FLIGHT PLAN: THE BIRDS OF SUNNYLANDS

September 12, 2018, through June 2, 2019

Essay by Michaeleen Gallagher Photography and notes by Tim Laman

THE ANNENBERG FOUNDATION TRUST AT SUNNYLANDS Contents

Text, design, and all images © The Annenberg Foundation Trust at Sunnylands 2018. Foreword by David J. Lane page 6 Images have been provided in many cases by the owners or custodians of the work. Individual works of art appearing herein may be protected by copyright in the United States of America The Birds of Sunnylands by Michaeleen Gallagher pages 7 – 71 or elsewhere, and may not be reproduced in any form without the permission of the rights holders. In reproducing the images contained in this publication, The Annenberg Foundation Trust at Sunnylands obtained the permission of the rights holders whenever possible. In some Sunnylands Bird List pages 72 – 75 instances, the Trust was unable to locate a rights holder, notwithstanding good faith efforts. The Trust requests that any contact information concerning such rights holders be forwarded Endnotes page 76 so that they may be contacted for future editions. First published in 2018 by The Annenberg Foundation Trust at Sunnylands, 37977 Bob Hope Drive, Rancho Mirage, CA 92270, United States of America. Notes on Photographic Equipment page 78 All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or utilized, in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, without prior permission in writing from the publisher. Acknowledgments page 80 Library of Congress Control Number: 2018942688 ISBN: 978-0-9913420-4-4 Printed in the United States of America Editor: Janice Lyle, Ph.D. Book and Cover Design: JCRR Design

Page 1 Adult male Mallard (Anal platyrhynchos) landing on a lake at the historic grounds. Mallards are common residents and nest regularly on site. Previous pages Adult green-backed male Lesser Goldfinch (Spinus psaltria) on Desert Marigold (Baileya multiradiata) in the wildflower field at Sunnylands Center & Gardens. Left Adult Verdin (Auriparus flaviceps) on Medicinal Aloe (Aloe vera) at Sunnylands Center & Gardens. These residents are among the most common nesters at Sunnylands. Opposite Adult male Anna’s Hummingbird (Calypte anna) on Palo Verde (Parkinsonia x ‘Desert Museum’) at the Center & Gardens. 6 FLIGHT PLAN: THE BIRDS OF SUNNYLANDS countless letters. watching birds isrecorded in birds aswellhisdelight in of theplantingstoattract in ensuringthesuccess his personalengagement the Sunnylandsproject, and as asurprise.Hisdesire tocreate abird sanctuaryinformed histhinkingfrom thestartof The factthatWalter Annenbergwassuchanenthusiasticandcommittedbirder maycome This exhibitionhighlightstheeffect theSunnylandsoasishashadonbirdlife inthedesert. significant research untilnow. environment andits role inthenaturalecologyofthisregion havenotbeenthesubjectof art collection,andDickWilson’s unusualgolfcoursedesign.However, theconstructed Haines,theAnnenbergs’ architecture modern theinteriordesignbyWilliam ofCalifornia, Other themeshavebeenexplained,includingtherole ofSunnylandsinthemidcentury history oftheAnnenbergs,peoplewhovisited,andculturalsignificanceplace. cooperationthroughinternational high-levelretreats. Ourusualnarrativehasfocusedonthe Sunnylands offers afresh lookatthishistoricestatewhichhasacurrent missionoffostering and almostcertainlybirds wouldnotbeatthetopoflist.FlightPlan:TheBirds When someonementionsSunnylands,there are manythingsthatcometomind, FOREWORD Adult maleAnna’s Hummingbird). (Calypteanna)withbloomingBlue ElfAloe(x‘BlueElf’ Opposite Frampton,dateunknown. Sunnylands Collection,2009.1.8122,Photo by Mary Kaipiainen inthe1960s.Thissculpture iscurrently exhibited inthepresident’s office. Sunnylands, includingthissurprising bird constructedofbeadsandwatches byFinnishartistBirger Leonore AnnenbergwithWatch Bird.Birds appearasthesubjectofnumerous art objectsat Left President, TheAnnenbergFoundationTrust atSunnylands David J.Lane and theirdreams takeflight. conversations, encouragingvisitorsandretreat participantstolettheirimaginationssoar life problems in practicalways.Theestateprovides aserene landscapeforthose At Sunnylands,wespendmuchofourtimebeinggrounded—trying tosolvereal- Annenberg did. at Sunnylandsandappreciate thesefeathered visitorsandresidents inthewaythatWalter visible, andtheirmovementsare captured. cancatchglimpsesofthevibrantbirdlife Visitors his photographsinwhichthebirds’ habitsare observed,theirconnectionstohabitatare breadth ofbirdlife ontheestateinspectacularlybeautifulimages.Theexhibitionfeatures Lamanwastheperfectprofessional tocaptureNational GeographicphotographerTim the environmental health. preserving Sunnylands’ culturallandscapeandsimultaneouslysupportbird migrationand important tothehealthofmigratingbirds. We believethatwecanachieveourmissionof the PacificFlyway, largesiteswithlakesandtrees likeSunnylandshavebecomeevenmore maintaining theSaltonSea,situated50milessoutheastofestate,asamajorstopon So, howdoesWalter’s interest inbirding informTrust theproblems of thinkingtoday?With in thispublication(seepages73–75). than 130speciesofbirds havebeensightedatSunnylandsandare recorded inthebird list able toshapetheenvironment sothatitwouldbeasanctuaryforbirds. Asaresult, more Butitwashereliving—in London,Pennsylvania,andCalifornia. inthedesertthathewas This successfulbusinessmananddiplomatwascuriousaboutbirdlife wherever hewas THE BIRDSOFSUNNYLANDS FLIGHT PLAN: INTRODUCTION

When Sunnylands opened in 2012, the creation of public programs as a way to share the Annenberg legacy was part of the mission of The Annenberg Foundation Trust at Sunnylands. Tours on the estate and theme-based programs for families, artists, and history enthusiasts introduced the historic house, art collection, and legacy of Walter and Leonore Annenberg to visitors.

The plans for the Trust had been finalized by the Annenbergs in 2001. Following the death of Walter in 2002 and Leonore in 2009, Sunnylands began its transition from a private residence to The Annenberg Retreat at Sunnylands, guided by The Annenberg Foundation Trust at Sunnylands. The historic practices for collection maintenance became museum- level conservation practices, and the landscape decisions took on climatic concerns that did not exist when the estate was first built. Collections including art, correspondence, photographs, and books began to be cataloged. For the landscape, historic preservation and sustainability considerations included new concerns regarding water limitations and environmental conditions related to climate change.

Far left An astute observer, Walter Annenberg customarily carried binoculars. Sunnylands Collection, 2009.1.5738, photographer unknown, April 1987. THE BIRDS OF SUNNYLANDS

Left Opposite Sharing in Walter’s birdwatching passion, Adult male Canvasback (Aythya valisineria) on a lake Leonore Annenberg often carried binoculars. at the historic estate. Hundreds of ducks stop to rest Sunnylands Collection, 2009.1.8123,

on the lakes during spring and fall migrations. photographer unknown, July 19, 1994. FLIGHT PLAN: 9 10 FLIGHT PLAN: THE BIRDS OF SUNNYLANDS is anuncommon wintermigrantatSunnylands. This adultmaleWood Duck(Aixsponsa),inflightovera lakeattheestate, Opposite from whichitsnameisderived. Adult Red-shouldered Hawk(Buteolineatus)displayingshouldercoloration Right Photo byPhilChanning,2017. Their weeklyobservationshelped establishtheofficialSunnylandsBird List. Over 4,000visitorshaveparticipated inexpert-guidedbird toursand walksatSunnylands. Above 130 species(seepages73–75). they establishedamechanismfordocumentingandproducing abird listofmore than the public,theseprograms grantedaccesswithawildlifeperspective,andforSunnylands, and tours.Theseweeklyprograms provided anadditionalwaytointerpret thespace.For Birds were thestartingpointforwildlifedocumentationin2012withexpert-ledbird walks of thatdiscussion,theextenttowhichwildlifeoccupiedproperty begantobeapparent. in discussionsoflandscapemanagement,historicpreservation, andsustainability. Aspart This combinationofdistinctlydifferent ecosystemsoffered opportunitiesforstaff toengage landscape oftheCoachellaValley floor. aesthetic. Theundevelopedacreage remains ablow-sanddesertthatreflects thenative (2017) adddesertnativesandarid-adaptedspeciesinawater-conscious landscape 1960s whentheestatewasbuilt.TheCenter&Gardens (2012)andadministrativecampus and asystemoflakesconnectedbystreams thatreflect thelandscapeaestheticof ecosystems. The200-acre historicestate(1966)containsrolling hillsofturf,trees, shrubs, The landscapesofthegrounds withintheTrust’s 400-acre holdingsincludethree distinct

The collections and education staff began to recognize that there was an opportunity to explore and share this “collection” that included some surprising species like the Vermilion Flycatcher (Pyrocephalus rubinus), Wood Duck (Aix sponsa), and Prairie Falcon (Falco mexicanus). Questions about the intent of the landscape design at Sunnylands and the inclusion of birds as a repeated motif in both exterior and interior design plans exposed a larger historical context for the Annenbergs’ interest in birds and suggested a deliberate cultivation of a space for birds within their own lives.

A list was created of all art and objects that were bird inclusive in the Annenberg collection. Correspondence, receipts, and books that referenced birds were identified and reviewed. A story began to unfold that preceded the Trust’s contemporary interest in environmental documentation. The research showed a decades-long intent to create habitat at each of the Annenergs’ homes that was inviting and deliberately planned to be hospitable to human and feathered visitors alike.

In 2016, the Trust commissioned National Geographic photographer Tim Laman to begin seasonal documentation of the bird species at Sunnylands. Through Laman’s lens the current bird list has been documented in vivid color and detail. These images, when merged with archival resources, illustrate the story that is told in the exhibition, Flight Plan: The Birds of Sunnylands.

