Volume 52, Number 9 July-August 2008 ISSN 1094-9909 VermilionFlycatcher Tucson Audubon Society www.tucsonaudubon.org Leaders in Conservation & Education since 1949

Inside this issue

12 Audubon Afield 16 Audubon Nature Shops 10 Birdathon Wrap-up 31 Business Members 20 Conservation Update 2 Director’s Perch 19 Education News 4 Events & Classes 5 Field Trips & Carpooling 22 Important Bird Areas 14 Moving to Mastery 3 President’s Perspective 24 Sleeping with the Elves 18 State Trust Land Reform 30 Thanks! 26 Travel Opportunities The San Pedro Riparian National Conservation Area. Courtesy John Hoffman. 4 Tucson Area Birding 23 Urban Birds 31 Wishes The State of Our Lands The Vermilion Flycatcher is published monthly by Paul Green, Executive Director except for combined May–June, July–August, and December–January issues. For address changes or subscription problems call 629.0757, or write to We all understand that the birds we enjoy seeking and watching depend upon habitat to Membership Coordinator, Tucson Audubon, 300 E. support them. We also know many areas of greatest value to wildlife, both in private and public University Blvd., #120, Tucson, AZ 85705. Submissions for the September issue are due ownership, are directly threatened by development for housing and extractive uses such as mining. August 1. Please send submissions as Microsoft Our lands are also indirectly threatened by over-pumping of groundwater, reducing both the quantity Word or RTF documents, or plain text files, to Matt Griffiths at [email protected]. and the quality of water available to maintain wildlife habitat. You may know that throughout our Coordinator, Matt Griffiths 206-9900 region there are a number of programs that seek to identify, prioritize, and conserve areas that Proofreaders, Jane & Warren Tisdale 749-2139 support habitats which are most important for birds and other wildlife: The Sonoran Desert Layout Editor, Julie St. John Conservation Plan is one crucial element; our Important Bird Areas program is another. These programs enable us to focus our conservation dollars on the areas with the greatest biological Take Beautiful significance. Quality of Life nature photos: The current slump in housing demand has led to a decline in the price of land. While this might make land more affordable for the conservation buyer, we must remember that developers think in long time-frames, buying land now for development 20 years down the road. Even today, greenfield Take our free sites (those construction sites that are created out of undisturbed natural areas with high value to wildlife) are being bladed while brownfield sites (construction sites created from former industrial or commercial uses that can be reused) in downtown Tucson remain undeveloped. class August 5! So…what can you do today to help preserve more land for wildlife and for our own quality of life? How can we encourage our elected representatives to think more about creating the kind of See page 4 for details! community that will attract and retain the young and educated citizens who they say they want to continued page 15 Tucson Audubon Society is dedicated to improving the quality of Director’s Perch Paul Green, Executive Director the environment by providing education, A little ‘edication’ We know that we need conservation, and recreation programs, to be teaching teachers. environmental leadership, and information. If you’ve read T.H. White’s book The Once and King, you may recall that the Teaching decision Tucson Audubon is a non-profit volunteer makers is also critical. organization of people with a common Wart (the future King Arthur) receives his interest in birding and . edication by being transformed into a Planning and zoning Tucson Audubon maintains offices, a library series of birds and other animals, commission members and nature shops in Tucson, the proceeds of experiencing their lives firsthand. What an in our counties and which benefit all of its programs. education that would be! Imagine being a members of the boards of supervisors may be Tucson Audubon Society Gilded Flicker or a Cactus Ferruginous elected, but they may 300 E. University Blvd. #120, Tucson, AZ 85705 Pygmy-Owl in Tucson, and coming to 629-0510 (voice) or 623-3476 (fax) terms with the challenges to their survival not have the background to assess complex All phone numbers are area code 520 unless otherwise stated that they face daily. So what is education in ecological consequences of their actions. www.tucsonaudubon.org the real world? Strictly speaking, and in We can help. Board Officers & Committees general terms, it’s the teaching and learning One of our partners is the Sonoran Joint Messages 622-5622 of knowledge, proper conduct, and Venture (SJV), a diverse partnership of President Herb Trossman technical competency. It focuses on the organizations and individuals from the Vice President Mich Coker cultivation of skills, trades or professions, southwestern United States and Secretary Robert Merideth as well as mental, moral and aesthetic Treasurer Tom Rehm northwestern Mexico, sharing a development. Conservation Chris McVie, Development Sandy Elers, commitment to the conservation of birds Education Cynthia Pruett, Finance Tom Rehm, For Tucson Audubon, it is environmental and their habitats in the area. The SJV aims Nominating Robert Merideth education that engages us. We endeavor to to integrate the activities of regional, Vacant: Community Presence teach about how our natural environments national, and international bird Additional Directors at Large: Clark Blake, Mary Kay function and, particularly, how we can conservation plans and programs into a Eiermann, Sandy Elers, Julie Gordon, Linda single strategic effort that will address the Greene, Craig Marken, Robert Mesta, Liz Payne, manage our behavior and ecosystems in Susan Randolph, Bill Roe, Jessie Shinn, Linda order to live sustainably. As such, education unique regional bird conservation needs of Stitzer, Bob Wenrick is a key tool in ensuring proper the region. Programs & Activities conservation of our natural areas. The SJV puts Tucson Audubon’s education Field Trips Darlene Smyth 297-2315 For a core group within Tucson Audubon and conservation efforts into a broader Library David West 629-0510 right now education is a topic of vigorous context. The Executive Director of the SJV, Membership Meetings Vivian MacKinnon 629-0757 Robert Mesta, is based in our building, and Rare Bird Alert John Yerger 798-1005 and often perplexing discussion. As a tool Report Rare Birds 798-1005 to achieve our conservation goals, who he sits on the Tucson Audubon Board, and should we be teaching? What should we be Tucson Audubon has a seat on the SJV Staff teaching? What messages should we be board. The Environment Education Executive Director Paul Green 777-9525 Exchange which provides programs and Operations Manager Michael Monyak 629-0757 promoting? How should we get those Operations Support Specialist Chris Harrison 629-0757 messages across? We’ll report on our services to advance environmental literacy Education Program Manager Carrie Dean 622-2230 conclusions in due course. in the U.S. and Mexico is also based in our Membership Development Manager building, so we are well placed to receive Vivian MacKinnon 629-0757 Our planning discussions are an exercise in expert advice. Membership Coordinator Jean Barchman 622-5622 IBA Conservation Biologist Scott Wilbor 628-1730 providing clarity and integration. The Restoration Program Mgr. Kendall Kroesen 206-9900 ultimate goal of education is to conserve An inconvenient pet Field Supervisor Rodd Lancaster 256-6909 natural areas for wildlife; so there needs to Education can be a great bridge builder Restoration Specialist Matthew Griffiths 206-9900 be an intimate link between education and too. Some weeks ago, following the Mason Outreach Coordinator Lia Sansom 971-6238 University Shop Manager Sara Pike 622-2230 conservation within Tucson Audubon. adoption of Tucson Audubon’s resolution Assistant Shop Manager Heather Hatch 622-2230 on cats (see the conservation section of our Agua Caliente Shop Mgr. Becky Aparicio 760-7881 Partners are key website), I met with representatives of the We are a small organization operating cat welfare groups in Tucson to explore Nature Shops within a rich nexus of other conservation- Tucson Audubon Nature Shop whether we share any common ground. 300 E. University Blvd. #120 629-0510 focused organizations, and part of our What was our conclusion? Cat welfare Hours: Monday–Saturday, 10a.m.–4p.m. planning task is to determine on what groups and Tucson Audubon agree on just (10a.m.–5p.m. Monday & Thursday); closed Sunday issues we should take the lead, what we about every detail about managing cats, 623-3476 fax / 622-2230 Shop Manager should work on with partners who lead, with the exception of the release of Tucson Audubon at Agua Caliente and where we should simply provide neutered feral cats back into natural areas. Roy P. Drachman Agua Caliente Park 12325 E. Roger Rd. 760-7881 support. Our conservation priorities will We share the goal of eventual elimination Hours: Tuesday, 9a.m.–3:30p.m. determine much of the nature of our of populations of feral cats by stopping education programs. continued next page

2 Tucson Audubon Society Vermilion Flycatcher JULY-AUGUST 2008 The President’s Perspective Herb Trossman, Board President Your Board of Directors and what do this in a number of ways. One is by this later). All they do for Tucson Audubon making personal gifts to the best of our members of the If you look at the left-hand column on ability. Another, which may be more Society are welcome to page 2 of the Vermilion Flycatcher, you will important, is to help with planning and come to any board see a list of the officers and directors of implementing fundraising activities such as meetings. If you wish Tucson Audubon. Have you ever wondered Birdathon and year-end fundraising. We to address the Board, what these people do for the society? have a number of outstanding board please contact us members who expertly plan fundraising beforehand so that we The primary task of the officers and events. However, where the Board needs can put you on the directors is to establish the policies of the improvement is in bringing in new agenda. organization, in conjunction with the members and donors. This is an area that executive director and staff. These policies the board has pledged to improve. Each While the Bylaws govern the mission, programs, finances, year the board and staff hold a retreat to provide for a maximum of 25 directors personnel, and community relations and address areas of concern to the society. It is (including officers), currently we have 17 are laid out in the society’s strategic plan. usually held in the fall, and this year the members. One of our newest members is The current plan, developed in 2002 and board may devote the retreat to board Tom Rehm, the new treasurer. Tom was available on Tucson Audubon’s website, development. treasurer in the past and is a volunteer at will soon be revised and updated by the the Aqua Caliente store. Linda Stitzer, staff with the participation of the directors. The board performs its duties by meeting another new board member was on the While the Board fairly represents the each month except for June and July. Board a few years ago. Jessie Shinn, the membership, suggestions from the During those months, the Executive third new board member, was a staff members on this process are always Committee will meet to deal with any member until 2 years ago. These new welcome. So, if you have any ideas about matters that come up. At the monthly board members were elected at the the policies of the society, let us hear from meeting (held on the third Monday of society’s annual meeting in April. You you. Write to me at [email protected] or month) the board reviews the Executive should also be aware that most board leave a message at 622-5622. Director’s staff report and hears reports of members also are on one or two of the the committees of the board society’s committees and many are The directors have other responsibilities in (Conservation, Finance, Development, and volunteer field trip leaders and naturalists. addition to overseeing the policies of Education). In recent meetings, the board If you know someone else who may be Tucson Audubon. Perhaps the most established a policy to deal with conflicts of interested in serving on the board, let us important of these is to help ensure the interest and reviewed its position on know. financial stability of the organization. We sponsoring international trips (more about VF

Director’s Perch continued Sign up for free email news new animals entering the population, and to achieve that we need an extensive education program that will change people’s attitudes updates from Tucson Audubon! toward their pets. It seems that many owners of adult cats cast The Vermilion Flycatcher is the main way by which we get in touch with you about them out in favor of kittens, and then repeat the cycle over and upcoming events, education opportunities, and conservation issues in our region. over again, while some part-time residents of our region pitch cats Often new things happen that we want you to know about quickly. Our newly outside when they leave town. The University of Arizona campus revamped News from Tucson Audubon is how we do that. We may have a new is home to one such group of now-feral cats. field trip opportunity; there may be an amazing bird show up that you have to go and see; there may be space on an education program that was filled; or we may Environmental literacy want to tell you about a new volunteer opportunity. There may also be an urgent In my mind, the attitude of some people to their pet cat is just one need for you to write to one of your political representatives or to attend a council part of the broader issue of environmental literacy that we have to meeting. In the world of conservation, these urgent needs occur often. I’m sure address through our education program. Whether it is owners of you get the picture. inconvenient pets, elected officials without a basic background in ecology, or local communities understanding the opportunities to We normally send out an email every two weeks depending upon how much create wildlife habitats, our work is really cut out for us. news we have. Receiving these updates is easy. The simplest way is to go to www.tucsonaudubon.org and click on the link at the top of our home page For our new goals we’ll need new funding. If you’d care to help us, that offers you the chance to sign up. You can also email Vivian MacKinnon at I look forward to talking with you. [email protected], and we will sign you up. You can unsubscribe VF at any time.

JULY-AUGUST 2008 Vermilion Flycatcher Tucson Audubon Society 3 tucson area birding: Tucson Audubon Events & Classes Wake up with the Birds at Thursdays, July 17 and August 21, 7:00–9:00p.m. — Nocturnal Critters at the Roy P. Drachman Agua Caliente Mason Center …Learn to love the Sonoran Desert critters of the night. After a brief Park presentation on the nocturnal animals we can expect to see this time of year, we will explore Every Tuesday. Pima County guided bird walks the half-mile Mason Center trail to look for scorpions, listen for owls and visit with a for beginners and families. Binoculars tarantula. Call Lia at 744-0004 for reservations. available. Meet at the Ranch House. For information and times, call 749-3718. Catalina State Park Digiscoping class with Tucson Audubon Bird walks led by Denis Wright on Fridays, 7:30–10a.m. at the first picnic area — time & Carl Zeiss Sports Optics will change in 30-minute increments as weather/light conditions require. Open daily Tucson Audubon is proud to host a free digiscoping class 5a.m.–10p.m.; fee. Call 628-5798 for with Stephen Ingraham of Carl Zeiss Sports Optics. information about walks. Tuesday, August 5th, 7:30am – 12:30pm Sabino Canyon What is digiscoping? Birding and nature hikes. Parking fee. Digiscoping is the pairing of a digital with a Call 749-8700. spotting scope to obtain close-up shots of birds and other Saguaro National Park wildlife. If you’re a birder and a , you know the conflict that may arise when you are birding: Do you Call 733-5153 (East) or 733-5158 (West) for watch birds or do you take ? Digiscoping scheduled bird walks. allows you to focus on your birding and, when you have a Tohono Chul Park good view of a resting bird in your scope, you can quickly Birding walks at 8:30a.m. Monday, Wednesday hold or attach your camera to your scope and get some Steve testing the new DC4 good shots. Depending on your scope and your camera, Camera Eyepiece for the & Saturday. Open 8a.m.–5p.m. daily; Diascopes in Germany. entrance fee. Call 575-8468. this can be the equivalent of photographing with a 2000mm lens! Digiscoping is often useful if you have Courtesy www.zbirding.info. Tucson Botanical Gardens found something unusual and you want to take a shot for the record. Open 8:30a.m.–4:30p.m. Entrance fee. Digiscoping was “invented” by Laurence Poh in Malaysia and you can read more at Call 326-9686. www.laurencepoh.com OTHER AREAS If you have never digiscoped before, you are welcome to attend: we’ll have three Arizona State Parks: Birding and other walks; digiscoping setups provided for the class to use and practice with. If you have some www.pr.state.az.us. Fee. Call (602)542-4174. experience and have digiscoping equipment (scope, camera and ), come along, too, and bring your equipment with you. This class is for both beginners and the Buenos Aires NWR: The refuge is open 24 experienced. hours a day, and visitor center open 7:30a.m. to 4p.m. seven days a week. Call 823-4251. More about our class: We’ll hold the first part of the class at Sweetwater Wetlands, where we’ll practice Boyce Thompson Arboretum: Open 8a.m.– ; and then we’ll take shelter in the Tucson Audubon offices where we’ll 5p.m. daily (last admissions 1 hour before review and discuss the results. closing). Call 689-2811. Visit ag.arizona.edu/BTA/events/ RSVP: YES! There is no fee for the class, but it is limited to 12 participants. Please reserve your spot by Monday, July 28 by calling Sara Pike at 622-2230, or email birdwalks.html for bird sightings. [email protected] Ramsey Canyon: Open every day 8a.m.–5p.m. Fee. Call 378-2785. About Stephen Ingraham: As you may know already, Zeiss Sports Optics has been providing top-of-the-line optics Southern Arizona Bird Observatory to birders for many years. Steve Ingraham is their Birding and Naturalist Product Tours of birding sites available; fee. Specialist. He is actively involved in product design and management at Zeiss, Call 432-1388 or visit www.sabo.org. representing the needs of birders and naturalists, and at festivals and conventions around the world where he represents Zeiss to birders and to the birding community. Previously, Stephen was the editor of the “Tools of the Trade” section in the American Birding Association’s magazine Birding and editor/publisher of A Better View Desired and betterviewdesired.com on the internet. (Information courtesy www.zbirding.info.)

