spent scouting for Field Ornithologists at: www.azfo.org/

Suter, John Bates, and John Hoffman. The Birds of Sonora, The Annotated birds—tallying species and numbers. grants/grants.html. RUTH & STEVE RUSSELL COURTESY BOTH PHOTOS

Visit tucsonaudubon.org for updates and more. April–June 2012 Vermilion Flycatcher Tucson Audubon 17 CONSERVATION & EDUCATION NEWS

Mining Reform and Augusta Resource’s Rosemont Mine Proposal

Watershed Health Tucson Audubon opposes Canadian- that are being offered in exchange proposed Rosemont mine. The Tucson Audubon is not against mining. owned Augusta Resources’ proposal for the concrete assets of available ACC conditionally approved the line, We are concerned about the amount to mine in the Santa Rita Mountains. clean water, intact functioning by a 3-2 vote, but ordered that the of energy and water needed to extract Read our letters to the U.S. Forest ecosystems, and sustainable approval be stayed pending hearing and process metals and the increasing Service (USFS) and to the Army regional tourism jobs and dollars. the case before an administrative pollution generated by same. The Corps of Engineers (ACOE) at Our comments to the ACOE judge to establish a complete record mining of hard rock minerals—gold, tucsonaudubon.org/conservationnews. regarding Augusta’s requested 404 of associated activities and potential uranium and other metals—on The environmental costs of this permit were based on irreparable environmental impacts of the mine. U.S. public lands is governed by proposal are impossible to mitigate damage to: aquatic resources In November 2011, TEP filed an the General Mining Law of 1872. We and too overwhelmingly negative to be of national importance including application for a CEC for a 138kV need to reform this outdated public approved. Our comments addressed: Outstanding Arizona Waters (OAW); transmission line to be built from an lands law—a frontier-era statute that • The compromised position the endangered and threatened plants area north of Quail Creek in Green is no match for the scale of today’s USFS finds itself in as the result and animals; critical wildlife linkages; Valley, transecting the scientifically, mining. Under the 1872 law: of working so closely with Augusta and direct, indirect and cumulative historically, and ecologically important Mining companies—even those during the “public” process. adverse impacts to riparian, grassland, Santa Rita Experimental Range, that are foreign-owned—are allowed to • A Draft Environmental Impact and woodland habitat. We support our over the Santa Rita Mountains take approximately $1 billion annually Statement (DEIS) that disregards colleagues’ comments citing adverse and connecting to the Rosemont in gold and other metals from public the economic benefits of impacts to local and downstream water project area. The case was heard lands without payment of any royalty. ecotourism and the potential loss quality and quantity, local economies, by the Arizona Power Plant and Mining is given priority status, on of income that the mine would air quality, transportation safety, Transmission Line Siting Committee most public lands, making it nearly bring to our community. cultural resources, regional open in December 2011. After a rushed impossible to prohibit or restrict it, • Permanent ecological damage space investments, and the health, week of testimony, the Line Siting even near national parks and other to Pima County’s first named safety and welfare of the people of Committee approved the CEC, iconic places, like the Grand Canyon. Important Bird Area (IBA), part of a southern Arizona. sending the decision along to the ACC There is scant regulation of mining, global system of scientifically peer- On March 6th, Tucson Audubon’s for final approval. the nation’s top-polluting industry, and reviewed biologically important Conservation Chair accompanied In its order to reopen the case, few resources to clean up abandoned areas, and the potential effects representatives of the EPA, the ACOE, the ACC writes “We believe that mines. The Environmental Protection on common, threatened and Arizona Department of Environmental additional evidence about the mine Agency (EPA) has documented more endangered bird species. Quality (ADEQ), Pima Association of and its environmental impacts should than $2 billion in taxpayer spending • The vagaries of economic Governments (PAG), Pima County, be admitted.” Per state statute, over the past decade on mine cleanup. development and relatively short the Tohono O’Odham Nation, and concerned parties and citizens will Recently, New Mexico’s Senator term jobs associated with long- other nongovernmental organizations be able to intervene in order to Jeff Bingaman introduced a much term regional habitat degradation on a visit to the confluence of provide information that would help needed mining reform bill in the Davidson Canyon and Cienega Creek the ACC, as mandated, to “balance, Senate. However, Nevada’s Senate to discuss potential impacts of the in the broad public interest, the need Majority leader Harry Reid, son of a MOUNTAINS RITA SANTA proposed mine (see tucsonaudubon. for an adequate, economical, and gold miner, has been a powerful ally org/conservationnews) reliable supply of power with the of the hard rock minerals industry, On March 15th, the Arizona desire to minimize the effect thereof blocking earlier attempts at reform. Corporation Commission (ACC) on the environment and ecology of We are now at a critical junction and heard a proposal for a Certificate of this state.” The proceedings will be reform of our antiquated mining law Environmental Compatibility (CEC) conducted at a date and time to be is essential to protecting the public’s for Tucson Electric Power (TEP) to established by the ACC’s Hearings interests. provide a transmission line to the Division.

Sunnyside-Audubon Student Urban Naturalists are Back Thanks to the dedication and and our local environment through Along with traveling to new determination of two of our shining hands-on experiences. habitats and seeing new birds, they volunteers, Caleb Weaver and Since January, the students have are busy planning “Earth Appreciation Deb Vath, the Sunnyside-Audubon been busy! They facilitated the nest Week” (April 23–27) at their school to Student Urban Naturalists (SASUN) box building activity at Wings Over encourage students to adopt a more Club is back at Billy Lauffer Middle Willcox, and conducted a buffelgrass sustainable lifestyle. Look for the School from January to May. The pull in Julian Wash. The club meets SASUN Club at the Tucson Audubon program provides an opportunity every week and has taken two field Earth Day Booth at Reid Park on April for interested students to deepen trips, one to Patagonia Lake State 21st where they will be facilitating kid- their understanding of nature, birds, Park and one to Madera Canyon. friendly activities.

18 Tucson Audubon Vermilion Flycatcher April–June 2012 Visit tucsonaudubon.org for updates and more. SASUN CLUB MEMBER VICTORIA BEAUDRY HELPS PULL BUFFLEGRASS IN JULIAN WASH, DEB VATH BUFFLEGRASS IN JULIAN WASH, HELPS PULL BEAUDRY SASUN CLUB MEMBER VICTORIA CONSERVATION & EDUCATION NEWS

Britain’s Rio Tinto and Australia’s BHP = Resolution Copper Company

As we first wrote in 2005, another of Australia owns 45%) has acquired Oak Flat, the nearby Apache Leap, of a legislative land exchange. BHP’s foreign-owned mining company, the old Magma Mine outside Superior and Gaan (Devil’s) Canyon, with proposed development would dewater Resolution Copper Company (RCC) and seeks to expand its operation. its beautiful riparian habitat, are all and devalue the 7B bosque and (Rio Tinto of the United Kingdom owns RCC’s research indicates it may be significant cultural sites. downstream farms, ranches, mitigation 55% and Broken Hill Properties (BHP) the third largest high-grade copper The Pinal County Board of lands of the Salt River Project (SRP) ore deposit in the world. RCC wants Supervisors approved up to 35,000 and the Bureau of Reclamation (BOR), to acquire the Tonto National Forest’s residences in a mixed-use community as well as lands owned and managed TOTO NATIONAL FOREST, BERNARD GAGNON FOREST, NATIONAL TOTO nearby Oak Flat Campground to block on over 23,000 acres of BHP lands for conservation by the Nature cave mine and dump the tailings around San Manuel, along the west Conservancy (TNC). We recently wrote on near-by state land. President side of the river. Meanwhile, RCC Senators Bingaman and Reid, again, Eisenhower removed Oak Flat from proposes to preserve a 3,000-acre opposing Resolution’s most recent mineral exploration and extraction mesquite bosque (the 7B bosque), just proposal (see tucsonaudubon.org/ in 1955 (Public Land Order 1229). downstream of BHP’s lands, as a part conservationnews).

