Autumn 2005

Volume 25, Number 3 Phalaropes of San Francisco Bay By Hilary Papendick And Sarah Warnock slender necks, small heads, dark, needle-sharp Think of a shorebird, and what comes to bills, and lobed toes that are similar to grebes mind? A long-legged sandpiper, probing the and coots. Due to the rather unorthodox mating soft substrate of a protected lagoon, or perhaps strategy of phalaropes, females in breeding plum- a snowy plover hunkered down in a dune? age are more brightly colored than males. Less commonly thought of as a shorebird is a tight little ship of a bird, bobbing in open seas, leagues from the nearest shore... Phalaropes, the only free-swimming shorebird, are one of the oddest - and fascinating - members of the diverse shorebird order Charadriformes, a group that also includes oystercatchers, stilts and avocets, sandpipers and plovers. Often considered their own family, the three species of phalaropes are tucked taxo- nomically in at the end of the shorebird section of field guides. Red phalaropes, plump little tomato-colored birds with white cheeks and yellow bills, are the most pelagic (ocean-going) of the three, and the rarest in San Francisco Bay. Their visits are accidental, and often tied to storm events. In the case of red phalaropes, Phalaropes are only territorial during Red-necked phalarope the Don Edwards San Francisco Bay National breeding season, and females will fight fero- Photo USFWS Wildlife Refuge means exactly that - a refuge ciously for males during courtship. The femalesʼ from tempestuous seas. brighter colors are as much for attracting males More common in the San Francisco Bay as for intimidating other females. are Wilsonʼs phalaropes and the more abundant As a group, shorebirds exhibit almost red-necked phalaropes, which appear regularly every mating strategy known to ornithologist each spring and fall as they make their way - including monogamy, in which both male and across hemispheres between breeding and female share responsibilities of caring for young, wintering areas. Their natural migration stopover and polygamy, in which one male will mate with sites, - hyper-saline lakes and ponds packed with several females and has no hand in rearing the brine shrimp and brine flies - have been dwin- young. Phalaropes are one of the few bird species dling over the past century. Food resources and that exhibit polyandry - an unusual strategy for calm waters in San Francisco Bayʼs salt ponds birds since it involves the laying of more than have become an important alternative. one clutch by a female within a short time span, each with a different male. Because each clutch Identification and Breeding can weigh nearly as much as the female, this is Both red-necked and Wilsonʼs phalaropes no mean feat. The females then leave incubation are small (7.5” - 9.5”), triangular birds with and chick-rearing to the males. Continued page 2 1 Phalaropes of San Francisco Bay continued Feeding Behaviors reach a few weeks of age and can fend for Each shorebird group forages for in- themselves, they leave the breeding grounds. vertebrates in its own characteristic manner. Females depart before the males. The juveniles Sandpiper bills are equipped with chemosensory undergo their first migration on instinct alone. nerves at the tip to help them locate invertebrates Alaskan red-necked phalaropes migrate along hidden in the mud. The large eye of plovers helps the west coast of the U.S. and Canada. Millions them to spot fast-moving prey which they pluck have been recorded in the Prince William Sound neatly from the surface of mud or sand. area in spring on their way to their northern breeding grounds. Most Alaskan red-necked Phalaropes, on the other hand, call for phalaropes spend the winter in the Pacific waters take-out. By spinning like a top on the surface of South America.. Less ocean-oriented than the of water, their food is delivered directly to them. red-necked, Wilsonʼs phalaropes migrate through As phalaropes spin, the water directly underneath the Great Basin to the highland plains of Bolivia is displaced to the outside, and replaced by and Argentina. A phalaropeʼs one-way migration deeper waters. Along with the deeper waters may cover a distance of as much as 8000 miles. come invertebrates from lower down in the water Considering they may live as long as 15 years, a column. phalarope could log a quarter of a million migra- Now within reach of the phalaropeʼs tory miles, or the Considering they needle-sharp bills distance between and quick reflexes, Earth and the may live as long the invertebrates moon. Pretty good are captured and for a bird that as 15 years, a swallowed using a weighs only a few newly discovered ounces! The east- feeding mecha- ern range of the phalarope could nism that was red-neckedʼs fall first described in migration route log a quarter of a phalaropes. Called overlaps with the surface tension western range of million migratory transport, this the Wilsonʼs in behavior occurs San Francisco miles, or the so quickly it was Bay. Phalaropes of only discovered both species begin through the use of to arrive in early distance between Photo Eric Taylor, USFWS high-speed video. Red phalarope July, and numbers After plucking the peak in late July Earth and the invertebrate from the water, phalarope bills do and August. By the end of October, almost all not clamp down, and there is no conveyer belt to phalaropes will have departed for the wintering moon. carry the prey item to the throat. So, how does grounds. the prey get up the 1 1/2” bill? Video stills show the prey is captured Threats to phalarope populations along with a drop of water. The water molecules Trends in phalarope populations are dif- on the surface of the drop adhere to the lower ficult to determine but are likely declining, as are and upper mandibles of the birdʼs bill. Instead of most shorebird species, due to habitat loss and closing the bill phalaropes actually open it wider, degradation throughout their breeding, migration increasing surface area of the drop. As the bill and wintering areas. The propensity of shore- widens, the base of the bill becomes narrower birds such as the phalaropes to gather in huge and the water molecules, seeking a surface to concentrations in a single migration area like cling to, are drawn up the mandible. The inver- Prince William Sound leaves them especially tebrate, still packaged inside the droplet, goes vulnerable to human-caused disasters, such as oil along for the ride. Total elapsed time: 2/100th of spills. For many years, up to 20,000 red-necked a second. phalaropes also stopped to feed and rest in the western Bay of Fundy in New Brunswick. In the Range and Migration mid-1980s, bird numbers decreased, and by the The red-necked phalarope nests through- 1990s, not a single phalarope appeared at the out Alaska and Canadaʼs northern territories. site. The disappearance of a group of phalaropes Wilsonʼs phalaropes breed in the in the western is alarming. More information is needed to interior of the U.S. and Canada, from north- determine whether the phalaropes simply shifted east California to the Dakotas to northern to a new feeding site or whether a catastrophe Saskatchewan. Both species construct grass-lined has occurred to the population. nests, nestled among low vegetation near the In California, the loss of Owenʼs Lake, the edge of small ponds or lakes. Once the chicks near-loss of Mono Lake, and the possible loss of 2 3 Phalaropes of San Francisco Bay continued the Salton Sea due to water diversions means a ing active commercial salt production. Because Hilary Papendick has a B.A. potentially huge loss of the phalaropesʼ favored salinity levels determine which invertebrates and from Scripps College and migration stopover areas. These invertebrate- fish can survive, and pond depth determines the attended the School for Inter- packed hyper-saline lakes play a crucial role in availability of the prey to different bird predators, national Training in Ecuador, the migration of grebes and other shorebirds. a diversity of ponds leads to a diversity of birds. and the University of Otago Political and scientific collaborations are Low salinity ponds support a variety of in New Zealand. She has underway to preserve enough of these unusual invertebrates as well as fish, which in turn sup- taught environmental educa- yet critical habitats for both the birds and for the port sandpipers, terns, pelicans, and waterfowl. health of local human populations. At higher salinities, fish and most invertebrates tion in Alaska, Montana, and People are mobilizing to reduce another can no longer survive, but brine shrimp, brine fly Ecuador, where she received threat to millions of night-migrating birds, and water boatmen populations explode. These a grant to improve education including phalaropes. Fatally attracted to tall, large invertebrate blooms are visible even from programs in a small coastal brightly-lit buildings, especially in wet weather, the air. Taking advantage of the feast are the town. Hilary was recently an phalaropes are in danger of collision with win- phalaropes, black-necked stilts, eared grebes by education intern at PRBO dows that reflect the night sky, and of becoming the hundreds of thousands, and flocks of delicate and is now working at the confused by the lights of buildings. Unable to Bonaparte gulls. Montana Outdoor Science escape the brightness, they grow exhausted and The recent acquisition of more than 15,000 School in Bozeman. fall to the ground, prey for urban scavengers. acres of South Bay salt ponds provides an Birders and building managers in large cities unprecedented opportunity to restore marshlands Sarah Warnock, Director of across the nation are working together to reduce and improve the Bay ecosystem. Because of their Education and Outreach at building lights during peak migration, saving affinity to salt ponds, and because hyper-saline PRBO Conservation Science, thousands of birdsʼ lives. habitats are disappearing throughout their range, has a B.A. in biology from Role of the South Bay Salt Ponds phalaropes stand to lose by the conversion of U.C. Berkeley, an M.S. in ponds to other habitats. For this reason, scientists ecology from California State Of five bay-wide surveys conducted by from state, federal, private and non-profit agen- University, Hayward, and PRBO Conservation Science in the late 1980ʼs, cies and organizations are working with manag- has spent 15 years follow- 60-70% of all shorebirds in the San Francisco ers to engineer a comprehensive plan to develop ing shorebirds from Alaska Bay were located in the southern regions of the a mix of managed habitats to maximize diversity Bay, including nearly all phalaropes. Greater of birds and other animals. This mix would to Mexico. She also holds availability of high-tide foraging habitat in the include vegetated marsh with large, permanent a teaching credential from salt pond system was cited as one probable rea- ponded areas managed for high-salinity to attract Mills College in K-12 general son for shorebird affinity to the South Bay. Why the invertebrates so necessary to the phalaropes, science. are the ponds so influential to bird diversity and grebes and other species to ensure these impor- abundance? The answer lies in the mix of low tant habitat resources will remain. and high salinity ponds that are maintained dur-

