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HomeMy WebLinkAboutAltacal Audubon Society Newsletter ,r , w r "CedXite Ivh NEWSLETTER OF THE ALTACAL AUDUBON SOCIETY Chapter of the National Audubon Society serving Butte, Glenn, and Tehama Counties of Northern California FEBRUARY/ MARCH 2017 ALTACAL Programs Programs for the general community are n'ormall'y hello'on the third Monday of each month at 6.:30 p.m., at the Chico Creek Nature Center, 1968 E. 8th St. Chico. In December the program is held on the second Monday and in luly and august there are no programs. . ua -March Monday, February 20, 2017 6:30 p.m. Monday„ March 20, 2017 6:30 p.m. Chico Creek Mature Center Chico Creek Nature Center WESTERNiN LS Flora, Landscape & Avifauna in Northern California of the CARIBOU North Fork of the Feather River Presented by LARRY JORDAN Presented by GERRY INGCO Larry Jordan became aware of Burrowing Owls several ith his extensive career in forestry starting at an early age, years ago when, one winter eve Gerry knows well the flora and fauna of the many national jar Hing an his way home from town forests he worked in. Join Gerry as he talks about the natural he spatted an odd looking, long features,biological and human history of the canyon of the North legged owl on the gravel road Fork of the Feather River,with emphasis on the Caribou Arm of n„ leading to his home. He had no the North Fork of the Feather River.He will be adding local avian � idea what it could have been and species among his slides too. had to look it up in his field guide. He soon learned that this small i tir� � �y r„� �kJ ai 'r � ��� '�4°a owl, active both day and night„ was declining a "'Mob t a dangerously �' '� fast pace. He joined the California Burrowing Owl Consortium and began plans to increase local populations of this charismatic species.The artificial habitat created at Tuscan Preserve, here , in Chico, is his first success in this effort to increase the number of Western Burrowing Owls in Northern California. Larry is the Shasta County Coordinator for the California Bluebird Re- , covery Program and webmaster for Wntu Audubon Society.He is also co:-founder of a movement to produce a new revenue stream for our National Wildlife Refuges by creating a Wildlife Conservation Pass. � � � „°� ���✓������ t���`� ars r^ 1 ALT C L AUDUBON SOCIETY from thePresident Boardof Directors by STEVE OVERLOOK President STEVE OVERLOCK 530 828-0966 GREETINGS TO ALL stephenoverlock@sbcglobal.net ` ��° ,�� � ust a friendly reminder that March Vice President KEN SOBON �� �'""' is our annual membership renewal 530 h ksobon@ton�thermalito.arg f� month. Please watch for a letter and renewal farm to arrive in the mail soon Secretary CRIS CLINE and thanks in advance for keeping Altacal ccIine1028 @ ginai1.com going strong. Treasurer VACANT Altacal welcomes Scott Huber back onto the Board as our Membership CATHY CARTER Conservation Director. It is a perfect fit with the changes hap- 530 342-9152ver soarab4ever@ gmail,oam pening at a national level.Scott's desire to take on some of these critical issues and causes that are now at risk offers a Publications! DENISE DEVINE ray of hope. Newsletter 530 345-8444 dsrdevine@ hotmad,com After over a decade of directing the NSWO Banding Program Publicity/ WAYLAND AUGUR and working as our Conservation Director, Dawn Garcia is Web Site 519-4724 taking a much deserved break from the lead robe in such ven- wba@acm.arg tures. She is still dedicated to environmental science and will Field Trips MATT FORSTER continue on as a. Director-at-Large with Altacal _ we are very 619 347-2269 grateful for her past service and looking forward to her help f°rndforsteryahoo.com in this new rale. Sanctuary/ KEN SOBON Lands/Refuge 530 592-3350 Also, Mary Muchowski,who we all know as our Christmas Bird ksoben @thermaIito org Count organizer„has offered her services as a Director-at-Large Conservation SCOTT H U BE R as well. It's a natural fit as she does so much for Altacal anyway. Co-chair 530-321-5579 Welcome'Mary, and Thank You. wmscotthuber@gcmail.com Altacal is also exploring the addition of an Executive Director Education VACANT to lead us into this new era. Please contact Dawn„ Mary, or Programs JENNIFER PATTEN Matt for more information. 