A Collaborative Conservation Initiative Along the Lower San Pedro River

Meanwhile, unrelated to RCC’s Service has reached out to dialogue The Service, in conjunction proposed legislation and in response with local landowners, ranchers, with the EPA and other scientific to long standing requests of various Natural Resource Conservation experts, has recently conducted landowners along the Lower San Districts (NRCDs), other federal, state, an assessment of the San Pedro Pedro River, the US Fish and Wildlife and local agencies, Congressional Watershed which indicates that Service (Service) has begun a delegation staff, the San Carlos it has greater ecosystem service pre-scoping process and regional Apache Tribe, and the Pinal values for some parameters than discussion about forming a landowner- Partnership’s Open Space and Trails the southwest region in general driven Collaborative Conservation subcommittee. The Service hopes and the middle Rio Grande River in Initiative along the Lower San Pedro to raise awareness of the proposal, particular (see tucsonaudubon.org/ River to further the preservation of identify any issues or concerns and conservationnews).

rural working landscapes. Thus far the any interested voluntary participants. SAN PEDRO RIVER, BRUCE FULTON

HB 2656 Threatens Pima County’s Ability to Manage its Debt Rationally Since the state-legislated has employed or continued the create a reserve for future capital HB 2656 sponsor, District 26 controversial takeover of a Pima employment of 12,000+ construction projects. Without the ability to build (Marana, and parts of Tucson) County wastewater treatment plant workers. cash reserves, counties would be Representative Terri Proud says this by Marana, and despite claims to a Voter approved bonds have forced to borrow for major capital about our efforts: “Most of the bonding philosophy of “small government,” the enabled our county to emerge as projects. is all about parks… We spent $1.5 Arizona Legislature appears focused a national award winning leader in Subsection B of HB 2656 as billion, and that’s what we get—some on micromanaging Tucson and Pima land use planning, ensuring a quality amended is “special legislation” freaking cactus… For $1.5 billion, we County. livable community as envisioned by targeting Pima County. It would add should have Pima County looking like Pima County voter-approved bonds the Sonoran Desert Conservation additional requirements for us, and the god-dang Wizard of Oz, like the build new roads, traffic and road-safety Plan (SDCP; see http://www.pima.gov/ only us, relating to certificates of Ritz Hotel.” improvements, libraries, emergency cmo/sdcp/MSCP/MSCP.html). Our participation (COPs) and long-term Terri Proud also says Pima County communications equipment, detention ability to bond enables our community purchase agreements. has “not much to show for it.” We facilities, bridges, flood control, to realize our vision of ourselves. The Town of Marana is the only disagree and suggest she might government buildings, and affordable HB 2656 (see http://e-lobbyist.com/ jurisdiction in Pima County to support want to learn more about our 2004 housing. Bonds fund open space, gaits/AZ/HB2656), as amended, was HB 2656. South Tucson, Sahuarita, bond language. She and District 26 parks and hiking trails, which in 2004 originally introduced by 11 southern Oro Valley, and the City of Tucson Representative Vic Williams, who is gained more voter support than any Arizona legislators at Marana’s have written to express their opposition running for Supervisor Ann Day’s seat other general obligation bond question behest. Subsection A would add and concerns. While sponsors say on the county’s Board of Supervisors, on the ballot. requirements for all counties to hold a the bill would increase accountability, as well as Senators Antenori and Pima County’s bond program public hearing to present information our current County code, revised for Melvin, reveal a lack of due diligence assists us in achieving balanced about existing debt, prohibit use of greater truth in bonding, transparency and old fashioned homework. “smart growth” in compliance with lease-purchase agreements to pay for and accountability in 2004, far exceeds We hope they will reconsider and existent state law. It creates jobs. operating costs, and require adoption the accountability measures included put our jobs, health, welfare and Since 2006, over $842 million spent of balanced budgets prohibiting in the bill. safety, not to mention the will of the on County capital bond projects accumulating excess cash, even to electorate, ahead of partisan politics.

Visit tucsonaudubon.org for updates and more. April–June 2012 Vermilion Flycatcher Tucson Audubon 19 CONSERVATION & EDUCATION NEWS

Water is Key to a Healthy Tucson—for Wildlife and People

In another partisan-led effort, the Water/tabid/185/Default.aspx). One of Fire Pension System to make good on Groundwater Management Act, and House recently passed HB 2416 to the policy outcomes of the City/County their questionable investment. Some a municipality’s ability to determine force Tucson Water to supply water Study was the City’s formal adoption sources suggest that they paid about if it can provide those services. This to an area outside of its community- of a Water Service Area Policy in six times what the property was worth. appears to be another piece of “special determined water service area, August 2010, establishing a water Since Painted Hills allowed its legislation” to force Tucson to supply preventing them from regulating their service boundary for Tucson based on water assurance letter to expire in water outside their designated service own water policies. This would support economic, social and environmental February 2008, the Arizona Superior area regardless of having water sprawl and raise our property taxes considerations. Court DENIED a motion for summary resources available or the infrastructure judgment and ruled in favor of the City, necessary to serve the property. even higher, potentially stressing public Tucson Audubon has participated in & ENG-LI GREEN WESTERN SCREECH-OWL, PAUL and emergency services delivery. the first annual review of the Policy, as the State of Arizona Court of Appeals Water is THE limiting resource BACKGROUND: Tucson’s Mayor called for in the adopted ordinance, to affirmed the trial court summary and determining factor governing the and Council and Pima County’s determine if refinements to the Policy judgment IN FAVOR of the City, and future viability of the arid southwest. Board of Supervisors initiated a multi- are needed. City staff and Tucson the Arizona Supreme Court is currently HB 2416 would undo Tucson’s year study of water and wastewater Water’s Citizens Water Advisory weighing the decision as to whether or carefully crafted efforts to develop a infrastructure, supply and planning Committee (CWAC) requested public not to consider the case. Pima County cohesive water service area policy. issues (WISP). The goal of this effort and stakeholder comment as part of voters have twice voted to preserve The ultimate result could be that future is to assure a sustainable community this review process. this property for open space. developers within Tucson’s service water source given continuing Challenging the policy is the NOW: Scottsdale Representative area may not have water resources pressure on water supplies caused by proposed Painted Hills development, a Michelle Ugenti introduced HB 2416 available because those resources will population growth and the needs of 289-acre county parcel between West http://e-lobbyist.com/gaits/AZ/HB2416, have all been obligated to developers our natural environment. Anklam Road and West Speedway Denial of Water and Waste Water outside of the City. A joint City/County Oversight Boulevard. The proposed development, Prohibited, in the Arizona House. It A water provider needs to be able Committee produced the 2011–2015 along the scenic highway to Gates would prohibit a city or town, located in to determine their own service area or Action Plan for Water Sustainability. Pass and the Arizona Sonora Desert a county with a population of more than they may find themselves in violation Future efforts will seek to engage Museum, would result in blading 500,000 persons that has provided of the Assured Water Supply rules the greater metropolitan area lush Sonoran Upland desert habitat, some domestic water or wastewater and could lose their designation, thus in identifying shared values, removing approximately 900 saguaros services outside of its municipal jeopardizing ALL local development. objectives and preferred options and impacting wildlife linkages. The boundaries, from denying those MORE ONLINE: For Multiple- for a sustainable water future www. Tucson Mountain Association has services to any other owners of land species Habitat Conservation Planning tucsonpimawaterstudy.com/. taken the lead on this issue (see www. outside of its municipal boundaries, (MSHCP) updates for the Town of The Pima Association of tucsonmountainsassoc.org/ if certain conditions exist. HB 2416 Marana, the City of Tucson, and Pima Governments (PAG) convened paintedhills.html). establishes a new and potentially County, as well as updates on SR the Regional Water Assessment Read a good history of the harmful water management precedent 77 (Oracle Road) Wildlife Crossing Task Force in 2010 to help the situation written by Tim Vanderpool at wherein the State can mandate where Structures please see the full version region shape its efforts to achieve a www.tucsonweekly.com/tucson/water- water and wastewater services are of this article at tucsonaudubon.org/ sustainable water future (www.pagnet. war/Content?oid=3260687, charting provided regardless of the impact conservationnews. VF org/Programs/EnvironmentalPlanning/ the efforts of the Dallas Police and on assured water supplies, the