4 Tucson Audubon Society Vermilion Flycatcher JULY-AUGUST 2008 Upcoming Field Trips Darlene Smyth, Field Trip Coordinator JULY 1—Tuesday 5a.m. JULY 12—Saturday 6a.m. Scotia Canyon, Bog Spring Hike–Madera Canyon field trips: Huachuca Mountains UponarrivalatMaderaCanyonwewillparkin This pretty canyon on the western side of the the Proctor Road lot, bird that section and then For the latest information on Huachuca Mountains has most of the same drive up to the Bog Spring parking lot at the birds for which the eastern canyons are trail head. We then hike up to Bog Spring for field trips, visit us online at famous, but is much less heavily birded. lunch before returning. If there is time and www.tucsonaudubon.org High-clearance vehicles desirable; others energy,wecandriveuptotheSuperTrail or call us at 629-0757 should plan to carpool. Mostly walking on a parking lot and hike up-canyon a-ways looking rocky road with some possibly wet stream for trogons, Sulphur-bellied Flycatchers, and General Information crossings. Bring water and lunch. Meet at the other birds of particular interest if they have Tucson Audubon field trips are Central Tucson carpooling site for a 5a.m. been sighted recently. Wear sturdy shoes, sun free. The field trip coordinator is departure or at Houghton Rd. north of I-10 protection and bring plenty of water and lunch. Darlene Smyth (297-2315). before 5:30a.m. We will drive through Meet the leader in the public library parking lot Carpooling Site Sonoita and follow the road toward Parker at the northwest corner of Ajo Way and Tucson Audubon strongly Canyon Dam before turning off onto rough Mission Road before 6a.m. to arrange encourages carpooling. Unless roads to reach Scotia Canyon. (180 miles carpooling. We will also stop at the McDonald’s noted otherwise, the “carpooling roundtrip) in Green Valley (I-19 and Continental Rd. exit) site” is the parking lot behind the Leader: Jim Hays, 203-3489 before 6:30 to meet birders from that area. Plan First Baptist Church, on the west [email protected] on contributing to the cost of the daily parking side of 5th Ave., 1.5 blocks south of permit and also plan to reimburse your driver University Blvd and the Audubon JULY 5—Saturday 5a.m. for fuel. (80 miles roundtrip from Tucson) Nature Shop. Be aware that if there Pena Blanca Lake Leader: Norma Miller, 578-1399 are two or more meeting sites for a There is a beautiful, shaded trail along the [email protected] field trip, you may be the only of this lake. We will take advantage of as JULY 12—Saturday 7–9p.m. person to use one of them. Every much shade as possible and move slowly or Night Nature Walk at person arriving for a trip should be even sit as we look for birds. Plan on keeping Saguaro National Park (East) prepared to drive, or make other your fingers crossed for a sighting of a arrangements prior to meeting time. Yellow-billed Cuckoo. We will end our Join us as we meander about a mile along a Visit birding day when the heat causes the birds to desert trail in search of owls, bats, snakes, toads www.tucsonaudubon.org/birding/ become quiet. Bring water and a snack, and and other monsoon delights. Trip is limited to carpool.htm for more information protect yourself from the sun. Bring along a 10 participants. Call or email the leader to sign about carpool locations. folding stool if you wish. Meet at Fry’s up. parking lot at I-19 and Irvington at 5a.m. or Leader: Pinau Merlin, 546-9409 Driver Reimbursements the Green Valley McDonald’s (I-19 and [email protected] Carpool participants agree to at Continental Road exit 63) before 5:30a.m. least cover the cost of gas used JULY 15—Tuesday 6a.m. onthe trip. Each trip description (140 miles roundtrip) Huachuca Canyon Leader: Darlene Smyth, 297-2315 includes estimated trip mileage. [email protected] Birding this cool canyon during the monsoon Arrival Times season can often be quite rewarding and Please arrive before the departure JULY 8—Tuesday 5a.m. Elegant Trogons, warblers, Sulphur-bellied time listed in the trip description. Miller Canyon Flycatchers and tanagers are all possible. To Trips will leave promptly at the time beat the heat of the day, we will finish by late We will walk up Miller Canyon beyond the given. Beattys’ Ranch and look for tanagers, morning. Wear sturdy footgear; bring water flycatchers, vireos, warblers, and other and a snack. Have car registration, proof of After your Field Trip summer birds. We’ll stop for hummingbird insurance and a picture ID available for Don’t forget to stop in the viewing on the down after the 1 to 2 mile entrance onto the Fort. U.S. citizens only, Audubon Nature Shop after your canyon hike. Bring lots of water, snacks, please, as non-citizen base restrictions apply. trip to check out new books, see good hiking shoes, and $5 for the “sugar Only14 birdersmayreserveplacesonthistrip wonderful nature items, and chat fund” at Beattys.’ Meet at 5a.m. at the and carpooling is essential. You must contact with volunteers. the leader to sign up. Reservations taken Houghton Rd and I-10 carpooling location. Rare Bird Alert We will return to Tucson early to mid starting July 1. Meet at 6a.m. at Houghton Rd. Listen to the latest rare bird alert at afternoon. Contact the leader with any north of I-10 for carpooling (leader not 798-1005. Report rare birds to the questions. (Approx. 180 miles roundtrip) present). Meet the leader in Sierra Vista at RBA compiler at 798-1005 or Leader: Karen Hochgraf, 916-216-1814 (cell) 7a.m. at Gateway Park on North Garden [email protected] [email protected] continued next page

JULY-AUGUST 2008 Vermilion Flycatcher Tucson Audubon Society 5 Field Trips continued Avenue. (Approx. 180 miles roundtrip from Northern Rockies species with some of our Verde Road. Back to the parking lot around Tucson). desert specialties. Gray Jay, Pine Grosbeak, 2p.m. (40 miles roundtrip) Leader: Erika Wilson, 225-0393 (Tucson), Blue Grouse and Gray Catbird are just a few Leader: Barbara Bickel, 322-5857 or 234-4359 (Sierra Vista), [email protected] species that can be found in this part of [email protected] Arizona these parts. (Mmmm…I can smell JULY 19—Saturday 5:30a.m. JULY 29—Tuesday 6a.m. the pines now.) Other possibilities: Aravaipa Canyon Wilderness Montezuma Quail, Roadrunner, White- Sam Lena Park and Kino Tucson Audubon Society does not offer this winged Dove, various hummers; Environmental Restoration special trip very often. Enter into a pristine Cordilleran Flycatcher, Bridled and Juniper Project (KERP) area strictly controlled by BLM permits and Titmice, Lazuli Bunting, Mountain KERP is an underbirded Tucson gem be stunned by this Wilderness’ scenic beauty. Bluebird, Lewis’s and Three-toed located north of Ajo Way and west of Habitats a-plenty! Along the way, we’ll travel Woodpeckers, Williamson’s and Red-naped Country Club Road. It is a multi-use from desert to stream-side riparian Sapsuckers, MacGillivray’s and Virginia’s project involving stormwater retention, environments. Birds to look for include Warblers, American Dipper, Townsend’s water harvesting and a variety of restored Common Black-Hawk, Zone-tailed Hawk, Solitaire, Red Crossbill, Mexican and native habitats. Habitats include ponds, Gray Hawk, Hooded and Bullock’s Orioles, Pinyon Jays, and Clark’s Nutcracker. We’ll riparian and upland desert. Good trip for Brown-crested Flycatchers, hummers, and canvas the area, likely visiting Luna Lake, beginners since common birds are easy to perhaps even a Great Blue Heron. Once in Big Lake, Sipe Wildlife Area, and Green’s seeintheadjacentSamLenaPark.We’ll the Wilderness, walking along and Peak, depending on the weather and where birduntilitgetstoohotinthemid- tolate sometimes in the creek, we’ll be shaded by the birds are. We can almost count on a morning. Meet at the ramada near the the very trees that host the nests of the thundershower each afternoon. The group restrooms at Sam Lena Park at 6a.m. Call raptors, flycatchers, orioles and hummers. caravan will leave e-a-r-l-y from Tucson on leader for directions. (local) Dress for the weather; bring plenty of water, Friday, driving straight through with lunch Leader: Kendall Kroesen, 971-2385 lunch and sunscreen, and wear sturdy shoes along the way. Best Western in Eagar will be [email protected] that will get wet. This trip is limited to 8 our meeting spot. Birders will be AUGUST 2—Saturday TBA participants and 3 cars. Email the leaders responsible for their lodging (motel? beginning July 1 to register and learn the camping?) and meals in Greer/ Scotia Canyon departure point. To insure entry into the Springerville/Eagar.We’ll return to Tucson We’ll explore this very birdy but under- wilderness, Tucson Audubon Society has by 5p.m. Sunday. Email the leader for motel birded lush canyon on the western flanks of pre-paid your fee to the Bureau of Land suggestions and to register for this trip, the famous Huachuca Mountains, seeking Management; expect the leaders to collect $5 which is limited to 12 participants/3 cars. Elegant Trogons, Buff-breasted Flycatchers, per person reimbursement. (Approx. 140 We’ll try to organize carpools in advance. Painted Redstarts and other exciting miles roundtrip) Bring a scope if you have one. (Approx 800 pine/oak species along the sycamore-lined Leaders: Ned Harris and Liz Payne, miles roundtrip; all participants will share stream. August is a prime time for thrilling [email protected] fuel costs.) birding in the mountain canyons of the Leader: Liz Payne, [email protected] border sky islands and we’ll sample many JULY 22—Tuesday 5a.m. regular breeders, also hoping for a rarity or Harshaw Creek/Patagonia JULY 26—Saturday 6:30a.m. two! We’ll enjoy a leisurely hike up-canyon The summer rains bring potential rarities to Willow & Rose Canyons, on mostly good terrain with some rocky southeastern Arizona habitats. We will Santa Catalina Mountains sections and possible wet crossings.Pack explore these interesting areas for resident It’s time for our annual big-sit/big- water and picnic lunch, sunblock, hat and birds and very early migrants. We hope the walk/potluck! We’ll start our morning visit light rain gear in case of a monsoon deluge. bird of the day will be Yellow-billed Cuckoo. to the Bickel cabin at 7,000' in Willow Trip limited to 12 birders, high clearance Bring plenty of water, snacks, and wear Canyon with coffee on the deck while vehicles desirable. Contact the leader after appropriate clothing to protect against rain, watching the feeders. Then you may choose July 20 for signing up and meeting place. sun, heat and varying temperatures. We’ll be to join the “big-sit” (stay at the cabin, relax, Leader: Moez Ali, [email protected] done when the birds try to escape the heat of and enjoy the birds) or the “big-walk” to AUGUST 5—Tuesday 5:30a.m. the day. Meet at 5a.m. at Houghton Rd. Rose Canyon. We’ll walk on roads and trails north of I-10. (Approx. 120 miles roundtrip) about 3 miles roundtrip at a birding pace— Catalina State Park Hike— Leader: Clait Braun, [email protected] there is one short, steep, rocky section. Sutherland Trail JULY 25–27, Friday–Sunday Bring snack, water, sturdy walking shoes, Water in the desert is like a magnet for The White Mountains and light rain gear for the walk. [No USFS wildlife at this time of year. The Sutherland roadfeerequiredtodrivetoprivatecabins.] Trail, which is mostly level with easy to Need to beat the heat? Let’s get outta Dodge! Bring a dish to share for the potluck. Meet moderate walking, will lead us to a One of Arizona’s best birding areas, the at McDonald’s parking lot on the northeast permanent pool where we will pause, have a White Mountains avifauna here blends some corner of Catalina Highway and Tanque snack while enjoying any wildlife taking

6 Tucson Audubon Society Vermilion Flycatcher JULY-AUGUST 2008 advantage of the water, then make our way mountains. This is about a 5-mile loop- River Park Road, which then loops around back. Wear sturdy shoes and sun protection hike, just for the more experienced hiker, the business park and becomes Commerce and bring plenty of water and a snack. Meet please. Wear sturdy hiking shoes, bring Drive. Take the first left and follow it to the the leader in the public library parking lot plenty of water, snacks and lunch. Back by dead-end at Sweetwater Drive. Turn left onto at the northwest corner of Ajo Way and 12:30 or 1. This is limited to 10 people so Sweetwater Drive and after a very short Mission Road at 5:30a.m. or at 6a.m. at the please call the leader starting on August 9 to distance you will see the Sweetwater Wetland Ina/Via Ponte carpooling site (the sign up. Meet at the Green Valley parking lot on the left. Bring water, hat, commuter parking lot one block west of McDonald’s (Continental exit 63 off I-19) sunscreen and a snack if you need one. We’ll Oracle and Ina, on the south side of Ina) or at 6:30 a.m. plan to finish up mid-morning. in the trailhead parking lot at the end of the Leader: Sally Johnsen, 399-4050 Leader: Sara Pike, 622-2230 park entrance road by 6:20a.m. Bring your [email protected] [email protected] State Park pass or be prepared to pay the AUGUST 17—Sunday 6a.m. AUGUST 22—Friday 6:30–8:30p.m. daily entrance fee. (About 40 miles roundtrip from the library) California Gulch Bat Flight at Ina Road Bridge Leader: Norma Miller, 578-1399 Join Tucson Audubon Society’s summer It’s that time again, when about 10,000 bats [email protected] sojourn into “The Gulch” in search of Five- will make their spectacular emergence flight striped Sparrows, Varied Buntings, from the Ina Road bridge (½ mile west of I- AUGUST 9—Saturday 5a.m. Montezuma Quail and whatever else may 10 on Ina). We’ll look at the last of the day- Huachuca Mountain Prowl wander by. Word on the street is that the birds before sunset, then focus on the bats. It’s really too hot to do much walking or road in is in excellent condition, but last Bring chairs if you like. Call the leaders for hiking, so we’ll spend the day looking for summer’s high water difficulties may return details if you wish. birds from the car, in close proximity to the if the monsoon season is robust. Be Leaders: Pinau Merlin, 546-9409, or Larry cars, or by sitting and watching feeders. prepared for high humidity, some warm Liese, 743-3520 We’ll check out the grasslands as we drive temperatures, mosquitoes, and a potential AUGUST 23—Saturday 6:30a.m. up to the mountain canyons and hope to downhill then uphill hike of ½ mile see Botteri’s and Cassin’s Sparrows. Then depending on accessibility. The alternate Shorebirds and Swallows whenweareinthecanyonswewilllookfor trip will be to Madera Canyon. Meet at Are all of those little brown shorebirds just Sulphur-bellied Flycatchers, Elegant 6a.m. in McDonald’s parking lot, Green ‘peeps’ to you? Do you have trouble telling Trogons (difficult, as they have fledged Valley (Continental Road exit off of I-19). one swallow from the next as they zip past young), Arizona Woodpeckers, Painted The leader, Clifford Cathers, will be there in you in migration? If so, this is your trip! Redstarts, Hepatic Tanagers and other his white Dodge Durango. Carpooling is We’ll practice identifying both of these canyon-dwelling birds. Since we will stop at essential for this trip and all additional groups at one of two local hotspots. hummer feeders, please bring money for vehicles must be high clearance and/or 4- Depending on where the best mudflats have the sugar fund. We will likely stop at two wheel drive. Contact the leader so vehicles formed, we will visit either Willcox Twin different feeder locations. We will also do can be arranged. (150 miles roundtrip) LakesorWhitewaterDraw.Duetothe some birding on Ft. Huachuca so be very Leader: Clifford Cathers, [email protected] uncertainty of our destination, we’ll meet certain to bring proof of insurance, car 762-3201 early to get a good start on the day. Please registration and a picture ID. If you are a bring a spotting scope if you have one! We’ll AUGUST 19—Tuesday 6:30a.m. NON-US CITIZEN you must contact me aim to be back in Tucson by mid-afternoon. by July 15 for possible permission to enter Sweetwater Wetlands Be prepared with sunscreen and hat, plenty the base as a member of this field trip. Let’s go together to Sweetwater Wetlands of drinking water, snacks and lunch. Meet at Bring water, lunch and snacks, and dress for and marvel at the birds that endure the the commuter parking lot on the west side of the weather. Meet at Houghton Rd. just Tucson summer! This is a great birding Houghton Road, immediately north of I-10. north of I-10 at 5a.m. (180 miles roundtrip) location for families and beginners. We’ll (150–200 miles roundtrip) Leader: Darlene Smyth, 297-2315 walk the paths around the ponds and may Leader: John Yerger, [email protected] [email protected] go to the desert scrub habitat along the (814)308-4078 back-side of the facility if there is time. AUGUST 26—Tuesday 6a.m. AUGUST 12—Tuesday 6:30a.m. We’ll look for resident birds and, with luck, Secret Trail—Madera Canyon possibly some early migrating passerines. Benson Birding Trail, Wewillbird/hikeabout2½ milesupthe Many birds will be easily seen up-close, but St. David Monastery SuperTrailanddropdownintothesecret binoculars and a field guide will be handy if This trail can have some exciting birds and trail to the north. We will bird this gorgeous youhavethem.Theleaderwillbringa the abuts the San Pedro River. lush canyon and the creek that runs spotting scope. Come explore and enjoy this fairly short through it. Also we will make a detour up Directions: From Prince and I-10, go west trail, then off to St. David Monastery to ontoRoger’sRockwherethereisa on Prince Road to where it ends, turn right enjoy more riparian habitat. If it’s not too spectacular view of the surrounding on Business Center Drive. Turn left on continued next page