345-9356 jpch ice @ sbcglobal.net Finally,a Fuge thank you to Jennifer Patten and Kathy Trevino Sac NWR LEANN MCCONNELL and everyone who helped with Snow Goose Festival no. 18. Bookstore 530 893-4703 It just doesn't happen without such organizational leadership leannmc2006@sbcglobal.net and so many knowledgeable, personable and wonderful' Director- KATHRYN HOOD volunteers. at-Large 321-2852 Thanks Director- MARILYN GAMETTE at-Large 343-3154 gamettec@aol.com Director- DAWN GARCIA BOARD MEETINGS at-Large 530 513-1785 515 p..m. avifan59Cgmail,com 2nd Wednesday of each month Director- MARY MUCHOWSKI Altacal Audubon Society/Snow Goose Festival Office at-Large 530-228-0625 635 Flume Street, Chico mmuchowski@earthlink.net Altacal Audubon Members are welcon7e to attend 2. Conservation Corner Conservation on the Rise- Welcome back Scuff Huber! You may remember him as one of Altacal's energetic past Presidents. The board welcomes Scott Huber as Altacal's new Conservation Director. As for me, a volunteer(we all are)board member/have been looking for a co-conservation director for many years because of the enormity of opportunity our chapter has;locally, regionally and nationally, and in tandem with Audubon and National California. The position should be strong,active and have an energetic leader-Scott represents this, i have really enjoyed my service and now look forward to work with Scott on his conservation committee, as he moves forward with our conservation efforts. WelcomeScolt! DAWN GARCIA, Director-at-Large,Conservation Committee by SCOTT HUBER BIRDING FRIENDS, am excited to rejoin the Altacal Board as the Conservation Examples of issues that we want to be made aware of include: Chair. The timing of my reunion is not a coincidence, it is Applications for development in sensitive areas, large-scale tree predicated on the changes in political leadership at the national cutting or removal, instances of illegal take of birds or animals, level. In 2008, California Audubon identified Climate Change as upcoming policy changes by local government, etc. My goal is a major concern for birds and their habitats.Their website states for our group to become more active in supporting actions that that"Global warming is a serious threat to California birds...global help birds, and more outspoken in combatting actions that have warming threatens the survival of 170 California species in the a negative impact on wildlife. Our highest priority is challenges coming decades." in our own backyard—Butte, Glenn and Tehama counties,while As anon-profit.organization we do not take positions on candi- lending our support to state and national projects. dates. That said, with the stated position of our now president, Also,part of our bylaws:"The Conservation Committee shall keep that global warming is a "hoax"; that he's "not a big believer in abreast of the conservation actions and efforts of local birding man-made climate change"; and that "nobody really knows" if and environmental groups and recommend to the Board whether climate change exists - our views are clearly in opposition to and the extent to which Altacal should participate in such actions these,Additionafly,the official 2016 platform of the party that now or efforts,"To this end, I anticipate that we will continue to lend controls both chambers of congress claims that"environmental our manpower to such efforts as the Thermalito Afterbay Grebe extremists"'are working to"sustain the illusion of an environmen- Conservation Project and Tri-colored Blackbird surveys. It is my tal crisis". Given these examples, I believe that there has never feeling that Altacal should not just participate in the actions and been a more important time for those of us who care about birds, efforts of others, but should take the lead on developing strate- wildlife and natural systems to get involved;to raise our voices; gies that benefit the numerous California Bird Species of Special to stand and be counted. Concern that call our region home for all or part of the year, in- The Altacal bylaws direct the Conservation Committee to"study cluding:Burrowing;Owi,Short-eared Owl,California Spotted Owl, and recornrnend action on