a new recycling plant, scheduled to Conservation Corner! open July 1, at which time recycling It is time to get serious you don’t, call 520-791-5000.You can will be expanded. See the story about recycling put a variety of products in the blue on this in the Arizona Daily Star at barrels, including aluminum cans, http://azstarnet.com/news/science/ Recycling reduces waste going into glass bottles, numbers 1 or 2 plastic environment/coming-soon-to- landfills and delays opening up new containers, newspapers, junk mail, your-blue-bins-more-recyclables/ ones. It means items like glass, phonebooks, cardboard, certain rigid article_7b7534f4-21a0-5a06-b609- aluminum and plastic are used as a plastic items, and more. For the full a5d589b91b3d.html. resource for making new products, list, go to http://cms3.tucsonaz.gov/ If you run a business, you need govt-and-politics/city-pitches-its- rather than new raw materials es/customer-services-residential- pay a fee for your blue barrel. case-recycling-can-be-a-plus-for/ extracted from the Earth. It decreases recycling. They won’t take plastic However, if a lot of your current article_52a9ea88-8d06-5aa6-92a9- the energy needed to create new shopping bags. Please return those to waste is recyclable, you may be c3c38ad8d09b.html. KROESEN KENDALL products—this decreases greenhouse your supermarket or, even better, use able to offset the cost by decreasing If you live in a multifamily dwelling gas emissions. reusable shopping bags! your number of weekly waste or don’t have blue barrel service, If you live in the City of Tucson, Prepare now to recycle even pickups. See the Arizona Daily there is a map of community recycling you should already have a residential more, including plastics 3, 4, 5 and Star on commercial blue barrels centers at www.deq.pima.gov/waste/ “blue barrel” available for recycling. If 7! The city will be contracting with at http://azstarnet.com/news/local/ recyclecenters.html. VF

20 Tucson Audubon Vermilion Flycatcher April–June 2012 Visit tucsonaudubon.org for updates and more. WEEKLY BIRD WALKS TUCSON AUDUBON FIELD TRIPS KATE REYNOLDS | FIELD TRIP COORDINATOR Thursdays— April & May 8 am; June 7:30 am Wake Up With the Birds at Agua Caliente Park. A stroll through the bosque and along the ponds. Loaner binocs available, DON EHLEN meet in front of the ranch house. For more info call Pima County Parks and Rec., 520-615-7855. Saturdays—8–9:30 am Tucson Audubon’s Mason Center. Families and birders of all skill levels are welcome. Visit tucsonaudubon.org/ masoncenter for details.

MORE FIELD TRIPS ARE AVAILABLE ONLINE. Visit tucsonaudubon.org/ fieldtrips for more trips and the latest or expanded field trip Peña Blanca Lake information or call us at 520-629-0510.

Limited to 10 participants so contact the leader General Information April Tucson Audubon field trips are free. For general for carpooling and other info. 160 miles round trip. information call 520-629-0510. For specific April 1—Sunday 7 am Take a picnic lunch. Back in late afternoon. Leader: information about a trip, contact the leader of Fort Lowell Park ME Flynn 520-797-1743 or [email protected] Fort Lowell Park is one of Tucson’s premier public that trip. April 14—Saturday 6:30 am parks for birds and a historic place for birding. Please dress appropriately for your field trip. We will walk in the steps of Charles Bendire, a Catalina Mountains Always wear sturdy shoes, a hat, and use sun Let’s spend the morning perusing the mountain and naturalist and cavalry officer stationed at the fort in protection. Bring plenty of snacks and water trying to get out of the heat for a few hours. We will the 1870s. We’ll look for resident birds, remaining for yourself. Always bring your binoculars, make stops at Middle Bear and Marshall Gulch. wintering species and for spring migrants. The field guide, and for most trips a scope can be Bring a hat, sunscreen, plenty of water. Home trip is cosponsoredTHIS by TRIP Friends IS FULLof Ft. Lowell Park. useful. Bring money to cover your share of the after lunch. Meet at Tanque Verde and Catalina Contact leader to sign up and for directions to the carpooling and any required entry fees (e.g. for Mountains Road at the McDonald’s at 6:30 am. 50 meeting place. Leader: Kendall Kroesen 520-971- state parks). miles round trip. Leader: Melody Kehl outdoor1@ 2385 [email protected] cox.net 520-245-4085 Arrival Times April 7—Saturday 7:30 am Please arrive before listed departure times. Trips April 17—Tuesday 7 am Sabino Canyon Sweetwater Wetlands will leave promptly at the time given. We’ll bird Sabino Canyon Recreation Area walking Meet at the parking lot on Sweetwater Drive at a loop that includes both Sonoran Desert uplands Carpooling Sites 7 am. Spring migration will be underway as we Tucson Audubon strongly encourages and Sabino Creek riparian areas. The 4-mile walk explore this man-made oasis. Expect warblers, carpooling and for some trips it may be includes rocky uneven trails. Meet at the ramada swallows, flycatchers. We hope to see colorful required. Check our website for frequently used by the Visitor’s Center at 5700 N Sabino Canyon orioles and tanagers along with the resident carpooling sites. You are expected to reimburse Road. $5 parking fee. Return by noon. Sunhat, Harris’ Hawks. We do easy walking for two to the driver for the actual cost of fuel. Drivers and water and walking shoes recommended. Leaders three hours on level paths. Bring water; wear hats. THIS TRIP IS FULL trip leaders are not expected to contribute. are Sabino Canyon Volunteer Naturalists. Please All ages and birding abilities are encouraged to email to reserve a space, limit 12 participants. participate. Check to see if the Prince Rd. exit is Rare Bird Alert Leaders: Jean & Mark Hengesbaugh jhhenge@ currently open. Otherwise use the temporary I-10 Listen to the latest rare bird alert at yahoo.com exit at Camino del Cerro. Leaders: Bev and Andy 520-629-0510 ext. 3. Report rare birds Robertson 520-615-2285 [email protected]. April 10—Tuesday 6:30 am at 520-629-0510 or rarebirdalert@ Boyce Thompson Arboretum April 18—Wednesday 6:30 am tucsonaudubon.org State Park Peña Blanca Lake Don’t forget to stop in our Nature Shop Walk the beautiful and birdy grounds of the Join me for a walk around beautiful scenic Peña Arboretum for a couple of miles. Slight elevation Blanca Lake, one of the best birding spots in SE for your field and ID Guides, and gain. $9 entry fee or bring an AZ state park pass. Arizona especially in Spring Migration. We will walk other birding supplies.