Far left Adult female Vermillion Flycatcher (Pyrocephalus rubinus) perched on a Meiji crane sculpture at the historic grounds. These flycatchers are found year-round at Sunnylands. Left The Annenbergs placed this porcelain eagle in all three residences. Volkstedt Eagle, circa 1925. Arthur Storch (1870 – 1947) Porcelain Volkstedt porcelain factory, Thuringia, Germany Sunnylands Collection, 2009.1.3954. Photo by Mark Davidson, 2018. THE BIRDS OF SUNNYLANDS

Opposite Adult American White Pelican (Pelecanus erythrorhynchos) on a lake at the estate. Ducks in the

distance include Canvasback (Aythya valisineria) and American Wigeon (Anas Americana). FLIGHT PLAN: 13

16 FLIGHT PLAN: THE BIRDS OF SUNNYLANDS be-built California estate.be-built California discussing hisdesire toincrease bird activityathissoon-to- areas ofhisinterest, soDr. Allenwasanobviouschoicefor Walter regularly connectedwiththeforemost expertsin for hisabilitytoengageprofessionals andamateursalike. Retired atthetimeof thisletter, Dr. Allenwaswellknown article writtenbyDr. Allenentitled“SapsuckerWoods.” United States.Walter hadread a1962NationalGeographic Allen wasthefirsttitledprofessorin ofornithology can beobserved defendingtheirestablishedterritories. territorial hummingbirds canbefoundinlargenumbers andmales on anagavebranch atSunnylandsCenter&Gardens. These A maleCosta’s Hummingbird (Calyptecostae ) withwingsspread Previous pages,right & Gardens. Gardens. Theseyear-round residents nestattheestateandCenter spent stalkofMedicinalAloe(vera ) atSunnylandsCenter& Female Costa’s Hummingbird (Calyptecostae ) perched on Previous pages,left to Dr. University, ArthurA.Allen,Cornell Ithaca,N.Y.” the followingnotation:“Enclosedcopyofletter, samedate, of theSunnylandsgolfcourse.Includedinbothlettersis designer A copyofthisletterwasalsosenttoDickWilson, designed Sunnylands.InaletterdatedMay20,1963,Walter wrote: correspondence sent from Walter AnnenbergtoA.QuincyJones,thearchitect who In thearchives atSunnylands,amongletterstoandfrom presidents androyalty, is SANCTUARY hope to incorporate a bird sanctuary inmyCaliforniaacreage.” hope toincorporateabirdsanctuary It occurredtomethatyouwouldlikeseetheenclosedcopybecauseitismy “Dear Quincy: 2 Dr. Dr.

1 Sunnylands Collection, 2009.1.5026,photographerunknown,circa 1976. a birdwatching excursion whilevisitingSunnylands. accompanyWalterhis wifeWilliamina Annenberg on RodolpheMeyerdeSchauenseeandOrnithologist Left ( Costa’sMale Hummingbird r e h p a r g oto h p eye of this bird that rarely sits still. sits eye rarely that bird of this naked your to is hard that with see way reveals is the detail it it about for shot. Ilike this What enough so, my wayor Iworked close in hour of an course over the and minutes, five every once about to briefly perch the returned He left. he time each closer little a tripod and big camera my whole moved and favoriteof his perches Ilocated So one humans. moving of us slow- afraid not they are that is hummingbirds about thing great the But lens. my biggest with to bird of the shot, this get even feet six or five to I had within be challenge to get a close portrait. Costa’s tiny, are is a it so like male this Hummingbirds Calypte costae ' s

te ot n )

Portrait

In his letter to Dr. Allen, Walter requested written resources or professional contacts who photographer's n ot e could advise him about ways to build Sunnylands so that it would “afford aid and comfort Hummingbird and Moon to the birds native to the region….”3 Walter stated that the property would encompass 200 acres and that 15 to 25 acres would be dedicated as a “sanctuary.” There is no evidence of It was early October, and as a response from Dr. Allen who died eight months after this note was written. usual, I was out before sunrise on the grounds at Sunnylands. As I This communication is one of the earliest between the Annenbergs, Jones, and Wilson as passed a row of Cape Honeysuckle they began the design process for Sunnylands. Although it is a simple planning note, it provides significant insight into the Annenbergs’ involvement in the aesthetic design of their (Tecoma capensis) bushes where surroundings. It is clear through correspondence and interviews with those close to the I had often photographed Costa's Annenbergs that Leonore had an avid interest in flowers and gardens, while Walter enjoyed Hummingbird (Calypte costae) and the sights and sounds of birds. Anna's Hummingbirds (Calypte anna), I noticed the full moon beginning to set behind them just as the glow of dawn cast a little light on the flowers. I knew the hummingbirds would be starting to forage, and I had the idea for this shot, an Anna's hummingbird silhouette against the moon. The trick was to get a hummingbird in the right spot before the moon disappeared. In this case I found some flowers that lined up with the moon, got ready to shoot, and just hoped that as the hummingbirds began their foraging rounds, they would come to that cluster of flowers. My efforts were rewarded, and I captured this unique shot.

For many of my best images, like THE BIRDS OF SUNNYLANDS this one, I see the shot in my mind first, and then try to execute it. Above Leonore Annenberg included cloisonné incense burners in the shape of cranes in a table setting.

Sunnylands Collection, 2009.1.3461, Photo by Gloria Etting, March 1968. FLIGHT PLAN: 19 20 FLIGHT PLAN: THE BIRDS OF SUNNYLANDS architectural drawings. relationships, as welldeletetheaviary.” As yourequested, Iwillrestudy theguestroom, gameroom, andhouse the project are beingsenttoMr. aswediscussedinourlastmeeting. Wilson this officeandMr.Wilson. Theplotplan,floorandelevations of Dick thecoordinationestate manager]concerning oflandscapedesignbetween assumed thatIshouldwaittohearfrom Mr. DavidAnderson[Sunnylands’first in whichthiswasclarified:“In regard toyourtelephonecalllastFriday, itis correspondence toWalter onSeptember16,1963,referenced aphonecall estate couldprovide sanctuaryformigratingandresident species.Jones’ for wildbirds. There wasnoneedtobuildanenclosure inwhichtohousebirds whenthe intended. Insteadhelikelywantedtoconsiderlandscapedecisionsthatoffered resources Jones asanaviarybuilding,butitseemsthataphysicalstructure wasnotwhatWalter Sunnylands Collection, 2009.1.1099,November30,1963. the landscapedesign. Walter’s instructionsand clarificationofhisdesire forasanctuary aspartof A laterarchitectural drawinginwhichtheaviarybuildingwasremoved per Above right Permission toreproduce:Hillary, Michael,andTimothy Jones. (shown ringedinred) wasdelivered totheAnnenbergs inSeptember1963. This A.QuincyJonesarchitectural drawingwithanaviarybuildingincluded Above left an aviarythatwastobebuiltjustnortheastofthehistorichouse. In anarchitectural drawingofSunnylandsdatedAugust1963,A.QuincyJonesincluded bird sanctuary.” please remember thatIhopetofitintotheproperty auniquecactusgarden aswell a term “bird sanctuary” asecondtimeinlettersenttoJonesonJuly26,1963:“P.S. 5 This repeated useoftheterm“sanctuary”mayhavebeeninterpreted by 6

The aviarywasremoved inlater 4 Walter hadusedthe Opposite ( Adult femaleCosta’s Hummingbird (Calyptecostae)inflightnextto RedHesperaloe ) atSunnylandsCenter &Gardens.Hesperaloe parviflora In 1977, years after Sunnylands was built, Walter and wildlife photographer and writer, George Harrison, who was a managing editor of National Wildlife magazine, corresponded regarding increasing resources for attracting more birds to Sunnylands. Walter invited Harrison to visit Sunnylands in order to better advise him and stated: “I don’t want to attract any Canada Geese. Seriously, we are on the migratory passage between British Columbia and Mexico and we do get a number of lovely water birds in my ponds; I have developed a stand of tules which attract the magnificent Yellow-headed Blackbird each spring and they are a joy to watch; we have endless multi-shaded finches and plenty of quail.”7

Walter was aware of how Sunnylands’ location in the desert could play a role in offering respite to birds traveling the Pacific Flyway, a major migration corridor that extends through North and South America. He wanted to provide what was needed to make the estate attractive not only to the native resident species, but those traveling thousands of miles in migration.

Right The Yellow-headed Blackbird, referenced in correspondence as one of Walter’s favorites at Sunnylands, is not on the current bird list as it has not been seen at the estate during the duration of documentation of the current list. Yellow-headed Blackbird, date unknown. Edward Marshall Boehm (1913 – 1969) Porcelain The Boehm Showroom LLC

Sunnylands Collection, 2009.1.10523. THE BIRDS OF SUNNYLANDS Photo by Mark Davidson, 2018.

Opposite Adult male Costa’s Hummingbird (Calypte costae) with wings spread on a

Mesquite branch (Prosopis hybrid) at Sunnylands Center & Gardens. FLIGHT PLAN: 23 24 FLIGHT PLAN: THE BIRDS OF SUNNYLANDS food, andrespite. decline, man-madesiteslikeSunnylandshaveseenanincrease inbirds stoppingfor water, Valley andSunnylands,whilemanyofthenaturalwatersources alongtheflywayare in birds travelingtheflyway. On route toorfrom theSaltonSea,theypassoverCoachella Sunnylands, thisartificallakenowservesasamajor rest stopproviding foodandhabitatfor as acatchbasinforagriculturalwastewater. Situatedapproximately 50milessoutheastof made andthewaterwasbrought backundercontrol. Two decadeslateritwasdesignated diversion oftheColoradoRiverfailed,floodingbasinfortwoyearsbefore repairs were The SaltonSea,California’s largestlake,istheresult ofhumanerror. In1905,anaccidental will beforced toseekoutman-madewatersources. poor condition.Coupledwithmore than90%totalwetlandslossinCalifornia, birds wetlands inthewestat27.2%goodcondition,26.2%fairand46.1% Great Egret (Ardeaalba)inflightdisplay atthehistoricestate.Thesebirds oftenperch onthe iconicpinkpyramidal roof. Opposite National WaterReporttoCongress QualityInventory: The PacificFlywayisparticularlyfragilein relation towateravailability. The2017EPA migration flights. Bering StraittoPatagonia,andisusedbymore than350speciesofbirds onannual portions ofCanadaandMexicoare alsopartofthisflyway, whichstretches from the Idaho,Nevada,Oregon,Alaska, Arizona,California, Utah,andWashington. Western In theUnitedStatesthisflywaypassesoverstateswestofContinentalDivideincluding of Sunnylands’locationonthemigrationroute, andreferenced itincorrespondence. major NorthAmericanmigrationcorridor—thePacificFlyway. Walter Annenbergwasaware Sunnylands, locatedintheCoachellaValley, hasthegoodfortuneofbeingsituatedona PACIFICTHE FLYWAY 8 ratedthebiologicalconditionof