local, state and national government Yellow Warbler,Yellow-breasted Chat,Tri-colored Blackbird and legislation,policies and activities affecting natural resources."Ev- Yellow-headed Blackbird. ery day projects are being proposed and actions are being taken The next four years may be difficult for the environment, but as that affect birds. As the Conservation Chair I encourage you to Albert Einstein said: "In the middle of difficulty lies opportunity." help your Audubon chapter toget in front of these issues,by being Please join me in seizing our opportunity to become a force for vigilant and bringing to our attention any issue that you perceive conservation. as a threat, and I invite you to email me these concerns. 3, UPCOMING All of our field trips are open to beginning birders. fir 9 Y participate. �4n one w�itlr a sense of wander is welcome to Check the Altacal Facehook page for updates. February 11, Saturday CENTRAL VALLEY BIRD CLUB AND ALTACAL Trip Leader: Matt Forster February 26, Saturday Join CV Bird Club and Altacal for a wonderful day of bird!ng!We'll SACRAMENTO NATIONAL be leaving Chico for a Raptor/For°ebay/Afkerbay extravaganza. WILDLIFE REFUGE(GLENN) Altacal members will have a chance to bird with our fellow bird Trip Leader: Matt Forster lovers of the Central Valley Birding Club. Y'e'll begin by traveling Might be a little early for spring migrants but there will be plenty to down Cottonwood Rd in search of Ferruginous 'Hawks, Rough see with the permanent residents.Meet at Chico Park&Ride at 8 am Legged Hawks, Peregrine and Prairie Falcons, Merlin, Bald and Golden Eagles, Swans, and Burrowing Owl.. Our next stop will be (olosest to Hwy.99).We"Il then carpool to the Sacraments National Wildlife Refuge in Glenn County.All birders and nature lovers are the Thermalito Forebay where we will be scanning for Canvasback, welcome„ especially those just learning about bards or wanking to Redhead,Common Loon,Horned Grebe,Hooded Merganser,and learn aboutthe birds of the Pacific Flyway, Bring binoculars, lunch, other waders and divers.Next up will be the Thermalito Forebay for water,and a snack.Contact Matthew Forster at fandforsker@yahoo. gulls and others.From there we can either head to Gray Lodge or sit oom for more information. and wait for our winter resident Short-eared Owls on Tres Vias Rd. Meet at Chico Park&Ride at 10 arra(closest to Hwy 99).The trip will run until dusk so bring lunch,snacks, and plenty of water. Contact March 11, Saturday Matt(findforster@yahoo.com)for more information. BIRDING THE PROPOSED SITES RESERVOIR Trip Leader: Matt Forster above- Join us for a trip to Colusa County and the proposed Sites Reservoir Belted Kingfisher Sae-NWR where we have been extended an invitation to bird on private prop- Jan 2,20717 erty.This historic area is home to Bald and Golden Eagles„Burrowing by John Lewis Owls,Horned Larks,Falcons,Greater Roadrunner,Barn Owl,Great Horned Owl,Rock Wren,and many others.Not only will we be able Hooded Merganser to bird this gorgeous area, but we will also learn the history of this Cal-Park Fonds Dec 23,2016 beautiful valley.We will be leaving the Chico Park&Ride in Chico by John Lewis (closest to Hwy 99)at 8 am.There is no set return time.Limited to 112 people, RSVP to Matt Forster,findforster@yahoo,com for more information. February 18, Saturday TUSCAN LOOP TO GENETIC RESOURCE CENTER March 18, Saturday Trip Leader: Matt Forster TABLE MOUNTAIN BIRD AND FLOWER WALK Meet at Chico Park&Ride at 9 am(closest to Hwy 99).We'll drive up Trip Leader: Matt Forster to the Tuscan Loop to look for California Thrasher,Wrentit,and other Meet at Chico Park.&Ride off Hwy 32(closest to Hwy 99)at gam. chaparral birds. From there we'll slowly drive down Old Humboldt We'll be scouring beautiful Table Mountain to view wildlife and road in search of Lewis's Woodpecker, Rufous-crowned Sparrow, wildflowers! Hawks, Falcons, Horned Larks and other low range.. and raptors.We'll end by taking a leisurely stroll around the Genetic mountain birds.We'll also get beautiful looks of blooming wildflow- Resource Center to see what high elevation birds might still be ers and Canyon and Rook Wrens from the waterfalls! Bring lunch, around.We should be back to the Park&Ride by 12:301 pm. If rain,, water and walking shoes! Matt Forster, f'indforster@yahoo.00m, please pay attention to our Facebook page for updates or contact 619-347-2269 Matt(findforster@yahoo.com)for more information. 