JULY-AUGUST 2008 Vermilion Flycatcher Tucson Audubon Society 7 Tucson Audubon Society’s: Field Trips continued late and too hot we can return to Benson Vermilion Flycatchers, Blue Grosbeaks, and check out the Wastewater Treatment Bullock’s Orioles and Summer Tanagers Plant. Bring plenty of water and a snack; are usually numerous and there are good Living With dress for the weather and plan on birding chances for Gray Hawks, Tropical until the heat of the day slows bird activity. Kingbirds, and Rufous-winged Sparrows. Meet at Houghton Rd. just north of I-10 Limit of 14 birders—call leader to sign up. Lecture SeriesNature presents: to carpool at 6a.m. or at 6:30a.m. at the Meet for 6a.m. departure at the Fry’s on Safeway parking lot in Benson. Take exit the north side of Irvington just east of I- Last year’s lecture series was a smashing 302 off I-10, drive about 1 mile south; 19, or at 6:30a.m. at the McDonald’s on success and this year promises to continue Safeway and Wendy’s are on the right. Continental Road in Green Valley just west the tradition. As usual, our presentations (Approx. 100 miles roundtrip from of I-19. (About 90 miles roundtrip from in Tucson will be held at the University Tucson) Tucson) Medical Center (UMC) in the DuVal Leader: Lainie Epstein, 720-8976 Leader: Kendall Kroesen, 971-2385 Auditorium on the second Monday of the [email protected] [email protected] month at 7p.m. running from September through April. AUGUST 30—Saturday 6a.m. SEPTEMBER 6—Saturday 8a.m. Cienega Creek Nature Preserve Madera Canyon— We’ll kick off our season with a wonderful presentation and book signing by Tucson Pima County’s Cienega Creek Nature Discover the Oasis Audubon Board of Directors member, Preserveisagreatplacetogobirdingand The summer “monsoon” brings out the Robert Mesta, on the special relationship see beautiful riparian habitat, right in best in sky island flora and fauna. Join between the California Condor and Native Tucson’s backyard. Hiking the trail should Friends of Madera Canyon Education Americans. We will have copies of his afford us opportunities to see several Director and naturalist Doug Moore for a outstanding children’s book, Condor, species of warblers, including Nashville, monsoon morning nature walk in Madera Spirit of the Canyon for sale (or bring your MacGillivray’s and Virginia’s, and Yellow- Canyon. The walk will follow the Proctor own) and he will be available to sign breasted Chat. Other migrants, such as Nature Loop through the transition from copies and answer questions after the Epidonax flycatchers, Western Tanager, semi-desert grassland into evergreen oak lecture. Black-headed Grosbeaks, and Lazuli woodland, with interior deciduous Bunting are also expected. Breeding birds riparian woodland and Madera Creek In Green Valley we gear it up a little later that could be seen include Gray Hawk, winding along the trail. With summer in the season, just in time for the return of Summer Tanager, Bullock’s Oriole, rains, the canyon transforms into a semi- our snowbird members. We’ll be at our Northern Beardless-Tyrannulet, Yellow- tropical oasis; we’ll take a very close look same venue in the Green Valley Public billed Cuckoo, and Rufous-winged at the diverse plants and animals that Library beginning in October and Sparrows. This time of year can be muggy, make Madera Canyon such a special place! running through March on the third muddy, hot, and buggy, depending on how Bring binoculars, water, trail snacks, hat Saturday of the month at 10a.m. And the monsoons are treating us, so be and hiking shoes (no sandals); dress in we’ve got a wonderful array of lecturers prepared. Water, sunscreen, and a hat are layers for the season and bring insect lined up here also. advisable.Weshouldbedonehikingby repellant (there are chiggers at this time of late morning, but bring a lunch if you year!). This trip is limited to twelve Speakers scheduled for this season’s wish to picnic near the trestle. For those participants. Sign up with the leader by presentations include Narca Moore-Craig, wishing to carpool, meet at 6a.m. at the email starting on August 23. Pinau Merlin, Rich Hoyer, Peggy Wenrick, Safeway parking lot on the southeast Meet at the Trailhead at Proctor Parking Karen Krebbs, Amanda Moors, Peg Abbott corner of Broadway and Campbell; all Area in Madera Canyon at 8a.m. and more. And the subjects range from a others meet at the Cienega trailhead on Directions: I-19 south to Green Valley. comparison of the Arctic and Antarctic, to the east side of the road at 6:40a.m. Permit Take Continental exit; turn left on birding the “top end” of Australia, to restrictions only allow for 10 participants, Continental Road, proceeding over Santa Amazing Arizona Animals. We’ve got CONTACT TRIP LEADER FOR Cruz River bridge. Turn right on White something for everyone and we hope to RESERVATIONS. House Canyon Road (4-way stop). Follow see you there! Leader: Homer Hansen, 400-6176 pavedroad11 milestoProctorParking [email protected] Area (first recreation area at mouth of canyon). $5 US Forest Service Fee SEPTEMBER 2—Tuesday 6a.m. required. Esperanza Ranch Leader: Doug Moore, Visit 300 acres of former ranchland along [email protected] the upper Santa Cruz River (between VF Tubac and Amado) that is being conserved and restored by Tucson Audubon.

8 Tucson Audubon Society Vermilion Flycatcher JULY-AUGUST 2008 What a Great Festival! CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: Kameron Kerry (middle) meets a common kingsnake, held by Chris McVie. Frost generates electricity on a bicycle provided by Jose Marcos-Iga of Exchange. A couple makes use of the dance floor at the Ironwood Festival. A Ray of Hope Band performs under the ramada as the Ironwood Festival heads into the evening hours. Armand learns how to identify an animal skull from Kristine Massey of the International Wildlife Museum. Sean Sullivan talks about the Sonoran Desert Conservation Plan at the afternoon Conservation Lecture Series. Lynn Hassler reads from her new book, The Raven Soaring Through History, Legend and Lore, which is available at the Tucson Audubon Nature Shop. All photos courtesy Kendall Kroesen.

JULY-AUGUST 2008 Vermilion Flycatcher Tucson Audubon Society 9 Tucson Audubon’s Birdathon Wrap-up by Vivian MacKinnon

Tucson Audubon Society’s 21st annual Spring Birdathon Tucson Audubon Board of Directors President Herb Trossman Fundraiser will go down as the year of creative birding adventures. headed the other hiking team, La Cebadilla Cuckoos. Herb From bicycles, to boots, to sitting in one place, to the traditional managed to get his entire eastside neighborhood involved and mad dash across the state, more than 60 birders took time out to introduced birding to the next generation by involving the area have a Big-Day for a worthy cause! kids, including 8½ year-old Jacob and 2½ year-old Maya. Members of the 23 teams in this year’s events ranged in age from 2 teams opted to bird by bicycle, The Bearded Tyrranulets and the toddlers right on up to, well, let’s just say we aren’t all spring Mt. Lemmonheads. The most miles on a bike and winner of one of chickens. Skill levels varied from first-time birders to obsessive two coveted “Extreme Birdathon” awards was Matt Griffiths of the hobbyists to professional guides, and more than 200 species of Mt. Lemmonheads. He logged 77 bike miles, from his home in birds were recorded. Thanks to the generous support of our 400- central Tucson up to Willow Canyon on Mt. Lemmon, across the plus donors more than $21,000 has been raised so far and the eastside of Tucson and right back to his doorstep! On the way he donations just keep flying in! spotted 116 species of birds making this without a doubt the biggest fossil-fuel-free Big-Day ever in Arizona. So here are a few highlights from this year’s event: Of the 23 teams in the field 6 opted to take the low-to-no-carbon footprint path. Big-sitters, the “IDE [Institute of Desert Ecology] Hawkeyes” and Hiking team The Green Day Packers not only had a great day in “Patons’ Perchers,” showed you don’t need to work too hard to the field but also raised the most money, bringing in more than raise bucks for a worthy cause. They also proved that happiness $2,500. Now you might think they had an unfair advantage what can be found in your own backyard—if your backyard is Catalina with our Executive Director Paul Green on the team, but the real State Park in northeast Tucson or Marion Paton’s world-famous secret weapon was youth birder, 9-year-old Jules Wyman bringing backyard in Patagonia! Mrs. Paton has been feeling under the in donations from all across the states, and he even brought in a weather recently and 50 plus birders stopped in throughout the big chunk of change from Canada, too! Way to go Jules; we’ll all day to visit, share stories of birding her place, and to sign get-well be working for you one of these days! cards for her. continued page 13

We thank the following donors for their support of this year’s Birdathon!

Anonymous Lee Barrett-Lennard Paula Buchanan Mich Coker Laura Davis Edwards Anne and David Fraser Doris and Larry Abrams Diane Bartlett Melanie Builder and B.G. Colby Shirley Davis Mary Kay and Robert Darlene Fullmer Rex Adams Jean Bassett Richard Fray Debbie and Tom Michael Dawson Eiermann James Gano Andrew Agnew Pam Baum James Buizer Collazo Jean de Jong Sandy and Karl Elers Gregg Garfin James Alamillo Kathy Ben John W Burgeson Anthony Collerton Linda De Nomme Ronald Essex Ellen Garms Donna B Allen Rosie Bennett Jeff Burrows Betty Collins Alison Dean Diane and Preston Melissa Gee Jim Alrutz Susan Fleming and Rich Burtell Bev and Frank Collins Jeffrey Dean Everett Jeremiah Gelles Alexandra Alsop Susan Benson Michael Byers Sally Conyne Pat Dean Kay and Mike Fagan Patricia Gerrodette Melanie and Harris Christine Benstead Brianna Caffey Connie and Kenneth Carrie Dean Alice and Thomas Robert Gessner Amhowitz Dave Berns Lorene Calder Cookson Charles Delbecq Farley Dedrian Gibbs Becky Aparicio Barbara and William Judy Calvert Teri Coons Lisa Depies Joan and Philip Julie Gibson Barbara and Max Appel Bickel Sam Campana Laura Corcoran Vernita and Joseph Felleman Marian Gillett Tamara Arboit Pauline Birky-Kreutzer, Brenda Campanis Greg Corman De Rouen Joanne and Don Finch Danny Gin Sharon Emley and in honor of Debbie and George Laura Cotter Linda Dobbyn Scott Fink Rodney Glasman Don Arkin Susan Birky Campbell Morgan Chiverton and Marilyn Doherty Betty Finley and Vivianne and Bruce Joann Arndt Alexia Bivings Nancy Carlson Steve Cotton Steve Dolan Charlie Speer Gold Ann Audrey Patty and Clark Blake Eng-Min Chong Fran and John Cox Cynthia Donald Holly Finstrom Cheryl and Bob Eva Baird Olga Bracamonte Chris Chong Kimberly and Roderick David Donsker David Fisher Goodberg Ardie Baker Mark Briggs Eng Wei Chong Craigen Dan Dorsey Susan Fizzell Julia and Mark Gordon Mary Jo Ballator Anne Britt Roberta Clark Mae Criley Cynthia Douglas Mary Flynn Anita Goriely Aline Barbeau Richard Brookner Jean Clark Vicki Crisler Janet Duberry Abigail Focht Marcia and Richard Jean and Rich Kim Hoover and D J and Greg Clark Donald Crowell Michael Duffy Arnold Fogel Grand Barchman Paul Brown Danielle Reines-Clark Jack Culver Carol and Don Eagle Sharon Foltz Clive Green Jane Bardin Jamie Brown and Todd Clark Kevin Dahl Cynthia and John Sylvia Foster David Green

10 Tucson Audubon Society Vermilion Flycatcher JULY-AUGUST 2008 Lois Pawlak Roy Simpson Janet and Robert Liz Payne Matt Skroch Witzeman Jean Payne Miriam Smead Lyle Wood Ken Perry Mark Smith Pauline Woodruff Aurelien Piantanida Mike Smith James Woolfenden Lorel Picciurro Peggy and John Smith Jon Wyman Sara and Vincent Pike Marilyn and Gerard Jules Wyman and Ellen Plane Smith Michael Wyman Jenise Porter Joan and Richard Susan and Bob Wyman Douglas Potts Spencer William Zadina Ronald Prasek Shirley and Joe Spitler Nancy Zierenberg Virginia Prasek Mary Lou Splain Steve Zimmerman Alethea Pratt Terry Sprouse Alice and Charles Rowena Quantrill June Stack Zlatkoff Suzanne and William Evelyn and Kenneth Quigg Stevenson And, of course, a Susan Gordon Mark Stevenson big Birdathon Maya Barrey and Herb Trossman of the Cebadilla Cuckoos Birdathon team. Randolph Linda Stitzer Audrey and Robert Ray Barbara Straub thank you to all Eng-Li and Paul Green Georgia Hovey and Cherie and David Robert Merideth Adelaide T Reeves Tice Supplee the teams that Elizabeth Lawrence Kerry Henwood Lazaroff Nina and R W Merideth Thomas Rehm Janet and Charles participated this and Matt Griffiths Marguerite Howard Marcia and Ries Nancy-Jo Merritt Sandy and Christopher Sutfin Karen and William Rosemary and Douglas Lindley Charlotte Mesick and year. There Reith Gerald Sweeney wouldn’t be a Griffiths Huestis Paula Lipsitz Bill Burcham Sally Richman Diane and Glen Szollosi Jason Grover Linda and Gerry Claire Livesey Robert Mesta Wynne Wong-Rife and Roselyn and Greg Birdathon Julia Grover Hughes Mariana Livingston Jean Metcalfe David Rife Tacheny without them! Corene and Fred Kathy Jacobs and David Livingston Mark Metcalfe Jean and David Rios John Tanner Agua Calienteers Bird Gutzman David Plane Katherine Locke Louise Misztal Joanne Roberts Jeff Tannler Brains Wayne Hacker Stanley Jacobs Carolyn and Robert Denise, Scott and Andrew Robertson Lynne and Rick Taylor Ave Ventura Steve Hagan Dorothy and Dick Long Dorian Mogge Gary Rosenberg Judy Temple Bearded Tyrannulets John Harings Jacobs Michelle and David Judith and Ed Moll Pamela Rosenberg and Carol Tepper Big Bend Babes Kay Harrell Alex Jacome Louis Shari and Ed Jeffrey Condon Geri and Don Thayer Birdabouts Lisa Harris Marjorie Javet Karen Lunda Montgomery Peter Rosenberg Danette Thoms Birding the Midnight Linda and Ned Harris Dorothy and Edward Vivian and Aleck Dorothy and Earl Sherry Ross Jenean Thomson Oil Margherita Gale Harris, Jensen MacKinnon Montgomery Ruth and Steve Russell John Thornton La Cebadilla Cuckoos in honor of Bernadette Jilka Sonja Macys and Michael Monyak Jean Russell Chris Tindall Department of Julia Gordon Mary Johnson Charles Willard Megan Mosby Majorie Russell Audrey Toepper Birdland Security Liz Harrison and Gerald Juliani J & J Automotive John Mueller Connie Sanchez Pat and Herb Trossman Fledgling Four Rick Edwards Mandy Katz Doris Manning Thomas Munson Elizabeth Sapanai Joan and Bob Tweit Gordon’s Goshawks Linda and Clint Harrold Arlene Kellman Sam Mantucca Hal Myers Janet Schachter Deanna and Donald Green Day Packers Dana Hart Susan Ketterlinus Wanda Wynne and Sivaraman Natarajan Joan-Marie Schaefer, in Van Horn IDE Hawkeyes Meredith Hartwell Sylvia Kimball Craig Marken Pam Negri and memory of her Diana Videtti and Lord of the Wings Heather Hatch Sheryl and Mike Kistler, Ilina and Neil Ted Forsberg parents who taught Thomas Aldrich MAC Pack Joe Hatch in memory of Markowitz Joan Newman her to love wild birds Joanne Von Blon Mixed Bag Birders Andrew Hatch Thelma Ledford Henry D. Marshall Brian Nicholas Sue Scheff Lucile Von Sprecken Mt Lemmonheads Maxine Heiman Mary Klinkel Sherry and James Jeri Ogden Maureen Schertzer Chris Waldron (rock!) Lorraine Hellring Marlene Koster Massie Kathy Olmstead Amy Schlossberg Richard Warren Northern Lites Hyatt Simpson and Carolyn and Paul Mary and John Carl Olson Barbara Schneidau Patsy Waterfall Ocho Gatos Daryl Herman Kroesen Matthews Niklas Osterman Charles Seniawski Jim Watts Paton’s Perchers Susan and Greg Hess Mary Beth Tyndall and Rebecca McKee Eric Outwater Paul Sheppard Phyllis Webster Los Pinguinos de los Vicki and George Hill Kendall Kroesen Rachel McCaffrey John and Mary Padgett Jessie Shinn and Patricia Weiser Rios Karen Hochgraf Robin Kropp Megan McCarthy Elizabeth Pagano Randy Grohman Peggy and Bob Russell’s Rustlers Joanne and Andrew Renee La Roi Beth McCullough- Lee Palmer and Ronnie Sidner Wenrick Tucson Tremblers Hogan Kelly Lacroix Russell Robert Perciasepe Carianne Sienna David West The Unflappables Amy and Terry Hoover Bobbie Lambert Joan McGowan Mary-Lou and Stewart Funicelli Katherine Westengard Virginia DeRailers Holly Hope Renetta Larson Sandra McMahan Palmer Todd Silver Ellen Wheeler Kristen Horlick Cynthia and Howard Sharon Megdal Sarah and John Palmer Nancy Silvis and Brett Wilmore Lawrence Dave Meko Betty Patton John Gray