,,

I absolutely love to take guests on the estate bird tours. There is always the possibility of seeing some or all of Quite a good day this morning out on the estate, beautiful Just down the Pacific Flyway from Sunnylands is the Being able to see so many water birds in the desert is a the raptors that call Sunnylands home. Red-tailed, Red- and one of many recently. Spotted Sandpiper was a nice Salton Sea: one of the most important stopover and real treat: Snowy and Great Egrets, Great Blue and Green shouldered, and Cooper’s Hawks along with the American surprise. The lone Cedar Waxwing was as well, although wintering sites for millions of migratory birds in the Herons, Belted Kingfishers, Pied-billed Grebes, and a Kestrel are most common, but we also see occasional we think he may have had several friends. western hemisphere. In 2018, water transfers began to number of ducks: Ring-necked, Mallard, Ruddy, Redhead, Prairie Falcons and Swainson’s Hawks. It’s not unusual shrink the Salton Sea significantly, altering the fragile Northern Shoveler, and Canvasback. for migrating Turkey Vultures to overnight on the estate in As I was going to my car I heard the moaning of a Greater ecosystem which will ultimately cause the fishery to groups of 50 or more. Roadrunner. Found him in a leafless tree with a lizard in his collapse. Nearby lakes like the ones at Sunnylands On every tour I do, I hope that everyone will get to see, bill. I was able to point him out to the garden tour group, (especially ones with fish) will become an even more really see, up close the ‘Sunnylands Surprise,’ a Vermilion White Pelicans are another species that is thrilling to see. which was a big hit. important option for Salton Sea avian refugees in search Flycatcher! The male Vermilion is truly a sight to behold. I Watching them wheeling against our famous blue skies is of suitable habitat. always appreciate how this little guy will sit out in the open, something most people will never forget. Mark Leggett often in the sun, so we all can enjoy his colors. Bird guide Kurt Leuschner I especially appreciate the way the plantings are arranged Bird guide Of course, when going birding, one never can tell what with more of the succulents on the outside of the circular will turn up. It is the hunt and its unexpected pleasure that path, and the other desert species, including wildflowers, entice us. On the estate tours our little group goes at our at the Center. Almost any day I walk there, I have trouble own pace, so we get to know one another and take the keeping track of how many Costa’s Hummingbirds, time to get good looks at the birds that we encounter. Yellow-rumped and Orange-crowned Warblers, and House Finches I encounter. A special treat is the endangered Bell’s Vireo which is easy to hear if it is singing, but is always hard to see.

Frank Sterrett ,, Bird guide

A captured quiet moment for an adult Snowy Egret (Egretta thula) hunting in a lake at the estate. 26 27

HOSPITALITY

Anyone who has been enchanted by birds inevitably falls into certain routine practices and the Annenbergs were no exception. This included making decisions to enhance habitat, increase bird-watching opportunities, and maintain feeding stations in order to attract a wide range of feathered visitors.

In a 1956 letter to American hotelier, Conrad Hilton, Walter shared details about a large multi-chamber bird feeder at Inwood, his Pennsylvania estate: “‘The Feathered Hilton’ is the latest bird feeding station on the grounds at my home in Wynnewood, Pennsylvania, and is so named because it is the latest and most luxurious. In the first compartment there is an ample supply of suet. The second compartment contains bread and cake crumbs sautéed in deep fat. The third compartment contains cracked nuts (peanuts, almonds, walnuts and pecans). The fourth compartment, scratch feed and corn, and the fifth compartment, sunflower seeds. We are now doing a thriving business with woodpeckers, jays, titmice, chickadees, nuthatches, bobwhites, thrashers, robins, cardinals, juncos, finches and sparrows.”9

The Annenbergs also suffered the same challenges that other bird enthusiasts share as Walter explained to Hilton: “In case you are curious about the circular disks just below the feeding compartments, they are the only practical means of keeping the squirrels from getting at the feed.”10 The hospitality shown to feathered visitors appears to have rivaled the level of hospitality offered to human guests.

Walter expressed a feeling of caretaker responsibility to ornithologist S. Dillon Ripley, the Secretary of the Smithsonian from 1964 to 1984, in a January 19, 1977, letter: “At my home in Wynnewood, Pennsylvania, which I left last week I have several bird feeders out, the largest of which carries the name, ‘The Feathered Hilton,’ this particular feeder is about six feet long and has several compartments with different bird food. I also have a ‘bird buffet’

Above Previous pages, left The Feathered Hilton’s multi-compartment design attracted a variety of birds for viewing at the THE BIRDS OF SUNNYLANDS Adult White-faced Ibis (Plegadis chihi) in a lake at the historic Annenbergs’ estate at Inwood. property. This is just one of the species that surprise visitors. Sunnylands Collection, 2009.1.4195, photographer unknown, January 4, 1956. Previous pages, right Opposite A commonly sighted adult Great Blue Heron (Ardea herodias) A captured sunset view with the silhouette of a Great Egret (Ardea alba) in an olive tree (Olea ssp.)

scratching its face at the estate. at the historic estate. FLIGHT PLAN: 31 32 FLIGHT PLAN: THE BIRDS OF SUNNYLANDS Photo byKenHayden, 2014. master bedroom. Today, additional aridplantsandsucculentshave beenintroduced atthecottages. The onlydesertgarden original totheestateiscactusgarden that can beviewedfrom the Above influences andbendstheenvironment tohiswill. by habitatpreference inadelicatebalancewitheachother, cometogether. Somankind have provided anenvironment artificiallywhere thesetwospecies,otherwiseseparated environments. Thusat‘Sunnylands,’where youhavecreated amiracleinthedesert,you breeds nearwater, alongthebanksofstreams, cottonwoods,neargolfcourses,andtown Arizona forexample,oroverintodeserthabitatintheadjacent states.TheBlackPhoebe The Ash-throated [Flycatcher]prefers toliveintheneighborhoodofsaguaro beltin you, from Oregon southintoLatinAmerica,buttheyhavedifferent habitatpreferences. [Flycatcher] andtheBlackPhoebebothrangewidelyasyour bird guide volumewilltell species toslightlydifferent nicheswithinthesamegeographicalareas. TheAsh-throated actually hasallowedevolutioninthecaseofflycatchers toadaptseveraldifferent at onespot,rightinfront ofyourdressing room window, youmustrealize thattheCreator creation onour planet.Whenyouseethree speciesofflycatchers,alldoingthesamethings diversity ofclimates,evensocalledmicro-climates, astheyaffect thelivingspaceforall study oftheenvironment bringsusupshortimmediatelytotheawesomerealization ofthe of cactus.Thisisasignificantobservationbecauseitgoestotheheartecology. The and theBlackPhoebe,whoallspendsomuchtimefeedingaround yourlovelyterrace Flycatcher [current classificationBrown-crested Flycatcher],theAsh-throated [Flycatcher], great detail:“You askwhytheCreator made three speciesofflycatcher,Wied’s Crested Ripley, appreciative oftheopportunitytodiscussbirds, responded totheinquiryin coloration differences. and questionedthereasoning behindtheir space, sincetheyprovided thesameservices, of Ripleywhytheywouldoccupythesame cactus garden atSunnylands,heinquired that three species offlycatcherexistedinthe birds onhisproperty. Whenhediscovered Walter wasalsoanastuteobserverofthe for thesefeathered friends.” years... Igetacertaincomfortoutofproviding gardener who hasbeenwithmeforseveral of whichare carefully watched byafaithfulold and alittlestonereceptacle toholdwater, all 11

one of him peering into depths. the peering of him one this including grebe, of this views close nice latter, and after the dousing, got some really soaked. get the Idid and my body under away to bird the stay camera the dry, put or scare and for it run was either It choice. to ever a closer me. Ihad by one, getting one on come fairway the on sprinklers the Iheard that was then It approach. closer waited for still a shots but good some get to pond. Iwas starting the around foraging still hadn’t spooked, and was diving and bird edge. its The on Iwas right until toward of me pond front in the my camera belly, my on lying scooting crawl, army an even as Imoved closer,then to Iswitched some shots from a position, kneeling and closer,I got to Iswitched acrouch. Igot walked as toward pond, but the I slowly low. you keep if yourself first So disturbed to you, likely see less they are be clearly they can where open the in especially birds, wild approaching shots of it. When wanted to Ireally and some get seen, Ihad species of this individual first the occidentalis Western ( single Grebe day, for birds. One scouting this Ispotted equipment my camera with loaded cart agolf with at Sunnylands property the roamed project, this Ioften During Western Grebe r e h p a r g oto h p ) in one of the ponds. It was It ponds. of the one ) in ' s

te ot n Aechmophorus photographer's n ot e American Wigeon Sleeping “The [Weid’s] Crested Flycatcher is a ‘casual’ to Southern California. In other words it For some of my photography does not normally range so far west of Arizona or New Mexico, where it prefers cactus of waterfowl on the ponds at stands or thick scrub near streams. It does not breed in Southern California so far as I can Sunnylands, I used a blind recollect, and so may be a transient in your area. [Walter may also have been looking at a positioned along the shoreline Say’s Phoebe which would have looked like the Weid’s Crested Flycatcher and was more likely to have been in the region at that time.] Transients can be tolerated where there is not where I could hide and wait for a question of pressure for food. Often closely related bird species can co-occur on their birds to come. On this day, a winter, non-breeding ranges which does not bring pressure to bear on their nesting ranges. group of American Wigeon (Anas It is at nesting time that the real territory pressure becomes apparent, and the miracle of americana) arrived, but then animal diversity reveals itself in the precise adjustment of species to habitat, even with minute differences in the same general range. ‘Sunnylands’ like Noah’s Ark, has allowed they didn’t do much of anything these species to come together temporarily at no risk to their future as species, each able interesting, mostly just resting. I to bend slightly with the times and circumstances. So you have provided a new micro- kept following them around the climate for them.”12 pond with my lens, none-the-less, hoping for an interesting image to develop. The birds were drifting slowly around, passing through different ripples and reflections, even while they had their heads tucked in. When they got to this area, I noticed how the shapes formed by the ripples in the water matched the bird’s feathers, and also how the green color in their plumage matched the green in the reflection. Sometimes it can be these small elements that make a picture something special.

Right THE BIRDS OF SUNNYLANDS Cactus Wren and Prickly Pear, date unknown. Dorothy Doughty (1882 – 1962) Porcelain Royal Worcester Sunnylands Collection, 2009.1.10525.