4. w, .. OACHERS e Social Media To dill Rare-to-area Duck z In Oroville .. v by DA'W'N GARCIA ho would have known there is an underground group of poachers When we got there I looked through my bins and yes, it was the Long- seeking rare birds to kill and mount as trophies?And that they are tailed Cluck,unmoving,beak underwater,dead,about 1 00'off bank.While likely using social media to find their targets, Carolyn Short and I were we waited for someone official we called J'oAnnaArroyo and she brought walking dogs on our favorite Brad Freeman trail starting at the diversion an inflatable raft.We pumped up the raft, II jumped in and paddled to the dam on the Feather River,We usually connect with the cardio-pumping duck,Back on shore,I handed him to Carolyn;we took pictures,admired Dan Beebe trail,butthis day 12 January 2017,we decided to go in reverse, the plumage and pattern and were saddened that this bird who brought first taking the flat along the river through the tunnel.Just above the train so much excitement to the birding community, including us only 1 hour trestle Carolyn pointed to the river and said"what is that?"With binoculars before,was the victim to selfish gun-toting poachers, it materialized into the Lang-tailed Duck,the notable duck that was first observed during the Oroville Christmas Bird Count and discovered by What we learned later was even more unbelievable.These men were not Altacal Audubon Society members and bird counters Matt Forster and likely naive shooters using birds as target practice,but were knowledge- Diego Bustamante on 30 December 2016. Since the discovery of this able poachers,intent on killing a rare species for collection purposes. The rare-to-tore-area duck,many birders had been to look for it and posted our California Department of Fish and Wildlife warden was unable to make findings on Facebook and local bird list-serves.That very day at least 10 it to the site but we had a good conversation,and I sent him maps and birders came to see it,including Carolyn and 1"Birder JT Lewis came out pics.He said,"The duck was killed unlawfully on state park property,The to photograph this beauty and these are the best photos we have of the poachers mount the rare ducks and collect'bands as trophies,especially bird (live bird-JT photo above). Photos were reviewed by plumage and the GPS collars on geese. I'm sure they heard about the duck through molt experts and it was identified as an immature male. the grapevine, most likely Facebook." at our y Social media. We know sest look 77 the duck" Nowthe birdwas only 150'away, seemed aCarolyn irl marveled � it has many benefits,and undisturbed,and gave us nice binocular views for a good we are learning, many 30 seconds before turning and flying north across the downfalls. This Long- river.We oohed and ached at the great views of this bird ��)ll tailed Duck might have in flight- black back and wings split by white scapular been found, followed' feathers and that long central tail feather.'°Marvelous,lucky w 'rb and targeted due to the us,our best view yet,"we exclaimed as we continued our �' h � r� birding community's ex- walk upstream.Only 10 minutes later we were startled by `) '% cited Facebook and local dw� birding listserve posts. popping sounds,gun-like,but very different than the typical �" shots from the nearby shooting range. After searching the in- �da�r��`r��n�"�b� ternet, JOAnna found Looking across the river, off the Cherokee Road spur, a number of blogs that we heard more shots. "They're shooting!" I said to Carolyn as I lookedspoke to the rarities found by birders,joking about how birders would react through my bins.I saw gulls flying in a tight circle and something white in when birds were found dead, and the demise of some ducks because the water, including white feathers scattered on the river surface. "HEY, of information posted,This story is meant to alert birders that there may stop shooting!" I yelled to two guys,the shooter outside of the truck, in be bad-intentioned