VOLUME 37 | NUMBER 2 | SUMMER 2007 Nature Alberta A L B E R T A ’ S N A T U R A L H I S T O R Y R E V I E W

RED FOX PUPS RICK PRICE PHOTOGRAPHED JULY 8, 2004; CANON EOS 300D DIGITAL REBEL, CANON 70-300MM F/4-5.6 IS USM; EXPOSURE: F/9.0, 1/640 SEC

feature article Squirrel-esque!

FEDERATION OF ALBERTA NATURALISTS LITTER MATES THEODORE MANN

DAPHNIA IAN GARDINER PHOTOGRAPHED AUGUST 2006; NIKON F3HP, 4X ZEISS MICROSCOPE OBJECTIVE LENS, VELVIA 100 FILM Nature Alberta: SUMMER 2007 1

Celebrating our natural heritage The Federation of Alberta Naturalists is composed of natural history clubs from across the province. The aims of the Federation are: (a) To encourage among all Albertans, by all means possible, an increase in their knowledge of natural history and understanding of ecological processes; (b) To promote an increase in the exchange of information and views among natural history clubs and societies in Alberta; (c) To foster and assist in the formation of additional natural history Contents clubs and societies in Alberta; NATURE ALBERTA VOLUME 37, NUMBER 2, SUMMER 2007 (d) To promote the establishment of natural areas and nature reserves, to conserve and protect species, communities or other features of interest; President’s Page BY SANDRA FOSS ...... 2 (e) To organize, or coordinate symposia, conferences, fi eld meetings, nature camps, research and other activities whether of a similar or Editor’s Page BY DENNIS BARESCO ...... 5 dissimilar nature; (f) To provide the naturalists of Alberta with a forum in which Letters to the Editor ...... 7 questions relating to the conservation of the natural environment may be discussed, so that united positions can be developed on them, and Wildlife! Starring…Daphnia INFORMATION BY HUGH F. CLIFFORD ...... 8 to provide the means of translating these positions into appropriate actions. Pronghorn Start Your Engines BY DENNIS BARESCO ...... 9 BOARD OF DIRECTORS Alberta Issues in Brief ...... 10 PRESIDENT: Sandra Foss, Box 1109, Cochrane, AB T4C 1B2 VICE PRESIDENT: Grant Henry, 152 Cote Bay, Fort McMurray, AB T9H 4R9 Vulture Watching! BY WAYNE NELSON ...... 12 SECRETARY: Judy Boyd, 33 Cunningham Crescent, Red Deer, AB T4P 2S2 TREASURER: Don Gordon, 15216 - 74 Street, Edmonton, AB T5C 0Y7 The Migration of Four Alberta Peregrine Falcons in Autumn PAST PRESIDENT: Dennis Baresco, Box 2513, Medicine Hat, AB T1A 8G8 2006 BY GEOFF HOLROYD, HELEN TREFRY, GORDON COURT ...... 14 APPOINTED DIRECTORS: Dennis Baresco, Sandra Foss, Don Gordon, Don Stiles, Ruth Kleinbub Squirrel-esque! BY THEODORE G. MANNO ...... 18 ELECTED DIRECTORS: tbd (ANPC); Wayne Kinsella, (BLN); Scott Jubinville (CFNS); Jim Lange, (ENC); Grant Henry (FMFNS); Dawn Dickinson, (GN); Olga Droppo – A Faithful and Dedicated Naturalist ...... 25 Ted Johnson (LLBBS); Lloyd Bennett (LNS); Margot Hervieux (PPN); Judy Boyd (RDRN); Iris Davies (VRNS); Nuggets BY DENNIS BARESCO ...... 27 STAFF: Glen Semenchuk, Executive Director (FAN), Karen Rimney, Offi ce Manager (FAN). It’s Summer BY DENNIS BARESCO ...... 28 CORPORATE MEMBER CLUBS Celestial Happenings BY JOHN MCFAUL ...... 29 Alberta Native Plant Council, Box 52099, Garneau P.O. Edmonton, AB T6G 2T5 Newton’s Occasionally Cryptic Crossword! #2 BY GARRY NEWTON .30 Buffalo Lake Naturalists, Box 1802, Stettler, AB T0C 2L0 Calgary Field Naturalists, Box 981, Calgary, AB T2P 2K4 Seventh Report of the Alberta Bird Record Committee Edmonton Naturalists Club, Box 1111, Edmonton, AB T5J 2M1 BY JOCELYN HUDON, RICHARD KLAUKE, RICHARD KNAPTON, M. ROSS LEIN, Fort McMurray Field Naturalists Society, 152 Cote Bay, Fort McMurray, AB JOHN RIDDELL, BRIAN RITCHIE AND RAY WERSHLER...... 31 T9H 4R9 Grasslands Naturalists, Box 2491, Medicine Hat, AB T1A 8G8 FAN Club Page ...... 34 Lac La Biche Birding Society, Box 1270, Lac La Biche, AB T0A 2C0 Lethbridge Naturalists Society, Box 1691, Lethbridge, AB T1J 4K4 Peace Parkland Naturalists, Box 1451, Grande Prairie, AB T8V 4Z2 Red Deer River Naturalists, Box 785, Red Deer, AB T4N 5H2 Vermilion River Naturalists, 6510 - 53 Avenue, Vermilion, AB T9X 1X7 PUBLISHED QUARTERLY BY THE FEDERATION OF ALBERTA NATURALISTS, 11759 GROAT ROAD, EDMONTON, AB T5M 3K6 ASSOCIATE MEMBERS: Alberta Naturalization Network Society Friends of Jasper National Park PHONE.780.427.8124 FAX.780.422.2663 Alberta Stewardship Network Heritage Tree Foundation of [email protected] Beaverhill Bird Observatory Canada Beaver River Naturalist Club J.J. Collett Natural Area Foundation SUBSCRIPTION $30.00 PER YEAR Big Lake Environmental Support Society Lesser Slave Lake Bird Observatory BowKan Birders Purple Martin Conservancy EDITOR.DENNIS BARESCO Crooked Creek Conservancy Society Riverlot 56 Naturalists Area Society of Alberta Stewards of Alberta’s Protected [email protected] Crowsnest Conservation Society Areas Association Edmonton Naturalization Group The Wagner Natural Area Society CIRCULATION.DICK CLAYTON Ellis Bird Farm Wilmore Wilderness Preservation & LAYOUT.BROKEN ARROW SOLUTIONS INC. Fort Saskatchewan Naturalists Society Historical Foundation Friends of Blackfoot Society Wood Buffalo Wild Bird Club PRINTING.PERCY PAGE CENTRE.ISSN 0318-5440 We acknowledge the fi nancial support of the Government of THANKS TO ALL WHO ASSISTED IN PRODUCING THIS ISSUE: Canada through the Publication Assistance Program. ELAINE CATHCART, KAREN RIMNEY, MARILYN ROSS, VAL SCHOLEFIELD, GLEN SEMENCHUK, JUNE VERMEULEN. CANADA POST AGREEMENT NO. 40015475 MANY THANKS TO THIS ISSUE’S CONTRIBUTORS PUBLICATION MAIL REGISTRATION NO. 09839

WANT TO SUBMIT ARTICLES NATURE ALBERTA DEADLINES ARE: EDITORIAL DISCLAIMER OR PHOTOS? SPRING ISSUE.FEBRUARY 14 The opinions expressed by the authors in this publication do not necessarily refl ect those of the editor and the Federation of Alberta GUIDELINES ARE AVAILABLE SUMMER ISSUE.MAY 15 Naturalists. The editor reserves the right to edit, reject or withdraw ON THE FAN WEBSITE: FALL ISSUE.AUGUST 15 articles submitted. While due care will be taken of all manuscripts, photos WWW.FANWEB.CA WINTER ISSUE.NOVEMBER 15 or artwork submitted, FAN cannot be held responsible for any loss or damage to such articles. 2 NatureAlberta

PRESIDENT’S PAGE Flowers and Other Wonders! BY SANDRA FOSS

Alberta is a spectacularly beautiful, notably varied province. I feel very fortunate to live close enough to the Eastern slopes of the Rockies that I can go on day hikes in the mountains.

With the proximity of several beautiful landscape, with a great Lakes, there are spectacular Provincial Parks and National diversity of wildlife. At the Forks fossils and Horn Corals, as well Parks, there is a wide variety of the Kananaskis Rivers, I have as a glorious and colourful mix of of wildlife and plants, as well seen Harlequin Ducks bobbling fl owers, depending on the season. as many sea bottom fossils and about in the current. If you You start at the bottom in summer, corals to enjoy. hike up to Lillian Lake (or Lost and as you climb, you get back Lake in the next valley) you can into spring fl owers peeking Over 30 years ago, I remember watch the Cutthroat Trout jump, through the snow. travelling down a dirt track and see them swimming around (logging road) into the Spray I was out with some friends in the clear water. Keep hiking Valley, where now there is one day, and we had a New higher, and along the shores easy access to some incredibly Zealander with us. He announced of the Lower & Upper Galatea he wanted to see some wildlife! Well, that day the animals were

SMALL MONKEY FLOWER, WATERTON LAKES NATIONAL PARK IAN GARDINER cooperative. We saw Rocky PHOTOGRAPHED AUGUST 1999; NIKON F3HP, 55MM MICRO-NIKKOR LENS, FUJI VELVIA 50 FILM. Mountain Sheep along the road, then several Moose, and a few deer. As we climbed, we saw chipmunks running about, and a Pine Marten sitting in the crook of a tree, peering down at us. As we got higher, and into the scree, marmots whistled, and pikas scampered by, hauling their piles of grass to dry in the sun. Other hikers we met cautioned us about the Grizzly Bear patrolling in the area. Later, as we descended, we saw many ground squirrels dashing about (grizzly lunch!). Then, high on the far side of the valley, we saw the griz, with a silvery back, ambling along, stopping now and SUMMER 2007 3

then to graze on the luxuriant Evening– plant growth. This was at the Primrose is Picklejar Lakes in Kananaskis found in Red Country. Another day there I was Rock Coulee looking for fi sh, spotted some Natural Area, bubbles, but was astonished to near Medicine see a Water Shrew, swimming Hat, and Bird’s underwater and feeding. Until Eye Primrose then, I didn’t realize such in BVPP in creatures existed. early May. I know that if I want to see If it is Glacier Lilies, Chester Lake is Bear Grass one place where they abound, (Xerophyllum as well as wonderful sea bottom tenax) you fossils higher up, and usually want to see, a glimpse of Mountain Goats. Waterton Park For Lady’s Slipper - yellow ones at the end of (Cypripedium calceolus) try Bow June, along Valley Provincial Park (BVPP) the Alderson- along the Many Springs Trail, Carthew or the trail up the shoulder of trail up from

Mt. Yamnuska. On the climber’s Cameron Lake SANDRA “RESTS” BESIDE LILLIAN LAKE route up “Yam”, you fi nd is one of the Mountain Lady’s Slippers. Pink few places in Lady’s Slippers occur further Alberta that north, in Wood Buffalo National it grows. Beautiful cushions of The early violets of spring Park, and along Lake Athabasca, glorious pink Moss Campion are favourites, and I do enjoy but we don’t see them here. are usually found high, on scree seeking the relatively elusive or stony places with saxifrages, orchids. In BVPP, you fi nd a variety of sedums and Rose-root. “belly plants” (the kind you To see more prairie species, need to lie on your belly to For Yellow Violets, go up the head east or walk the lower get a proper view!): the freckle Karst Springs trail. Heathers, elevation trails to fi nd Scorpion faced orchids (Round-leaved rhododenrons, penstemons, Weed, Jacob’s Ladder, Wild Orchid, or Orchis rotundifolia), paintbrush (Castilleja) and Columbine and Prairie Crocus, at least 2 kinds of twayblades, lousewort (Pedicularis) abound wild roses and buttercups, and early coralroots. For the along many trails. Avens (Dryas) asters and arnicas, delphiniums, tall, white, gloriously scented live in a wide variety of locales; locoweed, hedysarum (bear orchids (Habenaria dilatata), later the Dryas fl ats above the Burstall food) and vetches. These are July around Watridge Lake in Lakes are named because the joys of summer! Locally, the Spray Valley is a great spot of their growth in the area. Jumpingpound Ridge or Cox to see them, or to go fi shing! Geraniums, gentians, fl eabanes Hill are great places for these Primroses occur in a variety of and senecio are in many locales. fl owers, once the snow has locations: big showy Gumbo gone. Most occur all over the 4 NatureAlberta