Photo by Mark Davidson, 2018. FLIGHT PLAN: 35 One of Walter’s favorite birds is also mentioned in correspondence. In a letter dated May photographer's n ot e 7, 1986, Ripley wrote about visiting friends in Texas: “I was delighted to come across Yellow-headed Blackbirds and it made me think of you and the delight with which you Pied-billed Grebe with Reflection always showed me your favorite birds at ‘Sunnylands.’ I hope they are still giving you great pleasure.”13 To which Walter responded: “Yellow-headed Blackbirds at Sunnylands are in full When photographing birds, I pay a lot of attention not only force this winter and they continue to give me great joy.”14 to my main subject, the bird, but also to the background. This image of the Pied-billed Grebe (Podilymbus podiceps) Ripley’s letters reveal a friendship that developed beyond professional inquiry—a common among beautiful reflections is a perfect example of how the occurrence in Walter’s relationships with other bird enthusiasts. Ripley enjoyed and appreciated Walter’s interest and observations of the birds he encountered. He wrote to background can make the shot. There was only one section Walter that it was indeed a compliment that he offered an opportunity to discuss matters of of the pond where the trees lit by the morning sun were ornithological interest, which Ripley enjoyed as a respite from the administrative challenges creating this brilliant reflection, and I saw how spectacular 15 of heading an institution like the Smithsonian. it could be if the grebe were to surface there. So what I did was both wait for the grebe to move to that section of the pond, but also keep adjusting my position to line up the reflection with the bird. Fortunately, I was able to get the elements to line up and capture the image I envisioned. Below The Annenbergs’ extensive collection of books included many for bird identification and natural history information. Sunnylands Collection. Photo by Mark Davidson, 2018. THE BIRDS OF SUNNYLANDS

Greater roadrunner Geococcyx californianus 29 MAY 2017, 5:45 AM

FLIGHT PLAN: These can be spotted at Sunnylands running at speeds of up to 20 miles per hour, and generally prefer sprinting to flying – leaving behind very distinct "X" track marks, appearing as if travelling in both directions. 36

,,

At Sunnylands the Ambassador loved to observe the I remember so well watching the hummingbirds Walter and Mom loved to sit by the pool and watch birds. I accompanied them on an Alaska cruise aboard the hummingbird feeder and watch the hummingbirds outside of my father’s office. He was so enchanted The egrets in particular were attracted to the roof of the Compana. Walter wanted to see the Bald Eagles, which eating. One hummingbird in particular would muscle by them, and so was I. house and they could be viewed clearly. There always were endangered at the time. Everyone was very intense the other birds away until he had finished. The seemed to be an egret there. about watching the birds on the way to Juno. If one was Ambassador named him ‘Mussolini the dictator’ which Wallis Annenberg spotted, they would all grab their binoculars to see it. amused me. Daughter of Walter Annenberg The rose garden was also popular with the birds. Often, there would be nesting birds in the bushes just near it. Walter liked to read and had several books on birds. I The Ambassador loved his birds, both at Sunnylands remember he liked cardinals and robins at Inwood, and and Inwood, where he had a bird feeder called the Diane Deshong hummingbirds at Sunnylands. Feathered Hilton installed. It was erected in the front Daughter of Leonore Annenberg yard so he could observe it as he dressed in the Elizabeth Kabler morning. He placed large plates on the support to Daughter of Leonore Annenberg stop the squirrels from climbing up and eating the bird food. The bird microphone worked so very well! The Ambassador enjoyed listening to the birds as he got dressed in the morning.

When he and Mrs. Annenberg went golfing, he always took his binoculars so he could see the birds up close and he brought a book, The Only Bird Book You Need, by David Sibley. ,, Michael Comerford House Manager, Sunnylands

Previous pages, left An adult female Mallard (Anas platyrhynchos) and her brood explore. Mallards commonly nest around lakes at the historic estate.

Previous pages, right An adult American White Pelican (Pelecanus erythrorhynchos) stops to rest in a lake at the estate. These sea birds increasingly stop on their A prolific hunter, a Bewick’s Wren Thryomanes( bewickii) perches migration between the Salton Sea and the California coastline. on Smooth-skinned Agave (Agave desmettiana). 40 41 42 FLIGHT PLAN: THE BIRDS OF SUNNYLANDS through thisbook.” increasing about BasilEde’s numberofpeoplewillhavetheopportunitytolearn talent to assemblemuchofBasil’s work. Whatisfurthergratifyingtomethefactthatan Gulf StatesPaperCorporation,hashadthegoodtasteand judgment of hisartistry, IamgratifiedthatJack Warner, chairmanoftheboard of provided byWalter: “Asalong-timeadmirer ofBasilEdeandthequality included 103plates,alongwithsketchesandfieldnotes, and aforeword by Chairman/CEOforGulfStatesPaperCorporationJack Warner, and Annenbergs’ collection,andtheydiscusseditoften.Itwas commissioned produced inpartduringthesameyearsthatEdewaspainting of Ede broadened hisnotorietyintheUnitedStateswithpublication Fine Artforaone-manexhibition. D.C. HewasthefirstlivingartisttobeinvitedNationalCollectionof National CollectionofFineArts,SmithsonianInstitutioninWashington, artworldwitha1964exhibitionofhiswatercolorsinternational atthe details, andtheirecologicalplacement,Ederose toprominence inthe for hisdramaticstylethatconsidered theaviansubject,ornithological pastime grew tobecomealifelongcareer. Already wellknowninBritain to JohnJamesAudubon.Whathadbegunearlyinhislifeasacasual precision inwatercolor andlaterinoilresulted incomparisons ofhiswork Basil EdewasaBritishpainterknownforhisworkinavianportraiture. His initiated through abusiness venture foracommissionedartproject. the archives at Sunnylands,isextensive.Itreveals arelationship thatwas Basil Ede(1931–2016).Theircorrespondence, whichwasdiscovered in Another friendshipdevelopedbetweenWalter andrenowned avianartist WALTER AND BASIL Wild BirdsofAmerica:TheArtBasilEde.ThisbookwasbeingWild 17

16

at SunnylandsCenter &Gardens. This adultBlack Phoebe (Sayornisnigricans)perches onPalo Verde (Parkinsoniax‘Desert Museum’) Opposite Courtesy ofTheEdeCollection. Portrait ofBasilEde,dateunknown. Above

Walter was drawn to Ede paintings because of their realistic representation of birds and Ede’s skill in bringing the subjects to life on paper and canvas. Throughout their correspondence Walter complimented Ede’s work and shared his own views and affection for birds. In a letter dated October 1, 1971, Walter shared his passion for birdwatching and his favorite British subject which he first observed while in England. “I am a confirmed bird watcher, and my particular favorite here at Winfield House is the Great Titmouse [Great Tit (Parus major)].”18 Ede sent Walter the catalog from his second New York exhibition at Kennedy Galleries which opened October 6, 1971. From this exhibition, Walter purchased his first Ede painting, a watercolor of male and female yellow-shafted, Northern Flicker (Colaptes auratus). This was followed by the commission of ten paintings to be displayed at the Annenbergs’ Inwood estate in Wynnewood, Pennsylvania. The collection included Walter’s favorite birds of Eastern Pennsylvania, all of which could be seen on the estate. At Ede’s request, Walter also offered recommendations for the Annenbergs’ favorite trees and shrubs to complement the birds. This list included the Flowering Dogwood (Cornus florida), Common Holly (Ilex aquifolium), American Beech (Fagus grandifolia), White Oak (Quercus alba), Black Gum (Nyssa sylvatica), and Tulip Poplar (Liriodendron tulipifera).19

Far left Northern Flicker (Yellow-shafted),1972. Basil Ede (1931 – 2016) Watercolor and gouache on paper Sunnylands Collection, 2009.1.10530. THE BIRDS OF SUNNYLANDS Photo by Mark Davidson, 2018. Left An early list of East Coast birds Opposite to be painted by Basil Ede. House Finches (Haemorhous mexicanus) take cover in Creosote (Larrea tridentate) Sunnylands Collection, 2009.1.4255,

in the wildflower field at Sunnylands Center & Gardens. November 16, 1971. FLIGHT PLAN: 45 46 FLIGHT PLAN: THE BIRDS OF SUNNYLANDS I assumethatyouhavecarefully researched this.” noted: “Ihadbeenunaware thattheCarolinaPennsylvaniabut ChickadeeoccursinEastern trunk ofanolive tree (Oleassp. ) onthehistoricproperty. Flicker(Colaptesauratus ) perchesAn adultfemale Northern onthe Opposite Photo byMarkDavidson,2018. Sunnylands Collection,2009.1.10536. Watercolor andgouacheonpaper Basil Ede(1931–2016) Chickadees inLeafyBranches,1972. between theBlack-cappedandCarolina Chickadeespecies. The paintingofchickadeeswasmeanttodisplaysubtledifferences Right ( ( Thrush (Hylocichlamustelina),AmericanRobinTurdus migratorius),Ring-neckedPheasant Screech alcyon),Woodvirginianus), Eastern Owl(Otisasio),BeltedKingfisherCeryle ( Tufted (Baeolophusbicolor),HairyWoodpeckerPicoides villosus),BlueJay ( Titmouse CardinalNorthern (Cardinaliscardinalis),Black-cappedChickadeePoecileatricapilla was highlycollaborativebetweenWalter andEde.Thefirstlistforconsiderationincluded The process ofselectingthebirds topaintandeventhemannerinwhichtheywere painted usually takentobeoneandthesamebird.” technical difference Pennsylvaniabutare ontheonepainting.BothspeciesoccurinEastern visualize anicecompositionofthetwopairs(practicallyalikespecies)whichwillshow Carolina Chickadee (Poecilecarolinensis)intheBlack-cappedChickadeepainting.Ican exploration inthisseries.Edewrote toWalter: “Iwouldwishyoutoconsiderincludingthe The first recommendation showedboth Walter andEde’s desire toincludeornithological execution, andontwooccasionsduringexecutionofapainting. be displayedoncanvaswasrefined overmonthsofcorrespondence priortotheseries commissioned workstothetenplatesWalter desired, thelistofbirds andhowtheywould Icterus galbula),andDownyWoodpecker (Picoidespubescens). Phasianus cochicus),White-breasted Nuthatch(Sittacarolinensis),Baltimore Oriole Cyanocitta cristata),CanadaGoose(BrantacanadensisGreat Owl(Bubo Horned 21 Walter replied positivelytothesuggestion,but 22

20 Inorder tokeepthe photographer's n ot e Verdin in Backlight Ede had painted both Hairy and Downy Woodpeckers for the 1964 exhibition and wished Photography is all about light, and to repeat the combination, but possibly predicting that Walter would not want a copy of the direction of that light has a the original, he assured him: “I visualize a much more dramatic composition for a new huge effect on the atmosphere of picture.”23 This too met with Walter’s approval. an image. When photographing Whereas much of their discussion was how to combine species into single paintings birds, I like experimenting with the in order to keep important species and to highlight their most distinct features, some effects of light from all different omissions became necessary. Ede suggested the removal of the Belted Kingfisher, as he directions to create a variety of did not think they would be common at Wynnewood. In a 1972 letter, Walter confirmed moods in my photographs, but he had seen them and recalled memories of bird watching in the Pocono Mountains of Pennsylvania: “Regarding the Kingfisher, I have already seen them around my property in backlighting is one of my favorites. Wynnewood but they are a handsome For this shot, I purposely chose my and exciting bird to watch along the position looking into this garden shoreline of a lake. My father had a large of flowering aloe almost directly estate up in the Pocono Mountains of Pennsylvania and I was ever fascinated toward the setting sun. When the watching the belted Kingfishers in Verdin (Auriparis flaviceps) came action….”24 Walter didn’t insist on and perched among these stems, their inclusion and they ultimately the pattern created was beautiful, disappeared from the list. and I knew I had a special image. Besides the lighting, another key to making this image work was using a very shallow depth of field to create the pattern of beautiful blurred highlights in the background.