Visit tucsonaudubon.org/fieldtrips for updates and more April–June 2012 Vermilion Flycatcher Tucson Audubon 21 FIELD TRIPS

comfortable walking shoes. Leader: Norma Miller May 8—Tuesday 6:00 am [email protected]. Biking the Loop We’ll be birding and biking ‘The Loop’ following the April 28—Saturday 6:30 am Santa Cruz River north of Grant Rd, riding up to JOHNIDA DOCKENS JOHNIDA Cave Canyon Trail (East side of the the Rillito River through the bike I-10 underpass. Santa Rita Mtns.) We’ll follow the Rillito a ways and return. A 15-mile We’ll hike about two miles up this very gradual trail round trip or longer. Bring bikes to start at Juhan along a perennial stream, starting in oak-grassland Park. From I-10, take Grant Rd. west five blocks habitat and reaching the beginnings of the upper to Coyote Dr., turn right, drive north one block to pines. We’ll look for migrants and residents, and the Park at 1770 W. Cooper St. Meet at 6:00 am. then take a break at some pretty campsites, Call Norma Miller 520-235-8927 for info. Or email: before returning. Wear good hiking gear (a couple [email protected] of shallow stream crossings), bring water and a snack, we’ll plan to be back early afternoon. Trip May 12—Saturday 10:30 am limited to twelve participants/three cars. Contact Tucson Wildlife Center the leader to reserve a spot and get further details The Tucson Wildlife Center is dedicated to the Santa Rita Mountains (~125 miles round trip). Leader: Tim Helentjaris, rescue, rehabilitation, and release of injured [email protected] or 520-743-2283. and orphaned wild animals throughout Southern to the dam and back, about 2 miles, so wear sturdy Arizona. Join us in a special behind-the-scenes April 29—Sunday, 6:30 am shoes, bring water, sunscreen, snacks and lunch. tour of this remarkable wildlife emergency Madera Canyon, Bottom Up Meet at the Green Valley McDonalds exit 63 I-19 treatment center. Trip limited to 12. Wear long Join TAS for an exploration of the Santa at 6:30 am for the hour long drive to the lake. Limit pants and close-toed shoes. Cameras ok. Done Rita Mountains starting in desert scrub 8, contact leader after April 12.Sally Johnsen 520- by about 12:30 pm. Contact leader to sign up and and ending somewhere up canyon. 399-4050 [email protected] for directions to the meeting place. Leader: Kate We’ll explore a wide variety of habitats for the Reynolds [email protected] April 21—Saturday 6:00 am season. Meet at the Green Valley McDonalds on Superstition Mtns. Conitinental Road at 6:30 am. Please register with May 15–Tuesday 8:00 am We’ll bird Forest Service Rd. 287A on the edge of the trip leader, Cliff Cathers, at [email protected] or Willcox Ponds the Superstition Wilderness Area, an area forested 520-762-3201. Limit of 20 participants. We will go look for migrating shorebirds, terns and with Arizona junipers, pines, and oaks. Expect to gulls. Quick stop at Benson Ponds. Will be hot see scrub-jays, Juniper Titmice, Bushtits, lingering May and sunny. Easy pace on flat ground. All ages and winter thrushes, sparrows possibly migrant birding abilities invited. Bring snack and scope May 1—Tuesday 4:30 am warblers. Bring water and lunch. Not much hiking. if you have one. We will leave at 8 am from west Fort Huachuca Trip limited to 12. We’ll carpool from the north side side of Houghton Rd. north of I-10. Back by 1 pm Birding on foot in some of the canyons of Basha’s parking lot in Catalina (NE corner of Carpooling encouraged (200 mile round trip). No on Fort Huachuca. Because the Army intersection of Oracle and Golder Ranch Roads). need to sign up before the trip, but call leader if limits the number of participants on the trails, this 300 miles round trip. Contact leader after April 1 to questions. Leader: John Higgins 520-578-1830 trip will be limited to twelve participants (including sign up. Doug Jenness [email protected], [email protected] the leader) in three high-clearance vehicles. 520-909-1529. Contact the leader by email on or after April 15 May 19—Saturday 6:30 am April 22—Sunday 7:30 am to reserve a place. All participants must have a Atturbury-Lyman Bird and Animal Agua Caliente Park government-issued picture ID, and all drivers must Sanctuary We will spend 3 hours photographing birds and have drivers license, car registration, and proof-of- Join us to explore the rich microcosm of nesting discussing bird photography techniques at Agua insurance. If you are not a U.S. citizen, please let birds along Atturbury Wash, and maybe catch Caliente Park. Participants should be familiar the leader know when you make your reservation. some late migrants. This is a great place to see with their camera gear in advance of the trip so Be prepared to hike on rough rocky trails that are Lucy’s Warbler, Bewick’s Wren, Bell’s Vireo, Black- we can keep the focus on techniques rather than steep in places. Bring lunch. 160 miles round trip. tailed Gnatcatcher and many others. The location learning how to operate your camera. Limited to 12 Leader: Jim Hays [email protected] (preferred) or is the lower part of Lincoln Park off Escalante participants, contact the leader to sign up. Leader: 520-895-3299 Road, on Tucson’s east side. Meet at 6:30 am. Ned Harris [email protected]. May 5–Saturday 7 am April 24—Tuesday 6:00 am Tanque Verde Ranch Crossroads Park We have permission to visit this private Another walk through one of Marana’s “birdiest” guest ranch located at the very end of East parks. Likely sightings: egrets, ducks, shorebirds, Speedway. We will bird along Tanque Verde Wash spring migrants. We’ll walk along a pathway with 2 ponds, mesquites and cottonwoods. Done between the park and Ina Road where rarities before noon - bathrooms and snack break midway have occasionally been spotted and check the at the cars . A good trip for beginning birders and willow trees by the river’s edge. Meet to carpool at those who have things to do later in the day. MEET 6:00 am at the Pima County library parking lot AT McDONALD’s located on the NE corner of (Mission Rd. & Ajo Way) or meet at the Crossroads Catalina Hwy and Tanque Verde Rd. Leader: Bill Park parking area at 6:45 am. Bring water, snack, Wieboldt 885-1227 [email protected] Tucson Wildlife Center KATE REYNOLDS KATE