Flowers and Other Wonders…continued

province, in their appropriate Plains Prickly Pear (Opuntia parkland, bog, river valley and habitats (wet, dry, exposed, polyacantha) blooms about the desert. As I sit at my desk, I see or in shade, depending on beginning of July, in Dry Island hawks cruising by my window, species) Buffalo Jump area, through the and hear the merlin that has Red Deer River valley badlands set up housekeeping just a few Striped Coral Root area, and through SE Alberta, in houses down. I see fl ocks of (Corallorhiza striata) appears sagebrush and desert country. swans and geese travelling by, in the woods at Bow Valley Avens and shooting stars, Golden and hummingbirds that nest in a Park, with the rarer Spotted Bean and fl ax, Scarlet Mallow, nearby tree. I hope that with the Coral Root (Corallorhiza ironplant (Haplopappus) and frenetic pace of development of maculata) in the mixed woods gaura dot the prairie landscape. everything - oil and gas wells to in the Sibbald Flats area and subdivision sprawl - there will down south in the Cypress I feel very fortunate to live be more than just vestiges left for Hills. Towards the end of May, where I can get to so many my children and grandchildren the Calypso Orchids (Calypso different types of terrain, to enjoy. bulbosa) appear in pine woods travelling a short distance - huge clumps through the – desert to alpine, forest, Banff townsite area, and small clumps through the Elbow Valley area. One of the areas soon to be cut (because of the mountain pine beetle) in Old Baldy Pass “LILY” TOM MACCAGNO has a few Limber Pine, as well as Lodgepole Pine. On an old seismic line up to the trail, half a dozen types of orchids are found including the scarce Cypripedium passerinum or Franklin’s Ladyslipper. SUMMER 2007 5

EDITOR’S PAGE

Summertime & Nature Alberta BY DENNIS BARESCO

To paraphrase Jon Stewart of The Daily Show: “Ohhhhh! Have we got an issue for you this month!” Yes, 40 pages of photos, fun, nature, science, comment and activities - all for you!

First the fun: how many of You will fi nd Theodore Manno’s The featured constellations of you tried Garry Newton’s experiential-cum-research article John McFaul’s “Starry Nights” (pg “Occasionally Cryptic Crossword” on Columbian Ground Squirrels 29) are the Summer Triangle. If last issue? Even if you didn’t, or (pg 18) both entertaining you live in a city where you can’t were stuck, you should really and educational, and you’ll see the stars, John’s article is the check the answers (pg 17), chuckle at the section “How next best thing. If you live in or because you will be entertained to Watch Columbian Ground can get out to the country, then and learn some things you Squirrels”. Theodore is working “Starry Nights” is an indispensable probably never knew. And then in Sheep River Provincial Park guide and information tool. …try crossword #2 (pg 30). this summer, in all kinds of The species profi le this issue: weather conditions. He’s a PhD Of course – “It’s Summer!” Some Daphnia (pg 8), complemented by student from Auburn University, poetry, some humour, some Ian Gardiner’s excellent black- Alabama. His passion for information (pg 28). Fun for study photo on the inside front Columbian Ground Squirrels me was reading the comments cover. Strange little creatures, is palpable, and FAN is hoping you sent in; many thanks for Daphnia are! Ian is a frequent to take advantage of his offer your feedback. To quote Dean contributor of great photographs to volunteer by giving more Martin: “Keep those cards and to Nature Alberta. publicity – perhaps through a letters coming!” special web section – for these If you’re a bird watcher, or even Do you want some lovely nature unusual creatures. If you want if you’re not, you’ll want to keep reading? Sandra Foss, FAN to see some of Theodore’s your eyes peeled for tagged President, takes you hiking and work, check out his superb Turkey Vultures. Wayne Nelson strolling through beautiful fi elds prairie dog website: www. explains in his article on page of wildfl owers in her regular prairiedogcoalition.org (scan 12. Upcoming from Wayne in the column (pg 2). Your Editor down to map and click on Winter issue of Nature Alberta: shares with you a “First Hand” each species; also, visit the up-to-date info from his 2007 experience with two magnifi cent .org/interactive-slideshow.shtml studies, which to quote him, Pronghorn bucks (pg 9). section). will “undoubtedly provide new nuggets!” 6 NatureAlberta

Summertime and Nature Alberta…continued

If reading about Turkey Vultures (one of my favourite On the Covers: birds) only whets your “Red Fox Pups” [ FRONT COVER ] appetite, check out page Photographer Rick Price of Medicine Hat 14. Geoff Holroyd, Helen AB has taken some amazing pictures, Trefry and Gord Court, long several of which are in this issue. “These time and highly respected three siblings were waiting for mom biologists, wing you on a long to come home with dinner,” says Rick. and thrilling journey with four “Their den, an old badger hole, was Alberta Peregrine Falcons. located near Jenner [north of CFB Suffi eld]. There were six pups Amazing! in total; these three were the bold ones and stayed around when There’s more – a tribute vehicles approached on the road. This photo was taken from the to Olga Droppo (pg 25), truck window. some issues at the fore in “Littermates” [ INSIDE FRONT COVER ] Alberta (pg 10), a profi le by Theodore Manno: “Littermates: of Grasslands Naturalists Columbian ground squirrel babies (pg 34), the annual Alberta are susceptible to infanticide directly Bird Report from the Royal after their emergence from the Provincial Museum (pg 31), a natal burrow. Suspicious of nearby just-published book on sale, females, Corkscrew’s babies play near and some superb photography their burrow by a tree in the west woods.” by Rick Price; the eyes of the wolf on the back cover are “Those Eyes!” [ BACK COVER ] beautifully hypnotic. Watch A Rick Price photograph also graces for a photo essay by Rick in the back cover of the Summer the Fall issue. Nature Alberta. “This Grey Wolf” says Rick, “approached to within 7 Enjoy! And remember: meters of me near Jasper; he was Nature Alberta makes a great in a pack of fi ve. I have previously gift for the person who has [photographed] one of his pack howling, which will live with me everything except Nature always. This was my 22nd wedding anniversary so what a present Alberta! it was!” nugget

ICE AGE The Royal Tyrrell Museum is hosting an exhibit on “Ice Age Mammals” Apr 16 until Sept. 30 in partnership with the Canadian Museum of Nature, Montreal Science Centre, and Yukon Beringia Interpretive Centre; Tyrrell is also hosting a Ceratopsian (Horned Dinosaur) Symposium Sept 22-23. Info: www.tyrrellmuseum.ca SUMMER 2007 7

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Disturbing Cypress Hills a Special Place Thanks so much for choosing Elkwater to Reesor Lake. Also, Pelicans one of my photos for the Spring we participated in the Spring Ross Lein is to be edition of Nature Alberta [Cover: bird count there on the commended for drawing false dandelion]. I also enjoyed Sunday. We just happened to attention [Letters, Vol 37, #1, the article on Cypress Hills. Our be there at the right time. It is a Spring 2007] to the picture hiking club spent the May long great and special place. of the nesting pelicans being weekend there in 2005. I have BONNIE MULLIN, RED DEER AB disturbed [Vol 36, #4, Winter this beautiful picture of the 2007]. Despite the precautions sunset over Reesor Lake. We described in Suzanne Earle’s were driving [when] I saw it in Got a Minute? response, it seems to me to my rear view mirror, pulled over and took the picture. be rather pre-judging the Okay, more than a minute. FAN issue to drive the sitting I loved that sunset. We did is a very busy organization, but pelicans off their nests, several hikes in Cypress Hills, doesn’t have a lot of resources, endangering their young. The the longest being 17.6km from so occasionally there is a real reaction of the cormorants need for volunteers to help out is not mentioned in her in specifi c activities. Such as: response. Website: It is to be feared that this Keep at it! • Anyone interested in assisting study will inevitably lead The blossoming size and content with website review, design ideas to a cull of cormorants by or editing of Nature Alberta is a greatly Alberta Sustainable Resource • Anyone interested in coordinating desired event! Let’s keep at it! Development, but sincerely to the gathering of information on Nature Saskatchewan and Nature be hoped that any such cull club fi eld trips for a section on the B.C. (FBCN) have two quite FAN website will not affect the pelicans. different publication models For many people, the summer FAN Store: packaging & mailing that are working. FAN’s model presence in good numbers of items from FAN’s “store”; right now, seems to be working well, too, it’s just books, but we’re going to be large, exotic-seeming species has made considerable progress getting into other things. Edmonton- like pelicans is one of the in recent years, and is becoming based. chief glories of nature in a very attractive and informative To apply for any of the above volunteer Alberta. regional forum for naturalists and positions, or simply to let us know ANDREW SLATER, CALGARY AB biologists. that you are available for other opportunities, call (780) 427–8124, WAYNE NELSON, CAMROSE AB email [email protected], or drop into the FAN offi ce (3rd fl oor, Percy Page Bldg, Edmonton). 8 NatureAlberta

Wildlife! Starring…Daphnia INFORMATION FROM: CLIFFORD, HUGH F. 1991. AQUATIC INVERTEBRATES OF ALBERTA. UNIVERSITY OF ALBERTA PRESS, EDMONTON.

Commonly called “water fl eas”, Daphnia are tiny (usually < 2mm) freshwater crustaceans.

No, they’re not fl eas; the Being transparent, As the second most abundant name comes from the way Daphnia make fascinating group of freshwater they move through the water and beautiful subjects zooplankton organisms, - in “hopping” motions. for microscope viewing Cladocerans are a vital source – and photography Twenty-six species inhabit of food for many aquatic (see inside front cover). Alberta’s water bodies organisms, including fi sh. Since they reproduce – most in the littoral region The most abundant group in spring and summer (shallow waters where is Copepods, an Arthropod by parthenogenesis plants are rooted and light SubClass of mostly tiny (development of eggs penetrates) of lakes, but Crustaceans. without being fertilized by also in deep water and the males), almost all Daphnia Daphnia abundance comes muddy shallows of sloughs are female; males appear from their breeding abilities: and ponds. Filter feeders, only in late summer to since they’re almost entirely all Cladocerans – as species in fertilize the “winter” or females, mature in four days, the Order are generally called “resting” eggs during produce 100 eggs or more per - exist on minute particles of the sexual phase of the brood, and can do so every 3 algae, bacteria and detritus. Daphnidae Family. days, the population can grow exponentially, even if most of them are preyed upon within days of their birth.

Family: Daphnidae Order: Cladocera Subclass: Branchiopoda Class: Crustacea PHOTO: BIODIDAC.BIO.UOTTAWA.CA/ RUNNING PRONGHORN RICK PRICE (PHOTOGRAPHED ON MARCH 20, 2007 ON A CANON 20D, SUMMER 2007 9 CANON 100-400/4.5-5.6 IS; EXPOSURE: F/7.1, 1/400 SEC)

Pronghorn BY DENNIS BARESCO Start Your Engines!

The two Pronghorn bucks nonchalantly looked my way as I slowed the truck.