TIDELINE Published quarterly by Don Edwards San Project Leader:...... Mendel Stewart San Francisco Bay Wildlife Society Francisco Bay National Wildlife Refuge, with funding Deputy Project Leader: ...... John Bradley A nonprofit 501(c)(3) cooperating association es- from San Francisco Bay Wildlife Society. Don Edwards San Francisco tablished in 1987 to promote public awareness and Volume 25, Number 3 Bay Refuge Manager:...... Clyde Morris appreciation of San Francisco Bay and fund education Editor: ...... Carmen Minch Don Edwards Refuge and outreach programs at San Francisco Bay National To receive Tideline, email carmen_leong-minch@ Operations Specialist:...... Eric Mruz Wildlife Refuge Complex. fws.gov, or write to: Tideline, San Francisco Bay Na- Farallon Refuge Manager:...... Joelle Buffa tional Wildlife Refuge Complex, P.O. Box 524, Newark, Farallon Refuge Operations Specialist: .... Jesse Irwin Board of Directors CA 94560-0524. San Pablo Bay Manager:...... Christy Smith President: ...... Laura Sharp South Bay Refuges Manager: ...... Ivette Loredo Vice President:...... Jim Ferguson San Francisco Bay National Antioch Dunes Refuge Manager: ...... Chris Bandy Treasurer:...... Bart Anderson Wildlife Refuge Complex Refuge Planner: ...... Winnie Chan Secretary: ...... Jed Somit Founded in 1974 and administered by the U.S. Chief of Visitor Services:...... Karla Tanner Directors:...... Sue Ten Eyck, Christopher Fish and Wildlife Service, Don Edwards San Outdoor Recreation Planner: ...... Carmen Minch Kitting, David Reinsche, Robert Ahrenkiel, Francisco Bay National Wildlife Refuge exists to Environmental Education Specialists:...... and Karen Natoli Maxwell preserve wildlife habitat, protect threatened and Fran McTamaney, Genie Moore, Ken Clarkson Staff endangered species, protect migratory birds, Volunteer Coordinator:...... Tia Glagolev Interpretive Specialist: ...... Laurie McEwen and provide opportunities for nature study. Six Law Enforcement Officers:...Barry Tarbet, Sean Reier Education Specialist:...... Tina Simmons additional refuges are managed from the head- Biologists:...... Joelle Buffa, Joy Albertson, Program Administrator:...... Sue Ten Eyck quarters located in Fremont: San Pablo Bay Diane Kodama, Giselle Downard, Rachel Hurt, NWR, Antioch Dunes NWR, Salinas River NWR, Gerry McChesney, Danielle LeFer Administrative Staff: ...... Sheila Blackman Bahan, Ellicott Slough NWR, Marin Islands NWR, and Tideline is On-Line Ellen Tong, Tess Dumaop Farallon NWR. Visit our web site, which features past is- Maintenance Staff:...... Juan Flores, Larry Wade, Michael Springman, James Griffin, Robert Stump sues of Tideline, at http://desfbay.fws.gov

2 3 Thank you San Francisco Bay Wildlife Society Donors!