people following posts, and alert poachers that we camo with a long-barreled gun and one in the driver's seat of the white are aware of this, standard-sized extended cab pick-up.Startled by us,he jumped in their truck and took off. Unfortunately I could not see the make of the vehicle Shooting rarities is not a new phenomenon. i include an example of a or its license plate. I scanned the water again and saw a black and while Past discussion by the American Binding Association 2012: l7ttp:l/blog. bird, snot distinctly contrasting like a bu#flehead or golden-eye„ but less aba.org/2012/05/shooting-rarities.html patterned."That could be the long-tail duck.""No way!""Yes,call CalTiP!" For more about Long-tailed Ducks go to the Cornell Lab of Ornithology: Fortunately Carolyn had her phone, called them and also the police. https://www.allabouibirds.org/guide/Long-tailed_Duck/lifehistory From one of those conversations a game warden returned our call.We To report poaching call CDFW,1-888-334-caltip(888-334-2258).Call your hoofed it back to the car so we cou cl try to retrieve the floating bird from local police if poaching is occurring where people might be in danger. the north side of the River. . a rA' �a� "d✓u,� ? o �rwrR4�oem��Y��r++�u�k�rvirr�t' ik�+�un�wN �><7� ✓ �� w + r✓v/i c� �t �i 1 �i t + ;61a REPORT 21 by MARY MUCHOWSKi n � Ken and Jim Thomas,Oroville CBC, Dec 30,2016 by Mary Muchowski December 17, 20116 December 30, 20116 CHICO CHRISTMAS MAS IRI OUN O RClV"ILLE CHRISTMAS MRD COUNT COMPILER: Mary Muchowski COMPILER: Gaylord Grams hirty-five people showed up to volunteer for the Chico pile we were a little tentative about holding this count on a Friday CBC on a cold morning„ but it turned out to be a fine (to avoid holding it on New Year's Eve or New fear's Day),we had day to volunteer for Altacal Audubon. The highlight was a record turnout of volunteers, and the weather turned out to be great definitely a Red-nailed Sapsucker found by Matt„ Ken for counting birds. Once again, Matt Forster found the best bird:a very and Jim's team! My team found a Black-throated Gray rare Lona-tailed Cluck! Diego said that Matt had been talking about Warbler at One Mile, and Diego, Cris and Gary got 5 finding one in the Oroville area all morning, so they had lunch near the Mountain Bluebirds in Upper Park. We did pretty good Diversion Dam(not in their count area)and low and behold, Matt found on raptors with 14 Bald Eagles, one Golden Eagle, 5 a first year male LTDU between the Diversion Dam and the Railroad Ferruginous Hawks,71 Red-Tails,39 Red-shouldered bridge! Of course, it took a little convincing to get Diego to even look, Hawks, 6 White-tailed Kites, 30 American Kestrels, 2 because he thought Matt was joking (which he is known for).John(JT) Peregrine Falcons,13 Cooper's Hawks,4"Sharpies", Lewis got the best picture of it.Diego also found some Mew Gulls on the 8 Northern Harriers and 4 Merlins.We had 111 species upstream side of the Railroad Bridge.Phil,Andy and Hilary found a Red- and 25,935 individual birds! We met at Woodstock's breasted Merganser on the Afterbay, along with 1260 Canvasbacks, Pizza (thanks for the discount Woodstocks!) to tel'I our 125 Redheads(!),and five Cackling Geese.Dave,Mike and Paul found stories from the day and tally all the birds, a couple of Blue-Gray Gnatcatchers, 5 Barrow's Goldeneyes, and 3 Merlins in the Oroville Wildlife Area. Ken, Charlie, Jim and Ifound 24 Said Eagles, 3 Ferruginous, Hawks, one Rough-legged Hawk, a Merlin, 3 Burrowing Owls, and 2 Prairie Falcons on the NMsonl 0 K t Cottonwood Route. We ended u p counting 26„173 individual birds of .r 122 species. (see page 5.for a sad update) i)ill I , I Sooty Crouse Oroville CBC Dec 30,2016 rrud by Dave Fundakowski Red-naped Sapsucker,Chico CBC,Dec 17,2016 by Ken Sobon 6. .OOIIOI� „< i�'�m'IW�IIIpIIWITuMMVYi�IIPWVW',w �.crtl�'t�d jNcillabrrrhrsr�rl}iahitr GROWINGI IL LIFE CORRIDOR '. � w 1 by MELIN€JA TEVES, Project Coordinator � �x�d.w�It�tau �v sol�.