22 Tucson Audubon Vermilion Flycatcher April–June 2012 Visit tucsonaudubon.org/fieldtrips for updates and more FIELD TRIPS

Join the following All-Star Teams on their KEDNALL KROESEN KEDNALL Birdathon Days April 20: Bieber’s Bluebirds April 21: Gonzo Birders April 22: Youth Birders Birdy Bingo April 25: Wrenegades April 28: Birds of Fray Willcox Ponds Details April 29: Scott’s Orioles on p 7 Bring water and sunscreen. Call leader to sign up June and get directions: Kendall Kroesen kkroesen@ June 3—Sunday 12 Noon ð tucsonaudubon.org or 520-971-2385 Miller Canyon Update Plants of the Catalina Mountains May 22—Tuesday 6:30 am Lets do something different. We’re going to drive If you’ve hiked or birded in Miller Canyon, you Two Hours at Sweetwater up the Catalinas looking at the plant composition know it’s one of the best-watered canyons Join us for a birding stroll at Sweetwater Wetlands. of the different life zones and maybe learning a in the Huachuca Mountains. It is nationally We’ll check out the paths through the wetlands, bit of Latin. There should be a lot of wildflowers to famous amongst birders for sought-after and maybe pop over to the trail along the river liven things up and maybe even some orchids near species like “Mexican” Spotted Owl. Miller easement. Easy walking, good birds, and pleasant the summit. Meet at Tanque Verde and Catalina Canyon was heavily impacted by last company. Bring water and sun protection. Limit Mountains Road at the McDonald’s at 12 noon. summer’s Monument Fire, but much of the of 20. RSVP after May 1st. Meet at Sweetwater, Yes you heard it right, no need to be early for riparian habitat remains intact. bring water and sun protection. Leaders: Matt plants. They can’t run. 50 miles round trip. Leader: Post-fire flooding damaged the Tombstone Brooks & Sara Pike 520-209-1807 mbrooks@ Anthony Mendoza anthony_mendoza@hotmail. Aqueduct within the Miller Peak Wilderness tucsonaudubon.org com 520-219-0366. Area. Concerned locals report that the City of Tombstone has recently done much destructive May 29—uesday 6:00 am June 16—Saturday 6:30 am work within the Wilderness Area to restore Crossroads Park Catalina Mountains the water pipeline. The City originally began Another walk through one of Marana’s “birdiest” Let’s spend the morning perusing the mountain and work without oversight or permits, though later parks. Likely sightings: egrets, ducks, and trying to get out of the heat for a few hours. We will obtained a Forest Service permit: http://tinyurl. shorebirds. We’ll walk along a pathway between make stops at Middle Bear and Marshall Gulch. com/cotdm2011 the park and Ina Road, where rarities have Bring a hat, sunscreen, plenty of water. Home There are many tricky issues to sort out. occasionally been spotted, and check the willow after lunch. Meet at Tanque Verde and Catalina One problem is that the City of Tombstone trees by the river’s edge. Meet to carpool at 06:00 Mountains Road at the McDonald’s at 6:30 am. 50 must prove it has actual surface water rights, at the Pima County library parking lot (Mission miles round trip. Leader: Melody Kehl outdoor1@ not just water “claims.” And how much water? Rd. & Ajo Way) or meet at the Crossroads Park cox.net 520-245-4085 Claims searchable on the AZ Dept. of Water parking area at 06:45. Crossroads Park is off Resources website only total 270 acre-feet per Silverbell Road west of the Santa Cruz River, south June 22–24—Friday/Saturday/Sunday 10:00 am year. With the vastly increased infrastructure of Cortaro Road. Bring water, snack, comfortable Q Ranch/Mogollon Rim recently installed, the City appears to be piping walking shoes. Leader: Norma Miller n8urnut@ Friday drive to Q Ranch. About 150 bird species out much more than before. Miller Canyon is comcast.net. have been identified, including Pygmy and Red- breasted Nuthatches and nesting Mountain already drought- and fire-stressed, and needs Bluebirds. Expect lots of other wildlife. Dark clear all the water it can retain. Please stay tuned! night skies mean plenty of stars. Combine birding Want more details? Contact Tricia Gerrodette with brief hikes to cool and scenic locations. Tour at [email protected]. the 1000-year-old Q Ranch Pueblo. Depart Sunday after brunch. RanchTHIS TRIPis cell ISphone FULL dead zone, but Verizon service available within a few miles. ADDITIONAL BIRD All meals included. $135/person/night for shared WALKS IN TUCSON AND room. $175/person/night for single. Down payment SOUTHEAST ARIZONA due May 18. For reservations (due May 10) and For information on weekly regional bird more info contact Matt Griffiths (Mgriffiths@ walks from Agua Caliente Park to Ramsey TucsonAudubon.org). Leader (present at Q Ranch Canyon Preserve, please see our website, only): Ken Furtado, [email protected]. VF www.tucsonaudubon.org/what-we-do/ birding/128.html. Atturbury Wash KEDNALL KROESEN KEDNALL DORIS EVANS