JULY-AUGUST 2008 Vermilion Flycatcher Tucson Audubon Society 11 Tucson Audubon Afield Liz Payne, Field Trip Leader Ch-ch-ch-changes! At March’s end, Sweetwater sported over 1000 April 12 found me and 11 shovelers and dwindled to 75 birds two weeks later. So we’re full others at Fort Lowell Park circle again, moving rapidly through breeding, nesting and for Rick Wright’s new fledging to summer and monsoon. Wildflowers have packed it in offering, “Birding in the after a dazzling desert bloom. Saguaro blooms are fading and the Buff.” No bins, scopes, White-winged Dove return is complete. Likewise, many Tucson field guides? Nope. Just a Audubon members migrate to skirt our searing heat, so in case few hours simply you don’t know; our weather has been, well, flighty. April was dry observing impressions, with erratic temps. May saw Phoenix hit 110ºF and dip 30 degrees not details. I grinned 3 days later! After that, chains required on Mount Lemmon? In when one of us grabbed May?! Yep. One of the latest snowfalls on record: 2” on May 22. for the absent tool about Regardless, beauty abounds. Regional diversity was well her neck, then apologized represented with on-schedule breeders and migrants plus fun later when I followed suit. surprises, and another spring equation adds up: peak migration + Intuition was key and 21 painless weather + a diverse selection of first-rate Tucson species were welcome for Audubon fieldtrips = one dynamite season with plenty of obvious a windy morning. Always birds and birders. something new to learn! A number of rarities were discovered by timely afield-ers: The Doug Jenness and friends Tufted Flycatcher found in the Chiricahua Mountains. Courtesy Chris adult female Northern Goshawk that (twice!) appeared during the toured Oracle State Park Benesh. Institute of Desert Ecology was an exceptional thrill at Catalina April 19. Birdy day with State Park. Cave Creek Canyon’s Tufted Flycatcher, singing Golden Eagle, Green-tailed Towhee as well as magnificent Northern Parula near Saguaro East. Short-tailed Hawk over mid Mariposa lilies. Zone-tailed Hawk, Hooded Oriole, Ash-throated Tucson, White-rumped Sandpiper at Twin Lakes. Other findings Flycatcher were FOS for many. A new destination for all but the supported the typical spring mix: Mount Lemmon was on in April park ranger. with easy Arizona Woodpecker, Grace’s, Olive, and a wave of Black-throated Gray Warblers. Northern Saw-whet Owl appeared On April 22, 9 very early birds joined me to National Audubon’s at Catalina State Park. Eurasian Collared and Inca Doves are Appleton-Whittell Research Ranch. This restricted property is ample about Tucson and hundreds of Lesser Nighthawks continue gorgeous and varied: ungrazed grasslands, scrub, oak and riparian to soar at Ina bridge. woodlands. We tabbed 56 species, with the chief wow factor a stunning Gray Hawk pair. Great scope views, then one flew over With bounty like this, Tucson Audubon leaders and participants with a sizeable cottonwood branch. Vibrant green leaves against a reveled in outings. Eleven birders from Tucson and Phoenix perfect grey-striped breast…wow. White-tailed Kite, Scott’s joined Mary Ellen Flynn on April Fool’s Day to Boyce-Thompson Orioles, Montezuma Quail, Rufous Hummingbird, and a bounty Arboretum. No joke, the group tallied 37 species and relished the of Western and Cassin’s Kingbirds were found. Turkey Vultures park’s dramatic blooms. Special thanks to Molly Bradshaw for soared. Warblers were scarce, though Lucy’s, Yellow-rumped, sharing her birding skills. Orange-crowned, Wilson’s and Yellow showed. Turtles, lizards, mule and white tailed deer, solo pronghorn. Regards and gratitude On April 5 Kendall Kroesen and Janine McCabe led a select trip to to Dr. Kennedy for our access and a vital lunchtime presentation the N Simpson Habitat Restoration Site. Eleven birders spotted filled with laughs, grassland ecology and ARR information. about 35 species and savored nice views of two White-tailed Kites and a large kettle of Black Vultures. Yellow Warblers sang and set Jim Hays led two trips around Fort Huachuca. On April 29 folks up territories in the willows, migrating Swainson’s hawks flew visited Garden, Sawmill and Scheelite Canyons then Ash Canyon overhead, but surprisingly few sparrows were seen. B&B. Eighty-six species were seen or heard, including excellent views of Elegant Trogon, Spotted Owl, Buff-breasted Flycatcher, A weekend excursion April 11 was a hit. It’s a looong way to Townsend’s Solitare, and Gray Hawk. Spotted Owls eluded the Roswell, but the Lesser Prairie Chickens made it worthwhile for May 2 group, but Elegant Trogon, Olive-sided and obliging Buff- Richard Carlson and 12. First, Holloman Lakes produced Snowy breasted Flycatchers cooperated. Ash Canyon added male and Plovers and a surprise Surf Scoter. Arriving in Roswell, the female Lucifer hummers. Thanks to Mary Jo B. for her hospitality collective mutter of gloom was audible. Nary a bird. Then, Prairie and Dave Stejskal for the Northern Pygmy-Owl. Chickens danced, boomed and strutted for almost an hour! As congrats were shared, two Scissor-tailed Flycatchers flew in to frost The next day, Clait Braun’s tribe of seven enjoyed Kitt Peak with the cake. Bitter Lakes added Marbled Godwits, Wilson’s beautiful weather for a 5-warbler, 4-dove, 3-woodpecker, 2- Phalaropes, Snow Geese, Blue-winged Teal, Snowy Plover, towhee, and 2-thrasher day. Bird of the day was Bendire’s American Pipits and a quick Peregrine fly-by. Fort Sumner gave Thrasher, and the count was approx 45 species. up antelope and Swainson’s Hawks. On May 6, Philip Kline and a small party birded the Pinal Mountains and tallied 80 species. The trek began with migrants at continued 12 Tucson Audubon Society Vermilion Flycatcher JULY-AUGUST 2008 Afield continued Tucson Audubon’s Birdathon Wrap-up Pioneer Pass: Gray vireo, Black-chinned Sparrows, continued from page 10 Hooded and Scott’s Orioles. Higher reaches yielded Greater Pewee, Olive-sided and Cordilleran Flycatchers, Finally, team Birding the Midnight Oil, headed by John Yerger and Jake Band-tailed Pigeon, Hairy Woodpecker, eight warbler Mohlmann, co-owners of Adventure Birding Company (see page 28 for species and Williamson’s Sapsucker. A Mississippi Kite at more on this new Birds and Business Alliance member), won the day by Dudleyville ended the day on a high note. spotting 194 species of birds! Although the team wasn’t a low carbon footprint team, they were, however, carbon neutral. For this Birdathon, they Karen Hochgraft led a trip through Lincoln Park and offset all of their carbon emissions through the same company that Atturbury Wash for International Migratory Bird Day provided carbon offsets for the production of “An Inconvenient Truth.” In May 10. A lively day indeed: nesting female Black-tailed addition, they donated 2 one-day guided trips as prizes for this year’s event! Gnatcatcher, Peregrine Falcon, Verdins feeding fledglings, Lucy’s, Wilson’s, Yellow, MacGillivray’s, Townsend’s On May 31, Birdathoners gathered for the traditional “Birdy Brunch” to Warblers, Scott’s Oriole, and Black-crowned Night- swap tall tales, vie for awards, and gather up raffle goodies donated by area Heron were just some of the 36 avian species seen along businesses as rewards for all of their hard work. In addition to the raffled with one huge collared lizard. items we also gave out some traditional awards. Here are the winners of all the various awards: Michael Marsden ticked 67 species on May 13 along Anza Trail’s mixed habitats. Tropical and Thick-billed Most Money Raised: $2,625.40 Green Day Packers Kingbirds, Bank Swallow, Blue Grosbeak, juvenile Most Individual Donors: 43 Green Day Packers Crested Caracara, Gray Hawk, and Lazuli Bunting. Rio Most Species Seen: 194 Birding the Midnight Oil Rico ponds had 200+ Black-bellied Whistling-Ducks, Best Bird: Semipalmated Sandpiper Los Pinguinos de los Rios Snowy Egret, and 40+ White-faced Ibis. Most Cactus Wrens: 47 Agua Calienteer Bird Brains Most Life-list Birds: Andrew Hatch of the Mixed Bag Birders May 17 saw five birders join Robin Baxter for “Summer Best Birdathon Narrative, youth: Carsten Wintsch of the Agua Riparian Birds for Beginners” starting at the Paton’s in Calienteers Bird Brains Patagonia. Fifty-six species seen, including nesting Best Birdathon Narrative, adult: Laura Cotter of the Agua Calienteer Bird Northern Beardless-Tyrannulet, Blue Grosbeak, Gray and Brains Zone-tailed Hawk, Black-throated Sparrow and Western Best Photo: Sara Pike’s “Seatbelt 2, Matt! 0” Tanagers galore. Thick-billed Kingbird was noted in three Best Team Poster: Agua Calienteer Bird Brains different locales. Most Extreme Birdathon: Matt Griffiths’ 77 miles and 8,000 ft elevation Erika Wilson, three Tucson Audubon members and six change by bike! California visitors worked the San Pedro Riparian NCA Most Extreme Birdathon: Ed Moll for “facing” down rogue canyon tree- on May 20. Warm temps, light breezes gave up 54 frogs species, six of which were building nests or feeding All Birdathoners at the brunch were automatically entered into three grand young, while others sang or moved as pairs. Barn prize drawings. In addition, contestants were given extra tickets based on Swallows fed young at San Pedro House. Common money raised by their team to “up their odds” in the drawings of their Ground Dove and Cassin’s Kingbirds were nest building. choice. The winners were: A female Vermilion Flycatcher sat on her nest along the river. A perfect spring day! Vortex “Viper” 8x42 Binoculars, retail value of $599 donated by the Tucson Audubon Nature Shop, the Birdathon Committee and Vortex After days of rain, high winds and the latest spring snow Optics: Lia Sansom of The Mac Pack. ever, Bob Bates and a crew of seven set out into the Catalinas to log 59 species on May 24. Olive-sided 4-night stay at Condominios Pilar in San Carlos Mexico, donated by Flycatcher and the Red-faced Warbler show at Rose Susan Gordon Randolph: Pat Trossman of La Cebadilla Cuckoos Canyon were highlights. One-day personalized custom-guided trip with Birds & Business Alliance Ready or not, that (dry) heat is on the way. But then, so member Adventure Birding Company: Wanda Wynne of The Northern Lites is our dramatic monsoon. As summer unfolds, look for more outstanding trips near and far. I can’t think of a And finally, Amanda Moors donated her short film “Backyard Birds” to be better way to get outdoors, so I’ll be afield with Tucson used as a fun Birdy Brunch activity. Brunch attendees were challenged to Audubon. When the elevated mercury becomes too see how many species they could spot and winners would be drawn from much, I may visit the Nature Shops to snoop for new all correct entries—however, nobody guessed the right number! Guess we books and supplies. Good birding and see you in August! could all use another round of practice via next year’s Birdathon, and we hope to see you there! VF VF

JULY-AUGUST 2008 Vermilion Flycatcher Tucson Audubon Society 13 Volunteer!

Agua Caliente Nature Shop: Volunteer to help out at the Nature Shop at Agua Caliente Park. Call Becky Aparicio: 760-7881. Special Events and More: We need folks willing to help out at special events including but not limited to tabling at area events, delivery of our newsletters/brochures to area businesses, and other odds and ends as they arise. These are opportunities to help at one-time Birding with Homer Hansen. Courtesy Kendall Kroesen. events and will not require a continuing obligation (unless we can talk you into that!). For more Moving to Mastery: information, contact Vivian: 629-0757. Experiencing Southeast Arizona Birds

Education Program: The Moving to Mastery course—a partnership These classes are open to all, but those who have Assist with environmental between Pima County Natural Resources, Parks taken the Moving to Mastery Class will be given education programs for children and Recreation, and Tucson Audubon Society—is preference. Each two-day class is comprised of one and adults! Become a trained intended for adult birders with some birding Wednesday lecture, 6 to 9p.m. and one Saturday Volunteer Naturalist! Enjoy giving experience and skills. Offered ONLY in fall and field trip, 7a.m. to 5p.m.; each class is limited to 10 PowerPoint presentations?… meeting over a five-week period, five lectures participants. Specialty Workshops are $105.00 per Train to become part of our introduce students to advanced problems in person, per class. Speakers Bureau Series! Call Carrie birding and the resources available to solve them. Warblers, September 3 & 6, 2008 Dean: 622-2230. Topics addressed include understanding bird Learn how to distinguish those challenging fall warblers. topography, getting started in flight and voice University Nature Shop: Key structural characteristics and similar species identification, and developing strategies for use comparisons will be taught during this workshop, along Volunteers interested in working with difficult species groups. Four field trips are with an introduction to learning warbler vocalizations. in the Main Shop. Contact selected to reinforce the topics covered in the Heather Hatch: 622-2230 or classroom sessions. Flycatchers, September 10 & 13, 2008 [email protected]. Ready to leap into the identification of Empidonax and Past classes have seen Long-eared Owls, and Myiarchus flycatchers? This workshop introduces you to Birding Field Trips: discovered how to differentiate sparrow species. the diverse family Tyrannidae and highlights the ways to Volunteer to lead birding field And we cannot forget the spectacle of the Sandhill separate the kingbirds, pewees, empids and flycatchers of trips. Instructions and help are Cranes. Taught by Homer Hansen, he expertly and southeastern Arizona. available. Yes, YOU CAN DO IT! Call gently guides students through identification of Sparrows, January 21 & 24, 2009 Darlene Smyth: 297-2315. difficult species groups; to quote one participant, Southeast Arizona hosts an incredible diversity of “I don’t want the course to end—there is so much wintering sparrows. This detailed workshop about their Mason Center: more to learn and Homer knows so much.” Price behavior, structure and identification characteristics will Volunteers needed for a variety of is $200.00 per person. Since this class will no have you checking the “LBJs” on your life list with projects: re-thatching a couple of longer be offered twice per year and is limited to confidence. ramada roofs (some thatch 20 participants, it will fill quickly! Raptors, February 4 & 7, 2009 material needed); grafting aging Dates: October 22 through November 19, 2008. The rulers of the sky, raptors have always captured citrus trees planted by Mr. Mason mankind’s imaginations. Learn all about the habits and in 1950; and refinishing floors Lectures meet Wednesday evenings, 6 to 9p.m.; Saturday field trips begin at 7a.m. and vary in morphology of raptors that we can see in southeast (materials and equipment Arizona during this workshop. needed). Call Lia Sansom: length depending on location. For more information or to register for the 971-6238. As part of the Lifelong Birding Series and in Moving to Mastery class and/or Specialty addition to the Moving to Mastery Class, we are Workshops, contact Carrie Dean at pleased to offer four Specialty Workshops, which [email protected] or 622-2230. focus on identification details for specific groups. VF

14 Tucson Audubon Society Vermilion Flycatcher JULY–AUGUST 2008 The State of Our Lands Tucson Audubon receives continued from page 1 attract; a community that will provide high quality living TogetherGreen Grant for future generations with development that is by Paul Green, Executive Director sustainable? This issue of the Vermilion Flycatcher contains some ways for you to make your voice heard. Read Conservation Updates on page 20 for more information. National Audubon has received a $20 million grant from Toyota, the largest Audubon has received in its 103-year history. It will fund the new Conserving Arizona’s Lands and Water TogetherGreen program for five years, enabling Audubon to expand the The issue that is likely to have the most widespread and scope and reach of its conservation programs, many of which hit the ground longstanding effect on Arizona’s important natural areas is through chapters including Tucson Audubon. reform of how we manage our State Trust Lands. Conservationists fear that large tracts of biologically TogetherGreen has three components, which include Innovation Grants. significant lands could be sold to developers, undoing Conservation Fellowships, and Volunteer Days. Innovation Grants will fund countless conservation achievements. One example is the projects that use creative approaches and attract diverse communities to establishment of large housing developments close to lands achieve measurable land, water and energy conservation results. with shallow aquifers, which would result in the drying out Conservation Fellowships will train promising environmental leaders who of critical riparian habitats, such as along the lower San can serve as role models, expert guides, and organizers for engaging new and Pedro River near San Manuel. Such a development could diverse audiences in effective conservation action. Finally, Volunteer Days make the San Pedro River run dry in places and lead to will provide hands-on opportunities to address environmental problems and degradation of the riparian wildlife habitat. In an open take part in restoration activities. auction developers easily outbid conservation buyers In addition, TogetherGreen will reach audiences through the website because of the increase in value that development plans TogetherGreen.org to help visitors discover dozens of individual conservation give to a piece of land. Quality of life and importance to actions to help them independently “green” their lives, challenging people to wildlife cannot compete in a market governed by take conservation actions of their own, highlighting and encouraging traditional economic rules. conservation action (see, for example, A Healthy Arizona Yard, available free A Citizen’s Initiative was recently filed that will make from our store or through our website at tucsonaudubon.org/ conserving State Trust Land possible. The initiative, known conservation/aah_az.htm). as Conserving Arizona’s Lands and Water, will allow local The first part of the program in which Tucson Audubon is involved is the jurisdictions to purchase State Trust Lands at true, TogetherGreen Volunteer Days. We are pleased to announce that we applied appraised market value without the need to go to open for and received one of the $7,000 grants available this year. Volunteer Days auction against developers. In addition, 570,000 acres of is a core program element of TogetherGreen that aims to nurture land will be immediately protected from development, at conservation leadership, achieve conservation results and engage millions of no cost, once the initiative becomes law. Read about it in people in conservation action. The conservation goals of the TogetherGreen detail on pages 18, and to read the full text of the initiative program are: to protect habitat and species in targeted ; protect go online to www.azsos.gov/election/2008/general/ water resources by improving water quality and water supply for all living ballotmeasuretext/c-20-2008.pdf things; and to reduce the threat of greenhouse gas emissions by reducing By the time you read this, the deadline for signature energy use and improving energy efficiency. collection will have passed. The most important thing you TogetherGreen Volunteer Days will focus on increasing the number and can do now is to make sure you vote in November, and diversity of people who support conservation efforts through volunteerism, consider voting for this initiative when you do. and to increase the frequency with which they volunteer for conservation. VF Tucson Audubon will achieve these goals by recruiting new volunteers. We’ll do this by expanding into diverse age groups, ethnicities and backgrounds that are under-represented in our volunteer activities; we’ll try new and proven techniques such as social activities, incentives and rewards that attract and retain; and we’ll design new volunteer activities that will help us accomplish real conservation outcomes and provide real satisfaction for our volunteers. Our first activity will be the creation of a demonstration xeriscape and water harvesting education site along the western side of the Historic Y on Fifth Avenue. For details, see the “Fall Landscaping Workshop” box on page 29. VF