We gratefully acknowledge the follow- Supporter Senior/Student ing donors who have made gifts to the Alan & Cheryl Abel, Patricia G Devlieg, Leon M Abrams, Harriette Atkins, Ruth San Francisco Bay Wildlife Society John C Giles, Mary Hines, Frederic & Bailey, Lyle P Bickley, Sharon Blasgen, between April 16, 2005 and July 15, Kirsten Nichols, Laurence E Stearns, and Donald B Bristol, Doris M Brown, Rosalie 2005. These gifts will be used for cap- L. David Williams R Cape, Marg Ann Dowd, Walter R Ems, ital, environmental education, habitat Betty Foster, Anne H Hootman, Philip Family restoration, and interpretive programs Lindsay, Marko Enterprises, Alberto at the Don Edwards San Francisco Jesse & Kevin Anderson, Alan DeMoss, Martinez, Mary McDevitt-Brown, Clark Bay National Wildlife Refuge. David & Marilyn Epps, Steve Ferguson, Nakamura, Wendy Pine, Jean L Salmon, Barb & Bill Francis, Mary Ann Frankel, Robin Winslow Smith, Don J Thompson, Nancy & David Fries, Paul E & Marlene S Julian Timm, Craig Williams, Eric D Employee Matching Gifts Grunow, Gerald E & Susan C James, John Winch, and Norma Zimmer Program B & Laura Jamieson, Martha A Johnson, Tim Johnson, Melanie Ito, John Lukas, Wei Koh a Hewlett-Packard Employee David W Smith, Mark A & Kathleen Charitable Giving Program Soulard, Jeanne & Albert Starr, and Ellen Sponsor Train Mark Jackson, Elizabeth Price, and Laurel Individual Przybylski Jackie Akers, George B Almeida, Laura Participant Avery, Patricia Callaway, Blanca L Haendler, Stanley & Rita Halper, Jean Andrew J Blasband, Joseph V Costello, Jr, Kovach, Jean McNamara, Candance S William T & Katherine Duffy, Jr, Richard Martinez, William Milestone, Kathryn & Imogene Hilbers, Robert & Harriet Mitchell-Ball, Marianne Schonfisch, Jakovina, and Philip A Lathrap Howard Shellhammer, Janet Thompson, Bracey & Richard Tiede, William G Vandenburgh, Stephen P Walker, and Shanna Yonenaka Help Us Help the Refuge

Mail your donation to: San Francisco Bay Wildlife Society, P.O. Box 234, Newark, CA 94560. You may also fax your membership donation using a Visa or MasterCard number to 510-792-5828. For a gift membership, call 510-792-0222 ext. 40. San Francisco Bay Wildlife Society is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization which raises money and awareness for the San Francisco Bay National Wildlife Refuge Complex. YES! I want to support San Francisco Bay Wildlife Society and its programs with my membership. My dues include a subscription to Tideline and 15% discount at the Don Edwards SF Bay National Wildlife Refuge bookstore. Enclosed is my contribution of:

$20 Student/Senior $50 Family $100 Participant $250 Sponsor $1,000 Leader $35 Individual $75 Supporter $200 Corporation $500 Sustainer

Check Visa or MasterCard #______Exp. Date ______Signature ______Name______Address ______City______State_____ Zip ______Phone______Thank you for your support! 4 5 We Need Your Help! Board Members and Advisory Committee Members Needed

The San Francisco Bay Wildlife Society oversight of the organization. The Board meets is looking for individuals who support the goals four times a year, with additional committee of the Wildlife Society, to serve on the Board meetings as needed. Since your time is valuable, of Directors or assist as members of Advisory we keep meeting time to a minimum. Committees. If you can share your experience in If you would like to volunteer your service fund raising, finance, membership recruitment and time as a Board member or a Committee or event planning, we would be grateful for your Advisor please send a letter of interest and a brief participation. The Board is a governing, volun- resume to San Francisco Bay Wildlife Society, teer board dealing with the policy and financial PO Box 234, Newark, CA 94560.

Coming Soon to a Refuge near You… SHARK DAY 2005 Swim by on October 8th 11am – 4pm At the Don Edwards San Francisco Bay National Wildlife Refuge Environmental Education Center in ALVISO at Grand Blvd and Los Esteros Rd. Pet Live Leopard Sharks! Hands-on activities, guided walks, games and crafts. All Activities are FREE!

For more information check our web site: http://www.fws.gov/pacific/ desfbay/sharkday.htm Or call 408-262-5513

Sponsored by U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, San Francisco Bay Wildlife Society, Santa Clara Valley Urban Runoff Pollution Prevention Program, City of San Jose

4 5 Serial Killers Apprehended: Get Second Chance At Warm Springs By Joelle Buffa, Manager Farallon Na- cessfully to capture a number of petrel-munching tional Wildlife Refuge owls on the Farallon Islands, and he probably chalked this up as another false alarm. Next, I For months, biologists stationed on called the DESFB Warm Springs Unit Manager, Farallon National Wildlife Refuge (NWR) knew who called Pacific Commonsʼ biologists (who there was a killer in their midst, but he was monitor private vernal pools adjacent to Warm difficult to pin down. Heʼd taken to living in rock Springs in Fremont), to find a vacant artificial crevices during the day, coming and going under burrow that would be the owlʼs future home. A the cover of darkness, swiftly killing his victims. contractor scheduled to drop workers off at the Their break came in early April. While Farallons on Monday agreed to give the owl a doing rhinoceros auklet nest checks, biologists ride back to the mainland. A refuge biological detected a pile of technician was assigned to meet the boat in Half ashy storm-petrel Moon Bay. carcasses outside a Everything was ready by Sunday, except rock crevice, and this for the owl. Heʼd refused to come out of the bur- evidence led quickly row on Saturday night despite offerings of mice, to the culprit …. a fresh chicken, and burrowing owl love songs burrowing owl holed belting from the boom box. Finally on Sunday up in one of the auk- night, the owl was lured out of the crevice and let nesting crevices. into the trap (a home-made invention of PVC My cell phone pipe, duct tape, and a box) with taped calls … rang Saturday the song of ashy storm-petrels! afternoon, April Why go through such great lengths to 2nd. Russ Bradley, catch a burrowing owl on a refuge where letting the Farallon Seabird nature take its course is the usual management Biologist with PRBO strategy? While burrowing owls are native to Conservation Science California, their situation on the Farallons is – the USFWSʼs coop- human induced. The species does not breed on erator in monitoring the Southeast Farallon Island (SEFI) but every and caretaking the fall some owls, probably dispersing juveniles, refugeʼs wildlife find their way to SEFI (like many other species – spoke excitedly on of landbirds). Most landbirds move on after the other end. “Weʼve several days. However a few burrowing owls got the burrowing stay to over-winter, attracted by the abundant owl cornered in an food supply of house mice – a non-native species auklet burrow and that was introduced by earlier human occupants weʼre going to try before it became a refuge. Like many rodents, and lure him out into house mice are cyclic, peaking in the fall just a trap tonight. This Farallon Refuge Man- when the burrowing owls arrive. Winter rains oneʼs probably eaten at least two or three dozen ager Joelle Buffa releases flood mouse burrows and the mouse population petrels, but heʼs not going to kill another petrel burrowing owl at the Don crashes. Starving owls turn to eating ashy storm- under my watch!” Edwards SF Bay NWR in petrels, a small seabird whose main stronghold is Fremont The call set in motion many actions to the Farallon and Channel Islands. prepare for the owlʼs planned boat evacuation to The situation is neither good for petrels the mainland. I called the California Department or owls. Between 1972 and 1992, the Farallon of Fish and Game manager in Yountville, letting ashy storm-petrel population declined over 40%, him know that we were preparing to translocate mainly due to predation by gulls and burrowing a burrowing owl, a State Species of Special owls. Petrels produce one chick per year at most Concern, to the Don Edwards San Francisco Bay and some years not any. Itʼs hard for a species NWR (DESFB). I could sense his eyes rolling. Over the past several years we had tried unsuc- Continued next page 6 7 Don Edwards San Francisco Bay National Wildlife Refuge Presents Coastal Clean-Up Day Saturday, September 17, 2004 8:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Join thousands of people around the world for International Coastal Clean-Up Day. Help wildlife and the environment in your own backyard.