I had just left home and was as he came back onto the road remember for how long - just about to turn onto the Eagle and jaunted back to his buddy, ahead of the hood of the car. I Butte Road to head 45km north who hadn’t moved – who’d was amazed – and have been so to Medicine Hat. The Pronghorn remained in place watching the about pronghorn ever since. were standing on a slight knoll, competition. The two Pronghorn Pronghorn know perfectly well about 150 metres from me and – racer and observer – then that they’re the fastest living 40 metres off the Eagle Butte. It stood there nonchalantly, looking thing on the prairies. Perhaps was 6:30 AM - a calm, sunny, magnifi cent. they’re bored. Suddenly, mid-summer’s day. The bucks For anyone raised on the prairies this big, long, chunky, noisy, looked magnifi cent, the early and/or who spent a lot of time obviously very fast thing comes morning sun illuminating their driving country prairie roads, the by. Finally – some competition! sharp features. story I’ve related should tweak Vroom – off they go to the races. I picked up speed. I watched memories. For skeptics – yes, The race is usually over very them. They watched me. As it is true: pronghorn DO race quickly. Usually, it’s bucks if spontaneously, one of the vehicles. It’s not a coincidence; – it’s a “guy thing”, I suppose. bucks bolted – straight for it’s not naturalist imagination Always, it’s awesome! the road at about half-speed. – pronghorn race vehicles for fun “He’s not going to!” I thought – period. There are 8 million stories in incredulously. Ah, but he was the nature city. This . . . has I was about six years old when going to! He rolled through the been one of them. I fi rst discovered that. We were ditch and up onto the road, on on a family car ride on a dirt Do you have a “fi rst hand” my left, at the same time as I trail south of Medicine Hat. A experience to tell the world? reached him. Then, he turned it pronghorn buck came running Send it in; we’d love to read it. on – moved directly in front of from away across the prairie, the truck – and sped on - as only heading straight for the car. The a pronghorn can. I didn’t slow buck got closer – and closer down – I knew what he was – and closer. “Watch this,” doing. my dad said, as he sped up. I Oyen AB is “Home of the Pronghorn He raced in front of me for had no idea what he meant. Antelope”. They have a statue of a about 8 seconds, then veered to The buck came up beside the pronghorn on Main Street the right and into the ditch. I car, passed us, and – just like (FROM ALBERTA TRIVIA, BY DON BLAKE, LONE watched in my rear view mirror, my buck – raced on – I don’t PINE BOOKS, 1993) 10 NatureAlberta

ALBERTA ISSUES IN BRIEF

SPOILED: Water SPIKED! Protected Areas Nailed Problems The Alberta Government has “When these natural areas are set railroaded two Alberta Protected up, it’s a public trust,” said Glen. The Pembina Institute’s Areas. Astotin and one-third of “And before they start doing this latest report, “Protecting North Bruderheim will be sold commercial swapping, it should be Water, Producing Gas,” is a so BA Energy and CP Rail can very transparent and they should be detailed examination of the service oil sands upgraders. The prepared to have the public involved. potential impact of drilling plans were kept hidden from Fort Maybe it is for the greater good, but for coalbed methane and Saskatchewan Naturalist Society how can we evaluate it?” other forms of unconventional members who have been Stewards Three other problems surface: it’s still gas on precious fresh of Astotin for twenty years. groundwater. The report calls a loss of 320 hectares; it shows that AB Parks plans a land swap: 320 the government views protected areas on the government to protect hectares bulldozed in exchange as potential industrial sites; and it groundwater to greater depths for 800 hectares in four different confi rms their continued contempt for than at present. areas. FAN Executive Director nature values. For more detail, please Monitoring of wells has Glen Semenchuk, quoted in the email ([email protected]) or phone decreased in proportion to the Edmonton Journal, has a problem (780 998 1657) Suzanne Benoit. increase in new wells. Many with the way the deal was done: rural Albertans are concerned about the lack of adequate PROPOSED: New Town in Bow Valley protection of water resources. Environmental watchdogs such as be untenable. That may be why the For more: Mary Griffi ths, the Bow Riverkeepers, estimate Stelmach government is not requiring an Senior Policy Analyst; Tel: 780- that the proposed Horseshoe Environmental Impact Assesment of the 433-6675. For the full report, Development on the old Seebe proposed development. townsite poses a signifi cant risk of fact sheet and FAQs, go to the Albertans who care about protecting the contamination of the Bow River, Pembina Institute website at Bow River and adjacent protected areas and will cause serious cumulative www.pembina.org are urged to oppose this development, or impacts on Alberta’s protected areas at the very least insist on an EIA before in the Bow Valley and Kananaskis any development proposal is considered. Valley. An environmental impact To learn more about this issue, please DRILLED! Suffi eld assessment (EIA) would likely check: www.cbc.ca/eyeopener/recent. fi nd the negative impacts (eg, NWA Assault html; www.bowriverkeeper.org/node/107 on Calgary’s water supply!) to EnCana Corp. has released its Environmental Impact Assessment outlining its plans GOOD NEWS: Grain changes for industrial development of FAN President Sandra Foss has bear, along the rail line.” Wildlife is lured a National Wildlife Area. At written to Canadian Pacifi c to the tracks by the spilled grain, only to be stake may be the future of Railway to applaud the “grain car run over; it’s a serious problem. refurbishment recently announced protected areas in Canada. All that’s required is federal approval by CP, in partnership with Get involved! For all the info, (which hopefully will come soon). In Transport Canada.” This fi ve- see www.fanweb.ca under the letter to CEO Fred Green, FAN also year initiative “will go a long way “What’s New?” mentioned that we hope “interim measures in reducing mortality of wildlife, can be taken to avoid mortality over the including the threatened grizzly fi ve-year period slated for refurbishment.” SUMMER 2007 11

ALBERTA ISSUES IN BRIEF

BIZARRE: FYI: The Quick Way Ethanol as fuel Here are a few email addresses The Honourable Janis Tarchuk, for contacting relevant Alberta MLA, Banff-Cochrane A new study by D. Pimentel politicians: [email protected] and T. Patzek confi rms that: “Energy outputs from The Honourable Ed Stelmach, Kevin Taft, Leader of the ethanol produced using Premier Opposition corn, switchgrass, and wood [email protected] [email protected] biomass were each less than The Honourable Ted Morton, Dr. David Swann, Environment the respective fossil energy Minister of Sustainable Resource Critic inputs. The same was true Development [email protected] for producing biodiesel using [email protected] soybeans and sunfl ower.” Brian Mason, NDP Leader Some of the fi ndings indicate The Honourable Hector [email protected] that ethanol production: Goudreau, Minister of Tourism, Parks, Recreation and Culture • using corn grain required [email protected] 29% more fossil energy than the ethanol fuel produced; • using switchgrass required 50% more fossil energy; • using wood biomass The Annual required 57% more fossil energy; Nature Canada • Biodiesel production using Conference sunfl ower required 118% HUMPBACK WHALES more fossil energy than the biodiesel fuel produced. Nevertheless, this bizarre ethanol scam continues. North America’s largest plant will be built soon near DATE: August 1 – 5, 2007 Innisfail, joining several other proposed and operating PLACE: Wolfville NS plants in Alberta. For industry and farmers, the immediate Highlights: lobster boil, fi eld trips for peak shorebird migration and to Cape government cash pouring into Sable Island, outstanding speakers and entertainment! Plan your Nova Scotia the trough trumps combating holiday around this event. The coastline is 7500km (4600 miles) so allow climate change, concern for plenty of time to explore. the future – and your wallet! Registration info: www.Nature2007.ca 12 NatureAlberta

Vulture Watching! BY WAYNE NELSON Turkey Vulture Studies in Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Venezuela

Vulture-watching in Alberta just got a lot more interesting! Read on!

EAST-CENTRAL ALBERTA VULTURE STUDIES wraps above Nature Alberta 34(2), Summer and below the 2004, carried an article on our wing. The fi ndings from Turkey Vultures up Saskatchewan to the 2003 season. The Winter tags are green 2008 issue of NA will carry an with large TAGGED VULTURES update article. We probably white letters will visit about twenty vulture or numbers Floyd Kunnas, Wildlife Management, families in 2007, and plan to that identify each individual bird. Fish and Wildlife Division, #416 – 5025 investigate a number of aspects The ID symbols can be easily – 49 Ave., St. Paul, AB T0A 3A4; Tel. of vulture biology for a number read by binoculars or telescope (780) 645-6405; Fax (780) 645-6267; of years. when the birds are perched or E-mail: fl [email protected]. We encourage naturalists and fl ying overhead. See the photo others to report all vulture Dave Moore, Wildlife Management, on the inside back cover. Fish and Wildlife Division, #8, 4701 sightings in central and northern From 2003 to 2006, 171 nestlings – 52 Street, Vermilion, AB T9X 1J9; Tel. Alberta, whether fl ying, perching, and 10 older vultures in (780) 853-8137; Fax (780) 853-8264; feeding, adults courting on Saskatchewan received green E-mail: [email protected]. rooftops in the spring, or wing tags. In 2006 the team fl edglings in windows or on wing-tagged 84 young at 46 rooftops in August-September. SASKATCHEWAN VULTURE nests! With time, patience, STUDIES Please report all sightings (date, keen fi eld observers, and good Stuart Houston, Brent Terry, exact location, activity) to your luck, some of these marked Michael Blom, and Marten local Fish and Wildlife offi ce for birds will divulge extremely Stoffel are continuing their forwarding to us, or directly to illuminating information about large-scale wing-tagging project the investigators. this species, such as the age at with nestling Turkey Vultures R. Wayne Nelson [retired from FWD, fi rst breeding, the dispersal of in Saskatchewan. Each young St. Paul], 4218 – 63 Street, Camrose, their new nesting sites relative vulture, when it is nearly able AB T4V 2W2; Tel. (780) 672-4363; to their hatching sites, nest to fl y (late July – early August), E-mail: [email protected]. site fi delity, pair fi delity, and receives a patagial wing tag that average and individual life span. SUMMER 2007 13

Almost certainly some of the sighting (including if bird was Valley Road, Orwigsburg, PA 17961; Saskatchewan wing-tagged alone or in a group of vultures, [email protected]; 1-570-943- vultures will turn up in Alberta! fl ying or perched, feeding or 3411 ext. 108. roosting, etc). Dead birds also All reports will be recognized, Reporting green-wing-tagged should be reported. Report and individuals reporting tagged vultures. sightings to: birds will receive summary Please report green-wing- Keith Bildstein, Hawk Mountain information about the study. tagged vultures (date, exact Sanctuary Acopian Center for location, and the ID number) Conservation Learning, 410 Summer to: C. Stuart Houston, 863 University Drive, Saskatoon, SK S7N 0J8; Tel (306)-244-0742 before 9 p.m. CST; ADULT TURKEY VULTURE AND APPROX. SEVEN DAY OLD NESTLING, WITH A BOLUS OF FOOD E-mail: [email protected]. THAT WAS REGURGITATED IN RESPONSE TO THE HUMAN VISITOR; IT WOULD BE RE-EATEN SHORTLY WAYNE NELSON, NEAR ANGLING LAKE. 20 JUNE 2006; DIGITAL KODAK DX7530 CAMERA (5MP, SOUTH AMERICAN WING- UP TO 10X OPTICAL ZOOM) TAGGED VULTURES (RED, AND LIGHT-BLUE) WITH POTENTIAL ALBERTA SIGHTINGS More than 100 North American Turkey Vultures have been wing-tagged while “over- wintering” in our winter of 2006-2007 in NW Venezuela. A Saskatchewan vulture, wing-tagged as a nestling, was reported from that area in a previous winter. The Venezuela researchers and Hawk Mountain, Pennsylvania, researchers now are approaching the question of Turkey Vulture migration from the southern end. Some of the birds have red tags with white numbers, others have light- blue tags with black numbers Please report all sightings of red and light-blue wing-tagged vultures: date, specifi c location, tag number and color, which wing (right or left) to which it’s attached, circumstances of the 14 NatureAlberta

The Migration of Four Alberta Peregrine Falcons BY GEOFF HOLROYD, HELEN TREFRY, AND GORDON COURT in Autumn 2006

New technologies are allowing biologists to learn more about birds that was previously impossible.

In June 2006, we trapped four adult breeding peregrines and attached satellite transmitters to determine more about their summer foraging areas, migration and wintering grounds. In this note we summarize the autumn migration of the four falcons. Adult male peregrines were trapped at the Agrium Plant in Fort Saskatchewan, and on the Red Deer River east of Red Deer. Females were trapped at the University of Alberta in Edmonton and in downtown Calgary. GPS accurate, solar powered satellite transmitters were attached with backpack Tefl on harnesses to all four falcons. The transmitters send locations every three days.