JULY–AUGUST 2008 Vermilion Flycatcher Tucson Audubon Society 15 Main Shop At the Tucson Audubon Nature Shops Monday–Saturday 10a.m.–4p.m., except Monday & Thursday until 5p.m. Duck Stamps Are Here! by Sara Pike Located on the southeast The Federal Duck Stamp Program is celebrating its 75th anniversary corner of University Blvd. and this year, and we thought this would be a great time to show our 5th Avenue. support of the Duck Stamp program by selling stamps through the Tucson Audubon Nature Shops. Federal Duck Stamps are a vital tool for wetland conservation. Ninety- SALE! eight cents out of every dollar generated by their sales goes directly to purchase or lease wetland habitat for protection in the National Wildlife Refuge System. Happy Birders and other frequenters of National Wildlife Refuges purchase the Federal Duck Stamp each year in order to gain free admission to the Refuges. Conservationists buy Federal Duck Birthday Stamps because they know that the stamps are, dollar for dollar, one of the best investments one Tucson! can make in the future of America’s wetlands. Purchase your Duck Stamp today at either Tucson Audubon Nature Shop for just $15. For Throughout the month of August an additional dollar, you can purchase a stamp holder to keep your stamp safe and accessible. take15% off your entire purchase* at the Main Nature Shop. Come shop today! Book Reviews by Kendall Kroesen, Restoration Program Manager *Excludes optics, coffee and seed; No other discounts apply Rainwater Harvesting for Drylands (Vol. 2): Water-harvesting Earthworks by Brad Lancaster. $32.95 in the Nature Shops This book fits into the genre “Everything you ever wanted to know about such-and- Agua Caliente such, but were afraid to ask.” Park Shop So don’t be afraid to ask whether your swale needs a rock-lined spillway, how steep a In July & August: slope you can build a microbasin on, or how to do vertical mulching. You’ll get advice on these questions and a host of others in the 419 pages of this comprehensive book. Tuesday 9a.m.–3:30p.m. Phone: 760-7881 Earthworks are the backbone of good waterwise landscapes. The best and least expensive place to store water is in the ground. Earthworks (basins, swales, gabions, terraces, French drains, etc.) are designed Directions: From Tanque to detain or slow water so that it infiltrates rather than running off. This provides more moisture in the Verde Rd. and Houghton, to support vegetation and microbial life, and ameliorates flooding in our streets and washes. continue east on Tanque Verde 2 miles. Turn left (north) onto Our cities have been designed with a lot of “hardscape” that sheds valuable rainwater, directing it into Soldier Trail, continue north streets, storm drains and riverbeds. This water is lost to our landscape and often ends up in the next for 2 miles. Turn right (east) county, recharging their aquifer and not ours. Earthworks are the first line of defense against these onto Roger Rd., continue losses. ¼ mile to the park entrance In Volume 1 of Brad’s soon-to-be trilogy, he laid out the logic of rainwater harvesting in dryland on the left (north) side of regions and introduced his philosophy of finding “abundance” where others see only dry desert. After the road. all, our part of the Sonoran Desert has more rainfall and thicker, more varied native vegetation than just about any other desert. Many foods can be grown, and habitat for native wildlife can be nurtured, Tuesday Bird Walk all by getting rainwater into the ground. 7:30a.m. Rainwater harvesting earthworks can also decrease our dependence on scarce metropolitan potable Loaner binoculars available, water supplies. Currently about 45% of the potable water used by the single-family dwellings served by meet in front of the ranch Tucson Water is used outside the house—most of it on landscaping. We badly need to reduce that house. For more nformation, amount so that we don’t take so much water out of the natural environment where birds and other call Pima County Parks & wildlife depend on it. Recreation at 877-6111. For permit requests and In Volume 3, expected some time in 2009, Brad will tell us everything we ever wanted to know about general information about collecting rainwater in cisterns. But for now, read Water-harvesting Earthworks and plan your yard, your park rules and regulations, landscape or your new subdivision to be porous to rainwater and the abundance it brings. call 749-3718

16 Tucson Audubon Society Vermilion Flycatcher JULY-AUGUST 2008 Remember, when making purchases at Tucson Audubon,‘Friends’members receive 10% off, and all of your dollars stay local and go toward bird conservation efforts! Agua Caliente Park Update Binocular FAQs by Chris Harrison by Becky Aparicio Do I need a spotting scope? Making plans for vacationing for most southeast Arizona Okay… nobody ‘needs’ a spotting scope… so the real question is, will owning a residents usually means escaping the heat in summer. In spotting scope make my birding experiences more enjoyable? The answer for fact, San Diego and the beaches of Southern California most people is yes, it absolutely will. are a big Arizona tourist draw, and our Arizona Daily Star recently carried an insert trying to draw Arizonans Basically, a spotting scope will bring birds even closer to the viewer than to San Diego. For many, traveling any great distance is binoculars will. For birders this means birds that are unapproachable can be out of the question due to the high cost of fuel, which identified from much greater distances. This is especially helpful when birding will undoubtedly become a defining part of our lives and at lakes, seashores and farm fields, just to name a few. The difference between budgets for a long time to come. Why not “travel locally” what can be seen at the 8- or 10-times magnification of standard binoculars and enjoy some of the most pristine birding in higher and the 20- to 60-times of a scope can be quite amazing. It may be the altitude coolness and revel in the monsoons and difference between correctly identifying a distant White-rumped Sandpiper or lightshows flashing off the nearby mountains? Might I giving up and writing ‘peep’ in your field notebook. suggest participating in one of the best birding festivals Apart from simply being able to identify distant birds, a spotting scope allows around, and it’s in our own back yard: the SouthWest you to observe birds in an entirely different way than with binoculars alone. In Wings Birding & Nature Festival will again be held at the many situations a scope acts more like a microscope showing the user detail Windemere Hotel and Conference Center in Sierra Vista, that would be hard to get, even with the bird in hand. A scope can be focused August 6 through 10. Many of the programs will be held on a known perch, feeder or nest for amazing looks at birds without at the hotel and the majority of the field trips will leave disturbing them at all. With a spotting scope, you can observe natural and return from there. The hotel will be providing rooms behaviors and beauty in a way that would otherwise not be possible. at a reduced rate for those who wish to take advantage of vacationing in comfort and saving money as well. A new use for spotting scopes that has become popular is ‘digiscoping.’ Digiscoping is the process of using your scope as a long lens for a digital Many of you are already familiar with the Sierra Vista camera. This opens new doors for and makes it possible area and Huachuca Mountain range as a fantastic birding for many more people to get some really great shots of birds and other area, but the region is also known for its great diversity of animals. This requires some added equipment for the scope, but is well other animals and plants. Besides, a Sonoran Desert worthwhile and much less expensive than the equivalent . summer is truly irresistible, and an opportunity to share it with like-minded international visitors and ramp up To be fair, there is one disadvantage to birding with a scope, and that is the size your skills with a lecture and field trip shouldn’t be and added weight that come along with it. The majority of times that a scope is missed. necessary, you will not be too far from your car or home. Few people bring a scope with them on a hike through the desert, but if you feel that you would Now for the shameless plug—Tucson Audubon will once like to, there are certainly lighter scopes available that suit this need. again set up our traveling nature shop as a vendor for Southwest Wings in the Windemere Hotel Conference If you are interested in purchasing a scope or just want more information, feel Center. A special guest, Robert Mesta, award-winning free to stop by the Tucson Audubon Nature Shop and we will be happy to help. Children’s Book author and Tucson Audubon Society The Nature Shop currently carries these scopes in stock. A few of them were Board Member, will be signing his new book Condor: also highly rated in the most recent Cornell Lab of Ornithology, Living Bird Spirit of the Canyon at our booth on Thursday afternoon, Magazine, Scope Quest 2008: August 7 from 12 to 5p.m. Last year Sara Pike and I really enjoyed this experience N Kowa TSN-883, 88mm—rated #1 in Top-of-the- and it was a great way to interact with visitors from all Line Scopes (over $1,500) over the world. Our only frustration was not being able N Kowa TSN-663, 66mm to attend the fantastic field trips and on-site seminars. N Vortex Skyline, 80mm— This year we’ll have more staff and volunteers to assist, rated #6 in best Budget giving us an opportunity to take advantage of the unique Scopes (under $1,000) location just minutes from great birding hotspots. For N Vortex Nomad, 65 mm complete information or to request a brochure, go to www.swwings.org. If you are currently a volunteer with The Nature Shop can also special-order spotting scopes from most other Tucson Audubon Society and would enjoy assisting in optics manufacturers. Please tell your friends, and visit the shop, when our vendor sales, just give Sara (622-2230) or Becky considering your spotting scope purchase. (760-7881) a call at either shop. VF

JULY-AUGUST 2008 Vermilion Flycatcher Tucson Audubon Society 17 Conserving Arizona’s Land and Water: A new State Trust Land reform initiative for 2008 by Kathleen Kennedy, Coalition for Sonoran Desert Protection

State Trust Land reform in Arizona has long been a challenging endeavor for conservationists interested in protecting the diverse habitat of our important wildlife and plant species. Over the years, numerous citizens’ initiatives have sought to provide a mechanism for the conservation of select parcels of State Trust Land. Additionally, in 1996, the Arizona Legislature established the Arizona Preserve Initiative (API), a program designed to encourage the preservation of open space around urban areas through the re-classification of State Trust Land (STL) for conservation purposes. Unfortunately, due to a variety Las Cienegas National Conservation Area. Courtesy Kendall Kroesen. of reasons, all of these efforts have either failed or been put on hold. Now, with the filing of a new citizens’ mile of incorporated municipalities of less than 10,000 persons, or initiative, known as Conserving Arizona’s Land and Water, we have within three miles of municipalities equal to or greater than 10,000 the chance to finally enable communities to protect biologically- persons, could be considered for reclassification as conservation lands sensitive STL from development. (municipalities submit applications to the State Land Department The history of STL in Arizona is an interesting one. At statehood in requesting reclassification). However, subsequent amendments 1912, the federal government gave Arizona over 10 million acres for increased this limit to 10 miles in Maricopa and Pima Counties, along the benefit of public schools and 13 other state institutions. Under the with specifying additional areas around the state. A public-private Arizona Constitution, all STL must be leased or sold to the highest matching grant program was also established through the State Parks bidder. This places cash-strapped municipalities, who may want to Board to assist jurisdictions with the purchase of designated purchase land for preservation and open space, at a disadvantage to conservation lands. A subsequent legal challenge asserted that the API developers. Recently, the State Land Department has been planning is unconstitutional because it would not put STL to its “highest and large swaths of STL for development, including parcels in southern best use” and effectively halted the API in its tracks. This new citizens’ Arizona such as the Arroyo Grande area north of Oro Valley and the initiative will allow the API to function again, allowing for the Tortolita Fan area in Marana. Both of these areas, as well as others preservation of open space for future generations to enjoy. around the state, contain critical wildlife linkages and important The second main component of the initiative establishes 570,000 habitat to a host of wildlife species. Without a way to protect these acres of permanent conservation lands throughout Arizona. This important lands, many areas that have biological importance, as well means that the development rights will be permanently withdrawn as being valued by local communities, could be lost. from these lands, protecting them from the threat of development in The new citizens’ initiative, Conserving Arizona’s Land and Water, has perpetuity. Areas included in the permanent conservation lands in two main components. First, local jurisdictions will have the ability to southern Arizona include: purchase STL at fair market value, based upon an appraisal, without the Las Cienegas watershed in eastern Pima County; having to go to open auction. These purchases will occur under the Tumamoc Hill; auspices of the Arizona Preserve Initiative (API), a program portions of the San Pedro River; established and signed into law in 1996 but since put on hold due to a the Malpai area east of Douglas; legal challenge. Second, approximately 570,000 acres of STL will be wildlife linkages between the Whetstone and the Dragoon conserved in perpetuity by being classified as “permanent Mountains and between the Catalina and Galiuro Mountains; conservation lands.” the west desert preserve in Green Valley; The API component of the initiative reinstates the program and a stretch of the Sopori Wash; and addresses constitutional questions raised about API in the past. When 6,000+ acres of land north of Oro Valley known as Arroyo the API was first signed into law in 1996, only STL located within one Grande. continued next page

18 Tucson Audubon Society Vermilion Flycatcher JULY–AUGUST 2008 Education News by Carrie Dean, Education Program Manager Audubon Arizona offers Raptors Keep the Balance Summer Program by Cathy Wise

Imagine enjoying a sunny northern Arizona morning—when suddenly gunshots ring out. An instant later, a beautiful Swainson’s Hawk plummets to the ground—and the shooter promptly collects her, intending to keep her as a pet. Weeks later, “Beau” was confiscated by an Arizona Game and Fish Department wildlife manger—but it was too late to save her injured wing. After months of treatment, experts determined that Beau would need to stay in captivity. Since that day over five years ago, Beau has visited hundreds of classrooms and her story has touched thousands of lives. Beau now resides at the Arizona Game and Fish Department’s Adobe Mountain Wildlife Center, a wildlife rehabilitation facility located in north Phoenix. Although this center focuses on wildlife rehabilitation with the intent of re-releasing injured animals into the wild, this goal is not always attainable. Non-releasable wildlife Beau and Cathy Wise. Courtesy Mike Rupp. are sometimes kept as educational resources and thus become the ambassadors of their species. to these creatures is awe- Audubon Arizona is excited to assist in this endeavor by visiting inspiring and builds powerful connections between humans and 30 city of Phoenix summer school sites within the next few nature. Each animal, like Beau, has a story and these stories need months with an engaging program called “Raptors Keep the to be told. Balance.” This 45-minute presentation focuses on raptor adaptations and the food chain, and has been developed cooperatively through partnerships nourished by the Citizen Program, funded by the Arizona Community Foundation. The mission of Citizen Stewardship is to improve Conserving Arizona’s and promote our natural communities. Partners in the project include Liberty Wildlife and the Tucson Audubon Society. They Land and Water continued are joined by the Arizona Game and Fish Department to make Raptors Keep the Balance a reality. All of these areas contain important habitat for a variety of wildlife and plant species, including some that are considered threatened and Approximately 3,200 students will participate in the program to endangered. They serve as critical wildlife linkages between mountain learn about two live birds-of-prey—a hawk and an owl. The ranges. In addition, some of these lands are in close proximity to objectives of the program include discussing the important urban areas and serve as recreational open space for citizens to enjoy. environmental niche that raptors occupy and the specific tools By immediately classifying these lands as “permanent conservation they use to do their job. Educators will also discuss the lands,” the Conserving Arizona’s Land and Water initiative will make conservation efforts underway to protect these birds, and suggest great strides in improving the quality of life for both people and ways improve local bird habitats. Prior to the program, site wildlife in southern Arizona. managers will provide kids with a wish list of items that Adobe Mountain needs, such as paper towels and hand sanitizer. Kids Conserving Arizona’s Land and Water is a multi-faceted yet will be encouraged to donate an item on the day of the straightforward initiative that asserts the legality of the Arizona presentation and, in this way, will be enabled to do something Preserve Initiative, allowing municipalities to apply for the tangible to help wildlife. In addition, each student will receive the reclassification of urban State Trust Land as conservation lands, and Audubon Adventures “Hunters of the Air” newspaper to take immediately establishing 570,000 acres of permanent conservation home and share with their families. This document offers lands throughout Arizona. With the Conserving Arizona’s Land and additional raptor-related readings and activities. For more Water initiative, the time has come to reform the State Trust Land information or to help with this program, please contact Cathy system in Arizona once and for all. Wise at (602) 468-6470 or [email protected] VF VF

JULY–AUGUST 2008 Vermilion Flycatcher Tucson Audubon Society 19 Conservation Update by Chris McVie, Paul Green, Kendall Kroesen and Scott Wilbor Support the State Trust Land Reform Initiative Forest Service receives and makes public a complete Mine Plan of Tucson Audubon is pleased to support the November 2008 proposed Operations. ballot initiative, “Conserving Arizona’s Land & Water,” which will: Local governments and citizens have thus far been unable to obtain Conserve and protect 570,000 acres of some of the most documents that would provide sufficient information and peer review important natural areas in Arizona to allow meaningful comments to be offered. Also, under the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), the Forest Service is required to Require the state land department and local communities to consider a “no action” alternative when considering a proposed action cooperate in planning for trust land on federal lands. The Forest Service published a notice in the Federal Protect and guarantee essential classroom funding through Register stating that the purpose of the proposed action was “to grant improved management of state trust lands permission to the company to use National Forest Service land for certain activities related to the operation of the Rosemont Mine,” Many have worked long and hard to achieve a solution that would indicating that the Forest Service’s stated purpose at the outset is to meet the concerns of the schools, ranchers, homebuilders and the grant permission for the project. Lastly, the Forest Service agreed to trust, to the benefit of all citizens. Please make sure you vote in convene working groups of citizens and cooperating agencies and November, and please consider voting YES! on this initiative. that has yet to happen less than two months before the end of the current scoping process. The USFS has declined our representatives Dudleyville Doube Check Ranch Conservation request to close and reopen the scoping process. See Easement Goes to Court www.tucsonaudubon.org for the entire letter and please consider Tucson Audubon, Maricopa Audubon, and the Center for Biological sending a Thank You to our Representatives! Diversity (CBD) have joined together to seek injunctive relief in support of Paul and Sarah Schwennesen’s Double Check Ranch Cactus Ferruginous Pygmy Owl (CFPO) 90-Day conservation easement, currently held by the Bureau of Land Finding & Status Review Initiated by the USFWS Management (BLM). The easement, created in 1996, applies to the The USFWS is seeking data and information in order to consider ranch in its entirety and protects sensitive San Pedro River streamside listing the CFPO as Threatened or Endangered, possibly with Critical habitat from cattle grazing and off-road vehicle use. Habitat, under the Endangered Species Act. The USFWS has made a Pinal County has violated the Clean Water Act (CWA) by failing to 90-day finding that, in response to a petition by CBD and Defenders obtain a 404 Permit from the Army Corps of Engineers (ACOE), and of Wildlife, re-listing the tiny predator may be warranted. USFWS will the Endangered Species Act (ESA) by not consulting with the ACOE make a 12-month finding after the status review is complete. and the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service (USFWS), when the county Comments must be received no later than August 1, 2008. Faxes and declared an emergency, seized the federal conservation easement by emails will not be accepted. Tucson Audubon will submit comments eminent domain, and bladed a road across the San Pedro River in supporting the listing as Endangered, with Critical Habitat, based on designated Critical Habitat for the federally endangered Southwestern the best available scientific information, and we encourage you to do Willow Flycatcher. The county’s action has also violated the so too. Comments must address taxonomy, threats to the species, its Supremacy Clause of the Constitution of the United States of habitat, and the future of the Arizona/Sonoran population. America. BLM finally filed a complaint with the ACOE against Pinal Comments merely stating a wish for relisting will be noted but only County regarding the CWA April 21 and threatened to file a trespass comments that address the science of the CFPO will be considered in complaint against Pinal County in May, months after Pinal County’s evaluating the need for listing. See www.tucsonaudubon.org for our egregious actions in January 2008. previous comments, a copy of the notice, and new information on the CFPO. Also see the Federal Register notice at www.gpoaccess.gov/ Tucson Audubon has been involved in this area for over 20 years fr/Index.html. Click on the Federal Register Main Page,type Cactus through our Riparian Family Institute and our ongoing research Ferruginous Pygmy-Owl in the 2008 (Volume 73) Only search engine, documenting this area as an Important Bird Area (IBA) for species and select the 90-day finding and status review option. including the Southwestern Willow Flycatcher, the western population of the Yellow-billed Cuckoo, and Bell’s Vireo. For this Tucson City Council Leads by Funding Conservation reason, and many others, Tucson Audubon has advocated that the For the first time in Pima County history, a jurisdiction has created a lower San Pedro River would best be managed by the USFWS as a dedicated funding mechanism for conservation—of any kind. The National Wildlife Refuge. See www.tucsonaudubon.org for more Tucson City Council voted 5–0 on May 20 to create a dedicated information on the lower San Pedro River and the Schwennesens’ funding source for water conservation. Tucson leads the nation in this ongoing plight. innovative program, which creates many potential opportunities for our water future. Each Tucson Water customer will be charged $.03 Grijalva & Giffords Ask Forest Service to Reinitiate per ccf (100 cubic feet of water) on their monthly bill (about Public Scoping Process on Rosemont Mine 36¢/month for a typical family). The resulting funds can legally be Representatives Raul Grijalva and Gabrielle Giffords jointly have used only for conservation, such as a pilot program to give low-flow written a letter asking the US Forest Service to suspend the current toilets to low-income families. public scoping process and not to reopen it until such time as the

20 Tucson Audubon Society Vermilion Flycatcher JULY-AUGUST 2008 weather, offices, computers, administration, and other equipment. Many residents oppose building a permanent checkpoint 25-30 miles north of the actual international border and say they were under the impression that the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the Border Patrol (BP) were going to secure the border—at the border, using the border wall and much-needed improvements to the Mariposa Port of Entry in Nogales. The DHS and the Tucson sector BP have since told Representative Giffords that the ACOE “made a mistake,” and Gifford’s representative has written that she is “relieved.” Representative Grijalva “opposes” actual construction of any checkpoint until studies that were agreed to by the DHS and the BP are completed and analyzed. And the neighbors, who are very leery of DHS and BP’s “mistake,” wonder if any “temporary” construction is just the first phase of “permanent.”