We’ll supply latex gloves and trash & recycling bags. You supply energy, sturdy shoes, sun protection, and clothes you don’t mind getting dirty. All groups are welcome. No reservations needed! For more information, contact Carmen Minch at 510-792-0222

Burrowing owls continued from page 6 to rebound from this level of predation without around her release burrow, some help. Most of the burrowing owls that and may have found a over-winter on the Farallon Islands are found mate since two owls are dead in the spring by biologists – either emaci- often seen by the burrow ated or pecked in the head by gulls defending entrance. The owls are their breeding territories in March. banded, but bands are This explains why I felt we were contribut- difficult to see, and since ing to conserving both burrowing owls and ashy the Warm Springs area has storm-petrels when we released “Burrowing a large number of owls, Owl #1 on April 4th into Artificial Burrow W-19 Owl #1 could easily have on the Pacific Commons mitigation parcel, and blended into the population. on April 22nd when “Burrowing Owl #2” (also One thing that we captured on SEFI) was released nearby into do know for certain is that Artificial Burrow W-3. White mice bought from neither owl has returned to pet stores were brought daily to the artificial bur- the Farallon NWR - unlike row release sites of each owl for about a week the human penal system, after their translocation to entice them to stay in where released offenders the area. often return to their crimes. The translocated owls were also monitored by refuge staff and interns. Owl #1 disappeared Right: Burrowing owl from the artificial burrow site after we stopped captured on Southeast bringing mice. Owl #2 continues to hang out Farallon Island

6 7 The Beginning of a New Era: Leader Mendel Stewart Arrives By Ashley McElmurray This summer not only brought recently of Merritt Island and Hobe Sound National hatched birds to the refuge, it also brought the ar- Wildlife Refuges - both in Florida, and later, a rival of Mendel Stewart, the new Project Leader Wildlife Management Biologist in the Division for the San Francisco Bay National Wildlife of Migratory Birds in Memphis, Tennessee. Refuge Complex. As Project Leader, Mendel is In his desire to learn more about how in charge of all seven National Wildlife Refuges our government functions, Mendel returned to in the greater San Francisco Bay Area, and all school and earned a Masters Degree in Public research projects involving refuge personnel. Administration at the University of Memphis. Being responsible for all programs and issues He moved to Washington, D.C. for five years surrounding these refuges will be a challenge, and worked for the Fish & Wildlife Service but itʼs the chal- Ecological Services program and the National lenge that draws Wildlife Refuge System. He was named Project Mendel here. Leader of the San Diego National Wildlife Having the oppor- Refuge Complex in 2000. tunity to “work on To gain a better understanding on how the largest habitat the U.S. Government operates, he accepted a restoration project six-month detail assignment with the Fish & (the South Bay Salt Wildlife Serviceʼs Office of Congressional and Pond Restoration Legislative Affairs in Washington, D.C. While Project) in the in D.C., Mendel became familiar with different west, and one of government agencies and private organiza- the largest in the tions. He realized that the agency that was most world” is what compatible with his goals and aspirations was the prompted Mendel one he was already employed by. to leave sunny San Diego for Northern Mendelʼs goal for this refuge complex is California. to continue protecting the Bay Areaʼs natural resources and to continue the extensive efforts of Mendel is a the salt pond restoration project. He also wishes native of western to further land acquisition for the establishment Kentucky and of new national wildlife refuges. He values was raised in environmental education programs, wanting Hopkinsville. He to “support and continue its efforts, because New project leader attended Western Kentucky University where he without understanding, people wonʼt care.” Mendel Stewart earned a Bachelor of Science in Biology. With an interest in natural resources, and with the When not at the refuge, Mendel enjoys ambitious and noble goal of “wanting to save the spending time with his two daughters Kylie and world”, Mendel volunteered with the U.S. Fish Tori and his wife Kristin. His hobbies include & Wildlife Service Regional Office in Atlanta golf, flying, hunting, and exercise. He looks writing environmental documents for land forward to getting out and running the trails of acquisitions. It was his first experience “saving the refuge. land and protecting resources.” The Regional Mendel has already proved himself to be a Office, impressed with his work, hired him as a friendly and caring supervisor. He never passes biological technician on land planning acquisi- anyone in the office without a greeting. He has tion. It was the start of a 20-year career with the shown himself to care just as much about those Fish & Wildlife Service. In addition to being who work here as he does about the refuge and a biological technician, he was refuge manager its pleasant critters. 8 9 San Francisco Bay National Wildlife Refuge Complex

National Wildlife Refuge Week October 7-15, 2005 Join us as we celebrate the largest and most complex network of lands devoted to protect wildlife! The San Francisco Bay National Wildlife Refuge Complex has something for everyone to enjoy. Join in on one, or all of these activities!

Campfire Sing-Along with Mary Miche Friday, October 7 in Fremont 7:30 p.m.-8:30 p.m. Shark Day Salt Pond Tour Saturday, October 8 in Alviso Sunday, October 9 in Menlo Park 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Exploring the Dunes Connections to Saturday, October 8 Pier Fishing at Antioch Dunes NWR Saturday, October 15 at the 10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. Fishing Pier in Fremont 8:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. National Wildlife Refuge System Slide Show Native Plant Nursery Sale Saturday, October 15 in Alviso Saturday, October 15 in Fremont 2:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. 10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.

Twilight Marsh Walk For program descriptions see Saturday, October 15 in Fremont Activities section, or call Carmen at 5:30 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. 510-792-0222.