ADULT MALE PEREGRINE FALCON GORDON COURT SUMMER 2007 15

Three of the birds remained near their nests until they migrated. The Red Deer River male moved 20 km in late July and remained at the gas plant south of Joffre until it migrated. Such a move is not far for a peregrine but is unusual, since all the other falcons that we have tracked have remained at their nest cliff until migration. The Red Deer River male FIGURE 1. ROUTES TAKEN BY FOUR PEREGRINE FALCONS IN AUTUMN 2006 FROM THEIR NEST SITES TO left the Joffre plant between THEIR WINTER HOMES. 6-9 September and headed southwest. On the 9th he was at the south end of the Porcupine Hills, 25 km north was 350 km south enjoying three days later he was another of Pincher Creek. This is the downtown Veracruz City’s 1570 km southeast in southern most westerly movement of all Malecon! On the 30 September Missouri. His rate of travel four falcons. He then traveled he was at the base of the slowed as he only traveled southeast 980 km to Casper, Yucatan over the wetlands at 500 km to near Montgomery, Wyoming on the 12th, 625 km Ciudad Carmen, 550 km east Alabama by October 1 during further to southeast Colorado of Veracruz. On the 3 October the night but the next evening by the 15th, and 500 km he was at his winter quarters in he was 170 km further, near more to 175 km southwest of downtown Belize City, a further Pensacola, Florida. Then a big Oklahoma City on the 18th. 400 km east. He remained there jump, 1300 km in three days to Then this falcon turned south until at least October 31, most the Gulf coast north of Tampico, and was near the Falcon Dam locations in the downtown Mexico. He continued down the on the Rio Grande, Texas by and shoreline of that City. Gulf coast covering 400 km in the 21st, and then covered Unfortunately, the transmitter the next three days and 450 km only 100 km to cross into has not sent a signal since. We in the three days after that. will have to wait until spring to Mexico near Reynosa by the By then he had turned south determine if the falcon returns 24th. His rate of travel varied away from the coast and was to the Red Deer River. considerably as he worked his part way across Chiapas headed way down the Gulf Coast of The second falcon to for the Pacifi c coast. On October Mexico. leave Alberta was the Fort 22, three days and 90 km later On 27th at 6am local time Saskatchewan male who left he was at his winter home in he was 15 km offshore from town between 22-25 September. the large wetlands on the Pacifi c Tampico, a distance of 450 On the 25th the male was coast on the border between the km in three days. But later 1050 km southeast just south Mexican States of Chiapas and that same day, by 4pm he of Minot, South Dakota and Oaxaca. 16 NatureAlberta

The Migration of Four Peregrine Falcons in Autumn 2006…continued

The last falcon to leave Alberta was the University of Alberta female who was at her nest site on 8th October and 1050 km southeast near North Platte Nebraska on the 11th and 1000 km further southeast in southern Oklahoma on the 14th. Her rate of travel then slowed and she turned south for the Gulf Coast. She was 100 km from PEREGRINE FALCON GORDON COURT Houston, Texas on the 17th and just over the Mexican border over the The third falcon to leave was the But by 19 October she had Laguna Madre female trapped in downtown jumped 480 km south to near wetlands on the 20th. Like the Calgary. She was in Calgary on Managua, Nicaragua, but then other falcons she followed the 25 September, but on 28th she only 70 km in three days Gulf Coast south to near Tampico was in Montana, 160 km west of to the north shore of Lake on the 23rd and Villahermosa on Billings in the Yellowstone River Nicaragua. Her migration down the 26th. She then crossed the valley. She then headed south in the Caribbean coast of Central Yucatan to near the Guatemala- a hurry covering 1280 km in three America seemed to be more Honduras border on the 29th and days into New Mexico, about consistent as she covered 360 along the Caribbean coast to the 250 km east of Albuquerque. She km to near Limon, Costa Rica Nicaragua-Honduran border by then fl ew east 550 km to 180 km and 320 km to the Panama Canal 1st November. On the night of the west of Dallas, Texas. Then 1150 by 28 October. That day she 4th, she was near Limon, Costa km south along the Gulf Coast of covered 150 km between 8am Rica and by sunset that day she Mexico, to Tampico by 7 October. and 5pm arriving in Colombia had fl own 240 km to near the Three days later she was 530 km near Medellin by dark. In the Panama Canal. By the 7th she further south. By October 13 she next three days she fl ew south had entered Colombia just east had crossed the Yucatan and was 300 km in Colombia, then 300 of the Panama border. On the on the Belize-Guatemala border, km east to arrive at her winter 10th November she was at her 80 km north of Puerto Barrios. quarters 120 km southeast of wintering location in the Cauca Her migration then seemed to Bogotá by 9 November. This River valley, 150 km north of stall as she moved only 70 km in area appears to have irrigated Medellin, Colombia. three days to Lago de Isabel, just lands in the headwaters of the Generally the migrations took east of Puerto Barrios. Meta River. a month. The males took a few SUMMER 2007 17

The Migration of Four Peregrine Falcons in Autumn 2006…continued

days less and covered shorter was faster at the start of their along the Caribbean coast of distances (5095 km and 5570 migrations across North America, Central America to winter in km) while the females took a bit then generally slower for the rest Colombia. Although the two longer to cover greater distances of their routes. All four falcons males wintered north of the (6200 and 7250 km). On average followed the same general two females, this is not the the falcons travel about 200 migration path, southeast from pattern with other peregrines km per day, with the Red Deer Alberta to the Texas coast and where the females remained male traveling 212 km per day, along the Gulf coast of Mexico. in Mexico and males went to and the Calgary female at 173 Three then crossed the Yucatan. South America. km per day. Their rate of travel The two females continued

Authors: Geoff Holroyd and Helen Trefry, Canadian Wildlife Service, Environment Canada, Room 200, 4999 – 98 Ave, Edmonton, Alberta, T6B 2X3, and Gordon Court, Fish and Wildlife Division, Alberta Sustainable Resource Department, 2nd fl oor, 9920-108 St., Edmonton, Alberta, T5K 2M4

“Think outside the box” is a cliché. Clichés are vague, trite words. They are expressions that lack precision and need explanation in order to be clear. Everyday spoken language is replete with clichés. People often have only a vague idea what their clichés communicate. That can be a problem. ALAN LEFTRIDGE ( EDITOR), THE INTERPRETER, MARCH/APRIL 2007.

ANSWERS TO CROSSWORD PUZZLE #1 (IN THE SPRING NATURE ALBERTA)

ACROSS DOWN 1. Systems 13. Merlin 1. Stiff 9. Salivation 4. Gavia 15. Sage Grouse 2. Sunny Day 11. Alluvial 7. Ions 18. Tertials 3. Séance 12. Opuntia 8. Calories 19. Wind 4. Gooseberry 14. Yellow 10. Flycatcher 20. Aspen 5. Void 16. Elder 12. Oxalis 21. Warbler 6. Abstain 17. Grip 18 NatureAlberta

FEATURE ARTICLE Squirrel-esque! The Natural Wonders of Columbian Ground Squirrel Breeding Season in Kananaskis Country BY THEODORE G. MANNO, DEPARTMENT OF BIOLOGICAL SCIENCES, AUBURN UNIVERSITY, ALABAMA

In the mountains of Kananaskis Country, there is a hill called DOT.

I have 109 friends living on the Promiscuity is rampant, as is tick. The routine is the same as well. hill, and they have 109 different domestic violence. Not so cute. Squirrels are trapped 1-2 days after personalities. Some wake up they emerge from hibernation, ushered Hated by ranchers and loved by early, and some arise late. Some into a cloth bag, restrained by hand, others, the Columbian ground are shy, some are bold. Some are weighed, and fi tted with eartags for squirrels of Gorge Creek are the more industrious, social, curious, long-term identifi cation. Then we name perfect animals for my crew and or active than others. each squirrel, and use hair dye to paint me to observe. “Team Squirrel” each animal with a unique symbol. For a tourist, happening upon sets forth for Alberta every April a colony of Columbian ground with the same goal—to fi nd out But every year, we see some nuance squirrels along the Gorge Creek what makes ground squirrels of the animal that we were unaware Trail, the fi rst of previously because of impression is of our all-day observations “WATCH-SQUIRREL”: PREDATION RISK IS OMNIPRESENT FOR COLUMBIAN a utopian society from 4-m high towers. The GROUND SQUIRRELS, SO THEY MUST REMAIN VIGILANT AND ON-ALERT of cute, furry information on when and AT ALL TIMES. TARGET, A 6-YEAR-OLD MALE, LOOKS OUT FROM HIS animals. But a how the squirrels breed is a BURROW AFTER HEARING AN ALARM CALL FROM ANOTHER SQUIRREL. closer inspection necessity for wildlife managers THEODORE MANNO makes this a attempting to create plans risky conclusion. for the ecology of the Rocky There are Mountains. In addition, the mischief makers squirrels offer a broad view and aggressors, of confl ict and cooperation, not to mention and are a prototype example the incest, for Darwin’s theory of cannibalism, natural selection. After all, kidnapping, Canadian winters are tough, rape, rough sex, predators are numerous, and baby killing. and intracolonial confl ict is SUMMER 2007 19

“CORKSCREW”, THE BOLDEST SQUIRREL IN THE COLONY THEODORE MANNO inevitable. It’s a tough life for for area around the female are the potential for a kinky threesome the squirrels, and a vicious fi ght hard-fought, and with good the next morning. Rewarded to transmit genes into further reason—the winner is the fi rst for watching the squirrels from generations. to inseminate the female in heat, sunrise until sunset, we return to making him the most likely to camp, waiting to enjoy seeing the By the third week of April in sire her offspring. copulations that are sure to happen 2006, most of the squirrels have the next morning. emerged from hibernation and And so the 21st of April becomes are named. Soon, the females an interesting night for us, as The squirrels will usually copulate will begin having their single we observe the warfare of the underground, but we can infer annual day of heat, the “estrus males. “Mercedes”, a 7-year-old that sex has occurred through a day”, where they copulate male, has fought off three males series of aboveground behaviors, or with one or several males. The named “X”, “Y”, and “Arrow” of seeing the squirrels submerge in a breeding males are already the same age to win the prize of burrow together. This assumes that maintaining their territories via sleeping with Spider underneath we are able to see the meadow, complicated hostile encounters one of the observation towers but a driving snowstorm the next and fi ghts, having spent the near the West woods. His morning makes that complicated. fi rst two years of life unable intentions are obvious—Spider Despite this, we receive our fi rst to keep territory or reproduce. is a 3-year-old female that we clue—a post-copulatory chirp given The females are arranged into confi rmed will be in estrus by Mercedes after he emerges from family group clusters of close the next day by observing the same burrow he submerged in kin around 1-2 territorial males her wide open vagina. But the night before. “Get away from that interact amicably and “Corkscrew”, a 5-year-old female my female!” often. But these arrangements who is well-known among the Corkscrew tries to leave the are temporary, because when researchers at camp for her area and court other males, but a female in the area is close to zealous proclivity for peanut Mercedes will have none of it, being “hot”, the males will shift butter-baited traps, has gone to hitting her into the burrow over their territories towards her in an bed in a burrow under a tree, and over. Finally, Arrow fi ghts off attempt to copulate with her the one meter from Mercedes and Mercedes, and Corkscrew leads next morning. The competitions Spider’s rendezvous, creating 20 NatureAlberta