Ferruginous Pygmy-Owl. Courtesy Bob Miles, USFWS. Statewide Transportation Ballot Initiative ADOT’s (Arizona Department of Transportation’s) Statewide The driving force originated with the Conservation Task Force Transportation Investment Strategy outlines a transportation created by Tucson Water in 2005, and its subsequent report and program that would be funded through a November 2008 ballot recommendations. The Council did not fund the entire package of initiative filed by the TIME (Transportation and Infrastructure recommended measures but the vote was an excellent, albeit modest, Moving Arizona’s Economy) Coalition. The State Transportation first step in a year of budget constraints. The fund is expected to Board hosted a series of four public hearings (Flagstaff, Marana, bring in $455,000 the first year, and must be voted on again in Phoenix, and Tucson) in June to invite public comments on a subsequent years. statewide transportation program developed by the Arizona Department of Transportation collaboratively with regional and local If this program is implemented effectively, saving water and money, it transportation partners from across the state. will open the door for more creative ways to utilize water that might include riparian habitat restoration. Tucson Audubon spoke in It creates a new fund estimated to generate approximately $42 billion support of the rate increase at the meeting. Tucson Audubon thinks it over 30 years to be distributed as follows: is important to invest in water conservation today in order to avoid 55% to state highways (49% of this to counties with a population extra costs in the future that would come from having to acquire over 2.5-million persons; 39% to counties with a population additional resources. under 1-million persons; and 12% to counties with between 1- Santa Cruz County I-19 “Border” Checkpoint Just million and 2.5-million persons). There is only one new highway South of the Pima County Line!? — Giffords included in the package: 89A in Yavapai County. This initiative “alarmed” & Grijalva “very, very disappointed.” does not include any of the I-10 Bypass Proposals. Residents in northern Santa Cruz County along the east side of I-19, 18% is dedicated to regional rail with 8% and 5% of this amount between the Agua Linda and Chavez Siding exits just south of allocated directly to Maricopa Association of Governments’ Amado, received registered letters from the Army Corps of Engineers (MAG) and Pima Association of Governments’ (PAG) Regional requesting signed permission for “irrevocable right of entry” for an Transportation Authorities respectively. 13% of 18% roughly unspecified three-month period “to look for archaeological, translates to 2.3% of total dollars available to MAG and PAG for ecological or historical items; take soil samples; and have land regional transit planning and programming and 15.7% for surveyed and appraised” in preparation for an “I-19 Checkpoint” that regional rail, principally commuter rail. neighbors fear will become permanent. Residents of Green Valley, 20% for local transportation purposes (includes light rail, local Amado, and Tubac have been alarmed for some time because the roads, bus, etc.). current temporary checkpoint has funneled undocumented migrants, “coyotes” and smugglers, not to mention Border Patrol personnel and 4% for transportation enhancements (scenic easements, safe their equipment, through private around the trailer school routes, environmental mitigation, landscaping, pedestrian checkpoint. Tucson Audubon shares the same experiences and and bike trails, etc.). concerns because we manage over 300 acres along the Santa Cruz 3% to the Open Space Conservation and Wildlife Habitat Fund. River, in the heart of the affected area, as a Conservation Easement. This is the first time that a statewide initiative has acknowledged the A permanent checkpoint may include a helipad, multiple lanes to connection between the habitat fragmentation caused by facilitate traffic, a large structure to accommodate a detention center with holding cells, indoor space for agents to shelter from inclement continued next page

JULY-AUGUST 2008 Vermilion Flycatcher Tucson Audubon Society 21 Important Bird Areas Program by Scott Wilbor, IBA Conservation Biologist Sabino Creek/Tanque Verde watershed a focus for the Arizona Important Bird Areas Program; look for happenings in Fall ’08!

We have 30 official Important Bird Areas (IBAs) in Arizona plus another 60 or so “potential IBAs” that are in need of obtaining greater bird population documentation in order to bring to our Science Committee for review. Concurrently, the Important Bird Areas Program is always seeking to address the long-term conservation of our IBAs in Arizona. Engaging and cultivating the local communities around these IBAs is one of our most successful strategies within the program. This fall the IBA Program will do just that at two of our southern Arizona IBAs: Sabino and Bear Creeks IBA including the Tanque Verde watershed; and the Lower San Pedro River IBA (see March Flycatcher p. 16-17 for our Lower San Pedro IBA conservation plans). Regarding Sabino/Tanque Verde watershed, we have seen the growing threats of increasing subdivision, new developments, Mesquite bosque community, important avian habitat within vegetation clearing, greater groundwater use, effects of drought, Sabino Creek Important Bird Area. Courtesy Kendall Kroesen. erosion, hardscape surfaces, faster rainwater run-off, and faltering riparian vegetation health and the need for conservation. The health numbers. We are excited to get out and begin our investigations of riparian vegetation is critical to many of the bird populations that with the community for solutions! We plan on getting started in qualified this area as an IBA. Surrounding upland Sonoran Desert September. Are you interested in helping or do you believe you have habitat is also threatened. Many bird species of southern Arizona information for our community IBA conservation action project thrive at this eco-tone of these vegetative communities. We are that will help us get started? Give us a call or drop us an email. Let’s planning now to initiate a community conservation action project see what we can do for one very important IBA right in northeast to enhance and conserve wildlife habitats of this watershed. Tucson! Have a great summer, and let’s get going this fall! Beginning this fall we plan to first gather more information on the VF problems facing the watershed, listen to the residents, and begin planning and implementing solutions to turn back the threats. Ultimately, we hope to turn the tide and begin to increase the health of the riparian and surrounding Sonoran upland habitats for birds Conservation Update continued from page 21 and all wildlife within the watershed. transportation projects and the associated impacts on wildlife habitat What might we do? We will definitely be looking to work with the and movement corridors. For more general information or to provide residents of the area, various associations, schools, local comments please visit www.azdot.gov. organizations and, of course, Pima County. We are considering Kyle & McCain Sponsor Resolution special field trips to view problems, document the state of nature, and assess wildlife populations. We will have workshops on the Copper Company Senate Hearing area’s ecological importance and on nature conservation strategies Resolution Copper Corporation [RCC] announced a new CEO in for homeowners and neighborhood associations. We’ll have late March, David Salisbury. RCC is clear in their announced goal to presentations of our bird survey findings, and new bird inventories get the land exchange legislation passed this session of Congress. On to focus on under ‘detected species.’ We may have work days to June 4 they presented to a variety of groups suggested amendments to address erosion, capture rainwater, remove non-native invasive S-1862 introduced last year by Senator Kyl. There are still serious vegetation, plant native trees/shrubs, control site abuse, or improve flaws in this draft that Tucson Audubon will continue to work on trails for nature observation. We’ll explore new opportunities for improving. A hearing in the Senate Natural Resources on these access for nature appreciation and passive recreation. proposed amendments to S-1862 is expected some time in the month of June. Tucson Audubon will submit a letter on the proposed Ultimately, we hope to increase habitat quality so that some of our legislation. We will report on the outcomes in our next issue. highest conservation concern species in this IBA area (Bell’s Vireo, Lucy’s Warbler, Abert’s Towhee, Gilded Flicker, Elf Owl, Rufous- To receive emailed conservation updates and other news from Tucson winged Sparrow, Costa’s Hummingbird, Northern Beardless- Audubon, email [email protected], or go to our Tyrannulet, and Gray Hawk), continue to find habitat of high website www.tucsonaudubon.org and follow the link to sign up for enough quality to allow their populations to thrive and increase in our email updates. VF

22 Tucson Audubon Society Vermilion Flycatcher JULY-AUGUST 2008 Urban Birds by Kendall Kroesen, Restoration Program Manager, and Jessie Byrd, MLA, ASLA, Desert Green Design As another in our series on useful landscaping plants, we turn this month to chollas. Chollas have everything you want in a Sonoran Desert landscape plant. Each species adds a structural element to the landscape that lets people know they are in the desert Southwest. They bring oodles of , structure and function to your design. Chollas do well in full sun but can also be woven into thick stands of vegetation where their unique “look” adds an interesting texture and color to the landscape. There are several species from which to choose, ranging from fuzzy-looking teddy bear cactus (Cylindropuntia bigelovii) to stout, LEFT Staghorn cholla, Cylindropuntia versicolor. green chainfruit cholla (Cylindropuntia ABOVE Thrasher nest in staghorn cholla at Nature Conservancy building. Photos courtesy Kendall fulgida) and the purplish staghorn cholla Kroesen. (Cylindropuntia versicolor). C. bigelovii and C. fulgida look best when backlit by the sun and the dense yellow spines glow like a halo plants grow, the birds often make nests at eye around the plant. Both of these species have level or lower, so it is easy to observe mother loose joints between stems, so they are better birds and their young. planted away from walkways. C. fulgida has lovely, delicate pink flowers in the Chollas are also good for inhibiting the summertime, which make a great contrast to movement of people. The spines that protect the intimidating spines. C. versicolor is not as birds and their nests from predators can impede likely to drop stem segments, so it’s a better choice for higher-use bad guys trying to get over walls or to approach windows. areas of your yard. The plant is called ‘versicolor’ because the Planting chollas at the base of walls or near windows can provide flowers can be anywhere from yellows to ruddy oranges to dark the same protection for your house as they do for bird nests. reds and pinks. Chollas are very easy to introduce into your landscape. They are The dense spines high off the desert floor let birds know they have inexpensive to buy or can reproduce vegetatively if you can obtain a place to nest and shelter from predators. Everybody probably cuttings. Simply get cholla stems that have been broken or cut off knows that Arizona’s state bird, the Cactus Wren, often builds its at joints. Allow the broken or cut surface to heal over for several oblong nests in chollas. But doves and Curve-billed Thrashers are days. To plant, bury the cut end in shallow, well-drained desert among the other birds that also may build nests in chollas, soil. Do not plant them in rainwater harvesting basins or other expertly avoiding the spines. Look for the thrasher’s coarse stick- areas where water collects because they will rot. After a little water nests, particularly in larger, denser chollas (see photo). As these during establishment, chollas will not need any supplemental irrigation. Another characteristic of chollas, and all cacti, is that being succulents, they do not burn easily. If you are worried about fire danger in your landscape, cacti will help to moderate fire potential. And doggone if they aren’t edible too! Cholla flower buds can be harvested when they are tender, processed and eaten. See native plant cookbooks for recipes! VF

JULY-AUGUST 2008 Vermilion Flycatcher Tucson Audubon Society 23 Sleeping with the Elves: The Institute of Desert Ecology: Got Birds, Bugs, Bats, Herps & Prime Rib? by Liz Payne, Board Member

You . Tucson Audubon’s illustrious Institute of Desert all stripes. Some are Ecology (IDE) aims to please, and Catalina State Park is the educators, others retirees, place to be in April to celebrate one of the most demanding and from in and out of state; diverse areas in the world. I can’t think of anywhere I’d rather everyone contributes and be than smack dab in its springtime center cerebrating Sonoran learns together. As a Desert complexities. Intrigued by our wide-open spaces? volunteer, I help haul Yes, cacti do have leaves. Courtesy Liz Payne. Cryptobiotic wha? What are those clouds of bugs? Ever hang a tables, canopies, coolers, dunk bag? Noose a lizard? There’s waaay more to this desert whiteboards, pegboards, lanterns, tablecloths, signs and gear ad than meets the eye. infinitum from the Mason Center to the group campground. Our stalwart group tackles the tents, each year a bit more bent from Zzzzzzzz. pwep.pwep.wep.wep.wep. Pwep.pwep.wep.wep.wep. previous desert gusts. We assemble the dishwashing, mess and PA Mmmph, wha? Gotta be 1:30. wep.wep.wep. Hey that’s an Elf stations. Sara expertly recreates her bookstore domain. It’s more fun Owl! Later, it was a Western Screech duet, and yes, Great than dodging fire ants and my admiration for exotic flora and fauna Horned’s were sounding in the distance. I love to camp. The starts anew. We’ve even incorporated a Bird-a-Thon team. next morning, Matt confirmed, “that elf was perched four feet above your head, Liz.” Participants arrive Wednesday night to set up camp, but the Institute proper begins Thursday morning. Tomoff’s annual welcome is I smile as I write, because I love this event. It’s evolved over forever a rousing, poignant rant which sets the tone for a dynamic almost 40 years, with a matchless faculty passionately weekend. The man is on fire. He paces back and forth, challenges us committed to crafting something real. Add first-rate to go deep, to consider connection, interaction, relationship. Faculty participants, eager to investigate, explore and question. Mix in and staff smile—they’re familiar with this pitch—but the crowd cool critters, near-perfect weather, stunning landscape and stars bites. His enthusiasm swells, and minutiae are no longer trivial. galore… we’ve got serious chemistry here. Not to mention Twigs become relevant; eyes scan, hearing heightens, natural spanking new toilets and mouth-watering meals courtesy connections become personal and intense. The Vermilion Sutter’s Catering. As I look over photos past, I get a tad choked Flycatchers flit about relentlessly. up, it’s that good. Indeed, this was my fourth year, the first as participant, now as a volunteer. Days begin early to the sound of hammering triangle. Folks bolt for a jolt of perfect coffee and camp readily comes to life. Snacks are In ’04 I relocated to Tucson and handled the important things stashed, pre-breakfast dawn patrol sessions begin. We rotate in small straight away. I joined Tucson Audubon and acquired a library groups to study the interrelations between climate, landscape, plants, card; secured a season pass to Sabino Canyon. Made a beeline to reptiles, bugs, mammals, birds and insects. Our instructors are Summit Hut and Harshaw. Enrolled in the IDE and registered expert and we study with each twice through the weekend with my car. The program was several months off, so all I really had additional options after lunch. to go on was the brochure, but it sure sounded promising, and as April approached, I made lists and sorted my gear. It’s fervor that sets the table here, so I must mention our faculty: Geologist Bob Scarborough once dangled from helicopters, today he The Institute had me at hello. I arrived that warm Wednesday demystifies time with a magic geologic time stick. Grateful too, that afternoon amidst golden sun and breathtaking views. Claiming Basin and Range now means chocolate and caramel. Carl del Sud, my spot, I flung forth my tent, carefully avoiding the pocket (Olson) resident ‘bug man’, pontificates about exterminators while gopher holes. Then, while settling in, no way… I got a life bird! liberally sharing stinging creepy crawlies, hand to hand. Folks are Our fabulous mascot glowed neon red in a mesquite not ten equally delighted and distressed, and I remember one guy, practicing feet away. Within a half hour of arriving, my first IDE was in avoidance, tried to dodge a tarantula with “Someone said something full swing. Cowabunga! Summer camp for adults! Needless to about heaps of fluffy, mouth watering blueberry pancakes… when say, I was enthralled. The next evening, I even startled a bobcat. do these show up?” (usually on Day 3). And so it’s been these past four years. Fresh air, connecting with Ronnie Sidner is all about mammals: rock pocket mice, bats and the old friends and new, keying plants, detecting owlets, witnessing like. She’s adept at trapping and releasing, and we enjoy species in predation, trying to get Carl del Norte (Tomoff) to answer a hand as well as burrows, tracks, bones, droppings. Cecil Schwalbe, question without setting off fifteen more. Getting ‘into the out’ Herpetologist extraordinaire, has been bitten numerous times, but always recharges me and the IDE provides an amazing chance at his passion and understanding of his subject is legion and he lights once to query, share, relax and socialize with fellow campers of up when sharing about lizard ’nads or tortoise shells.