Left THE BIRDS OF SUNNYLANDS Downey Woodpecker and Hairy Woodpecker. Woodpeckers, 1972 Basil Ede (1931 – 2016) Watercolor and gouache on paper Sunnylands Collection, 2009.1.10531.

Photo by Mark Davidson, 2018. FLIGHT PLAN: 49 50 FLIGHT PLAN: THE BIRDS OF SUNNYLANDS rush andirisatthe edgeofalakeattheestate. An adultmaleCommon Yellow Throat (Geothlypistrichas)perches onvarieties of Opposite Photo byMarkDavidson,2018. Sunnylands Collection,2009.1.10528. Watercolor andgouacheonpaper Basil Ede(1931–2016) Two ScreechOwls, 1972. Final paintingofScreech Owls. Right of theAmericanRobins,towhichEdecomplied. or completed.Thatwasarequest tobuildupthebreast feathersortoprovide a“fattening” the owls.There isonlyoneotherreference toanalterationofapaintingalready inprocess consulted Walter. outthat Walter Itturned preferred therufouscoloration,soEderepainted have twofeathercolorations—rufous/brown andgray. Edemadeachoice, buthehadnot of asecondrendering. Edefirstpaintedtheowlpairintheirgrayplumage.Theseowls Screech Owlthatendedupinthefinalcollectionwas The paintingoftheEastern result painting, Walter sentEdeanAudubonmagazinethatincludeda“spread” ofowls. in whichthebirds were represented. InMarch 1972,justpriortotheexecutionof that between Walter andEde,howstrongly Walter, asthecollector, feltabouttheway ScreechThe executionoftheEastern Owlpaintingexemplifiedtheclosecollaboration ScreechEastern Owl,thoughaltered, remained inthefinalcollection. explain thedisappearanceoflargerGreat Owlfrom Horned thelistwhilesmaller inches; theCanadaGoosewouldhavebeenoutofscalewithothers.Thismayalso though migrant,were notable.Thiscollectionwaspaintedoncanvasmeasuring25x20 scale onalargercanvas.Walter delayedmakingthatdecisionashethoughtthegeese, In regard totheCanadaGoose,hesuggestedthatcould,atalatertime,paintitintrue collections where he tookaccuratemeasurements andnoteddetailsnotvisibleinthefield. methods ofrecording usingbothdrawingsandphotography. Hethenvisitedornithological attributed tohispreference topaintinscale.Inextensivefieldstudies,Edecombined the mockingbirds were commonandgeesewere seasonal. Hissuggestionmayhavebeen Mockingbird (Mimuspolyglottos).ThiswasanothersuggestionbyEdewhoreasoned that Another omissionwastheCanadaGoose,whichreplaced bytheNorthern image oftheoriginalbefore alterationswere completedstillexist. they canberegarded asoneofourbestallies.” somewhat uncannyfeelofthesebirds... Theiractivitiesare ofimmensebenefittomanand replied thatitwas an“extraordinarily competentstudywhichmanagestocapture the 26 27 Thefinalpaintingwithalterationsandan 25 Ede Left Ede was aware that one bird Walter wanted on the list was his favorite bird at the A Christmas card with a British Ambassador’s residence in London—the Great Tit. Early in the commissioning process, Ede Great Tit created by Basil Ede for the Annenbergs. This bird was sent Walter a Christmas card of the bird with a background of Snowberry (Symphoricarpos Walter’s favorite to watch at the albus laevigatus). Walter replied that he intended to frame and display it. He did regret he bird feeder at Winfield House in would lose the thoughtful inscription from Ede and his wife, Mary. Walter wrote: “Not only London, England. do I like the Great Titmouse’s coloration and personality, but his grace of flight has a certain Great British Tit and Snowberry, 1971. style. Incidentally, he is one of the most vigorous of my feathered friends at the nut feeder Basil Ede (1931 – 2016) outside my dressing room window.”28 The variety of titmouse in Eastern Pennsylvania would Watercolor and gouache on paper Sunnylands Collection, 2009.1.4432. be the Tufted Titmouse. Per Ede’s recommendation it was ultimately painted with White- Photo by Mark Davidson, 2018. breasted Nuthatches. Some decisions were made to display ornithological differences, but in the case of the titmice and nuthatches, the decision was an artistic one. Ede suggested the “harmony of soft silvery and gray which I believe could make for an intriguing picture.”29 To this Walter agreed, but requested the addition of the Red-breasted Nuthatches (Sitta canadensis). According to the artist’s notes which accompanied each print, the “artist was able to make a more dramatic composition by carefully positioning the birds to create an illusion of living tension.”30

During the progress of the Pennsylvania series, Ede and Walter had conversations about the possibility of additional series. One would have focused on owls and one on the birds in the desert around Sunnylands. Though neither was commissioned by Walter, he expressed his gratitude for the Eastern Pennsylvania series: “May I also tell you how delighted I am with your water colors of my favorite birds; they shall always have an intimate relationship with me and will be a most handsome addition to my study in my home ‘Inwood,’ Wynnewood, Pennsylvania.”31

Their friendship encompassed decades of transatlantic correspondence and included conversations related to commissioned work, the sharing of natural history articles, discussions of art techniques for interpreting wildlife, business advice, and views on world events of their time. Ede appreciated being able to confide in Walter, asking for guidance in working with American magazine publishers and the general media as he promoted his paintings and books.

Below Opposite

An adult male Western Bluebird At Walter’s request, the Titmice appear with the THE BIRDS OF SUNNYLANDS (Sialia mexicana) perches on Nuthatches in the final painting seen here. an olive tree (Olea ssp.) at the Nuthatches and Two Titmice, 1972. Basil Ede (1931 – 2016) historic grounds. This species is Watercolor and gouache on paper commonly found hunting from tree Sunnylands Collection, 2009.1.10537.

groves on the edge of fairways. Photo by Mark Davidson, 2018. FLIGHT PLAN: 53 54 FLIGHT PLAN: THE BIRDS OF SUNNYLANDS pleasure from them.” House. Althoughtheplatesare earlyexamplesofmyworkIdohopeyouwillderive order toassistyouand Mrs.Annenberginidentifyingthebirds inthegardens ofWinfield youdomethehonourofacceptingthisspeciallyboundvolumein published works:“Will a more personalgift, acopyofthebookBirdsTown andVillage, containinghisfirst Walter forhistimeandbeingshowntheAnnenbergs’artcollection.Healsoincluded Walter’s positionasAmbassadortotheCourtofSt.James’s. correspondence was followedwithaletterandsalutation“Your Excellency,” whichreflected Photo byMarkDavidson, 2018. Sunnylands Collection, 2009.1.4434. Watercolor andgouacheonpaper Bluebird,December1973. Eastern Sunnylands Collection,2009.14433. Watercolor andgouacheonpaper Bald Eagle,December1972. Basil Ede. sent totheAnnenbergsby Two of the Christmas cards Right association withAmerica.” name, sir, issynonymouswiththewarmthandvitalityIhave been privilegedtoenjoyinmy do notforgetthosewhohavehonoured mewithfriendshipandhelpinthepast years.Your his work.HeagainthankedWalter forhissupport:“DespiteallthenewandexcitingeventsI Ede wrote to Walter inhisexcitementwhenHisRoyalHighnessPrincePhiliptookinterest in cards Bluebird featuringBald Eagle(Haliaeetusleucocephalus)andEastern Sialissialis). friendship continuedwithexchangesofChristmascards, includingEde’s hand-painted thefinalpaintingofRing-neckedPheasant,completedinOctober1972, With the distinctionyourworkcommands...[andis]treated inamajorway.” offered advice,reminding Edetobediscretionary andinsist“thecoveragemeasures upto The IllustratedLondonNewstodoafeature Pennsylvaniacollection,Walter on the Eastern great appreciation forWalter’s interest andsupportofhiswork.Inresponse toarequest by Correspondence soon became“DearBasil”and“MyDearest Walter.” Edealwaysshowed engagement where heshared acatalogofhis1971NewYork exhibition. correspondence. Inhisfirstletter, Edeaddressed Walter as“Sir,” inaprofessional The progression ofthisfriendship isexpressed clearlyinthesalutationsoftheir 34 36 33 Inthisletter, Edethanked 35 32 This eye stripe,andbright vermillionfeathersfrom whichitgets its name. Palo Verde (Parkinsoniax‘Desert Museum’),provides aclose-up viewofitsfacialrictalfeathers, dark This profile oftheadultmale Vermillion Flycatcher (Pyrocephalus rubinus),caughtwhileperched in a Opposite Photo byMarkDavidson,2018. Sunnylands Collection,2009.1.10526. Watercolor andgouacheonpaper Basil Ede(1931–2016) Two Pheasants,1972. in thesetcommissionedbyAnnenbergs. This imageofpheasantswasthefinalpaintingbyBasilEde Above

58 FLIGHT PLAN: THE BIRDS OF SUNNYLANDS was repainted inHongKongattheAnnenbergs’request. were planning. media aboutthequalityofrestoration worktheAnnenbergs whichhadbeenreportedto allayconcerns intheBritish restored wallpaperfrom theIrishCastle,Townley Hall,helped According toanarticle inMcCall’s magazine,thisselectionof view tovisitors. confident nature meansthey donothide,insteadoffering a close-up Roadrunners nest atSunnylandsCenter&Gardens andtheir shows thebrightlydisplayedeye stripebehindtheeyes. This profile ofaGreater Roadrunner(Geococcyxcalifornianus ) Previous pages,right eerie experienceforvisitorsand staff. hundreds, sittingopenwingedinthetree canopies andcreating an and eucalyptustorest. Inthelatewintertheycangatherin These largevultures usethehistoricestateanditstallpines An adultTurkey Vulture (Cathartesaura)glidesoverSunnylands. Previous pages,left with birds and flowerswasinstalledintheGarden Room. an eighteenthcentury, hand-paintedChinesewallpaper House,theAmbassador’sFor Winfield residence inLondon, House, thebackground isgreen. background colorof thewallpaperispink,whileatWinfield images ofbirds and plants.AtInwoodandatSunnylands,the the inclusionoffloor-to-ceiling, hand-paintedwallpaperwith with birds. One interiorfeature ofnoteatallthree estates is show rooms filled withimagesofnature, overwhelmingly House(theU.S.Ambassador’sWinfield residence inLondon) andestate), Sunnylands(theirwinterhomeinCalifornia), homes. Photosfrom Pennsylvania Inwood(theirEastern in flowersandgardens isexpressed inthedesignoftheir Walter’s interest inbirds andecologyLeonore’s interest OUTDOORS BIRDS INDOORS AND 38 Afterbeingcarefully removed, thewallpaper 37 39

photo byJohnCondax,July6,1979. Sunnylands Collection,2009.1.8124, home knownasInwood. the Annenbergs’Pennsylvania decoratedthewalls ofpattern Pink wallpaperwithafloral Above