Squirrel-esque!…continued

Arrow into another burrow to see while on a tower in a driving dried semen placed in her vulva by copulate. Arrow will inseminate snowstorm, but Spider makes it her previous partner, she is unable her, but he is only the second easy. She “talks” to a male with a to copulate again during her period male in a series of matings, soft call that advertises her desire of heat. Watching nightly interactions and may not sire offspring with to copulate again, then runs and is not feasible with the weather, and Corkscrew as a result of Mercedes’ solicits him to sniff her rear end it is time to go home. It has been a violent guarding. Good job, and kiss her. This will allow him rough day, and we are developing the Mercedes. to assess whether she is estrous beginning stages of hypothermia. But it by scent. X takes a whiff, and Lili has all been worth it, and 10 years from Meanwhile, Spider has emerged has honed in on them because now, we will remember what a fun from her sleeping burrow as of the call. Just before the snow day this was. We have heightened our Mercedes guards Corkscrew. picks up, she is able to see them understanding of how male territoriality Lili, my assistant, assumes that submerge together in a burrow defends a female; how males guard Mercedes has inseminated her under the tower. estrous females; the meaning of several as well. The next observations vocalizations; and the aboveground confi rm that suspicion. Spider Now unable to feel several of our behaviors that suggest copulation. tries to get away, but to no toes, we see Corkscrew copulate avail—Mercedes tackles her and with David, an immigrant from More prolifi c than the questions we copulates with her again, this another colony, and with X, answer, however, are the questions time above ground. Spider is bringing Corkscrew’s total to raised by our research. Why do females looking for another suitor, just in 4 mates. Corkscrew has been solicit males with a soft chirp after only case the sperm of Mercedes are licking her vulva, a surefi re sign some copulations? Does the mating call unfi t for siring offspring. Her next that copulation has occurred. guard the female by threatening the mating will be tough for Lili to Without removing the plug of males, or by keeping the female close to the site of copulation? Why copulate underground? Why copulate with 4 males? Why do females choose certain males to solicit, but not others? And on and on. Corkscrew, despite the snow, runs up to Lili as we check the traps. “I want peanut butter.” She licks the traps as we leave the colony for the day. Breeding season moves on, with slightly less snow, as we observe the estrus of 24 more females, some of whom copulate with their cousins. The females will defend natal burrows on their territories and drop their

“SQUIRRELS UNFURLED”: RARELY AND INEXPLICABLY, COLUMBIAN GROUND SQUIRRELS COPULATE ABOVEGROUND THEODORE MANNO SUMMER 2007 21

Squirrel-esque!…continued litters after a 24-day gestation, as the helpless pups develop further underground during a 4-week lactation period. But even if physically able, not every squirrel gets a chance to sire offspring. Though not often seen as predatory, ravens fl y above the hill constantly, and eat 7 adult “TRAP HAPPY”: COLUMBIAN GROUND SQUIRRELS HAVE VARIED REACTIONS TO HUMANS study animals during the 2006 THEODORE MANNO season. A fox and a lynx take 2 others. Coyotes, goshawks, harriers, and red-tailed hawks Finally, in mid-June, we see the But Asterisk, a 4-year-old female, make attempts as well. The results of the copulations that has invaded Corkscrew’s territory victims are usually immigrants to we watched in the April snow. while she was feeding in the the colony who are unfamiliar Weaned pups, furry and dazed, woods. The pup screams again, with the best routes for escape, emerge from their natal burrows and Asterisk grasps him, curls him or animals that live on the edge and are immediately trapped into her mouth and runs toward her of the colony and do not benefi t for identifi cation. Spider and burrow. Pandemonium throughout from the presence of the herd. Corkscrew, the two females that the colony ensues—all squirrels Every time a predator is spotted, copulated during the infamous become alert, as Asterisk throws the squirrels dash to the nearest day in the snowstorm, wean a the pup onto the lip of her burrow, burrow, assume an upright litter successfully. It seems like pounds the ground 5 times, and “looking” position and emit an a happy ending to fi eld season, stuffs the victim underground. alarm chirp, to warn their relatives and that the juveniles will soon Corkscrew runs to her territory, of possible predation—the grow and disperse throughout the to no avail. Once thought to be same animals that are in confl ict colony. The squirrels are sprightly an idiosyncratic, rare occurrence, during breeding interactions are now, especially Corkscrew, who infanticide is now usually viewed as cooperative when a predator has stolen Lili’s peanut butter, and an evolved behavior with benefi ts attacks, and coloniality deters returned the container to the lip for the marauder, so the questions hundreds of predations every of her burrow after being unable run through my head. “Is she year. A late snowstorm may kill to open it. But despite the joy of removing a future competitor? Is several litters, owing to the lack baby season, maternal defense she increasing her sustenance? Is of food for the mother and her of the natal burrow remains she increasing her foraging area?” young. Some mothers are young paramount, for one major reason. Whatever the reason, Corkscrew now has 2 weaned pups instead of and inexperienced, produce It is 6PM on the 17th of June, a 3, and the pups and their mothers unfi t litters that are diseased or warm, sunny night. I am aroused will have to endure a harsh winter. have other defects, and must by a horrifi c scream, apparently Our friend Corkscrew seems wait another year. A few have from one of the squirrels. I look unconcerned, as she returns to the fertilization problems and never out across the meadow to fi nd woods to feed. So much to think conceive—they, too, must wait for Corkscrew’s offspring feeding. next year. about… 22 NatureAlberta

Squirrel-esque!…continued

The infanticide is an interesting copulations of 25 more females. assistants and I spend so much time conclusion to the 2006 fi eld But the charisma of the colony watching them from towers. Quite season, and we look forward to has changed. We look patiently simply, we acquire stories about taking more data when we return every day, but Corkscrew has the lives of the squirrels, stories in 2007. It is a continuation of apparently succumbed to the harsh that explain a part of nature that is the study, but we are in fact not winter, and she never emerges. not often explored. Our anecdotes continuing anything, as we try to Nor does Asterisk, who marauded paint a picture of an animal with a look at the squirrels with fresh Corkscrew’s litter. And though social structure, a communication eyes every year—the way to all of the squirrels are friends to system, and a role in the ecology learn something new is to look us, we still continue the study of the Rocky Mountains—far from as if you have never seen them somewhat saddened, not by the the “gophers” that are exterminated before. So we return in 2007, death of a wild animal by natural carelessly by ranchers. and see who has survived, and causes, but by this subtle reminder A hike in the woods can therefore what pups from the prior year that time passes. The offspring of never again seem so frivolous. It will begin their 2-3 year quest Corkscrew and Asterisk emerge may be because you feel the stories for reproduction. Mercedes, the two weeks after breeding though, show an animal that is complicated, dominant male on the west side and the genes of these two females socially complex, and possessive of the colony, is back for another live on—at least for another year. of more advanced behavior than year, along with X, Y, and Arrow. The Columbian ground squirrels at you thought. But I prefer to think Spider is back under the tower, Gorge Creek continue as my loyal of the squirrels as behaving quite along with many others from study animals today. It is often basically, playing their role in an the prior year. As the season that I am asked what we can learn ecosystem containing many species, passes, we witness the estrus and from the squirrels, or why my including humans, with activities that are shaped by the same natural processes. Each decision or action of the squirrels, after all, is guided by millions of years of evolution, brought on from the natural selection of traits by the harsh Alberta environment in which they live. An infanticide, for instance, is inconceivable to us, and could be interpreted as the actions of a “lower” animal. But in nature, such actions are merely manifestations of the natural selection of behaviors over time that benefi t the individual,

“MOMMY!”: EACH BABY IS TRAPPED, EARTAGGED, AND MARKED WITH THE SYMBOL OF THEIR MOTHER. BABIES ARE FIRST-TIMERS TO THE PROCEDURE, AND OFTEN EMIT A DISTRESS CALL THEODORE MANNO SUMMER 2007 23

Squirrel-esque!…continued as an animal attempts survival columbianus). Behavioral Ecology multiple paternity. Canadian Journal of in an arduous environment. Our and Sociobiology, 16, 337-341. Zoology, 73, 1819-1826. attempt to understand these MacWhirter, R. B. 1992. Vocal and escape Murie, J. O. & Harris, M. A. 1978. responses of Columbian ground Territoriality and male dominance behaviors more fully continues, squirrels to simulated terrestrial and in Columbian ground squirrels and it is always tough to leave in aerial predator attacks. Ethology, 91, (Spermophilus columbianus). July after the babies are weaned. 311-325. Canadian Journal of Zoology, 56, But the fi eld season comes and Manno, T. G., Nesterova, A. P., 2402-2412. goes, and next year is another DeBarbieri, L. M., Kennedy, S. E., Murie, J. O. & Harris, M. A. 1988. adventure. Cole, K. S. & Dobson, F. S. 2007. Why Social interactions and dominance do male Columbian ground squirrels relationships between female and give a mating call? Animal Behaviour, male Columbian ground squirrels. Bibliography In press. Canadian Journal of Zoology, 66, King, W. J. & Murie, J. O. 1985. Temporal Murie, J. O. 1995. Mating behavior 1414-1420. overlap of female kin in Columbian of Columbian ground squirrels. I. ground squirrels (Spermophilus Multiple mating by females and

Theodore G. Manno is a candidate for the PhD in Biology at Auburn University, Alabama, U.S.A.

How to watch Columbian ground squirrels

Watching squirrel breeding season takes effort, patience, stamina, and Sit. Pray that your tower does not topple to coffee. Every year, we sit in towers from dawn to dusk, often in freezing the ground, resulting in your certain fi ery weather. You can do this too! Here’s how to do it— death. STEP 8: Wait. Drink coffee. STEP 1: Wake up. Think about STEP 3: Fill water bottle with water squirrels. Curse the 6AM wake up that has been shipped into camp from STEP 9: Squirrels will wake up. Write this time and lack of heat in cabin. Press Ranger station (30 minutes away). down. Drink coffee. “snooze” and mentally prepare to Remember to hydrate, or incur infection STEP 10: Squirrels will interact…kissy- sit still in sub-zero weather endlessly that will hinder fi eld work, and other kissy, sniffy-sniffy. Write this down. Drink waiting for specifi c behaviors that things. Must hydrate. coffee. occur within seconds. STEP 4: Handle everything in your life STEP 11: Squirrels will engage in sexual STEP 2: Bundle up. Bring earmuffs, before breeding season. You will not intercourse, but it will be underground, so hats, gloves, mittens, handwarmers, have a phone or internet for a month. you won’t see it. Pay attention! Defi nitely and toewarmers. Wear 4 pairs of STEP 5: Ignore campmates who study write this down. Drink more coffee. pants, 2 pairs of socks, and 8 shirts. other animals and do not realize that Cover your face. Mentally prepare to STEP 12: Mmmm….coffee. watching squirrel breeding season is an resemble the Pillsbury Dough Boy. all day affair. STEP 13: Lament your lack of coffee. Stock socks in your cabin as if the apocalypse is coming. Socks keep your STEP 6: Bug spray. STEP 14: Return to camp. Discuss squirrels. Itch places that have not seen light for a feet dry and toasty, thus preventing STEP 7: Hike 2 miles to meadow month. aggravation. And despite the ferocious containing squirrels. Climb 4-m high cold, wear sunscreen. tilted tower in rain with gear on back. STEP 15: Fall into bed. Dream of squirrels. 24 NatureAlberta

Squirrel-esque!…continued

The Columbian ground squirrel (Spermophilus columbianus)

SIZE BREEDING: attack, Columbians run to 200-1200 g Females are sexually mature burrow mounds and give either 30-40cm long with tail at 1-2 years of age; males are solitary or repetitious alarm sexually mature at 2-3 years of calls. Amazingly, only half of age. During a three week mating all individuals in the area of the DISTRIBUTION: period, a territorial reproductive predator will call, as the others Rocky Mountains around the male (usually >3 years old) watch in silence. The individuals Columbia River Basin; Southern overlaps the ranges of one or a that call are almost invariably and Central Alberta, Montana, few females. Young subordinate individuals that have either Idaho, Eastern Washington, and males (2-3 years old) usually do descendant or non-descendant Eastern British Columbia not maintain a territory, but are kin within earshot. physically able to reproduce and sometimes obtain copulations. GENERAL DESCRIPTION: SOCIAL ACTIVITY AND Females are highly promiscuous Columbian ground squirrels INTERACTION: during their annual day of estrus, are large, diurnal, herbivorous, Fights, chases, runaways, which occurs 2-12 days after social rodents that live at and territorial disputes emergence from hibernation high elevations in and near ensue between males during in late April or early May. the Columbia River Basin. breeding, and females during Females may solicit courtship They form colonies that gestation and lactation. These or copulate with their territorial are subdivided into groups can result in facial injuries, male, adjacent territory holders, of stationary female kin scars, and, occasionally, death and subordinate young males. that surround a territorial and cannibalism. Males and Litter size is 2-4, and males that reproductive male. Males drop females also sniff each other for copulate fi rst in a female’s series defense of their territories identifi cation, or touch mouths of matings (usually the nearest after a 3-week breeding in a “kiss.” Friendly individuals territorial male) are most likely period in late April and early of the same matriline sometimes to sire her offspring. Gestation is May, and females defend groom each other to search for about 24 days; lactation is about their own territories and natal lice and ticks. burrows after breeding. Mass 27 days. extermination has occurred via ECOLOGICAL INFORMATION: poisoning, shooting, and habitat ANTI-PREDATOR DEFENSE: Columbian ground squirrels shortage. They have been Columbian ground squirrels scan are herbivores. They are a food studied extensively by scientists for predators and emit several source for predatory birds, because of their complex different alarm calls. During a badgers, foxes, coyotes, and social interactions and predator terrestrial or aerial predatory defense systems. bobcats. SUMMER 2007 25

Olga Droppo A Faithful and Dedicated Naturalist

Olga Droppo, beloved wife for 54 years of Laverne Droppo, passed away on April 12, 2007 in Calgary at 76 years of age.