24 Tucson Audubon Society Vermilion Flycatcher JULY-AUGUST 2007 Sleeping with the Elves continued

Linwood Smith and his trusty mirror illuminate adaptations, evolution, woodrat middens, thrasher nests, saguaro condos, avoidance tactics and other strategies. Carl Tomoff threads botany and birds into the mix. What a joy that after so many years, this crew is still keen, but there’s not enough room here to even begin. So it’s another instructive day with another full on amazing dinner. Did I say Sutter’s Catering is the best? Practical jokes are common and not a meal goes by without animated stories. Staff and faculty tease each other as to previous dramas, all in addition to ‘skit night’ which is a lovely roast of haiku, readings and hilarities of one and all. After dinner, folks rally to stargaze. Or chase scorpions and bugs with blacklights. Or join Ronnie for bats. This year, I opted for the Tomoff-Smith show. The owling is always superb, but watching these lifelong friends charging through the brush Naturalist trainees birding. Courtesy Doris Evans. together really takes the cake. Then, seemingly without warning it’s Saturday evening, and Volunteer Naturalist Training; we gather for the wrap-up session and a photo. The mood is subdued with a collective realization: we’re mostly done. Space Limited to 10! Friends glance apprehensively, several examine notes. Tomoff Ever consider becoming a Volunteer Naturalist? Well, now is the is pacing again. He looks intense, but really he’s chilling; time to join our ever-growing group of dedicated volunteers! As a readying his thoughts for another eloquent homily. Once non-profit organization, volunteers are the lifeblood of Tucson again he thanks us for being part of his experience, expounds Audubon Society programs. Volunteer Naturalists’ main about it, then requests silence. As we enter the closing quiet responsibility is to help the public at the Mason Center and in the and reflect… breathe… listen…the sunset explodes fantastic community better understand and appreciate our Sonoran Desert and the gilded Catalinas smolder. Unbelievably, right on cue, region. The seven-week training takes place at the Mason Center a peregrine falcon screams through the camp. It doesn’t get in northwest Tucson and is $75 for members (please call for the better than this. non-member price, which includes a one-year membership). For a Volunteer Naturalist Training Application, more information or The group hike on Sunday pulls everything together, if you have questions, please contact Carrie Dean at 622-2230 or including local archeology. If you’re even remotely interested [email protected]. in understanding more about the Sonoran Desert, you must attend the IDE—end of story. Each year, I return home The training fills quickly, so act now! having fallen in love with our desert again. I know I’m not alone, four decades is a long time running. The 2009 Institute 2008 Training Schedule—Must Attend All Sessions is April 16-19, and already penned on my calendar. Four feet October 7 Tuesday, 6–8p.m. above my head. pwep.pwep.wep.wep.wep……I can’t wait. October 12 Sunday 1–5p.m. October 14 Tuesday 6–8p.m. Our studies emphasize relationships between plants, animals October 19 Sunday 1–5p.m. and the physical characteristics of the Sonoran Desert rather October 21 Tuesday 6–8p.m. than on classification and identification. Days begin early and October 26 Sunday 1–5p.m. optional activities such as owling, blacklighting for insects, and October 28 Tuesday 6–8p.m. star talks extend into the evening hours. Participants and faculty interact in small groups and a final group hike ties together the November 1 Saturday 8a.m.–12p.m. experiences of earlier sessions. Participants sleep in their own November 2 Sunday 1–5p.m. tents or campers and all meals are catered. U of A and November 4 Tuesday 6–8p.m. Professional Development Credit is available. For particulars, November 9 Sunday 1–5p.m. see www.tucsonaudubon.org/ education/ide.htm November 11 Tuesday 6–8p.m. VF November 16 Sunday 1–5p.m.

JULY-AUGUST 2007 Vermilion Flycatcher Tucson Audubon Society 25 Birding Travel from our Business Members Adventure Birding Company Birding America “Australia’s South West & www.adventurebirding.com www.birding-america.com Tasmania with an extension to the Tablelands and Great Barrier Reef from [email protected] Toll-free: (800)774-6150; Cairns,” October 7–22, 2008, extension October “San Blas: Mangrove Estuaries, Coffee Fincas, [email protected] 22–28 (may be booked separately); main tour Palm Forests and More,” October 4–10, 2008, “Cape May: Fall Migration,” October 4–10, 2008, $6,590 from Sydney (single supplement $1,140), $1,490; December 13–21, 2008, $1990. Leader: $1,490. Leader: Jen Brumfeld, Michael Retter, or extension $2390 from Cairns (single supplement Keith Kamper, 495-9564. The coastal fishing Moez Ali. Cape May is the stuff of legends, with a $325). Leader: Peg Abbott, Alex Vargo, Dr. Tonia village of San Blas, Nayarit has long been a place on almost everyone’s list of top North Cochran and local guides. Join us to sample three premier destination among birders, and with good American hotspots. The sheer numbers of birds spectacular regions of Australia which each hold a reason. From town we will have access to that pass the point, moving south along the coast, high number of endemic species: Southwest mangrove estuaries, coffee fincas, freshwater must be seen to be believed. From the tiniest Australia, the wilds of Tasmania, and the marshes, beaches and coastal lagoons. Twenty-five kinglets to the biggest raptors, we hope to take in Tablelands and Great Barrier Reef from Cairns. Mexican endemics have been recorded here an astonishing array of species, all of which have Join us to explore Banksia / Eucalyptus Woodland, including Rufous-necked Wood-Rail, Cinnamon gathered within a relatively small patch of land. Jarrah / Marri Forest, Karri / Tingle Forest, Hummingbird, San Blas Jay and Golden Vireo. This trip is timed to catch the tail end of the Wandoo Woodland, Coastal Beaches and Estuaries Stunning species including Russet-crowned neotropical songbird passage and the projected and Southern Mallee Shrubland and Heath. We Motmot, Linneated Woodpecker and Fan-tailed peak of raptor movement. plan to visit several famous national parks Warbler can be observed at Singayta, just five miles including Stirling Range, Porongurup, South from San Blas. The mountain village of La Bajada “South Texas: Birds & Butterflies,” November Bruny and Cradle Mountain. Our timing is set to may afford us such beauties as Orange-fronted 11–28, 2008, $1,780. Leader: Michael Retter. In explore varying landforms with extensive botanical Parakeet, Pale-billed Woodpecker and Masked addition to nearly 30 bird species found nowhere diversity in Australia’s spring, peak blooming time Tityras. No trip to San Blas would be complete else in the US, the Lower Rio Grande Valley is for the unique flora. Spring is also great for high without a jungle boat tour in the evening where home to an astounding 300 species of butterflies. levels of activity for nesting birds and we have an we can expect to see Boat-billed Heron, Bare- Our tour will explore diverse ecosystems, from excellent chance to see marsupial mammals in the throated Tiger-Heron, Northern Potoo, iguanas Tamaulipan thornscrub and coastal prairies to wild, such as the Platypus, Short-beaked Echidna, and crocodiles (at a safe distance, of course!). We Chihuahuan Desert, sabal palm groves, and Woylie and a variety of wallabies and kangaroos. will be based at one motel throughout the tour, so subtropical oak forests. Come with us and we can unpack, unwind and focus on the region’s experience why the Rio Grande is one of the Nature Treks and Passages nation’s premier bird and butterfly destinations. natural and cultural history, great mariscos and www.naturetreks.net green-flash sunsets. Naturalist Journeys 696-2002; [email protected] “South Texas: Specialties and Migrants in the www.naturalistjourneys.com “Copper Canyon Birding,” October 18–26 and Rio Grande Valley,” April 4–12, 2009, $1890. November 29–December 7, 2008, $2,749. A trip Leaders: John Yerger and/or Jake Mohlmann, Toll-free: (866)900-1146 or 558-1146; for all birders—from beginners to the “obsessed” (814)308-4078. Join us for a trip to one of the [email protected] advanced! See the best of Copper Canyon, from a premier birding destinations in the United States: “Eastern Europe: Hungary and Romania,” roundtrip ride on the world-famous Copper the Lower Rio Grande Valley of south Texas. With September 19–October 2, 2008, $2,850 from Canyon train to birding in the high forest of the resident specialties like Least Grebe, Green and Budapest, returning from Bucharest. Leader: Sierra Madre, to the scenic van ride down to the Ringed Kingfishers, Buff-bellied Hummingbird, Gerard Gorman. Join the well-known and town of Batopilas in one of the deepest canyons. Great Kiskadee, Green Jay, Altamira Oriole, and personable European ornithologist, author and See neo-tropical species such as Black-throated Tropical Parula, how can you miss? We’ll explore photographer Gerard Gorman as we explore the Magpie Jays, Eared Quetzal, and Russet-crowned such classic hotspots as Sabal Palm Sanctuary (one scenic hills and vast wetlands of Hungary. In Motmot. Sample the diverse habitats of coastal of the last remaining palm forests in the U.S.), Romania we arrive at the peak of fall migration on river plain, tropical thorn forest, tropical river Santa Ana National Wildlife Refuge, Bentsen-Rio the Danube Delta, which we explore from bottom and high conifer forest, and observe the Grande Valley State Park, Frontera Audubon comfortable houseboat accommodations. As many indigenous Tarahumara . Stay at Thicket, and other lesser-known local secrets. We’ll as 200 species of birds are possible on this trip, comfortable lodges that reflect the best of the local have a chance at rarer residents such as including nine species of woodpeckers, a range of ambience. View the itinerary and bird list at Ferruginous Pygmy-Owl, Hook-billed Kite, Clay- wading birds and waterfowl, and eastern European www.naturetreks.net. colored Robin, and White-collared Seedeater to specialties such as the Great Bustard, Imperial name a few. There are usually a few vagrant species Eagle, and the rare Saker Falcon. Plan to enjoy “Birding in Belize and Tikal” February 7–17, from Mexico present, and we’ll top it all off with a yourself as this region is also the home of paprika, 2009, $3,499. Sample the many diverse habitats of hefty dose of spring migrants! We’ll sample all goulash (gulyas in Hungarian), great wines, Belize, from savannah to rainforest, to an island habitats from tidal mudflats to subtropical thorn colorful folk , impressive architecture, and a inside the barrier reef. Plus two outstanding scrub to prime Chihuahuan Desert. Taste the full rich tradition of horsemanship and nomadic Mayan ruins—Lamanai and Tikal! Belize is one of flavor of south Texas biodiversity on this trip, with herding. the most exciting countries a birder can visit, with guides who have lived and birded there. over 550 bird species, 350 in Tikal and Guatemala alone. Tinamous, Hawk-Eagles, Forest Falcons, Crakes, Parrots and Parakeets, four kinds of Trogons, Puffbirds, Woodcreepers, Potoos, and Becards; all of these and others await you there. Belize teems with other wildlife as well, including

26 Tucson Audubon Society Vermilion Flycatcher JULY-AUGUST 2008 Birding Travel continued Landscape Designers and jaguars, pumas, tapirs, iguanas and monkeys. We’ll be staying at comfortable inns and “jungle lodges” throughout the trip. See the Installers Get Course in itinerary and species list at www.naturetreks.net. Urban Habitat RockJumpers Birding Tours www.rockjumper.co.za [email protected] by Paul Green, Executive Director, and Kendall Kroesen, “China—Beidaihe & the Tibetan Plateau; Giant Panda & Restoration Program Manager Crested Ibis Extension II,” September 30–October 19, 2008, $5,075 (single supplement, $500); Extension II: September 19–29, Several months ago we reported on plans to educate landscape designers about 2008, $3,175 (single supplement, $500). China is a vast land of the needs of urban wildlife and how to create landscape designs that provide remarkable diversity where the beauty of the natural scenery, habitat to birds. Now that effort is coming to fruition with a landscape designer birds and wildlife simply overwhelm the senses. On our tour, we certification course being scheduled for January of 2009. Some students have combine two of the finest birding hotspots, namely the Tibetan already signed up. Plateau and China’s east coast migration with visits to sites such as the fabled Koko Nor and Happy Island. We also explore one of The certification course is part of Tucson Audubon’s emerging Urban Habitat the New Seven Wonders of the World, the Great Wall of China. Program, which in turn is part of a larger urban-oriented initiative designed to Then, the giant panda trip takes us on an epic journey into one reconcile the needs of people and wildlife through the enlightened design of of the world’s most spectacular natural areas, the Qinling Mountains, in an attempt to locate one of the world’s greatest urban and exurban spaces. The Urban Habitat Program seeks to create habitat mammals. Avian treasures here abound and include Crested Ibis, for birds and other wildlife in yards, neighborhoods, parks, commercial spaces, Ibisbill, Golden Pheasant and Temminck’s Tragopan. In addition schools, and along roadways and washes. It is motivated by the desire to support we will visit the marvelous Terra Cotta Warriors and Horses wildlife populations, increase wildlife appreciation, and beautify the Museum, a world cultural heritage site. metropolitan landscape. “Malaysia & Borneo—Rainforest Birds & Mammals I & II” Analysis of information derived from the Audubon Christmas Bird Counts, the February 12–March 2, 2009, & March 3–21, 2009, Cost TBA. This USGS Breeding Bird Survey, and the Tucson Bird Count suggests that even tour offers a rich mix of typical Southeast Asian birds and populations of relatively common birds are declining, particularly in the more Bornean endemics within an extensive range of national parks and nature reserves. We visit some of the world’s most famous densely inhabited central Tucson area. Improving the habitat quality of urban birding sites including Fraser’s Hill, Taman Negara National Park, landscapes can help reverse that trend. Landscape designers create the designs the Danum Valley and the fabled Mt. Kinabalu. Specials could for many of the urban landscapes in Tucson, while landscape installers are include Great Argus, Rhinoceros Hornbill, Blue-headed Pitta, responsible for the plants that go into the ground (which may be substitutes for Bornean Ground-Cuckoo and Bornean Bristlehead. Mammal- those defined by the designer). watching opportunities are also extremely good and we may encounter orangutan, proboscis monkey and leopard cat. All in Many xeriscaped areas that are installed in Tucson offer little true habitat value all, our trip promises an incredible, exotic blend of fabulous for native wildlife, even though they use little potable irrigation water. They also birds, mammals and scenery! may repel, instead of harvest, rainwater. Even more attractive and enlightened landscapes often do not contain the diversity of native plant species and the Tropical Birding www.tropicalbirding.com diversity of plant structure that is optimum for birds. Toll free: (800)348-5941; [email protected] The landscape designer certification course will be held on four consecutive “Eastern Ecuador: Andes to Amazon” August 9–23, 2008, Saturday mornings and the intervening Wednesday evenings starting January 10. $3,300. Leader: Jose Illánes. Enjoy the highest bird diversity on the planet while based in some of the most comfortable lodges in Among many topics of the course, it will introduce students to a cross-section of Ecuador. The spectacular mountain scenery of Antisana, the Tucson-area birds and what they need to survive. It will cover how to ameliorate hummers at Guango and San Isidro Lodges, and the canopy some of the impediments for the survival of urban birds. Students will learn walkway at Sacha Lodge will be some of the many highlights. about a wide range of native plant species that provide for the needs of birds. This tour can also be combined with a week-long trip down the Landscapes that harvest rainwater will be emphasized. Criteria for how to judge west slope of the Andes, based in Tandayapa Lodge, a a successful landscape will be developed and introduced to students. hummingbird paradise. While Wednesday evening classes will be held at the Tucson Audubon office, “Galapagos Endemics Cruise,” November 20–29, 2008, $3,700. Saturday morning classes will be at a variety of locations that will give students Leaders: Scott Olmstead, Iain Campbell, or Nick Athanas. We have specially chartered a comfortable 16 passenger yacht to visit access either to successful example landscapes or to natural areas that provide all the key islands for birds and other unique wildlife, and we them with natural plant communities as references they can emulate. have a chance to see nearly every endemic species of the archipelago. This is a great tour for both birders and naturalists Tucson Audubon, together with landscape designers, urban planners, parks alike, and offers outstanding opportunities for photography. departments, neighborhood associations and individual landowners, can change There are still a few spaces left on the November tour. the face of Tucson and make it better for birds and other small wildlife species. The course fee is $250, payable in advance, and you can register by contacting Jean Barchman at [email protected] or 622-5622. VF continued page 29

JULY-AUGUST 2008 Vermilion Flycatcher Tucson Audubon Society 27 Please join us in saying “Welcome and Thank You” to our newest Birds & Business Alliance members