8 9 Autumn Activity Schedule ning of nature’s night shift. Come discover the sturdy shoes, water, sunscreen, and gloves if you sights, sounds, and smells of the refuge as night have them. No reservations needed. All groups September descends. Meet at the observation deck. Not welcome. For more information, contact Carmen suitable for young children. RESERVATIONS Minch at 510-792-0222. REQUIRED. Call 510-792-0222. Led by Mary and Saturday, September 10 Gene Bobik. Salt Pond Tour Meet at Bayfront Park, Menlo Park NEW! Bike the Levees 1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. Environmental Education Center, Alviso Sunday, September 11 9:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Did you know that the largest tidal wetland resto- Bird Adaptation Creations! ration project on the West Coast is happening right Join Ed Kantack for a slow and easy 5.5-mile Environmental Education Center, Alviso here in San Francisco Bay? Hear more about this bike ride around the salt ponds and New Chi- 2:00 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. project and view some of the salt ponds recently cago Marsh with several planned stops. There acquired by the Don Edwards San Francisco Bay Ever wondered what it would be like to be a bird should be good bird viewing and a glimpse of National Wildlife Refuge. Geared toward adults. Drawbridge. Learn a little about the history of living at the refuge? Come uncover the mysteries of the bird world. Learn about bird adaptations, RESERVATIONS REQUIRED. Call 510-792-0222 Drawbridge, Alviso, and the salt ponds. Helmets explore the skeleton of a bird, and make human- ext. 43 for reservations and directions. are a must. Bikes with knobby tires highly recom- sized bird wings, beaks, and feet to take home. A mended along with water and sunscreen. Geared short refuge walk will be included to check out the Saturday, September 24 to age 10 and up. RESERVATIONS REQUIRED. feathery beasts. All ages welcome! Reservations Please call Laurie McEwen at 408-262-5513 ext. required. Call Tina at 408-262-5513 x104. Family Bird Walk 102 to make a reservation. Visitor Center, Fremont Exploring the Dunes Sunday, September 18 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Antioch Dunes NWR, Antioch Let family walks become a shared time of nature 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. SUN Day learning. We’ll begin by helping kids create their Environmental Education Center, Alviso Did you know there’s a National Wildlife Refuge personal birdwatching field guides, then head out 1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. in Antioch? Here’s your chance to explore this onto the trails to find those birds. Learn about refuge that is usually closed to the public. This The summer sun is calling and it’s inviting all the salt marsh habitat along the way. A limited guided tour (1-1.5 mile) will focus on the won- who love summer to come explore that big ball number of binoculars are available to borrow. ders of Antioch Dunes National Wildlife Refuge. of energy in the sky. An expert from NASA Ames Recommended for children ages 5-10. RESER- Wear sturdy shoes for the sandy hike along the Research Center will enlighten the group on solar VATIONS REQUIRED. Call 510-792-0222. Led dunes. All ages welcome. No reservations re- power, the renewable energy of the future. A by Katie Fotta. quired. No facilities. Contact 510-521-9624 for high-powered telescope will be set up for view- New! A Trip Back in Time additional information and directions. ing sunspots. Make and use a solar oven to take home. Reservations required. Call Tina at 408- Visitor Center, Fremont Sunday, September 4 262-5513 x104. 10:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Adult Beginning Birdwatching Revive the vanishing knowledge of the history It’s Not My Fault! of the Don Edwards San Francisco Bay National Environmental Education Center, Alviso Wildlife Refuge grounds by strolling the trails Visitor Center, Fremont 3:00 p.m. – 4:30 p.m. 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. with docent Ray Studer. Ray spent most of 2004 Can you tell an avocet from a black-necked stilt? If researching the on-site salt production, railroads, The San Francisco Bay region is a complex maze not, join birding enthusiast, Ceal Craig, for a begin- and homes that were located on the refuge of faults, mountains, and other geologic forma- ning birdwatching program and get to know the grounds until the 1950s. Using a collection of old tions. In this 1-mile walk, we will explore the most common refuge visitors. Start with a slide photographs, the last vestiges of a way of life can formation of the San Francisco Bay and the hill show to learn how to recognize the regulars, then be traced back to the 1850s that led to the con- upon which the Visitor Center sits. Geared toward try your new skills on the trail. Program intended struction of the town of Newark in 1876. adults. Led by Carmen Minch. for adults. RESERVATIONS REQUIRED. Please call Laurie McEwen at 408-262-5513 ext. 102. Change of Season Saturday, September 10 Environmental Education Center, Alviso Saturday, September 17 1:00 p.m. – 2:30 p.m. Twilight Marsh Walk Take a leisurely walk around New Chicago Marsh Visitor Center, Fremont Coastal Cleanup! and the salt ponds with naturalist, Ed Kantack. 6:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. Visitor Center Parking Lot, Fremont Learn about the migrants and look for signs of autumn. Recommended for ages 8 and up. Experience the salt marsh at twilight on an easy 8:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. RESERVATIONS REQUIRED. Please call Laurie stroll along Tidelands (1 1/3 mile) Trail. At the Join thousands of people around the world for McEwen at 408-262-5513 ext. 102. setting of the sun we will observe the begin- International Coastal Clean-Up Day. Bring a hat,

Don Edwards San Francisco Bay National Wildlife Refuge 1 Marshlands Road, Fremont – (510) 792-0222 • 1751 Grand Blvd, Alviso – (408) 262-5513 • http://desfbay.fws.gov 10 11 Autumn Activity Schedule

Sunday, September 25 Continued next page Salt Pond Tour Meet at Bayfront Park, Menlo Park 1:00 project and view some of the salt ponds recently p.m. - 3:00 p.m. acquired by the Don Edwards San Francisco Bay Did you know that the largest tidal wetland resto- National Wildlife Refuge. Geared toward adults. ration project on the West Coast is happening right RESERVATIONS REQUIRED. Call 510-792-0222 here in San Francisco Bay? Hear more about this ext. 43 for reservations and directions.

National Wildlife Refuge Week refuge that is usually closed to the public. This Native Plant Nursery Sale Friday, October 7 guided tour (1-1.5 mile) will focus on the won- Native Plant Nursery in Fremont Campfire Sing-Along ders of Antioch Dunes National Wildlife Refuge. Wear sturdy shoes for the sandy hike along the 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. with Mary Miché dunes. All ages welcome. No reservations re- This is your chance to purchase that perfect Newark Slough Learning Center, quired. No facilities. Contact 510-521-9624 for native plant to add to your garden! Whether Fremont (Down the hill from the Visitor additional information and directions. you’re looking to re-landscape your yard with drought-resistant plants, or you want to create Center) 7:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. Sunday, October 9 habitat for neighborhood birds and butterflies, Join us for a foot-stomping, hand-clapping this is the place to be! Follow the signs to the great time as you sing along by a campfire and Salt Pond Tour nursery. in the pavilion. Warm your hands on cups of hot chocolate while listening to earthy tunes. A Meet at Bayfront Park, Menlo Park National Wildlife Refuge good time to be had by all! 1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. System Slide Show Did you know that the largest tidal wetland Environmental Education Center, Alviso Saturday, October 8 restoration project on the West Coast is hap- pening right here in San Francisco Bay? Hear 2:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. Shark Day! more about this project and view some of Learn about the National Wildlife System and the salt ponds recently acquired by the Don how it came into being. Also learn about the Environmental Education Center, Alviso Edwards San Francisco Bay National Wildlife many refuges around San Francisco Bay. 11:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. Refuge. Geared toward adults. RESERVA- Presented by Ed Kantack. Program intended They’re baaack! Just when you thought it TIONS REQUIRED. Call 510-792-0222 ext. 43 for adults. RESERVATIONS REQUIRED. Please was safe to visit the refuge… Live, wild, San for reservations and directions. call Laurie McEwen at 408-262-5513 ext. 102 Francisco Bay leopard sharks will be visiting to make a reservation. us in honor of National Wildlife Refuge week. Saturday, October 15 Twilight Marsh Walk Join us for a day filled with festival fun. We’ll have guided walks, shark petting, shark lec- Connections to Pier Fishing Visitor Center, Fremont tures, mud creature lab, games and crafts. All Dumbarton Fishing Pier, Fremont 5:30 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. activities and crafts are FREE! No reservations 8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Experience the salt marsh at twilight on an easy necessary. Call Laurie McEwen at 408-262- Have you ever wondered what the hoopla was stroll along Tidelands (1 1/3 mile) Trail. At the 5513 ext.102 if you have any questions. Check all about? Learn the fundamental basics of setting of the sun we will observe the begin- the festival web site for more details, a map catch and release fishing at the fishing pier! ning of nature’s night shift. Come discover the and directions: http://www.fws.gov/pacific/ Discover the types of wildlife living in the San sights, sounds, and smells of the refuge as desfbay.fws.gov/sharkday.htm Francisco Bay, learn the safety and ethics of night descends. Not suitable for young chil- dren. RESERVATIONS REQUIRED. Call 510- Exploring the Dunes fishing, and then try your luck out on the pier with our fishing poles. All participants receive 792-0222. Led by Mary and Gene Bobik. Antioch Dunes NWR, Antioch free box with tackle. Partnered with the Cali- 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. fornia Department of Fish and Game. Space is limited to the first 50 people! RESERVATIONS Did you know there’s a National Wildlife Refuge REQUIRED. Call Carmen at 510-792-0222 for in Antioch? Here’s your chance to explore this more information.