Olga was a nature Olga was recognized as an expert Olga was awarded many honours lover, teacher, educator, on the fl ora and fauna of Alberta, for her enormous capacity to give natural historian, author, was an avid bird watcher and to others, including the Loran conservationist and tireless long time member of the Calgary Goulden Memorial Award in 2003 volunteer. Field Naturalists’ Society. She from FAN. Later in life she became was instrumental in establishing a committed conservationist, Born on a homestead near systems to document and record spending her time documenting Sundre AB, Olga grew up local plants and birds. In 1987 plants and wildlife at Carburn in Turner Valley, moving to she authored “A Field Guide Park. When the Ann & Sandy Calgary in 1952, where she and to Alberta Berries” published Cross Conservation Area was Laverne raised three children, by CFNS, which became a established, Olga became a Dallas, Janet, and Michael. common reference book for local devoted supporter. She was keenly involved in naturalists. her children’s sports, became a Master Swim Offi cial, and participated in countless swim meets throughout Alberta. Memories of Olga Droppo BY DON STILES Olga had a passion for nature and the environment. She I was always impressed with Olga records (400,000 of them!) into taught identifi cation courses Droppo. She was always faithful a computer in the late 80s and for the City of Calgary, and, in any activity she undertook. I early 90s. remember her working with for many years worked as a Although self taught, she a team to enter Calgary Field naturalist and fi eld guide at developed her skills in natural Naturalists’ Society’s (CFNS) bird the Inglewood Bird Sanctuary. history to a degree where she 26 NatureAlberta

Memories of Olga Droppo …continued

became a teacher of natural history courses at Inglewood Bird Sanctuary. I remember taking her course on berries shortly after she published her book “Alberta Berries” in 1987. She was a mentor to many of us and nearly always was able to identify a bird or plant when asked. This even included Graham Goode, the minister who took her memorial service. He said he and his wife became volunteers at Inglewood Bird Sanctuary as a retirement project, and Olga was the one he went to for information on bird sightings. For many years she participated in up to fi ve Calgary area bird counts, two in the city (Calgary CRANBERRIES PHOTOS.COM and Fish Creek), and three in the foothills (Turner Valley, Cochrane Wildlife Reserve, it was her granddaughter’s and volunteers from the Cross and Sundre), usually involving birthday, or some other activity Conservation Area. another group of ladies. involving one of them that Then in recent years, she she wanted to go to. She was We will miss her, as I became involved at the Cross faithful to her family also. Conservation Area, by faithfully know you will, too. The memorial service was giving walks every Wednesday well attended with about 300 to look for birds and fl owering people present. This included plants. many CFNS people, some of However, I remember at times whom I hadn’t seen in many she would indicate that she years, as well as current and wouldn’t be able to participate former staff from Inglewood in some CFNS activity because Bird Sanctuary, and staff SUMMER 2007 27 nuggets Send your NNuggetsuggets to [email protected].

SPIDERS ROMANCE sections. Thus attracted to each Researchers have revealed that other, they began to dance in the jumping spiders use ultraviolet fashion of their courtship. (UV) light to attract mates. In “It is the fi rst time that UV light experiments, male and female has been shown to have different spiders tended to ignore each sex-specifi c effects in courtship in other in the absence of UV light, any animal,” said Daiqin Li, one of even though they have exceptional the study’s authors. The study was vision. Under full-spectrum light published in Science. (including UV), male jumping Ah yes, soft lights and slow spiders appeared shiny, refl ecting dancing: jumping spiders know the light from patches on their romantic routine! bodies, while females exhibited a JUMPING SPIDER (SALTICUS SCENICUS) fl uorescent glow on some body INFORMATION FROM AUDUBON, MAY-JUNE 2007 EVERY1BLOWZ, IN EN.WIKIPEDIA.ORG/SIKI/JUMPING_SPIDER

QUIK ‘N EASY BY DENNIS BARESCO Summer time is Mulch time from Exxon/Esso/Mobil; 124 FAN has received considerable project Mulch is a wonderful and benefi cial organizations are listed. Many of assistance from ACA, including for addition to gardens and beds. Most the organizations consistently deny Living by Water, Important Bird Areas, yards have plenty of free mulch, like human-induced climate change. and the “Second Look” Bird Atlas. grass clippings and leaves. Farmers (Note: you need Flash Player 7.) For ACA’s “programs and research are have lots, too – like old straw. Cities more detail on climate change and even more vitally important now,” said constantly trim trees and chip the the deniers, read George Monbiot’s Sandra, “with industry intruding into branches. Even coffee grounds recent bestseller, Heat. all corners of the province. Keep up – which are nutritious – can be good the great science.” Sandra Foss is now Thanks is easy, too! mulch. FAN’s representative on the ACA Board. One “quick ‘n easy” thing we However, if you insist on buying sometimes forget is to say thanks! Kimberly-Clark market action mulch, check (or ask) what it’s made Besides a thank you to CP Rail (see Don’t forget to request toilet paper, of and where it’s from; avoid that “Good News: Grain Changes”, and other household paper products which comes from species which pg 10), President Sandra Foss made from recycled paper, from your may be threatened. Eg., a lot of also congratulated the Alberta local grocery store. cypress swamps are being destroyed Conservation Association (ACA) to provide cypress mulch. Peat moss on ten successful years! Said The Tissue Lament often comes from the destruction of President Foss: “The Federation of As she walked among the debris wetlands. And, on the “taking care Alberta Naturalists is pleased to be of the former woodland of your health” side, you never know a part of this benefi cial partnership seeing the great stumps just what poisons and carcinogens of groups working together to of decapitated trees, are in commercial mulch. further the goals of wildlife and she wept. fi sh conservation, and habitat She cried so hard, The Secrets of Exxon preservation. It is vital to engage she used up a whole box Check out the fascinating, interactive all Albertans in this very important of Kleenex tissue. website www.Exxonsecrets.org job.” —ANONYMOUS re: who has received funding 28 NatureAlberta Do what we can, summer must have its fl ies. If we walk in the woods, we must feed mosquitoes. RALPH WALDO EMERSON

The 2007 Summer Solstice offi cially starts June 21, at 12:06 pm MDT and It’s Summer! lasts until the Autumnal Equinox, Sept 23, 3:51 am, MDT BY DENNIS BARESCO

Of all the wonders of Nature, Firefl ies in the Garden a tree in summer is perhaps Here come real stars to fi ll the upper skies, the most remarkable; with the And here on earth come emulating fl ies, possible exception of a moose That though they never equal stars in size, singing ‘Embraceable You’ in (And they were never really stars at heart) spats. Achieve at times a very star-like start. WOODY ALLEN Only, of course, they can’t sustain the part. —ROBERT FROST

Ah, summer, what power you have to make us suffer and like it. RUSSELL BAKER Here a Hike, There a Hike Field trips – a hiking great way to spend a summer day or so! Check with your local naturalist club and nature centre; most of them have a summer full of hikes and walks. If you’re heading to southwestern Alberta, contact the Castle-Crown Wilderness Coalition folks (www.ccwc. ab.ca; offi [email protected]); they have an abundance of unbelievable trips right through to Sept 15th.

Nothing is more memorable than a smell. One scent can be unexpected, momentary and fl eeting, yet conjure up a childhood summer beside a lake in the mountains. DIANE ACKERMAN

WESTERN ANEMONE (ANEMONE OCCIDENTALIS) IN HIGHWOOD PASS, SW ALBERTA BILL SAMUEL (LEICA FLEX SL 50 M F2, LEITZ WETZLAR MACROTAR V16 CLOSE-UP LENSE, KODACHROME 25 FILM SUMMER 2007 29

CELESTIAL HAPPENINGS Starry Nights Summer/Fall (August to October) BY JOHN MCFAUL FEATURED CONSTELLATIONS – SUMMER TRIANGLE The featured asterism is a group the underworld ruled by Hades. honour Cycnus’ devotion to his friend of stars known as the Summer Unfortunately he attempted to look by turning him into a swan and placing Triangle. (Note: An asterism back at Eurydice before she had him amongst the stars. is a grouping of stars defi ning reached the land of the living and Altair is in the constellation Aquila, a distinctive shape or fi gure.) thus he lost her forever. the Eagle. This constellation is thought These stars may be part of one Deneb represents the tail of to represent the Eagle that swooped constellation, such as the Big Cygnus, the Swan. One of many down from Olympus to take the Dipper, which is a part of the Ursa ancient stories associated with handsome Ganymede to be the cup Major constellation. It could also Cygnus is the story of Cycnus. One bearer for Zeus. be a grouping of stars which are day Phatheon attempted to drive found in adjoining constellations, Although these three stars are roughly Apollo’s chariot, which carried the such as the Summer Triangle; it of equal brightness, Deneb is a much Sun across the sky. He was very can be located by looking high in more luminous star as it is about 1800 reckless and was struck down the south-eastern sky. light years from the Earth. Vega and by Zeus. His friend Cycnus, died Altair are much closer at 26 and 16 The triangle is composed of the attempting to rescue him from the light years respectively. three bright stars known as Vega, river Eridanus. Zeus decided to Deneb, and Altair. As twilight gives way to the dark of the CELESTIAL HAPPENINGS night, Vega, the brightest of the Sun: Rise - Aug. 1 (05:49 MDT), Sept. 1 (06:42 MDT), Oct. 1 (07:35 MDT) three, can be found by looking Set - Aug. 1 (21:30 MDT), Sept. 1 (20:24 MDT), Oct. 1 (19:11 MDT) high up toward the zenith of the Note: Times are for Edmonton. celestial dome. Deneb follows Moon: Full - Aug. 28th, Sept. 26th, Oct. 26th close behind to the north-east and New - Aug. 12th, Sept. 11th, Oct. 11th Altair keeps pace with these two Lunar Eclipse - Aug. 28th – partial eclipse begins at 2:51 AM. Total eclipse luminaries to the south. begins at 3:52 AM, ends at 5:23 AM Beautiful Vega is the brightest Planets: Mercury will not be readily seen during this time period. star in the constellation Lyre, the Venus will set soon after the Sun in August. It will be best seen in the morning Harp. Lovers gazing upon this sky in October. constellation are reminded of Mars continues to be best seen in the pre-dawn sky high in the SSE above the love shared by Orpheus and Orion. Eurydice. Orpheus played such Jupiter skirts the south to south-western horizon in the late evenings. Saturn soon disappears into the glare of the setting Sun. By early October it entrancing music with his harp is in the morning sky. On Oct 7 it will form a nice grouping with Venus, the that even the birds and waterfalls crescent Moon and Regulus. would stay silent to listen. After Meteor Shower: The Perseid Meteor Shower peaks in the early morning of Eurydice had died from the bite August 13th, with 50 meteors/hour of a serpent, Orpheus used this Orionid Meteor Shower peaks on October 21st. 25 meteors/hour music to win back Eurydice from The rate of meteors observed is for dark skies well away from city lights and with no Moon. 30 NatureAlberta

NEWTON’S OCCASIONALLY CRYPTIC CROSSWORD! #2 Here it is! The second crossword. How’d you do on the fi rst one? Check the answers on page 17. Now, test your nature knowledge again. As before, author Garry Newton has used his sly wit and cryptic mind.