Visit tucsonaudubon.org/fieldtrips for updates and more April–June 2012 Vermilion Flycatcher Tucson Audubon 23 BIRDING TRAVEL A Fun Follow-up to the FROM OUR BUSINESS PARTNERS Tucson Bird & Wildlife Festival with Solipaso! ADVENTURE BIRDING COMP ANY Traveling by air, road and boat, we will explore from winding lowland rivers and sprawling POST-FESTIVAL EXTENSION TOUR: www.adventurebirding.com THE THICK-BILLED PARROTS [email protected] • 520-495-0229 grasslands, to forested valleys abuzz with brilliant birds and where native tribesmen adorned with OF MADERA Big Bend Nat’l Park, Texas: Colima Warbler elaborate head plumes dance still dressed to August 20–23, 2012. $900 per person (based short tour May 1–5, 2013, $1095. Leader: John mimic the island’s fabulous birds-of-paradise. on double occupancy)/$190 single supplement. Yerger. Big Bend is one of the most remote birding This is a special price for Tucson Bird & hotspots in the U.S., and home to some of its SOLIPASO TOURS Wildlife Festival and a percentage of the trip most spectacular scenery! It’s the only place in the www.solipaso.com price will go to benefit Tucson Audubon. country to find Colima Warbler, the focus of one Northwest Mexico: August 25–September A short but very special trip into the Mexican long day hike. A surprising number of habitats and 1, 2012. $1900. Summertime in the Sierra Madre states of Sonora and Chihuahua to see the oases are found within Park boundaries. Ideal for of Chihuahua and Sonora is a beautiful sight endemic Thick-billed Parrot and Eared Quetzal anyone desiring lots of birding and sightseeing on to see! Green meadows, blue sky vistas, lakes (among some other sought-after specialties that limited vacation time. Lucifer Hummingbird, Painted and waterfalls everywhere! In Madera, we see won’t count in the ABA area). Bunting and Golden-fronted Woodpecker are just a the endangered Thick-billed Parrot and Eared The old growth forests of the northern Sierra few others we’ll seek on this fun-filled adventure! Quetzal. We visit the ruins of Cuarenta Casas Madre Mountains of Chihuahua are the nesting South Texas: Rarities and Specialties and the magnificent Basaseachic waterfall, the grounds for the Thick-billed Parrot. This wonderful short tour Feb 27–Mar 3, 2013, $1195. Leader: highest in Mexico. In Yecora, we pick up more bird is often difficult to find throughout most of John Yerger. Limited vacation time? This “short montane species including Mountain Trogon, its range; however, in the area near Madera, tour” will target some of the rarest birds in the Montezuma Quail, Rufous-capped Brush-finch these birds can be found in high numbers during ABA region! Our main focus: find mega-rarities and Aztec Thrush. Starts and ends in Tucson. the breeding months of August and September. Thick-billed Parrots nest at elevations over 8,000 in the Lower Rio Grande Valley. In recent years, Copper Canyon: September 11–25, 2012. feet and require a specialized habitat of dead old species included Crimson-collared Grosbeak, $2350. Leader: David MacKay. The world growth trees that they utilize for their nest cavities, Golden-crowned Warbler and Black-vented famous Copper Canyon is a great destination many of which were excavated decades ago by the Oriole. In addition, we’ll seek rare residents for birding in the summertime! In Los Mochis, now-extinct Imperial Woodpecker. The parrots are like Brown Jay and Red-billed Pigeon. And of (start and end point) we explore the botanical quite approachable during this course, spectacular South Texas specialties garden and take a trip into coastal islands of the like Green Jay, Altamira Oriole and Buff-bellied time of year, which should Sea of Cortez. We board the train in El Fuerte DOMINIC SHERONY REDSTART, SLATE-THROATED make for excellent Hummingbird will round out the trip! See website traveling through the tropical deciduous forest photographic for details and extended alternative to this tour. into the pine-oak. We stop along the way in opportunities. Cerocahui, Cusarare and Creel. Target birds ROCKJUMPER—WORLDWIDE BIRDING Although our are Eared Quetzal, White-striped Woodcreeper, ADVENTURES main targets on Mountain Trogon, Rufous-capped Warbler, Striped [email protected] this trip are the Sparrows and more. We’ll see some of the www.rockjumperbirding.com parrots, there is Tarahumara villages and purchase their crafts. (USA & Canada toll-free): 1-888-990-5552 a lot more to be Guatemala - Central American Specialties. SOUTHWESTERN RESEARCH STATION— seen. The forests 8 to 16 November 2012 (9 days). Price: BIRDING AND NATURE TOURS around Madera US$2,250 * £1,440 * €1,730 * ZAR18,000 research.amnh.org/swrs • [email protected] hold many other (Single Supplement US$300). Note: these prices interesting birds, including Chiricahua Mountains, Portal, Az. tours Eared Quetzal, Pine Flycatcher, are subject to foreign exchange fluctuations. 2012: 22–28 April; 5–11 May; 23–29 May; 9–15 Spectacular volcanoes and highland lakes set Spotted Wren, and Aztec, Slate-throated Redstart, Sept. Our experienced guide, P.D. Hulce, is a Rufous-capped Brush-finch, Black-headed the scene where local people have developed local of the area and will take you on daily field an environmental bond resulting in much of Siskin, Mountain Trogon, Russet Nightingale- trips, optional owl walks at night, and provide talks thrush, Flame-colored Tanager, Striped Sparrow, the highland forests being protected. We will on the natural history of the region. Our rates search for the gorgeous Pink-headed Warbler, Spotted Wren, Brown-backed Solitaire, Gray-silky are $1250 per person, double occupancy; $100 Flycatcher and Montezuma Quail. fabulous Resplendent Quetzal, Blue-throated single supplement, when space allows: Single Motmot, Blue-and-white Mockingbird, Rufous- For more information or to reserve your participants may be assigned a same-gender space on this great trip, contact Jennifer collared Thrush and Horned Guan on the roommate to qualify for double occupancy rate. summit of San Pedro Volcano. This tour offers MacKay at [email protected] or by calling the best of Guatemalan birding with comfortable Birding Tour: The Chiricahua Mountains 1.888.383.0062 lodges and can be linked with a 5-day Tikal of S.E. Arizona afford some of the best birding Extension—Birding the Mayan Ruins. in the United States. Each tour is limited to 10 persons or 5 couples. Tours include: Roundtrip

Tucson Audubon Special OLMSTEAD GOLDEN-HEADED QUETZAL, SCOTT Papua New Guinea: Birds in Paradise transportation from Tucson airport, double- III.12 to 29 August 2012 (18 days). Price: occupancy in our newly remodeled rooms with ECUADOR TOUR WITH US$8,050 * £5,070 * €5,750 * KINA16,750. Note: kitchenettes, professional guide, and three full TROPICAL BIRDING ONE these prices are subject to foreign exchange meals daily. We offer a newly added day trip to June 16–24, 2012. Details online at SPOT fluctuations and do not include internal flights, historic town of Bisbee. For itinerary see above www.tucsonaudubon.org/ecuador LEFT! which at the time of writing are approximately contact information or call 520-558-2396. US$1,400. We can expect a phenomenal variety tucsonaudubon.org/alliance to learn more about the products and services offered by our Bird & Business Alliance partners of birds (including up to 24 birds-of-paradise TROPICAL BIRDING ð species!) and vast regions of immaculate forests www.tropicalbirding.com

Visit Visit that have been experienced by very few people. [email protected] • 1-800-348-5941 VF

24 Tucson Audubon Vermilion Flycatcher April–June 2012 Visit tucsonaudubon.org for updates and more. Tucson Audubon thanks our Birds & Business TUCSON AUDUBON’S Alliance Members, who have shown their support for bird BIRDS & BUSINESS ALLIANCE 2010- 2011 conservation through annual contributions and in-kind WELCOME TO OUR NEW BIRDS & BUSINESS ALLIANCE MEMBERS donations. Please show them you appreciate their support for us by supporting them. Visit We thank the following Birds & Business Alliance THE SIERRITA OPERATIONS OF FREEPORT- tucsonaudubon.org/alliance for more MCMORAN COPPER & GOLD proudly supports members for their major support of the Tucson the Tucson Audubon Society in its efforts to Audubon Fourth Annual Gala: information, including links to member websites. connect people with the environment by providing Freeport-McMoRan Copper & Gold GOLD education, conservation, and recreation programs, Cox Communications GOLD *Freeport McMoRan Copper & Gold, Inc as well as environmental leadership and