Don Edwards San Francisco Bay National Wildlife Refuge 1 Marshlands Road, Fremont – (510) 792-0222 • 1751 Grand Blvd, Alviso – (408) 262-5513 • http://desfbay.fws.gov 10 11 Autumn Activity Schedule TIONS REQUIRED. Please call Laurie McEwen at ture. Bone-chilling weather is predicted, so dress 408-262-5513 ext. 102 to make a reservation. warmly, and bring a flashlight just in case. Fun for October all ages. RESERVATIONS REQUIRED. Please call Saturday, October 22 Laurie McEwen at 408-262-5513 ext. 102. Saturday, October 1 New! A Trip Back in Time Sunday, October 30 Native Plant Gardening Seminar Visitor Center, Fremont New! Wicked Weeds – Noxious Environmental Education Center, Alviso 10:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Plants on the Refuge 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Revive the vanishing knowledge of the history of the Don Edwards San Francisco Bay National Visitor Center, Fremont Get yourself in gear for upcoming fall native plant 10:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. sales. Join native plant specialist June Smith to Wildlife Refuge grounds by strolling the trails discover which natives are best suited for your with docent Ray Studer. Ray spent most of 2004 This Halloween, discover which silent invaders yard. Then take a walk with June through our researching the on-site salt production, railroads, are skulking in the marsh and in the upland habi- demonstration gardens. Program intended for and homes that were located on the refuge tats, wreaking havoc and destruction to all those adults. RESERVATIONS REQUIRED. Please call grounds until the 1950s. Using a collection of old that live near them. During this walk, see which Laurie McEwen at 408-262-5513 ext. 102. photographs, the last vestiges of a way of life can plants are the culprits, and hear how these inva- be traced back to the 1850s that led to the con- sive non-native weeds can alter the environment. Drawbridge struction of the town of Newark in 1876. Led by Carmen Minch. Environmental Education Center, Alviso Halloween Slough Whoo? 1:30 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. Saturday, October 29 Environmental Education Center, Alviso A ghost town in San Francisco Bay? That’s right! 2:00 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. Nestled on an island in the salt marshes of south Salt Pond Tour Whoo...whoo..whoo did that owl eat? Bet you San Francisco Bay, the town of Drawbridge once Meet at Bayfront Park, Menlo Park can find out! Come solve the mystery of who boomed. Was it a quiet, peaceful town full of 1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. ate whom and learn a bit about these nocturnal nature lovers, or a rip-roaring town full of two Did you know that the largest tidal wetland resto- predators. We will watch a slide show about owls, fisted rowdies? Find out at this program, led by ration project on the West Coast is happening right hike the habitats and search for owl clues, and get Pat Anthony. Start with a slide show then take here in San Francisco Bay? Hear more about this a chance to dissect owl pellets to discover exactly a short mini-van excursion to view Drawbridge project and view some of the salt ponds recently who that owl ate! Reservations required. Call Tina across Coyote Creek. Program intended for acquired by the Don Edwards San Francisco Bay at 408-262-5513 x104. adults. Space is very limited. RESERVATIONS National Wildlife Refuge. Geared toward adults. ARE ESSENTIAL. Please call Laurie McEwen at RESERVATIONS REQUIRED. Call 510-792-0222 408-262-5513 ext. 102. ext. 43 for reservations and directions. Sunday, October 16 Bats In Our Watershed November Environmental Education Center, Alviso Where Does All the Water Go? 3:00 p.m. – 4:30 p.m. Saturday, November 5 Environmental Education Center, Alviso Meet a few of those nocturnal flying mammals A Ghost Town in San Francisco Bay? 1:00 p.m. - 2:30 p.m. up close and personal. Find out what you can do Visitor Center, Fremont Where does all the water go after it swirls down at home to protect bats living in your watershed. the drain? Come see a slide show about how the Maggie Hooper, from the Bat Conservation Fund, 3:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. San Jose/Santa Clara Water Pollution Control will clear up some of the mysteries surrounding That’s right! On Station Island nestled in the salt Plant cleans our wastewater. Then take a hike bats and their lives. Plus, Maggie will bring sev- marshes of south San Francisco Bay, the town of to see the refuge habitats and how this cleaned eral live bats to the program. Find out which bats Drawbridge once boomed. Was it a quiet, peace- wastewater affects them. Appropriate for ages 10 can be found in the Bay Area. All ages welcome. ful community of nature lovers, or a rip-roaring and up. Reservations required. Call Tina at 408- Please call Laurie at 408-262-5513 ext 102 to gang of two-fisted rowdies? Excellent slide show 262-5513 ext 104. make a reservation. Space is limited. and presentation. Presented by Pat Anthony. Adult Beginning Birdwatching NEW! Spooky Slough Sunday, November 6 Environmental Education Center, Alviso Environmental Education Center, Alviso 3:00 p.m. – 4:30 p.m. 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. Salt Pond Tour Can you tell an avocet from a black-necked stilt? Costumed-kids are invited to take this slightly Meet at Bayfront Park, Menlo Park If not, join birding enthusiast Ceal Craig for a be- scary journey through the marsh and over the 1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. ginning birdwatching program and get to know slough meeting creatures along the way. The crea- Did you know that the largest tidal wetland resto- the most common refuge visitors. Start with a tures may tell you a story or challenge you with a ration project on the West Coast is happening right slide show to learn how to recognize the regulars, riddle. Knowing what you can do to protect wild- here in San Francisco Bay? Hear more about this life will help you on your journey. Bring a recycled and then take a walk with Ceal to try your new project and view some of the salt ponds recently grocery bag to collect treats during your adven- skills. Program intended for adults. RESERVA- acquired by the Don Edwards San Francisco Bay Don Edwards San Francisco Bay National Wildlife Refuge 1 Marshlands Road, Fremont – (510) 792-0222 • 1751 Grand Blvd, Alviso – (408) 262-5513 • http://desfbay.fws.gov 12 13 Autumn Activity Schedule National Wildlife Refuge. Geared toward adults. New! A Trip Back in Time RESERVATIONS REQUIRED. Call 510-792-0222 Sunday, November 13 ext. 43 for reservations and directions. Visitor Center, Fremont Salinity Sleuths 10:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Habitat Hike Environmental Education Center, Alviso Revive the vanishing knowledge of the history Environmental Education Center, Alviso 2:00 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. of the Don Edwards San Francisco Bay National 2:00 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. Step into the shoes of a scientist and strap on our Wildlife Refuge grounds by strolling the trails The refuge is a mosaic of different habitats, each field detective packs for a hands-on investigation with docent Ray Studer. Ray spent most of 2004 habitat supporting an array of wildlife unique to where we will collect water samples, use plant researching the on-site salt production, railroads, the South Bay. Come enjoy the outdoors as we clues, and do some sleuthing around to answer and homes that were located on the refuge hike and explore them all! We will get up close the question “How salty is it?” You will need to grounds until the 1950s. Using a collection of old and personal with the salt marsh, sloughs, and bring along keen senses of taste, smell and sight photographs, the last vestiges of a way of life can salt ponds on our short and easy trek. Binoculars to determine which plants and animals live in the be traced back to the 1850s that led to the con- and I.D. charts in hand, we will try to identify refuge’s salty habitats! Reservations required, struction of the town of Newark in 1876. plants, birds, and whatever other animals we see. Call Tina at 408-262-5513 x104. We will also learn how people and nature affects Look for New Arrivals each habitat. Reservations required. Call Tina at Adult Beginning Birdwatching Environmental Education Center, Alviso 408-262-5513 ext 104. Environmental Education Center, Alviso 1:00 p.m. – 2:30 p.m. Saturday, November 12 3:00 p.m. – 4:30 p.m. Join naturalist Ed Kantack for a leisurely 2-mile Can you tell an avocet from a black-necked stilt? walk along the levee between New Chicago Marsh Hawk Walk If not, join birding enthusiast, Ceal Craig, for a and Salt Pond A16. Bring binoculars or borrow beginning birdwatching program and get to know ours. There should be a good number of birds to Visitor Center Entrance, Fremont the most common refuge visitors. Start with a see. Recommended for ages 8 and up. RESERVA- 9:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. slide show to learn how to recognize the regulars, TIONS REQUIRED. Please call Laurie McEwen at Join Laurey Hemenway on a leisurely walk then take a walk with Ceal to try your new skills. 408-262-5513 ext. 102. through the refuge and learn to differentiate be- Program intended for adults. RESERVATIONS Connecting with Corvids tween the various raptors. Identify other migra- REQUIRED. Please call Laurie McEwen at 408- Environmental Education Center, Alviso tory birds in the upland and salt marsh habitats. 262-5513 ext. 102 to make a reservation. Wear comfortable shoes and bring a bird book 2:30 p.m. – 4:30 p.m. and binoculars. Recommended for ages 8 and up. Saturday, November 19 Meet some of our most intelligent feathered RESERVATIONS REQUIRED. Call 510-792-0222. friends when Corvid Connection swoops by the Exploring the Dunes Salt Pond Tour refuge today. What’s a corvid? Don’t know? Come Meet at Bayfront Park, Menlo Park find out. With Thanksgiving nearly upon us, make Antioch Dunes NWR, Antioch some leafy decorations to take home. All ages 1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. welcome. RESERVATIONS REQUIRED. Please Did you know there’s a National Wildlife Refuge Did you know that the largest tidal wetland resto- call Laurie McEwen at 408-262-5513 ext. 102. in Antioch? Here’s your chance to explore this ration project on the West Coast is happening right Space is limited. refuge that is usually closed to the public. This here in San Francisco Bay? Hear more about this guided tour (1-1.5 mile) will focus on the won- project and view some of the salt ponds recently Friday, November 25 ders of Antioch Dunes National Wildlife Refuge. acquired by the Don Edwards San Francisco Bay Wear sturdy shoes for the sandy hike along the National Wildlife Refuge. Geared toward adults. Community Service Day RESERVATIONS REQUIRED. Call 510-792-0222 dunes. All ages welcome. No reservations re- Environmental Education Center, Alviso ext. 43 for reservations and directions. quired. No facilities. Contact 510-521-9624 for 1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. additional information and directions. Family Bird Walk Do you need to fulfill community service require- Twilight Marsh Walk Visitor Center, Fremont ments? Thanksgiving weekend is a great time to Visitor Center, Fremont 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. pitch in and help restore native habitat. Come 4:00 p.m. – 5:30 p.m. Let family walks become a shared time of nature help remove invasive non-native plants from our Experience the salt marsh at twilight on an easy learning. We’ll begin by helping kids create their chemical-free demonstration gardens. Bring your stroll along Tidelands (1 1/3 mile) Trail. At the personal birdwatching field guides. Then head own gloves or borrow a pair of ours. Tools and setting of the sun we will observe the begin- out onto the trails to find those birds. Learn about drinking water provided. Dress in layers, long ning of nature’s night shift. Come discover the the salt marsh habitat along the way. A limited pants and long sleeved shirts over T-shirts. Be sights, sounds, and smells of the refuge as night number of binoculars are available to borrow. prepared to get dirty and wet. Recommended descends. Not suitable for young children. RES- Recommended for children ages 5-10. RESER- for ages 9 and up. RESERVATIONS REQUIRED, ERVATIONS REQUIRED. Call 510-792-0222. Led VATIONS REQUIRED. Call 510-792-0222. Led please call Laurie McEwen at 408-262-5513 ext. by Mary and Gene Bobik. by Katie Fotta. 102 to make a reservation.