American KestralAmerican ( little quick for extremely the birds. But water like and birds hawks for larger well pretty works which lens, held ahand- with air the through birds track is to actually first action shots. The to Iuse that these get approaches different acouple are there and flight in of birds beauty the I love capturing Kestrel Landing r e h p a r g oto h p his mark. his cooperated landed, and finally right on perch. Happily, he to particular this focused, to waited for and him return up, pre- Iframed was good, light the hunted. day he when One while trees afew favorite between around moved this Kestral on several as afternoons he watching been land. Ihad will it a place a bird’sobserve habits, and anticipate is which approach, second the used to focus. in I for them So shot get this that difficult, especially is extremely ' s

te ot n Falco sparvenus ), ), When Walter commissioned William Draper to reproduce his portrait as Ambassador to the Court of St. James’s, he also commissioned a portrait of Leonore to accompany it. Leonore’s portrait was painted in the Garden Room with the avian-themed wallpaper as background. In her hand she holds a carnation matching the one in Walter’s lapel. The two Draper portraits were hung at Inwood. When Inwood was sold in 2007 and Leonore settled in permanent residence at Sunnylands, she had the indoor pool room converted to what is now called the ‘Inwood Room.’ There she was able to appropriately incorporate one room that preserved the design references of Inwood, within the midcentury design of Sunnylands. In this room she displayed favorite pieces from the Pennsylvania house, including the Draper portraits, and on the walls, installed hand-painted wallpaper of birds and a bamboo forest.

When visitors arrive at Sunnylands through the historic entrance on Frank Sinatra Drive, the first two art pieces that come into view are a pair of Japanese cranes known as theMeiji Cranes, and the cast bronze and aluminum sculpture known as Birds of Welcome. The Birds of Welcome was commissioned in 1971 from Canadian sculptor, Art Price, and is one of three that were produced. The Annenbergs admired the original at Gander International Airport. Walter wrote to Price: “We contemplate placing your distinguished piece somewhere on the grounds in an appropriate manner that will indeed help to welcome our guests.”40 Walter stated he was impressed with the “spirit of it—a circular cluster of birds resembling ganders [male geese].”41

Opposite The pink hand-painted wallpaper at Sunnylands in the Inwood Room. Photo by Mark Davidson, 2018. Above

Walter and Leonore Annenberg in the Garden Room at Winfield House, London. THE BIRDS OF SUNNYLANDS Sunnylands Collection, 2009.1.5269, photographer unknown, date unknown. Right A bronze and aluminum sculpture, the Birds of Welcome can be seen as visitors approach the historic house on the main driveway.

Photo by Ken Hayden, 2014. FLIGHT PLAN: 61 62 FLIGHT PLAN: THE BIRDS OF SUNNYLANDS Photo byMarkDavidson, 2018. Sunnylands Collection, 2009.1.144. Needlework Royal SchoolofNeedlework House,dateunknown. Winfield flowers, andinitials. the couple’s favoritebirds, directed theartiststoinclude Annenbergs, andLeonore was commissionedbythe Houseneedlepoint The Winfield Right within everylevelofdesigndetailwasalsoreflected byLeonore inaninterviewwith This desire tohavebirds andflowers, handselectedbytheAnnenbergs,andincorporated My husbandiskeenlyinterested inbirds.” Cardinal,and [Northern] withBlack-eyedSusans(Rudbeckiahirta)LupinesLupinus). ( withCowslipsbirds andflowers—on theleft,Eurasianjay(Garrulusglandarius)andTit, We hadtheborder workedwithourinitialsandtheAmericanseal,favourite own sketches...Theviewisthebackofhouse,withtrellis, lookingoverthegarden. almost asneatthefront. Isentthemphotographs,andtheirartistcametomakeher me atapestry. Theworktookaboutfivemonths,anditisbeautifullydone—theback give tomychildren and grandchildren, soIaskedtheRoyalSchoolofNeedleworktomake the housepaintedbyFelixKelly, butIwantedanotherremembrance ofouryearshere to regarding House:“Ihadaviewof hercommissioningofaneedlepointdepictingWinfield as itdidtheirlandscapedesign. selection ofartobjectsasmuch singular viewthatinformedtheir sculpted versions,sharinga themselves withpaintedand their homestheysurrounded for chancebird sightings. Inside grounds theycarried binoculars surroundings. Whenoutonthe flowers andbirds throughout their preferences inincorporating their awareness ofeachother’s both Walter andLeonore express In interviewsandcorrespondence Primula veris)andDogRoses(Rosacanina),ontheright,American[Northern]Flicker 42

Vogue

the action in a unique way. action aunique in the of capturing job the does it I think was but that any good, frame one this just was There images. of burst a off fire and to nicely him follow to Iwas able me, and perpendicular ran bird the when shot this got I afew tries, to After frame. the eyethe relation move in doesn’t so shot tracking precise a requires which sharp, reasonably be must bird’s the eyethat, at aminimum, key to is for shot the thing work The effect. to create blurred this and panned with the bird running of 1/30 sec., speed shutter slow movement. To a Iused this, do rapid ofconveyed their asense to idea thatthe create image an Ihad at Sunnylands, grounds the their thing, chasing prey small on ( As Iwatched Greater Roadrunners tack-sharp, time. in frozen moment have not to does a be image every birds in a still photograph, and ways to interpret different are There Roadrunner Blur r e h p a r g oto h p Geococcyx californianusGeococcyx ' s

te ot n ) doing doing )

66 FLIGHT PLAN: THE BIRDS OF SUNNYLANDS other garden experiences.” environment thatwasnotonlybeautifulbutalsofascinating,tooffer anexperienceunlike settings, delightinginthediversesmellsandsightsof desert. Ourgoalwastocraftan envisioned SunnylandsGardens asaplacewhere visitorscouldtraverseavarietyofsensory book, withhowthevisitorwouldexperience thenewCenter&Gardens.concerned Inthe as theidealclientwhotrustedhisjudgment,butalsochallenged him.Shewasvery thelandscapearchitectBurnett, whodesignedtheGardens. describedLeonore Burnett Leonore shared hervisionofwhattheCenter&Gardens should offer visitorswithJames birds thatwere residing inormigratingthrough theestate. made lakes,connectedbystreams. Thesedecisions,inpart,provided fortheneedsof sand ecosystem.Italsorequired water, made availablethrough thecreation ofthirteenman- creation ofapark-like oasiswithturfandtrees tomasktheharshnessofnativeblow- aesthetic ofthe1960s,asanctuaryindesertmeanttransformation.Itrequired the Walter usedtheterm“sanctuary”asacommondescriptorforwhatheenvisioned.In design whichreflects withcreating theAnnenbergs’concern “experience.” aesthetic, thehistoricgrounds andtheCenter&Gardens are connectedbyaphilosophyof to thehistoricestateanddesertlandscapeatCenter&Gardens. Thoughdifferent in of Sunnylands,shares another partofthelandscapenarrative—thedesire forbird visitation history, includingplantingdecisionsandoriginalintent.Thisexhibition, and constructionoftheestateinaculturallandscapereport. Itprovided thelandscape Architecture assembledthehistoricarchitectural plans andcorrespondence forthedesign During the2010-2011restoration oftheestate,landscapeexpertsatCMGLandscape by engaginganictitating membrane,whichisasemi-transparent innereyelid. jamaicensis) whilefullydisplaying therarely seenred crown. Thehawkprotects hiseyes A Western Kingbird (Tyrannus verticalis)peckingthehead oftheRed-tailedHawk(Buteo Previous pages,right inevitable. ( This Red-tailedHawk(Buteojamaicensis ) isbeingdrivenoff byanadultWesternKingbird Previous pages,left MAINTAINING SANCTUARY TODAY Tyrannus verticalis).Bothnestonthehistoricestate, sothesetypesofconflictsare , Burnett reflectsArt andNature:TheGardensofSunnylands,Burnett ontheproject: “We 43 Flight Plan:TheBirds Photo bySibylleAllgaier, 2018. Aerial ofhistoric property and Center&Gardens. Opposite A pairofRing-neckedDucks(Aythya collaris) relaxing onalakeat theestate. Above The Trust updated maintenance practices and instituted a new green vision to allow the estate to be utilized as an environmental laboratory, including practices to reduce the chemical load on the property. These included experimenting with integrated pest management techniques and a new philosophy of managing olive trees. Instead of restricting olive tree production with chemical fruit suppressants, the more than 600 historic olive trees are allowed to produce olives which are harvested for the production of Sunnylands Olive Oil.

An aggressive reduction in water use was accomplished without compromising the aesthetic of the estate. Healthy groundwater is maintained through participation in the Groundwater Guardian Green Site program44 and monitoring of aquatic macro-invertebrates in lakes and streams. Because human access to Sunnylands is limited, the quiet of the estate offers a welcoming respite to wildlife and still provides water access for resident and migrating birds traveling the Pacific Flyway. Some pass through, while others including Red-tailed Hawks (Buteo jamaicensis) and Great Horned Owls, nest on the estate each year.

Left A view of the Gardens to the east of the Center with Mt. San Jacinto in the background.