Farhang & Medcoff, PLLC NEW

Riverpark Inn • 800-551-1466 * information. Tucson Electric Power STERLING Adventure Birding Company Birds & Business Alliance • 520-495-0229 • www.adventurebirding.com Join today and connect with the Rockjumper BirdingTours • [email protected] • www.rockjumperbirding.com Tucson Audubon community Southwestern Research Station For more information and to join, • 520-558-2396 • research.amnh.org/swrs contact Erin Olmstead at eolmstead@ Solipaso Tours • www.solipaso.com tucsonaudubon.org or 520.629.1809 Tropical Birding • 800-348-5941 • www.tropicalbirding.com SILVER *Cox Communications Fiore Tile Works • 520-971-0677 Loews Ventana Canyon SOUTH AMERICAN BIRDING SPECIALS. • 520-299-2020 • www.loewshotels.com THE TAS-IFIEDS Active birding tours: ECUADOR: Santa Lucia, The Oasis at Way Out West CLASSIFIED ADS Antisana NP, Guango and San Isidro Lodges. • 520-825-4590 • www.wowarizona.com Expert guides, Spectacular scenery, Beautiful Pima Federal Credit Union • 520-887-5010 Classified and display ads are accepted from Lodges, Fabulous birds. 11day/12night = $1775, COPPER individual members and members of our Birds 10day/9night = $1300. COLOMBIA: Chingaza NP, & Business Alliance. Visit tucsonaudubon.org/ Bed and Bagels of Tucson • 520-603-1580 Magdalena and Cauca Valley’s 15 days = $2913. Brooklyn Pizza Company • 520-622-6868 vfly for rates or contact Matt Griffiths mgriffiths@ For information contact; Sally Johnsen (520) 399- Casa Adobe B&B in Rodeo, NM • 877-577-2275 tucsonaudubon.org to book an ad. 4050 [email protected] Casa de San Pedro B&B • www.bedandbirds.com Cat Mountain Lodge • 520-578-6068 BIRDS & BEER Third Thursdays at Sky Bar: Down By the River B&B • 520-720-9441 5–7 pm. Get a free slice of pizza (from Brooklyn Farhang & Medcoff, PLLC • 520-790-5433 Pizza) and beer at happy hour prices. Bring your Farmers Investment Co (FICO) • sahuaritafarms.ocm bird photos on a USB stick or disk to share. Financial Architects • www.financial-architects.com DID YOU KNOW a National Historic Trail exists Hughes Federal Credit Union • 520-794-8341 in your back yard? The Anza Expedition passed through the Santa Cruz River Valley in October Inn at San Ignacio Condo Hotel • 1-888-450-5444 1775 to colonize San Francisco. The Anza Trail Kimberlyn Drew, Realtor • 520-237-1408 Coalition of Arizona provides stewardship for the Leica Sport Optics Anza Trail in Arizona. Support your community The Living Fence • 520-795-5300 history & recreation www.AnzaTrail.com Metropolitan Tucson Convention & Visitors Bureau • VisitTucson.org FOR RENT. Small cabin on beautiful, secluded, Naturalist Journeys • 866-900-1146 Blue River in Eastern Arizona. Tall pines. 6200’ Quailway Cottage • 520-558-0019 elevation. Excellent hiking and birding. Sleeps 2 Radisson Suites Tucson • 520-721-7100 ONLY. Small bath and kitchen, utilities included. Ravens-Way Wild Journeys • 520-425-6425 Near Alpine, AZ. $350/week, $1000/month. Call 480-488-3006 or email [email protected]. Shaffer Dry Cleaning & Laundry • shafferdrycleaning.com Sierra Vista Ranch • Sasabe, AZ THE OASIS AT WAY OUT WEST B&B/Private Spirit Tree Inn B&B • 520-394-0121 Nature Preserve. A secluded trail side location offers close-up wildlife observation and colorful Sundance Press • 800-528-4827 mountain sunsets. Bird our trails (135+ House List) Swaim Assoc. Ltd Architects AIA • www.swaimaia.com or the Catalinas. 20+ feeding stations, Naturalist/ Tucson Electric Power • www.tep.com ð Photographer on-site, Wi-Fi, Hydrotherapy spas, Veterinary Specialty Center of Tucson • 520-795-9955 VF Bike rentals, Eco-Excursions. WOWArizona.com. 520.825.4590.

Visit tucsonaudubon.org for updates and more. April–June 2012 Vermilion Flycatcher Tucson Audubon 25 Support Tucson Audubon... TUCSON AUDUBON Become a Friend Today! NATURE SHOPS ANNUAL MEMBERSHIP SUBSCRIPTION $35 Individual Contributor $100 q Tucson Audubon’s Nature Shops provide for your needs in natural history books and $50 Family Supporter $250 q guides, birding optics and accessories, and gifts right here in Tucson. We offer a great $30 Senior Supporter* Guardian $500 q selection, the best prices, and member discounts. Remember to shop locally. $25 Student* Steward $1000 q Leadership Circle $2500 q *Individual Get Geared Up for B irdathon! The Tucson Audubon Nature Shops New to birding and the Birdathon? Name can help. These items will get you started in Below are some items to consider when planning identifying the birds and Address your Birdathon: tracking them on your • Binoculars! The Nature Shop can help you get Birdathon day: set up with a pair that is right for you to enhance • A birding field City / State / Zip your Birdathon day with great views of the birds! guide—Your choice from the classic Email Where to go? How to Peterson or Kaufman plan your Birdathon? guides to more recent versions of National Phone These tools can help: Geographic, Sibley, or Princeton. Any are sure New membership q Renewing membership • A copy of Finding Birds to help you in making a positive identification. Please email me about Tucson Audubon in Southeast Arizona $18.95 and up. events and conservation issues. 8th Edition—This will • Tucson Audubon’s Checklist to Birds of Please do not share my contact information. get you everywhere you Southeast Arizona—Keep track of your bird Please do not mail me Vermilion Flycatcher. need to go for an official sightings on Birdathon with this easy checklist. I’ll read it online. Big Day, or for a fun-filled Purchase one for every member of the team DONATION day with friends. $24.95 and use to compare notes at the end of your I would like to support Tucson Audubon ($22.46 for members!) Birdathon day! Updated 2011. $0.75 Society with an additional contribution of • Arizona Atlas and q $25 q $50 q $100 q $250. Gazetteer—The best road Don’t forget the essentials for Tucson Audubon Frequent Flyer Monthly map for your vehicle—it birding in the southeast Donor Program: I authorize the charge of covers all the main streets and the back Arizona desert $____ per month for ____ months to my • A Sunday Afternoon sun credit card ($10/month minimum). roads—and all of those nooks and crannies to Tucson Audubon Society will use the full amount of your tax-deductible find the birds. $19.95 protection hat. $20 and up. gift for its environmental, educational and recreational programs. UPF 50. • Looking for a simple guide that highlights the METHOD OF PAYMENT main birding locations in southeast Arizona? • A Sunday Afternoon sun Check (payable to Tucson Audubon Society) Pick up a copy of the Southeast Arizona protection shirt for men MasterCard q Visa q AMEX Birding Trail map. It will highlight for you the or women. $59 and $56. main birding hot spots and the main roads to UPF 40. • A Tucson Audubon Credit Card No. get there for your Birdathon planning. $3.00 stainless steel water bottle to keep hydrated. $15–$16. Expiration Date Amount $ NESTS & NESTING BOOKS