Don Edwards San Francisco Bay National Wildlife Refuge 1 Marshlands Road, Fremont – (510) 792-0222 • 1751 Grand Blvd, Alviso – (408) 262-5513 • http://desfbay.fws.gov 12 13 Field Trips to the Refuge General Field Trip Field Trips at the Program Information Visitor Center in FREE field trip programs are offered at two sites Fremont at the Don Edwards San Francisco Bay National Wildlife Refuge. These programs actively in- Wetland Roundup - Investigate creatures of the volve teachers, adult volunteers, and students in mud flats, plankton and other creatures in the investigating the diverse habitats and wildlife at slough, and the pickleweed in the salt marsh. the refuge. The hands-on, small-group activities This field trip is designed for grades K-6, for are designed to teach basic ecological concepts up to 65 students. Wetland Roundup is offered Tuesday-Friday. Don Edwards San and to introduce endangered species, migra- tory birds, and wetland habitats to students. All Trekking the Refuge - Trek the 1-mile Tidelands Francisco Bay programs have been correlated to the appropriate Trail, and learn about the natural history of the State of California Education Standards. refuge! Then explore the pickleweed in the salt National Wildlife Educators and Youth Group Leaders conduct marsh, the brine shrimp in the salt pond, and the their own field trips after attending a Field plankton in the slough! Available only at the Refuge Trip Orientation Workshop. The Orientation Visitor Center in Fremont, Trekking the Refuge Workshops provide the information you need to Field Trip is designed for grades 3-6, for up to 36 design and conduct your own field trip. In addi- students. Trekking the Refuge is offered Tuesday The Refuge offers tion, adult volunteers must be recruited to lead through Friday. the activities at the different learning stations and Reservations begin on Tuesday, September 13, field trip programs to chaperone the rotation groups of students. We 4:00 p.m. -5:00 p.m. Call 510-792-0222. provide easy to follow “scripts” for each station, at both our Visitor but both “leaders” and “chaperones” are strongly Field Trip Orientation Dates at the encouraged to attend a Field Trip Orientation Visitor Center in Fremont Center in Fremont Workshop. It is our policy that you must attend every two and Environmental years. Call Ken Clarkson at 510-792-0222. Wetland Round-Up Field Trip Orientations Education Center in Visitor Center in Fremont Alviso. 4:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. Wednesday, September 28, 2005 Monday, October 17, 2005 Tuesday, November 8, 2005