ACROSS DOWN 1. On lake, marsh or ocean, it sounds as though his turn will 1. A bat, for instance, delivered with your newspaper (15) come (7 letters) 2. Pigeon sculpture (4,4) 4. #9 won’t be admitted here (5) 3. Remains of an ancient land-form (6) 7. Kind of pigeon that used to be a sun-god (4) 4. Does this waterbird migrate to Rio for Mardi Gras? (6,4) 8. Lumpers and splitters attempt to do this (8) 5. Go on, hit it on the head! (4) 10. Siberian canoe-material? (3,7) 6. Botanical: without female organs (7) 12. A state of dessication (6) 9. Those who consider birds to be unintelligent (10) 13. Reptilian accountants (6) 11. Sometimes a good source of oil now, but not then (8) 15. Ammonite hey-day (10) 12. Landform towering above a glacier (7) 18. Tiny, huge-eyed primates (8) 14. Often observed from a ship, generally astern (6) 19. Flightless New Zealander (4) 16. Podzol and chernozem, for instance (5) 20. Some fl y superbly, others are badly fl own (5) 17. A little something for an active gizzard (4) 21. Regional differences in vocalization (7) Answers will be in the Fall issue – lots of time to get them all! SUMMER 2007 31 Seventh Report of the Alberta Bird Record Committee BY JOCELYN HUDON, RICHARD KLAUKE, RICHARD KNAPTON, M. ROSS LEIN, JOHN RIDDELL, BRIAN RITCHIE AND RAY WERSHLER Exciting Year! 2006 proved an exciting one 2005 and 2006 was deemed of the latest (47th) supplement to for Alberta birders, with a questionable origin, and will not the American Ornithologists’ score of unusual bird sightings, appear in the main list.] Union’s “Checklist of North including provincial fi rsts. American Birds” (Banks et al. Since publication of the Sixth With the addition of American 2006). This entailed changing the Report of the ABRC (Hudon Woodcock (Scolopax minor), common name of Dendragapus et al. 2006), the Alberta Bird Ivory Gull (Pagophila eburnea), obscurus from Blue Grouse to Record Committee reviewed and Least Tern (Sternula antillarum) Dusky Grouse, as a result of a reached a decision on 69 records, and Yellow-throated Warbler taxonomic split, the merging of including several sightings of (Dendroica dominica) in the Catoptrophorus and Heteroscelus egrets and Scarlet Tanagers from present report, the provincial list into Tringa, the resurrection of the back-log of unadjudicated now stands at 408 species. [Note: Hydroprocne within Sterna, and records from the 1980s and 1990s. Unfortunately, the Hooded Crow a rearrangement of taxa in the (Corvus cornix) which graced a In addition, the provincial list is latter two groups. backyard in Whitecourt in both amended to bring it in line with

RECORDS ACCEPTED

King Eider (Somateria spectabilis), Lake CODE 3 RECORD. Near Airdrie; 12 August (Lloyd Bennett). CODE 3 RECORD. Fincastle Minnewanka, Banff Natl Park; 17 - 25 1994; written description (Olga Droppo). Lake, E of Taber; 15 - 19 September, December 2005; written descriptions CODE 3 RECORD. Edmonton; 27 June - 1 2004; brief written description posted on (Reno Sommerhalder, Jason Rogers, Royce July 1997; brief description and image in “Albertabird”, written description (Lloyd Howland), one with sketch (Jason Rogers), Gosche (1997). CODE 1 RECORD. Ghostpines Bennett). CODE 3 RECORD. Active nest with another with 4 images (Royce Howland); Springs Sanctuary, S of Pine Lake; summer 4 young, Big Lake, St. Albert; from about also 3 images of partly-eaten carcass (Doug 2000; apparently its fi fth year there; 9 June 2005 to at least 26 October 2005; & Donna McKown). CODE 1 RECORD. seen again in 2001; brief description and several images (Gerald Romanchuk). CODE account of occurrence (Wayne Roberts); 2 1 RECORD. First documented breeding in Common Eider (Somateria mollissima), N slides (Randal Hoscheit). CODE 1 RECORD. the province. Pocahontas Ponds, Jasper end of Pine Coulee Reservoir, W of Stavely; Lethbridge; 6 August 2001; short description National Park; 13 - 16 August 2005; 20 November 2005; written description posted on “Albertabird” discussion group images (Doug Faulder [4], Luke DeCicco with sketch and 2 images (Teresa & Doug (Graeme Greenlee). CODE 3 RECORD. Coal [3]). CODE 1 RECORD. Dolman). This bird appears to be of the Lake; 22 April 2003; written description eastern group of subspecies based on Snowy Egret (Egretta thula), Pakowki Lake; (George and Saundra Garden). CODE 3 pattern of feathering on the side of the bill. 18 June 1987; brief written description RECORD. Dugout in SE corner of 160 St / CODE 1 RECORD. and 2 images (Ray Wershler). CODE 1 306 Ave SE junction, and N end of Blizzard RECORD. Glenmore Reservoir; 21 May Great Egret (Ardea alba), E side of Lake, E of Okotoks; 25 May 2003; written 1989; written descriptions (Richard F. Beaverhill Lake; 16 May 1981; mentioned description (Ian Halladay). CODE 3 RECORD. Clark, Andrew Slater). CODE 2 RECORD. in Dekker (1998); 1 slide (Bob Gehlert). Clear Lakes area, NE of Claresholm; 4 Edcon Block Plant at intersection of 170 CODE 1 RECORD. Buffalo Bay, Lesser Slave May 2004; written description, fi eld notes, St / 137 Ave, Edmonton; 15 May 1999; Lake; July 1987; 1 slide (Lorna Allen). CODE 4 photographs (Ray I. Woods). CODE 1 1 slide (Bob Gehlert). CODE 1 RECORD. N 1 RECORD. Eagle Lake Park; 17 October RECORD. Scope Lake, S of Hays and E of arm of Pakowki Lake; 3 May 2000; written 1993; written description (Andrew Slater). Vauxhall; 30 May 2004; written description description (Joe Parsons and Paul Thibault). 32 NatureAlberta

RECORDS ACCEPTED…continued

CODE 3 RECORD. Irricana sloughs area; 13 22 April 1961; brief description, also Dekker Gray Flycatcher (Empidonax wrightii), May 2000; written description (M. Ross Lein (2005). CODE 3 RECORD. First documented “Hay Meadow”, Mount Lorette; 6 - 7 and Valerie A. Haines). CODE 3 RECORD. Echo occurrence in the province. Fort McMurray July (possibly as late as 19 July); written Dale Regional Park, Medicine Hat; 21 May dump; December 1986; digitised photograph descriptions (Peter Sherrington, William J.F. 2001; written description (Milt Spitzer). CODE (Neil Lennie). CODE 1 RECORD. Three adults Wilson), 8 digital images (Cliff Hansen). 3 RECORD. At least two at Frank Lake; from at Kimiwan Lake, McLennan; 12 June 2004; CODE 3 RECORD. 24 July to 13 August 2003, also isolated written description (Florence Woodward, Blue-gray Gnatcatcher (Polioptila sighting on 14 September 2003, probably of Albert Miller, Emily Lamont). CODE 3 caerulea), Whitemud Creek, Edmonton; one of these individuals; images (Bill Walker RECORD. 12 October 1964; written description and [2], Al MacKeigan [3]), written description Least Tern (Sternula antillarum), Policeman’s sketch (Philip S. Taylor). CODE 3 RECORD. (Andrew Slater), brief description posted Flats, S of Calgary; 4 July 2006; two written This becomes the fi rst documented on “Albertabird” (Mike Mulligan). CODE 1 descriptions (Nimali Seneviratne, John occurrence in the province. RECORD. Thompson) and 3 digital images (Ann Wood Thrush (Hylocichla mustelina), Elliott). CODE 1 RECORD. First documented Cattle Egret (Bubulcus ibis), Jessie Lake, Beaverhill Lake; 19 May 1998; 2 slides occurrence in the province. Bonnyville; 30 October 1994; 2 images in (Edgar T. Jones); mentioned in Flockhart Boston (1994), where species misidentifi ed as Long-billed Murrelet (Brachyramphus (2001). CODE 1 RECORD. Snowy Egret. CODE 1 RECORD. Feed terminal perdix), picked up along Hwy 16 between Sage Thrasher (Oreoscoptes montanus), parking lot at junction of Hwy 13 and Hwy 21 Hinton and Jasper Natl Park E gate; 7 August two near Ralston; 5 May 2003; written in Camrose; from 14 August until at least 30 2005; one digital image (Jim Mamalis). description (Tim Cowley). CODE 3 RECORD. August 1997; photographs (Betty Fisher [1], CODE 1 RECORD. courtesy of WildBird General Store, Edmonton; Near Taber; 21 April 2004; written Shiela Hardy [1]; R.E. Gehlert [1], courtesy Eurasian Collared-Dove (Streptopelia description (Lloyd Bennett). CODE 3 RECORD. of WildBird General Store; Randal Hoscheit decaocto), W Lethbridge; 20 November Near Enchant; 3 May 2005; written [3 slides]). CODE 1 RECORD. Fincastle Lake, to at least early December 2004; written description and 4 photographs (Robin and near Taber; 31 August 2000; brief description description (Teresa and Doug Dolman). CODE Cedric Hitchon). CODE 1 RECORD. 3 RECORD. posted on “Albertabird” (Lloyd Bennett). Yellow-throated Warbler (Dendroica CODE 3 RECORD. Indus area, W of Carseland, White-winged Dove (Zenaida asiatica), dominica), at 63 Discovery Ridge Point SE of Calgary; 22 September - 1 October Blackfalds; 6 - 13 August 2005; 4 digital in Calgary; 9 - 10 September 2006; 2003; written descriptions (Mike Mulligan, Bill images (Tammy and Allan White), forwarded digital images (Robert A. Heidemann [3], Wilson, Andrew Slater), the latter with sketch. by Geoffrey A. Williamson, IL. CODE 1 Ken Havard [2]) and written description CODE 2 RECORD. RECORD. (Bob Heidemann). CODE 1 RECORD. First Sharp-tailed Sandpiper (Calidris Anna’s Hummingbird (Calypte anna), N documented occurrence in the province. acuminata), juvenile at Cucumber Lake, N end of Gull Lake; 26 September - 23 October Scarlet Tanager (Piranga olivacea), of Willingdon; 20 September 2003; brief 2005; written description (Joan and Joanne description with 6 images captured from video Edworthy Park, Calgary; 23 May 1981; brief Susut) and photographs (Joanne Susut [2], description (M. Rogers). CODE 3 RECORD. (Richard Klauke). CODE 1 RECORD. Juvenile at Judy Boyd [1]). CODE 1 RECORD. High River; NW Calgary; 13 November 1987; written Langdon Reservoir; 26 September to at least 9 - 18 November 2005; written descriptions 6 October 2004; written description (Brian description (Steven Kassai). CODE 3 RECORD. (Malcolm and Joan McDonald, Greg Wagner Big Hill Springs Provincial Park; 21 June Ritchie). CODE 3 RECORD. and Kent Russell; John Bregar; Brian Ritchie) 1999; written description (Milt Spitzer). American Woodcock (Scolopax minor), and several images (Malcolm and Joan CODE 3 RECORD. Turner Valley; 6 June 2002; along Boundary Road near Redcliff; 7 April McDonald [5], Shannon Slade [4], Bill Wilson Royal Alberta Museum specimen Z02.13.1, 2006; digital image (Brad Thickson). CODE 1 [4], Allan Cole [7, on web], Kirk Davis [31]). window kill (Virginia Miller). CODE 1 RECORD. First documented occurrence in the CODE 1 RECORD. RECORD. province. Red-headed Woodpecker (Melanerpes Eastern Towhee (Pipilo erythrophthalmus), Little Gull (Larus minutus), Tyrrell Lake; 9 erythrocephalus), juvenile, initially in Writing-on–Stone Prov. Park; 9 June 1998; October 2005; written description with 5 company of an adult, in Red Deer; 27 - 30 brief written description (Liis Veelma). CODE images, copy of fi eld notes, with sketch November 2004; 2 photographs (Judy Boyd), 3 RECORD. (Teresa & Doug Dolman). CODE 1 RECORD. brief description (Fred Whiley, Dorothy Hazlett, Glenda Leach). CODE 1 RECORD. Dickcissel (Spiza americana), Exshaw; 4 - 8 Great Black-backed Gull (Larus marinus), June 2005; two written descriptions (Mike Grande Prairie sewage lagoon; 28 March Red-breasted Sapsucker (Sphyrapicus Mulligan, M. Ross Lein), digital images 2005; 5 digital images (Jeanne Smith) and 26 ruber), Harvest Hills, N Calgary; 11 April (W.H. Walker [2], Cliff Hansen [1], M. Ross slides (Joan Kerr). CODE 1 RECORD. 2005; brief written description (Claire Mohr Lein [5]). CODE 1 RECORD. and John McCallum). CODE 3 RECORD. Ivory Gull (Pagophila eburnea), near Brazeau Forestry Tower, NW of Rocky Mountain House; SUMMER 2007 33