Signature AVAILABLE IN OUR NATURE SHOPS: Learn more about how birds design, engineer, and build the Please send your application with payment to nests they do, and discover how to identify nests that you see. We have books on birds’ eggs and Tucson Audubon Society, nestlings too, for adults and kids. $75.00 300 E. University Blvd, #120, Tucson, AZ 85705 (Attn: Jean Barchman, Membership Coordinator) OR join, renew or donate online at www.tucsonaudubon.org

$8.99 $27.95 $9.95 $4.95 $20.00

26 Tucson Audubon Vermilion Flycatcher April–June 2012 Visit tucsonaudubon.org for updates and more. Great Binoculars for Budding Young Naturalists EARTH DAY SALE! Kowa YF 6x30. $99.00 (TAS member price) Saturday April 21st only

Children often struggle with using binoculars • Very large field-of-view: 420 ft @ 1000 yds, 20% off entire purchase because they are designed for adults. They’re often making it easier to find the subject quickly of $40 or more too large for their smaller faces and hands and • Over-sized, easily-turned focusing wheel 15% off purchases under $40 are too hard to adjust and focus. Kids often have • And a great low price for binoculars with this a lot of difficulty even finding the subject in the For any customer who does one or more quality at just under $100. limited field of view offered by our standard 8X42 of the following: binoculars. They’re waterproof and have diopter adjustment • Arrives at our shop via bicycle, bus, Kowa designed the Kowa YF 6x30 with small just as you would expect on any better binocular, or hybrid vehicle, or on foot faces in mind. Despite the binocular’s smaller size so you can buy them with the confidence that • Purchases a recycled bird seed (making it easier for smaller hands to hold), these they’ll last. They arey backed by Kowa’s limited feeder* lifetime warranty too. are not “travel” mini-binoculars, but fully-fledged • Purchases a copy of our Finding Birds Don’t think these binoculars are birding binoculars with a number of useful book (printed on recycled paper). features, including: just for kids though; many adults will also like this binocular for their own • Purchases a recycled • Small interpupillary distance, for cotton Tucson Audubon eyes as close as two inches apart use, given the compact size, light weight, and great field-of-view. If t-shirt* • Long eye relief, 20 mm, making you’re looking for a gift for a child • Purchases a reusable, it easier and more comfortable whose interest in nature you want stainless steel Tucson to get one’s eyes up to encourage or perhaps a second Audubon water bottle to them, even with pair of compact and easy-to-use • Purchases a copy of glasses binoculars for yourself, stop into the Rainwater Harvesting • Light weight: 16.5 shop and take a look at the Kowa YF for Dry Lands* oz., our lightest birding 6x30’s. *while supplies last binocular in the shop Tim Helentjaris NEED VOLUNTEERS IN OR Purchase one of these styles of optics UNIVERSITY SHOP! CAN YOU HELP? for donation to upgrade our kits at our Monday: 1–4 pm am, 1–4 pm, or all day! The Tucson Audubon Education Program is SPECIAL DONATION PRICE (SDP). Saturday: 10–1 Please contact Kara Kaczmarzyk if you’d hoping to update our binocular kits for both youth • Youth optics kit—Kowa YF 6x30, Member like to join our group of Nature Shop and adults to enjoy. Currently, we have two kits of Price $99.00, SDP $90.00. These optics are volunteers. volunteer@tucsonaudubon. binoculars that we loan out to classrooms and field smaller and lighter than a standard pair, making org, or 520-209-1811 trips or events. They are mostly used by beginning it much easier for kids to hold and focus. The birders to both learn how to use binoculars and 6x magnification allows kids to find birds much also to learn to enjoy birds and nature. Our kits are easier with a wider field of view. TUCSON AUDUBON in need of updating and repair. Many of the optics NATURE SHOPS • Adult optics kit—Nikon Action EX 8x40, Member in the kits are old and out of alignment, heavy, or When you support your local Tucson Price $119.99, SDP $110 difficult to use especially for small hands. In order Audubon Society you are supporting birds to increase our effectiveness in promoting the • Vortex Raptor 6.5x42s, Member Price $119.99, and bird habitat conservation. Thank you! enjoyment of birds, we need updated binoculars! SDP $110.00 SHOP HOURS YES! Donate your current pair of optics* and Stop by our Nature Shop (the University Location receive an additional 10% above your Member or Agua Caliente Park) to make your purchase MAIN SHOP Monday–Saturday 10 am–4 pm, discount on your purchase of a new pair through or donation. Your purchase/donation is tax Phone: 629-0510 ext 7015 the Tucson Audubon Nature Shop. deductible. THANK YOU! On the southeast corner of University Blvd and 5th Avenue. *Please no donated optics larger than 8x42. AGUA CALIENTE PARK SHOP Optics should be in GOOD shape and easy to use, and should come with a case and a strap. Jaunary–March: Thursday, Friday, Saturday 10 am–2:30 pm Phone: 760-7881 Binocular Drawing Winner! From Tanque Verde Rd and Houghton, continue east on Tanque Verde 2 miles. Turn left (north) onto Soldier Trail, The winner of our binocular raffle at the Fourth Annual Tucson Festival of continue north for 2 miles. Turn right (east) onto Roger Rd, Books is Joanne Wilson of Tucson. Joanne won a Vortex Diamondbacks continue ¼ mile to the park entrance on the left (north). 8x42 and a year’s membership in Tucson Audubon. Congratulations, When you need a book, think of Joanne. Thanks to everyone who participated in this drawing and visited Tucson Audubon Nature Shops first! both of our booths. VF Support your local book store.

Visit tucsonaudubon.org for updates and more. April–June 2012 Vermilion Flycatcher Tucson Audubon 27 NON-PROFIT ORG US POSTAGE PAID TUCSON, AZ 300 E University Blvd, #120 PERMIT #1345 Tucson, AZ 85705

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Vermilion Flycatcher Volume 57, Number 2, April–June 2012 © 2012 Tucson Audubon Society The Vermilion Flycatcher is the newsletter of the Tucson Audubon Society, a chapter of the National Audubon Society. National Audubon Society members and members of other chapters may receive the Flycatcher by becoming a Friend of Tucson Audubon. See membership at www.tucsonaudubon.org.

MAKE A DATE APRIL COMING SOON! WITH NATURE 20–29 Birdathon 2012 Expert-led trips for advanced and beginning birders April 20: BIEBER’S BLUEBIRDS with Gavin Bieber April 21: GONZO BIRDERS with John Yerger April 22: SWEETWATER Family Outing April 25: WRENEGADES with Jennie MacFarland April 28: BIRDS OF FRAY with Richard Fray August 15–19, 2012 April 29: SCOTT’S ORIOLES with Scott Olmstead Incorporating $150–$250 Give or Get donations: Sky Islands JUST ASK your friends, family, and Birding Cup colleagues for support! For more info visit tucsonaudubon.org/ Bird, dine, pledge, compete, play, festival

photograph, volunteer, all during QUANRUD DAVID Find us on Birdathon 2012! Facebook! Details at tucsonaudubon.org/birdathon EVENTS CALENDAR page 5 • LIVING WITH NATURE page 6 • Visit tucsonaudubon.org for event updates

28 Tucson Audubon Vermilion Flycatcher April–June 2012