Trekking the Refuge Field Trip Orientations Visitor Center in Fremont 4:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. Wednesday, October 12, 2005

14 15 Field Trips to the Refuge

The Slow the Flow Program - Slow the Flow Field Trips at the provides an experiential learning environment Environmental for students and educators to explore the topics of water use, wastewater treatment, and habitat Education Center preservation. Activities and presentations focus on the relationship between personal habits and in Alviso their effects on local habitats. Slow the Flow Wetland Round-Up Field Trips is an environmental education program offered at no cost through the cooperating efforts of the Investigate the butterflies in the butterfly garden, City of San Jose, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, taste pickleweed in the salt marsh, or discover and the San Francisco Bay Wildlife Society. The the creatures that live in the slough water on a program offers field trips at the refuge, classroom PASS IT ON!! Wetland Round-Up Field Trip. This field trip presentations, and outreach presentations program is designed for up to 65 students in Programs are geared for 5th - 12th grades. A Please help grades K-6. modified field trip is available for college groups. us spread the Field trip reservations begin on Monday, Educators are also encouraged to contact us to discuss options for customizing field trip and September 12, 4:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. For more word about our information call Genie at 408-262-5513. presentation activities and schedules. Slow the Flow programs are available to educators and Field Trip Orientation Workshop groups located in San Jose, Alviso, Milpitas, FREE, fun, and Santa Clara, Saratoga, Monte Sereno, Los Gatos, Dates at the Environmental educational field Education Center in Alviso Campbell and Cupertino. Slow the Flow Programs are available through- It is our policy that you must attend every two trip programs!! out the year in Alviso. Reservations for the Slow years. Call the education staff at 408-262-5513. the Flow program are on a first come basis. If you know a Wetland Round-Up Field Trip Orientation Call Tina Simmons, the Slow the Flow Program 4:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. Coordinator at 408-262-5513 ext. 104 for more teacher that would information, or to schedule a field trip or presen- Tuesday, September 27, 2005 tation. be interested in Tuesday, October 18, 2005 Wednesday, November 9, 2005 these programs please pass on your Free Discovery Packs available at the Visitor Center copy of Tideline and Environmental Education Center! or have them give Explore the salt marshes, salt ponds, and the birds of the refuge with your family or small youth group! The Discovery Pack includes an activity booklet, us a call for more and equipment such as dip nets, magnifying lenses and bug boxes that you information!! will need to take a close look at the salt marsh plants, the brine shrimp, and the birds. The back pack is suitable for up to six people, ages kindergarten - adults. Thank you for your There are also group packs available for 12-24 people (only at the Visitor Center). Please call in advance if you would like a group pack. You can check help! out the Discovery Packs free of charge at the Visitor Center in Fremont or at the Environmental Education Center in Alviso. The Visitor Center is open Tuesday-Sunday from 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. For questions or to reserve a group pack in Fremont, please call 510-792-0222. The Environmental Education Center is open Saturday and Sunday from 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. For questions, please call 408-262-5513.

14 15 UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR FIRST-CLASS MAIL FISH AND WILDLIFE SERVICE DON EDWARDS SAN FRANCISCO BAY POSTAGE & FEES PAID NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE P.O. BOX 524 U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service NEWARK, CALIFORNIA 94560 Permit No. G-77 OFFICIAL BUSINESS PENALTY FOR PRIVATE USE, $300

1-3 Phalaropes of the Bay 4 Thanks SFBWS Donors 5 Shark Day! Autumn 2005 6 Burrowing Owls 8 New Project Leader Mendel Stewart 9 NWR Week 10-13 Summer Activities 14-15 Field Trips

Refuge Headquarters &

NIMITZ FWY Visitor Center

(510) 792-0222  84 . Directions: From Highway 84 (at the NEW east end of the Dumbarton Bridge), exit ARK N Fremont at Thornton Avenue. Travel south on Thornton Avenue for 0.8 miles to the

ON Refuge entrance on the right. Turn right NT THOR Newark into the Refuge and follow Marshlands 84 Road to the stop sign. Turn left into the parking lot. 880 ON RT

DUMBA Refuge Menlo Park NATIONAL Environmental Education Center 84 East WILDLIFE (408) 262-5513 Palo Alto Directions: From I-880 or Highway 101, exit on High- REFUGE way 237 toward Mountain View/ BA Alviso. Turn YSHORE FWY Milpitas It is the ZANKER north onto policy of the GRAND Zanker Road. Don Edwards ALVISO TA . YLOR Continue on San Francisco Zanker Road Bay National Wildlife LAF 101 880 to the Environ- A NOR Refuge to accommodate YETT 237 mental Education individuals with disabili- T H ties. If you have any questions E Center entrance road concerning the refugeʼs programs, FIRST ST (a sharp right turn GUE or if you need any accommodation to en- Agnew A MONT at Grand Blvd.) The able you to participate in the refugeʼs programs, . distance from 237 to please contact a visitor services staff person at the Visitor the entrance road is Center at (510) 792-0222 or at the Environmental Educa- 2.1 miles. tion Center at (408) 262-5513. 16