RECORDS INSUFFICIENTLY DOCUMENTED

Little Blue Heron (Egretta caerulea), S Pinyon Jay (Gymnorhinus cyanocephalus), of Cherhill; 18 May 1985; brief description of Grotto Pond, NW of Exshaw; 26 - 28 near Frog Lake; 24 June 2005; brief written (Gordon Welsh). Edworthy Park, Calgary; September 2005; written description and description with sketch (Judy Shaw). 30 May 1985; brief description (Dorothy copy of observer log (Cliff Hansen). Hazlett). Weaselhead, Calgary; 8 June 1988; Bewick’s Wren (Thryomanes bewickii), written description (Pauline Rusnack). Cattle Egret (Bubulcus ibis), Devonian Banff, Banff Natl Park; 8 September 1996; Conservation and Research Centre, E of brief description (Joel Hagen fi de Jason Black-throated Sparrow (Amphispiza Dunbow Road; 15 October 1992; about Rogers). bilineata), near gate C along southern 5 km E of Priddis on 23 October 1992, boundary of CFB Suffi eld; 18 April 2005; Piranga olivacea probably the same individual; brief written Scarlet Tanager ( ) at written description (Jamie Fenneman). descriptions (Allan Shoults, Ruth Deans fi de Inglewood Bird Sanctuary, Calgary; 12 Ross Dickson). August 1984; brief description (Dave Elphinstone). Along Pembina River, north

ERROR IN IDENTIFICATION QUESTIONABLE ORIGIN

Wandering Tattler (Tringa incana), Bow Hooded Crow (Corvus cornix), Whitecourt; website (Ken Havard); photo at www. Lake, Banff Natl Park; 8 June 1992; brief 31 March 2006 to at least 9 October, dropshots.com/spectateswamp and story description (Roland Wauer). Evidence, 2006; apparently in 2005 also; videos on in “Edmonton Journal” 20 August 2006 particularly call description, points to internet (www.dropshots.com/jusjus and (Kevin Hannah). Greater Yellowlegs. www.dropshots.com/spectateswamp; Doug European Goldfi nch (Carduelis carduelis), Pederson; www.webfoundations.com/ bird feeder in Fort McMurray; 21 August temp_photos/Hooded_Crow.wmv; Brooke 2005; written description and 3 digital Clibbon), photo on Yahoo! Albertabird images (Colin Russell).

References Dekker, D. 1998. Prairie Water. Beaverhill Lake, AB 1996-2000. Banks, R.C., C. Cicero, J.L. Dunn, Wildlife at Beaverhills Lake, Blue Jay 59(1):33-40. A.W. Kratter, P.C. Rasmussen, Alberta. Revised edition. Hudon, J., R. Klauke, R. Knapton, J.V. Remsen Jr., J.D. Rising and University of Alberta Press, M.R. Lein, J. Riddell, B. Ritchie D.F. Stotz. 2006. Forty-seventh Edmonton, Alberta. 147 pp. and R. Wershler. 2006. Sixth supplement to the American Dekker, D. 2005. Alberta sighting Report of the Alberta Bird Record Ornithologists’ Union Check-list of an Ivory Gull: long ago but Committee. Nature Alberta of North American Birds. Auk vividly remembered. Nature 36(2):16-18. 123:926-936. Alberta 35(3):14. Gosche, S. 1997. Big white bird? Boston, P. 1994. Snowy Egret. Flockhart, D.T.T. 2001. Rare or Alberta Naturalist 27:45. Alberta Naturalist 24:82. unusual bird sightings for

The authors are members of the Alberta Bird Record Committee, chaired by Jocelyn Hudon

THE CODE DEFINITIONS REPORTED ARE:

ACCEPTED, CODE 1. Records supported by material leaves no doubt as to species identity, and which other possibilities, or to support conclusively evidence, i.e. specimens, identifi able body parts, receive fi ve favourable votes and no dissenting vote. the identifi cation of the species as presented. identifi able photographs or sound recordings, A Code 3 is the minimum for inclusion in the offi cial Placement in this category should in no way be whose origin from within the borders of Alberta provincial list. interpreted as a refl ection on the veracity of the is in no doubt, that are accompanied by written ACCEPTED, CODE 4. Sight records by single observers observation, but should be looked upon as an reports of the circumstances of the observation. that receive four favourable votes and no more encouragement to substantiate occurrence of the species in the province more fully. ACCEPTED, CODE 2. Sight records (without than one dissenting vote. For record adjudication supporting material evidence) by multiple observers purposes, such a record is acceptable, but does not ERROR IN IDENTIFICATION. Records that are not that are supported by written descriptions that pass the more stringent requirements for inclusion supported by the documentation available to the leave no doubt as to the species identity. A Code on the offi cial provincial list. A list of species that committee, or that describe another species from 1 or 2 sighting must receive four favourable votes have no higher than a Code 4 record may be that suggested. and no more than one dissenting vote to be published as an appendix to the offi cial list. QUESTIONABLE ORIGIN. Records that concern accepted. INSUFFICIENTLY DOCUMENTED. Records supported species that are of questionable origin, possibly ACCEPTED, CODE 3. Sight records by single observers by material evidence or written descriptions escapees, and whose wild status cannot be that are supported by a written description that that are not detailed enough to eliminate all determined accurately. 34 NatureAlberta

FAN CLUB PAGE

Stewards of the Mixed Grass Prairie BY DAWN DICKINSON

Grasslands Naturalists’ (GN) mandate, in a nutshell, is to encourage the study and protection of the lands, waters and wildlife of southeastern Alberta. Like many natural history societies, GN grew in the mid-80’s from a few Medicine Hat individuals who shared an interest and pleasure in bird watching and other related activities and started meeting for fi eld trips and social activities.

With the introduction of Some members felt/feel Others felt/feel that unless the regular monthly meetings, that GN should focus on Society focused more on the at which invited speakers its role in studying and protection end of things, there presented, as well as a promoting the study and may not be much left to observe. regular monthly newsletter understanding of the Of necessity GN has put much - the Sagebrush Chronicle diversity of species and effort into both aspects of its - and with an expanded landforms with which the mandate. program of fi eld trips, region is enriched. This has GN members have participated membership steadily been the traditional focus in breeding bird counts, bird increased. In 1991 the of natural history societies atlassing, sage grouse lek Society became incorporated since the days of Gilbert counts, and the production and and subsequently obtained White in rural England in the publication of a southeastern charitable status. In 1994, GN mid 18th century. It follows Alberta bird list. Field trips, entered into an agreement the principles of scientifi c planned by coordinators, are with the City of Medicine Hat enquiry by observing, offered throughout the year. to manage its interpretive recording, refl ecting, and program and operate the questioning. This is the On the activist side, members Police Point Park Nature focus that produced natural continue to participate in Centre. history citizen scientists like numerous advisory and Margaret Morse Nice and stakeholder committees for Like many other natural Elliot Howard. different government agencies history Societies, GN has as well as submitting and experienced growing pains. SUMMER 2007 35

SOMETHING’S REALLY INTERESTING! THERE’S ALWAYS SOMETHING TO DISCOVER ON A GRASSLANDS NATURALISTS FIELD TRIP. KEN KILCULLEN

presenting briefs in public – most recently with regard to by the diversity of landscapes hearings, and organizing the Canadian Environmental and associated wildlife that workshops (Cypress Hills forest Assessment panel review of characterize this region and management) and public forums proposed infi ll drilling in the impressed by their vulnerability (the Meridian Dam Forum) to CFB Suffi eld National Wildlife to the cumulative effects of promote informed discussion of Area. development. controversial issues. The Society Although not all these activities has also obtained funding are rewarding, throughout its to contract with consultants existence, GN has been inspired to provide expert testimony nugget

SAW A GODWIT A recent Bird Studies report mentions a Godwit that traveled from New Zealand’s Miranda Marine Reserve to China in a 9-day, non-stop fl ight. Nature Alberta proofreader Marilyn Ross observed a Godwit when she was in a “blind” with others at the Miranda Nature Reserve this spring (which is NZ’s autumn). 36 NatureAlberta newat the FAN book store! Ladybugs of Alberta by John Acorn Everybody loves a ladybug, and no one rewarding with Acorn’s combination is more passionate about these spotted of expertise and humour. With “Despite what creatures than John Acorn, who has comprehensive maps, colour photographs, many people produced the fi rst regional ladybug fi eld and illustrations of 75 different species, think, little guide in North America. Acorn educates readers on the beauty ladybugs don’t and diversity of ladybugs in Alberta. He grow up to be Nature-walk enthusiasts, bug-loving kids also explains the impact that introduced big ladybugs.” * and professional entomologists will fi nd species have had on these remarkably $29.95 ladybug identifi cation enjoyable and - John Acorn diverse insects.

At the same time, get the other two Damselfl ies Tiger Beetles fascinating “Alberta Insect Series” of Alberta of Alberta books by John Acorn! $29.95* $19.95* SAVE $10 GET ALL THREE FOR ONLY $69.85* THE BOOKS ABOVE ARE PUBLISHED BY THE UNIVERSITY OF ALBERTA.

HOW TO ORDER: Secure online or printable order form at www.fanweb.ca (click on “order books”) [email protected] • Phone: (780) 427-8124 • Fax: (780) 422-2663 • In person: 3rd fl oor, Percy Page Centre, 11759 Groat Road, Edmonton Nature Alberta Celebrating our natural heritage! Nature Alberta welcomes submissions of articles, photos, humour and other suitable material on Alberta’s natural history. Submission guidelines for articles and photos are available on the FAN website at www.fanweb.ca. NATURE ALBERTA SUBSCRIPTION Subscribe Today! REGULAR » $30 per year Name: SUPPORTING » $40 or more per year (amount in excess of $30 is tax deductible) Address: Your support means a great deal to FAN and its conservation objectives. City:

MAIL TO: Province: Federation of Alberta Naturalists Regular SUBSCRIPTION Attn: Membership 11759 Groat Road Postal Code: Supporting SUBSCRIPTION Edmonton, AB T5M 3K6 Total Enclosed $ PRICKLY PEAR CACTUS IN BLOOM HANS H MUELLER

TAGGED TURKEY VULTURES A RED FOX AT DAWN, CATCHING THE EARLY MORNING LIGHT JUST OUTSIDE THE FAMILY DEN RICK PRICE SEE ARTICLE PG 12 CANON EOS 300D DIGITAL REBEL, CANON 100-400/4.5-5.6L IS, EXPOSURE: F/5.6, 1/125 SEC

VOLUME 37 | NUMBER 2 | SUMMER 2007 Naturegallery

“THOSE EYES!” RICK PRICE PHOTOGRAPHED SEPT 24, 2005; CANON EOS 300D DIGITAL REBEL, CANON 100-400/4.5-5.6L IS, EXPOSURE: F/5.6, 1/80 SEC

FEDERATION OF ALBERTA NATURALISTS 11759 GROAT ROAD, EDMONTON, AB, T5M 3K6 PHONE: 780.427.8124 FAX: 780.422.2663