Photo by Millicent Harvey, 2018. THE BIRDS OF SUNNYLANDS Above As part of Sunnylands' commitment to environmental responsibility, staff created a Opposite makeshift nest for an owlet, fallen from a tree, to provide a secure space where the An adult Turkey Vulture (Cathartes aura) basks in the canopy adult Great Horned Owls could care for it.

of an olive tree (Olea ssp.) at the historic grounds. Photo by Michaeleen Gallagher, July 19, 2015. FLIGHT PLAN: 69 70 FLIGHT PLAN: THE BIRDS OF SUNNYLANDS the historyofWalter andLeonore’s traveling thePacificFlyway.Tim Laman,the Through thephotographs of Trust nowshares continues asSunnylandstodayprovides forbirds, bothresident speciesandthose the Annenbergsindesigningandcultivatingahabitatwelcoming tobirds. Thelegacy The Trust’s collectionofcorrespondence andinterviewsexposedthedeepinterest of artistic detail. biology andphotographythatallowshimtocapture thevividcolorandform ofbirds with through paint.Likewise,Lamanwaschosenbecauseofhiscombinedexperience in Ede waschosenbecauseofhisprecision detail andexpertiseincapturingornithological and BasilEdetocapture Walter’s favoritebirdsPennsylvania. inEastern is reminiscent oftherelationship cultivatedbetweenWalter Annenberg The Trust’s Lamanforthisphoto-documentationproject selectionofTim in thefuture ofthisspecial place. vision andintent,whileproviding forthepublic’s educationandinclusion history andsomuchproperty inawaythatpreserves theAnnenbergs’ be madetoresponsibly manageanestatethatencompassessomuch crucial formaintainingdiversityofnativespecies.Decisionswillhaveto of thissizeare rare intherapidlydevelopingCoachellaValley, butare encompasses alargeholdingofblow-sanddesertecosystem.Parcels The undevelopedacreage around theestateandCenter&Gardens ( californianus), Costa’s Hummingbird (Calyptecostae),Bewick’s Wren provide forbirds andpollinatorslikeGreater Roadrunner ( and mesquitetrees. Allare desertnativesorarid-adaptedspeciesthat varieties ofcactus,agave,andaloeplantedunderacanopypaloverde more than80species ofplants.Thespecies,mostlysucculents,include administrative campusintroduced over64,000specimensrepresenting The additionof32acres ofdesertlandscapeattheCenter&Gardens and Sunnylands byallowingnaturalwildlifeinteraction. estate. Thisprogram helpsmaintainthehealthofecosystemsat adopted aCoyoteCoexistencePlanthatallowscoyotestoaccessthe Hospitality doesnotstopwiththebird communityastheTrust also Thryomanes bewickii),andmanymigratingsongbirds.Thryomanes Flight Planandthebirds ofSunnylandswiththepublic. Geococcyx at boththeestate andSunnylandsCenter&Gardens. A juvenileCooper’s Hawk(Accipitercooperii)glidesacross theestate. They canoftenbeseenhunting Opposite Photo bySibylleAllgaier, 2018. Aerial ofhistoricproperty. Above SUNNYLANDS BIRD LIST Annotated list as of April 2018 (by common name), following National Geographic format45

DUCKS & GEESE HERONS & BITTERNS GULLS Greater White-fronted Goose – uncommon migrant/winter visitor American Bittern – rare migrant to ponds Ring-billed Gull – fairly common migrant/winter visitor to ponds Least Bittern – rare migrant to ponds California Gull – uncommon migrant/winter visitor Snow Goose – uncommon migrant/winter visitor to ponds Great Blue Heron – fairly common resident/winter visitor Canada Goose – uncommon resident, sometimes flying over or on to ponds TERNS ponds Snowy Egret – fairly common migrant/winter resident Caspian Tern – uncommon visitor to ponds Wood Duck – uncommon migrant/winter visitor to ponds on ponds Mallard – common resident on ponds Great Egret – common migrant/winter resident on ponds PIGEONS & DOVES Gadwall – uncommon migrant/winter visitor to ponds Green Heron – fairly common migrant/winter resident on ponds/ Rock Pigeon – uncommon resident of area American Wigeon – common migrant/winter visitor streams near main house White-winged Dove – fairly common summer resident to ponds Black-crowned Night-Heron – uncommon migrant/winter resident Eurasian Collared-dove – uncommon resident of the area Eurasian Wigeon – rare winter visitor/migrant to ponds on ponds/streams Mourning Dove – fairly common on grounds Northern Shoveler – uncommon migrant/winter visitor to ponds IBISES ROADRUNNERS Cinnamon Teal – uncommon migrant/winter visitor to ponds White-faced Ibis – uncommon migrant/winter visitor to ponds Greater Roadrunner – uncommon permanent resident Canvasback – uncommon migrant/winter visitor to ponds Redhead – uncommon migrant/winter visitor to ponds NEW WORLD VULTURES OWLS Ring-necked Duck – common migrant/winter visitor Turkey Vulture – common migrant, roosts in large trees Barn Owl – fairly common permanent resident to ponds Great Horned Owl – fairly common permanent resident of the area Lesser Scaup – uncommon migrant/winter visitor to ponds HAWKS Bufflehead – uncommon migrant/winter visitor to ponds Cooper’s Hawk – common resident, nests in large trees GOATSUCKERS Common Goldeneye – rare migrant/winter visitor to ponds Sharp-shinned Hawk – uncommon winter visitor Lesser Nighthawk – fairly common summer resident of the area Ruddy Duck – common migrant/winter visitor to ponds Red-shouldered Hawk – common resident, prefers to nest Common Merganser – uncommon winter visitor/migrant in Eucalyptus SWIFTS to ponds Red-tailed Hawk – fairly common resident of open areas Vaux’s Swift – uncommon migrant, especially in spring Red-breasted Merganser – uncommon winter visitor/migrant Swainson’s Hawk – rare migrant, spring and fall White-throated Swift – uncommon resident of the area to ponds Northern Harrier – uncommon migrant, spring or fall HUMMINGBIRDS GREBES FALCONS Costa’s Hummingbird – most common resident in the Gardens Pied-billed Grebe – fairly common permanent resident on ponds Prairie Falcon – uncommon resident of the area Black-chinned Hummingbird – uncommon in summer Eared Grebe – uncommon migrant/ winter visitor to ponds American Kestrel – common resident of the area Anna’s Hummingbird – fairly common resident on the golf course Western Grebe – uncommon migrant/winter visitor to ponds Rufous Hummingbird – uncommon migrant, spring and fall COOTS CORMORANTS American Coot – common resident on ponds KINGFISHERS Double-crested Cormorant – fairly common migrant/winter visitor Belted Kingfisher– uncommon migrant/winter visitor to ponds PLOVERS Killdeer – fairly common resident on open grassy or WOODPECKERS PELICANS gravelly areas Northern Flicker – common migrant/winter resident of golf course American White Pelican – uncommon migrant/winter visitor Ladder-backed Woodpecker – uncommon resident of the area to ponds SANDPIPERS Nuttall’s Woodpecker – uncommon resident of the area

Spotted Sandpiper – uncommon migrant THE BIRDS OF SUNNYLANDS

Opposite Multiple species of migrating ducks bask on this lake in view of the historic house at Sunnylands. Eighteen species of ducks and geese

have been seen on the lakes at the estate. FLIGHT PLAN: 73 TYRANT FLYCATCHERS VERDINS TOWHEES, SPARROWS & JUNCOS Olive-sided Flycatcher – uncommon migrant Verdin – common resident, especially near the Center Abert’s Towhee – uncommon resident in the Gardens Western Wood-Pewee – fairly common migrant Spotted Towhee – uncommon migrant and winter resident Willow Flycatcher – uncommon spring migrant BUSHTITS Chipping Sparrow – fairly common migrant/winter resident Pacific-slope Flycatcher– fairly common spring migrant Bushtit – rare winter visitor Brewer’s Sparrow – uncommon migrant/winter resident Black Phoebe – common resident near water or grassy areas Savannah Sparrow – fairly common migrant/winter resident Say’s Phoebe – fairly common resident on open areas such as the WRENS Song Sparrow – uncommon migrant golf course Bewick’s Wren – common resident in the Gardens Lincoln’s Sparrow – uncommon migrant/winter resident Vermilion Flycatcher – fairly common resident, especially in winter Rock Wren – uncommon migrant/visitor Lark Sparrow – uncommon migrant/winter resident on the golf course near the ponds House Wren – uncommon migrant and winter resident White-crowned Sparrow – common migrant/winter resident Brown-crested Flycatcher – very rare migrant Cactus Wren – uncommon resident of the area Dark-eyed Junco – uncommon winter visitor Ash-throated Flycatcher – uncommon migrant, spring or fall Cassin’s Kingbird – uncommon spring migrant and winter resident KINGLETS CARDINALS & BUNTINGS Western Kingbird – fairly common summer resident in large trees Ruby-crowned Kinglet – common migrant and winter resident Summer Tanager – uncommon migrant, possible summer resident Western Tanager – fairly common migrant SHRIKES GNATCATCHERS Black-headed Grosbeak – fairly common spring migrant Loggerhead Shrike – uncommon resident Black-tailed Gnatcatcher – uncommon resident, prefers Blue Grosbeak – uncommon migrant creosote and palo verde trees Lazuli Bunting – fairly common migrant, especially in spring VIREOS Bell’s Vireo – uncommon migrant and possible summer nester THRUSHES MEADOWLARKS & ORIOLES Cassin’s Vireo – uncommon spring migrant Western Bluebird – mainly a migrant and winter visitor Western Meadowlark – uncommon migrant Warbling Vireo – fairly common spring migrant Hermit Thrush – uncommon migrant and winter visitor Bullock’s Oriole – fairly common migrant Hooded Oriole – fairly common migrant/summer visitor CORVIDS MOCKINGBIRDS Brown-headed Cowbird – fairly common resident California Scrub-Jay – uncommon spring visitor Northern Mockingbird – common resident in trees and shrubs American Crow – fairly common resident, especially around FINCHES main house STARLINGS House Finch – common resident Common Raven – common resident of area European Starling – fairly common resident of the area Lesser Goldfinch– fairly common resident Lawrence’s Goldfinch– uncommon-to-rare visitor LARKS WAXINGS American Goldfinch– rare migrant or winter visitor Horned Lark – uncommon winter visitor Cedar Waxwing – uncommon migrant and winter resident SPARROWS SWALLOWS WOOD-WARBLERS House Sparrow – Introduced species, fairly common resident of Northern Rough-winged Swallow – uncommon migrant and Orange-crowned Warbler – fairly common migrant/winter the area summer resident of area resident Barn Swallow – fairly common spring migrant Nashville Warbler – uncommon migrant MacGillivray’s Warbler – rare migrant CHICKADEES Yellow Warbler – fairly common migrant and possible Mountain Chickadee – uncommon migrant/winter visitor summer resident Black-throated Gray Warbler – uncommon migrant

Hermit Warbler – uncommon spring migrant THE BIRDS OF SUNNYLANDS Opposite Townsend’s Warbler – uncommon spring migrant A Great Egret (Ardea alba) hunting in a lake at Yellow-rumped Warbler – common migrant and winter resident the historic grounds. Lakes are stocked with fish Wilson’s Warbler – fairly common migrant including bass, bluegill, and catfish, providing

hunting opportunities for many bird species. FLIGHT PLAN: 75 76 FLIGHT PLAN: THE BIRDS OF SUNNYLANDS 45 44 43 42 41 40 39 38 37 36 35 34 33 32 31 30 29 28 27 26 25 24 23 22 21 20 19 18 17 16 15 14 13 12 11 10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 ENDNOTES