Adventure Birding Company packing in all of the items needed to cook meals in pharmacology from the University of Arizona, and [email protected], (814)308-4078 the field, extra travel time to birding locations, and he also holds an M.B.A. from the University of www.adventurebirding.com no opportunity to really “make yourself at home” Delaware and an M.S. from the University of during the visit. All that is changing as more Kansas. adventurebirding.blogspot.com creative lodging options are becoming available. Stephen has led tours for the Tucson Audubon We are excited to welcome local tour company We are pleased to introduce our newest Birds and Society, Pima Community College, and Old “Adventure Birding Company” to the family of Business Alliance member, Heartstone Mountain Pueblo Archaeology Center. He is also the founder Tucson Audubon’s Birds and Business Alliance. Ranch, a wonderful new option for visiting birders and leader of the Tucson Pathfinders, a private Both John Yerger and Keith Kamper are well or for locals needing an opportunity to escape the outdoors adventure group with more than 200 known supporters of the local birding scene and concrete jungle by walking out the front door and members. He is a member of the Arizona have volunteered their time, energy, and into a birders’ paradise! Archaeological Society, Tucson Audubon Society, expertise to Tucson Audubon from managing Sierra Club, Nature Conservancy, Friends of Only minutes from the desert but high above its the Rare Bird Alerts, to leading free field trips, Ironwood Forest, Friends of Buenos Aires NWR, heat, this sky island retreat is a haven of peace and to donating two full-day guided trips as prizes and Sky Island Alliance. tranquility. If you’re an avid birder, hiker or for this year’s Birdathon. We’re just getting to mountain biker, or just want a quiet weekend know the third co-owner, Jake Mohlmann, but WINGS away, Heartstone Mountain Ranch offers stunning www.wingsbirds.com if he’s anything like the other two, we know views, tree-shaded trails and clear starry nights. we’ll love him! Here’s what they have to say Bordered on three sides by Coronado National We welcome WINGS to Tucson Audubon about their company: Forest, elevation 5,200 feet, the 9.5-acre Society’s Birds and Business Alliance! “Adventure Birding” is more than just the name Heartstone Mountain Ranch is only 10 miles from Parker Canyon Lake and is in the heart of As birders we all have our fantasy birding trip of our small birding/natural history tour somewhere in the back of our mind, be it to company—it’s a way of life for our guides! We southeastern Arizona’s world-renowned birding mecca. China, Trinidad, Panama, or beyond. Don’t you provide individualized private tours in scenic long to see faraway places with bright shiny birds? southeastern Arizona and Mexico, but also Heartstone Mountain Ranch has weekly and daily For most of us the prospect of traveling to a organize small group tours to these and other (2 night minimum) rates for a charming 2- foreign country is enough to keep that trip alive intriguing locales. No matter where we go, our bedroom, 2-bath house. The house, surrounded by only as a dream—unless we can find just the right amusing and knowledgeable guides blend oak forest and grasslands, has a large stone tour company with knowledgeable guides, tons of birding with natural and cultural history, fireplace, a wraparound balcony, rear patio, and a experience, and an outstanding record for safety geology, and geography for a comprehensive fully-equipped modern kitchen. Heartstone and comfort. Well, look no further than Tucson outdoor adventure. Mountain Ranch is located in Santa Cruz County, Audubon Society’s newest Birds and Business just 70 miles southeast of Tucson, 25 miles from Alliance member, WINGS! Co-owners and lead guides Jake Mohlmann, Sierra Vista, and 20 miles from Sonoita. Don’t John Yerger and Keith Kamper endeavor to forget to tell them we sent you! We couldn’t be more excited to have a tour provide the highest-quality guiding for birders company as well known and thought of as WINGS of all skill levels: from those new to birding who TyrannoTours join our Birds and Business Alliance program. Over the years, Tucson Audubon Society’s want to see it all, to the most seasoned traveler www.tyrannotours.com members and friends have regularly benefited seeking just one elusive life bird or prized 577-6546; [email protected] from lectures and field trips presented by Tucson- photo. We can customize tours for individuals Please welcome TyrannoTours King of Southwest based WINGS leaders and staff such as Gavin and groups of almost any size, and offer Adventures to Tucson Audubon Society’s growing Bieber, Rich Hoyer, and Rick Wright to name just scheduled tours to the best, most diverse natural family of Birds and Business Alliance members. a few of the more than 50 naturalists who lead history hotspots. We work hard to minimize our TyrannoTours is a new adventure travel company WINGS tours worldwide. impact on our fragile planet by offering specializing in small-group van excursions leaving WINGS moved to Tucson from Maine more than environmentally-friendly travel opportunities, from Tucson and the Phoenix area. The tours 20 years ago, and found southeastern Arizona the with the option of offsetting carbon emissions focus on all aspects of natural history along with ideal base. Over the past 35 years, the WINGS from your trip. the prehistoric, historic and modern day offerings have grown to a worldwide yearly that make the Southwest such an intriguing place program of some 125 set departures and private Safe, fun-filled, fascinating tours are our to explore. keystones. Perhaps you’ll consider us for your tours for individuals and organizations. Trying to pigeonhole TyrranoTours is just about next birding adventure! We already know and love their leaders and impossible as you can see from their trips listed on programs and having WINGS based right here in Heartstone Mountain Ranch page 29. TyrannoTours principal, Stephen H. the Old Pueblo opens up all sorts of opportunities Buck, is a native of central Illinois and has been (877)562-2955; www.heartstoneranch.com for us to join forces in new and creative ways. Be adventuring and guiding outdoor educational sure to watch for upcoming information in future In the past, birders had their choice of staying in experience tours in and around Arizona for the newsletters on some very special opportunities hotels or camping when they visited southeast last 10 years. He is an avocational Southwest available only to Tucson Audubon members with Arizona to bird our more remote locations. That historian, naturalist, archaeologist, and birder. His the leader in birding tour companies, WINGS! meant extra expenses for meals at restaurants, background is in research biology with a Ph.D. in

28 Tucson Audubon Society Vermilion Flycatcher JULY-AUGUST 2008 It’s Easy! Go Birding to Help Conservation in Guatemala! by Darlene Smyth

Fun? You bet! I just returned from Guatemala, a country that has decided to be an important part of the birding world. How can it get more exciting? Guatemala boasts world-class attractions from black-sand beaches to active volcanoes, to Mayan ruins and an abundance of birds. The majestic Mayan ruins at Tikal are not only fascinating archeological finds, but they’re nestled into a forest that has been reserved for wildlife. Not only do howler monkeys nibble leaves while they recline on sturdy branches, and squirrel monkeys gracefully fly through the trees, but, wonder of wonders to birders, perched on a Mayan temple is an Orange-breasted Falcon. No, wait! Here is another sitting in the close tree. They are flying—in mid-air the male passes the female a gift of prey. They settle into the same tree. Birders gaze at them with delight, then are Darlene visiting a Mayan temple. Courtesy Rick Wright. distracted by a flock of flying parrots. Ocellated Turkeys are patrolling the grounds. Plumbeous Kites nest in the shadow of a People in many countries are working very hard to set aside pyramid. Crested Guan slips through the trees guiding a chick. reserves for the benefit of wildlife and are investing quite a lot of There is so much to see in this one area that several days would money in these projects. These reserves usually benefit from the not be too many, but you simply cannot miss also climbing the involvement of local people as well. Thus starts the circle: A Pacaya Volcano and viewing the red-hot molten lava fields while farsighted land owner reserves the land for wildlife, local people the calls of the Bushy-crested Jays echo in the background, and a are employed in maintaining the reserve, birders come from Rufous-collared Robin perches above you. faraway lands to enjoy the wildlife, governments see an increase in How about birding in a coffee plantation? In Guatemala 98% of tourism and the dollars this brings to the country, then the the coffee is shade-grown, and the trees that are planted to make government sees the value in continued and expanded protection the shade are favorites of wildlife, especially birds. Gray Silky- of reserves. As a birder, your part in this circle is the one that is the Flycatchers, many species of hummingbirds, tanagers, warblers, most fun, and vitally important. woodpeckers, and vireos all search the vegetation for food. This is Comfortable to luxurious hotels and lodges are available in the kind of coffee experience that will perk anyone up! Guatemala and locally-run tourism companies stand ready to help you with your custom trip (www.guatemalanature.com or www.operadorlatino.com); or you can join a pre-planned tour with North American-based birding-tour companies. Both of Birding Travel continued from page 27 these Guatemalan tour companies are willing to create an exciting birding experience for all, even those with physical limitations. TyrannoTours—King of Southwest Adventures Arrangements can even be made so major portions of the Tikal www.tyrannotours.com Mayan ruins and grounds are accessible to those in a wheelchair. 577-6546; [email protected] VF “New Mexico History and Ghost Town Adventure Based at Historic Black Range Lodge B&B” August 29–September 1, 2008 (Labor Day Weekend), $395 double / $475 single. On this exciting tour from Fall Landscaping Workshop Tucson, we’ll travel to the Old West community of Kingston, NM where we will take over the charming Black Range Lodge B&B that was erected This fall Tucson Audubon will hold a one-day backyard- in 1887 partially from the ruins of Pretty Sam’s Casino and the Monarch Saloon. We’ll visit ghost towns and museums in the area and in Silver landscaping workshop in October. Workshop participants will City, Deming, Chloride, and T or C. spend Saturday morning learning about rainwater-based habitat landscaping through both classroom instruction and hands-on “Southeast Utah—Ruins, Rock Art, and Rafting,” October 1–5, 2008, experience. The event will be at the Tucson Audubon office where $675 double / $775 single. We’ll head north for a stop at Rock Art we will be working in cooperation with the building owner to Ranch/Chevelon Canyon, possibly the largest petroglyph site in Arizona. improve landscaping on the west side of the Historic YWCA. The Then it’s on to charming Bluff, Utah along the banks of the San Juan River to bunk at rustic Recapture Lodge. There will be visits to ruins tentative date is October 18. Check the September Vermilion and rock art sites and scenic vistas and an exciting all-day, 26-mile raft Flycatcher for details, or contact Kendall Kroesen at 206-9900, or trip on the River to some more isolated venues. [email protected]. VF

JULY-AUGUST 2008 Vermilion Flycatcher Tucson Audubon Society 29 Thanks ! Jean Barchman, Membership Coordinator We wish to thank the generosity of the following people for their financial support, both for specific programs and in general support, and through in-kind donations in response to specific needs.

We thank the following for Gerry and Jim Sullivan The Lodge at Ventana Laura Cotter, laptop Harvey Beatty their financial support: Herb and Pat Trossman Canyon computer carrying case Susan Betzer Anonymous Dr. Judith and Amanda Moors Kay McGibbon, Roger Deanna Bland Briggs and Pat Ackert John Ulreich Mostly Books Tor y Peterson Darla Bresnahan William Adler Sylvia Van Gundy On The Border memorabilia collection Ted Calhoun Sally and Gordon Barnes Richard Warren Elizabeth Payne Diane Powell, assorted Kim Clark Pamela Baum Douglas Weiner, in Susan Randolph books, guides, maps and Jim and Julie Cundiff Dave Bilgray memory of Gene Loring Michael Rosenwald, video, Audubon Society George Damp Dianne Bret Harte, in David Yetman ACE-certified personal Encyclopedia of Birds, Harry Doten celebration of the trainer at Evlogia and Peterson’s Birding by Maren Friesen marriage of Marleen We thank our Frequent Flyers Ruby Tuesday Ear Joanna Garaventa and Kotelman & Chris Lyon for their monthly (and almost Silverbell Nursery John and Ann Cheryl Davis Beverly and Fred Brink painless) donations: Southern Arizona Tundermann, one pair of Esteban Garcia Shawn Burke Christine Feeley Transportation used Spion 20 x 140 x 70 Michael Golden Mary Jane Carling Mich Coker Museum zoom binoculars and the Dianne Gors Nancy Cary Vernita and Joseph Summit Hut DVD “Hummingbirds of Jean Grayson and James and Jeanne deRouen The B Line North America” John Alanis Corbett Everett Knapp The Wild Bird Store Peggy Wenrick, a Sony Virginia Griffin Crane Day Deborah Vath Herb and Pat Trossman Vaio CRT monitor Geraldine Hogan and Carrie Dean Christine Curtis Zona 78 on River Road Jean Andrews, 2 used Jack Kaplan Karen Dryden Sandy and Karl Elers Donations for the Ironwood books: “The Birds” by Viki and Joel Jacobson Mary Kay Eiermann Pat and Herb Trossman Festival Heinroth and Heinroth, Joseph and Diane Kloiber Kay and Mike Fagan Jim Click Automotive, and “A Guide to Bird- Shirley Lambert and Dan Fischer We thank the following paid for the shuttle van Finding West of the Carol Alfs Tedra Fox people that have responded Cynthia Pruett, one Mississippi” by Pettingill Michael Martin Glenn Gabanski with donations for specific ironwood tree Jeff Babson, collection of Jeff and Allyson Miller Merrill Garrett program needs: Thunder Canyon birding journals William Miller including: Cotinga, Denise Mogge Kevin Gillooly Supplying prizes for Birdathon: Brewery, 3 kegs of beer Forktail, Bulletin of Jacob Mohlmann Julia and Mark Gordon Adventure Birding at ½ price Oriental Bird Club, Milary Morgan and Dorothee Harmon Antigone Book Store Acacia Nursery, Inc, two Journal of Raptor Marise Westerman Ellen Imbody Arizona State Museum 15-gallon ironwood Research, and others Neal Mosely Ed and Miriam Kirsten Arizona Theater trees John and Joan Tedford, David Nelson Anna Krull Company Bird photography for collection of books for Lori Pascarella Kyle Arizona-Sonora Desert Ironwood Festival the our library Gayle Pierce and Susanne Museum display: Collins Ronna Laager, used Dr. Sholem and Carol Maier Bashas’ Cochran, Richard Fray, Bushnell “Spacemaster” Postel Zakkai Markowitz Bed, Bath & Beyond Ed Kirsten, Philip spotting scope Cynthia Reiners Patrick McGowan Birdathon Committee: Kline, and George West Dr. Sandra Cook, 2 Phil and Sue Rock Robert Mesta Tucson Audubon Nature Wild Birds Unlimited birding books and 7 sets Virginia Rogers Elaine Meyer Shop Nature Shop, gift bags of beautiful new note Ann and Lewis Roscoe Ruby Moore Bookman’s Entertainment Doug and Chris McVie, cards by Marvin Oliver Rollie Rousseau Neal Mosely Exchange Robyn and Louis Sara Pike, 3 new folding James Rumin Hella Nordberg and Buffalo Exchange Benson, Tim Blowers, utility tables, 4 ft. x 2 ft Elaine Schramm Alicia Tonnies C.I. Chu’s Mongolian Mike Lang, band costs for shop use Melaney Seacat Martha Pille Chili’s Restaurant Donations for specific program Tony Sedgwick, Santa Fe Greg Smith Dr. Sholem and DeGrazia Gallery in the needs: Ranch Foundation, Meredith Strohm Carol Postel Sun Richard and Hewlett-Packard Laptop Erec Toso Brian Powell Eclectic Café Ellsworth, Birdy cut- computer for the IBA Leslie Uhr Cynthia Pruett International Wildlife glass candy dish, Program Sylvia Van Gundy William and Alice Roe Museum collection of natural Douglas Weiner Jean Rudd Julia Gordon history books, four bird Please join us in welcoming Melissa White Barbara Schneidau Kitt Peak National feeders, shorebird our newest members: Loma Woodburn Ginny Seabrook Observatory print—matted, framed Peggy Woods Linda Stanley Las Margaritas and ready to hang Ron Ancell Barry Stevenson Bob Beatson Ron Wright

30 Tucson Audubon Society Vermilion Flycatcher JULY-AUGUST 2008 Tucson Audubon Society wants to extend a big birders’ THANK YOU to all of our Birds & Business Alliance members for their continued support. Support Tucson Please remember to thank them in person when you visit or use their services. Don’t forget to refer your friends! Remember, “Life is simple. Eat. Sleep. Audubon… Bird.” We all know there is a little more to life than that, and so we offer them to you in Become a Friend today! the following order: EAT: Benefits of membership: Brooklyn Pizza All dues used locally to support Tucson Audubon programs (Your business here!) One-year subscription to the Vermilion Flycatcher SLEEP: 10% discount at our Nature Shops Adobe Desert Vacation Rentals Discounted fees select events and classes Alta Vista B&B Discounted subscription to Birds of North America Online Arivaca Country B&B Beatty’s Miller Canyon B&B Free use of the Birders’ Resource Library Beds and Bagels of Tucson Email bulletins about conservation issues and upcoming events Best Western Inn Suites at Oracle To join use the remittance envelope in this issue, visit us online at De Anza Trails RV Resort Down by the River B&B www.tucsonaudubon.org, visit us in person at either Audubon Heartstone Mountain Ranch Nature Shops, or call our Membership Coordinator at 622-5622. Jeremiah Inn B&B Mi Gatita B&B Rancho Esmeralda Wishes: Sunflower Suites in Bisbee Tangled Web Properties Main Nature Shop: The Lodge at Ventana Canyon Gift Certificate or credit at Tucson Store Fixtures (500 W. Grant Rd., 623- (Your business here!) 0064) to help the shop with keeping up merchandise display materials. BIRD: Gift Certificate for Michael’s craft stores, to help the shop with keeping up merchandise display materials. Casio electric calculator, Model HR- Adventure Birding Company 150TM Plus. Red coffeemaker. Andean Adventures Birding America Library: Borderland Tours We would welcome any donations of birding DVDs so we can replace Naturalist Journeys videos in our library; especially National Audubon Society’s Guide to Birds Nature Treks and Passages of North America. Rockjumper Birding Tours San Carlos Aquatic Adventures Mason Center: TyrannoTours Large rugs for the house. Heavy, insulating curtains of appropriate Victor Emanuel Nature Tours (VENT) color for 3 medium-sized windows. Six nice, large rectangular folding Wild Birds Unlimited at Oracle & Ina tables WINGS (Your business here!) Field Trips Program: Binoculars in good condition for leaders to loan to participants. LIFE’S OTHER NEEDS: Comcast Cable Nature Shop at Agua Caliente Park: Kimberlyn Drew, Realtor Laminating machine. Excel Printing Galeria La Sirena Habitat Restoration Program: Hughes Federal Credit Union Locking metal storage cabinet. Map drawer cabinet to store large maps. Lou Benson Construction (Your business here!) Education Program: Gift card for Michael’s and Crafts store to purchase materials for P.S. D ON’T FORGET TO TELL THEM WE SENT YOU! kids’ programs. New or in good condition Wesco Maxi Mover Folding For more information on how your company can become a Hand Truck, 250lb. capacity. New or gently used, good condition Leupold Birds & Business Alliance Member or to suggest potential Yosemite 6 x 30 or 8 x 30 or Bushnell Birder 8 x 40 binoculars for young new members contact Vivian at 629-0757 or [email protected]. birders (available for sale in the Main Tucson Audubon Nature Shop).

JULY-AUGUST 2008 Vermilion Flycatcher Tucson Audubon Society 31 Ecological Stimulus Package Up until mid-July, the United States Treasury will begin sending economic stimulus payments of around $600 per individual taxpayer to more than 130 million households. For more information visit www.irs.gov. Tucson Audubon, however, will not be receiving such a payment. Would you share some of yours to ensure the future of our natural areas in southern Arizona? I feel sure that you want more people to value the natural wonders of the Sonoran Desert. So please send us your generous tax- deductible donation using the envelope you’ll find in this copy of the Vermilion Flycatcher. Or go online to tucsonaudubon.org/ chapter/donation.htm. We will use your gift to educate people of all ages about their natural world, and to work with partners to ensure the future conservation of our lands and water. Magnificent Hummingbird. Courtesy George West. Thank you

Paul Green, Executive Director Herb Trossman, President

NON-PROFIT ORG Tucson Audubon Society US POSTAGE 300 E. University Blvd., #120 PAID Tucson, AZ 85705 TUCSON, AZ PERMIT #1345

Volume 52, Number 9 July-August 2008

The Vermilion Flycatcher is the newsletter of the Tucson Audubon Society, a chapter of the National Audubon Society. National Audubon Society members and members of other chapters may receive the Flycatcher by joining the Friends of Tucson Audubon. See membership at www.tucsonaudubon.org.