Dunn,JonL.and Alderfer, Jonathan,FieldGuidetothe BirdsofNorthAmerica(Washington, D.C.:National Geographic,2006). Thismaterialwasreproducedfrom groundwater.org withthepermission ofTheGroundwaterFoundation.© AllRightsReserved. “Gardens ArtandNature:TheGardensatSunnylands JamesBurnett, Vision,” HouseinStitches,”Vogue “Mrs.AnnenbergHasWinfield Magazine,(February1974):92–93. Walter AnnenbergtoRufousSmith,March 2009.1.100. 18,1971, SunnylandsCollection,RanchoMirage,California, Walter 2009.1.100. AnnenbergtoArtPrice,February4,1971,SunnylandsCollection, RanchoMirage,California, “Townley Hall:FrancisJohnston’s ClassicalMasterpiece,”Townley Hall,http://www.townleyhall.ie/history.pdf. StephenBirmingham,“TheFallandRiseofWalter Annenberg,”McCall’s Magazine,(June1970):75–77. HouseinStitches,”Vogue “Mrs.AnnenbergHasWinfield Magazine,(February1974):92–93. BasilEdetoWalter 2009.1.4255. Annenberg,November 30,1977,SunnylandsCollection,RanchoMirage,California, Walter 2009.1.4255. AnnenbergtoBasilEde,December 14,1972,SunnylandsCollection,RanchoMirage,California, BasilEdetoWalter 2009.1.4255. Annenberg,September 28,1971,SunnylandsCollection,RanchoMirage,California, BasilEdetoWalter 2009.1.4255. Annenberg,September 28,1971,SunnylandsCollection,RanchoMirage,California, BasilEdetoWalter 2009.1.4255. Annenberg,September 21,1971,SunnylandsCollection,RanchoMirage,California, Walter 2009.1.4255. AnnenbergtoBasilEde,November 17,1972,SunnylandsCollection,RanchoMirage,California, BasilEde,artist’s 2009.1.4255. notes,November15,1972,SunnylandsCollection,RanchoMirage,California, BasilEdetoWalter Annenberg,March 2009.1.4255. 8,1972,SunnylandsCollection,RanchoMirage, California, Walter 2009.1.4255. AnnenbergtoBasilEde,December 14,1971,SunnylandsCollection,RanchoMirage,California, BasilEdetoWalter 2009.1.4255. Annenberg,November 15,1972,SunnylandsCollection,RanchoMirage,California, BasilEdetoWalter 2009.1.4255. Annenberg,April1,1972,SunnylandsCollection,RanchoMirage,California, Walter AnnenbergtoBasilEde,March2009.1.4255. 27,1972,SunnylandsCollection,RanchoMirage,California, Walter AnnenbergtoBasilEde,March2009.1.4255. 9,1972,SunnylandsCollection,RanchoMirage,California, BasilEdetoWalter Annenberg,March2009.1.4255. 8,1972,SunnylandsCollection,RanchoMirage,California, Walter AnnenbergtoBasilEde,March2009.1.4255. 6,1972,SunnylandsCollection,RanchoMirage,California, BasilEdetoWalter Anneberg,March2009.1.4255. 4,1972,SunnylandsCollection,RanchoMirage,California, BasilEdetoWalter 2009.1.4255. Annenberg,November16,1971,SunnylandsCollection,RanchoMirage,California, Walter 2009.1.4255. AnnenbergtoBasilEde,November30,1971,SunnylandsCollection,RanchoMirage,California, Walter 2009.1.4255. AnnenbergtoBasilEde,October1,1971,SunnylandsCollection,RanchoMirage,California, BirdsofAmerica:TheArtBasilEde,(HarryN.Abrams,Inc.,1991),Foreword. BasilEde,Wild Artist,”March 2014,http://www.basilede.com. “BasilEde,BritishWildlife S.DillonRipleytoWalter 2009.1.4208. Annenberg,December30,1986,SunnylandsCollection,RanchoMirage,California, Walter AnnenbergtoS.DillonRipley, 2009.1.4208. May27,1986,SunnylandsCollection,RanchoMirage,California, S.DillonRipleytoWalter 2009.1.4208. Annenberg,May7,1986,SunnylandsCollection,RanchoMirage,California, S.DillonRipleytoWalter 2009.1.4208. Annenberg,December30,1976,SunnylandsCollection,RanchoMirage,California, Walter AnnenbergtoS.DillonRipley, 2009.1.4208. January19,1977,SunnylandsCollection,RanchoMirage,California, Ibid,2009.1.4195. Walter 2009.1.4195. AnnenbergtoConradHilton,January4,1956,SunnylandsCollection,RanchoMirage,California, “2017NationalWater QualityInventoryReporttoCongress,” UnitedStatesEnvironmental Protection Agency, https://www.epa.gov/waterdata/2017-national-water-quality-inventory-report-congress. Walter 2009.1.3025. AnnenbergtoGeorgeHarrison,May4,1977,SunnylandsCollection,RanchoMirageCalifornia, A.QuincyJonestoWalter 2009.1.1009. Annenberg,September16,1963,SunnylandsCollection,RanchoMirage,California, Walter 2009.1.3941. AnnenbergtoA.QuincyJones,July26,1963,SunnylandsCollection,RanchoMirage,California, A.QuincyJones,AnnenbergResidence,1963,DepartmentofSpecialCollections,CharlesE.Young Research Library, LosAngeles. UniversityofCalifornia, Walter AnnenbergtoDr. 2009.1.3941. ArthurA.Allen,May20,1963,SunnylandsCollection, RanchoMirage,California, Ibid,2009.1.3941. Walter 2009.1.3941. AnnenbergtoA.QuincyJones,May20,1963,SunnylandsCollection,RanchoMirage,California, , JaniceLyle, (Annenberg FoundationTrust, 2014). An adultmaleMallard (Analplatyrhynchos ) onalakeatthe estate. Opposite 78 FLIGHT PLAN: THE BIRDS OF SUNNYLANDS the beautifulnaturallightofSunnylands. any strobes or artificiallighting.Alltheimageswere madewith frames asstillimagesforthegalleryandcatalogue.Ineverused right conditions,Isometimesshotvideo,andselectedindividual the image),isevenhigherthanmystillcamera,andsounder resolution ofthe REDcamera,atupto8K(8000pixelsacross Sachtler tripodandvideoheadwiththecamera.Thehigh camera hand-heldoronamono-pod,butIalwaysusedlarge mounted tothetwocameras.IoftenshotwithCanon two lenses,oftenwithadditional1.4or2xconverters,always the Canon400f2.8and200-400f4withbuilt-in1.4xconverter. Ihadthese used aREDEpic-Wcamera.ThetwomainlensesIforallthebird photographywere two camerasready atalltimes.Forstills,IusedaCanon1DXMarkII,andforvideo, wasn’t Sincemygoalfortheproject aconcern. wastoshootbothstillsandvideo,Ikept allowing metomovefreely around thelandscapewhilekeepingeverythinghandysoweight wildlife photographertohaveagolfcartIcouldloadupwithcameragearandtripods, I usedtwomaincamerasystemsforthisproject. Itwasauniquesituationformeas EQUIPMENT PHOTOGRAPHIC ON NOTES Photo byMarkDavidson, 2017. Lamanatworkonthe Sunnylandsbird project.Photographer Tim Above andopposite 80 FLIGHT PLAN: THE BIRDS OF SUNNYLANDS the project. other Sunnylandsstaff withherenthusiasmfor director ofcollectionsandexhibitions,whoinspired Mary Velez, seniorarthandler;andAnne Rowe, librarian andarchivist; ZulmaTrejo, photoarchivist; Kacey Donner, collectionsassistant;FrankLopez, department wasparticularlyengagedinthisproject: The Sunnylandscollectionsandexhibitions quality ofthebook’s text. and CarlaBreer Howard, copyeditor, ensured the coordinator. Ashley Santana,communicationseditor, and DanielleSombati,educationprograms from IvonneMirandaCorrea, bilingualartspecialist, served ascuratoroftheexhibitionwithassistance with birds. Shewrote theessayforthisbookand the historyofAnnenbergsandtheirloveaffair environmental programs, minedthearchives towrite Michaeleen Gallagher, director ofeducationand Sunnylands, alsogaveencouragementandadvice. president ofTheAnnenbergFoundationTrust at and Gregory AnnenbergWeingarten. DavidJ.Lane, Elizabeth Sorensen, CharlesAnnenbergWeingarten, Deshong III,Leonore Deshong,ElizabethKabler, Annenberg, Lauren Bon,DianeDeshong,Howard this exhibitionandpublication.Trustees are Wallis Trust atSunnylandsprovided generous supportfor The board oftrusteesTheAnnenbergFoundation success ofthisproject. there are manypeopletothankfortheirrole inthe As withsomanyexhibitionandpublicationprojects, Acknowledgments

catalog forFlightPlan:TheBirdsofSunnylands . many contributionsthatresulted intheexhibitionand Our gratitudegoestoallthese professionals fortheir to hisknowledgeofbirds andhisartistictalent. years toSunnylands.Thephotographsare atestament photographs thathetookduringhiseighttripsovertwo would nothavebeenpossiblewithouttheextraordinary We are Laman.Thisexhibition profoundly gratefultoTim Frank Sterrett. Leuschner, Karen Nelson,JaneOlson,PhilParker, and of theSunnylandsbird listincludeMarkLeggett,Kurt archives. Expertbirders whoassistedinthedevelopment gave permissiontoreproduce imagesfrom theirfamily Phillip EdeandHillary, Jones Michael,andTimothy by RobinRoutandJohnCrummayofJCRRDesign. special photographs.Thiscatalogwasexpertlydesigned Davidson Photography, andMillicentHarveyprovided and SibylleAllgaierofHeliphoto,MarkDavidson Lighting designerGeoff Korfcontributedlightingadvice provided thesmartexhibitiondesignandinstallation. Projekts inLosAngelesanddesignerKarinaWhite made importantcontributions:KamilBeskiof In addition,severaloutsideindividualsandorganizations the exhibition. department addedtheirexpertiseinmarketing ofthecommunicationsSusan Davis,andEricOrnelas team whoprepared theexhibitionspace.KenChavez, Reeske, DavidMontoya,andLaloDeLeonofthefacilities were PatTruchan, director ofoperations,andMike Additional Sunnylandsstaff whohelpedwiththeproject Director, SunnylandsCenter&Gardens Janice Lyle, Ph.D.,Editor

beak onaMesquite branch(Prosopishybrid). Hummingbird (Calyptecostae ) cleaningher A beautifulsilhouette ofafemaleCosta’s