�cui SHG mr �n, r The Neighborhood Habitat Certification Program provides local resources and coupons to help folks get started.And 'Certified Neighbourhood Habitat" participants can receive a small garden sign to help us spread the word on how fun and important it is to build habitat, We'd really like to take this time, before we head into another p beautiful springtime (hopefully a Garden Tour,), 10 thank some of our kind partners. Thank you to Nan'i Teves, who helped us i r with grant-writing and getting the program started. Cal Water i and the City of Chico have been very generous funders. Part- ner organizations, including the Mount Lassen Chapter of the California Native Plant Society, Butte County Master Gardeners, Butte Environmental Council, Floral Native Nursery, and Jen- A brilliant team of'habitat"gardeners at Wildflower'School nifer Jewell at the Gateway Museum have shared their valuable time and wisdom. Roger Lederer, Carol Burr, and John Whit- ocal kids at Wildflower School and at the Boys&Girls Club tlesey all provided much ne--1 I advice and expertise from the are chipping in to restore our community's wildlife habitat beginning.We've learned so much working on joint projects with and protect our water. Their enthusiasm is contagious, and a such committed experts, and with many wonderful scientists, really fun part of Altacal's Neighborhood Habitat Certification artists, students, and landscape designers. We'd love to also Program. This program„ which supports the creation of habl- thank the program's creative participants and members who've tat-friendly and water-wise gardens, now includes 220 local shared terrific habitat-gardening ideas ... and even opened up gardens with 70 fully certified 'habitat'gardens. their gardens to the public to share these ideas. Thank you all If you have a chance to view our'Wildlife Corridor"map on our so much for your commitment and generosity! new website,you can see how our community wildlife corridor is We hope to partner with the Mount Lassen Chapter of the CNPS growing.Qualifying for'certification'is very do-able.We encour- again for a Spring Garden Tour and will post on our new website age participants to: soon. Happy`Habitat'gardening everyone! 1. Replace at least half a lawn with natural landscaping *Sheet-mulching with cardboard rather than landscaping-cloth ` helps preserve soil health. 2. Include native California plants in your new landscape. These plants are ideally adapted to our climate and to the needs of local wildlife. tri x 3. Use low-water-volume irrigation to help conserve water. 4.Avoid the use of sprays to encourage beneficial insects ,., x 1 tri✓7 M `�%';" and pollinators. r° rf r. Pick one or two from some fun wildlife-friendly suggestions . „� yy like:providing a safe bird bath (10 ft from cat hiding places), or cultivating a wildflower patch, or keeping a brush pile ...or another from our list of wildlife stewardship suggestions. 7, Studying WESTERN and CLARK'S GREBES on Thermalito Afterbay by MAUREEN MORALES The Altacal Audubon Society is taking part in the Audubon why they were abandoned.The pond weed was especially thick there in California Grebe Conservation Project.Altacal's role is two- 2016,which could have introduced water that is too waren or land mam- part.They are to work on public outreach and education regard- mal predation, but it is impossible to say exactly what the cause of the ing Western and Clark's grebes and they are also to monitor nest abandonment was. and evaluate the Western and Clark's grebes success rates in We proceeded to survey the more westerly coves where nesting has breeding at Thermalito Afterbay in Butte County. occurred in the past.We went to the Ski Cove and saw no nesting oc- REVIEW OF SURVEYS OF GREBES AT THERMAI..ITd AFTERBAY curring.Then we continued west to the Clay Banks.There we observed FROM 5/19/2016 TO 9/8/2416 Boat surveys of the Thermalito After- many grebes in pairs and performing courtship displays.We also saw a bay have been conducted for numerous years now with a representa- few nest starts. tive from California Dept of Fish & Wildlife, a representative from the On our next survey on August 3, 2016 we found that the grebes had California Dept of Water Resources, and a representative from Altacal made 59 nests in Ski Covet There they stayed for the rest of the nesting Audubon. In 2016 the main surveyors are Ryan Martin, a senior envi- season and successfully reared their young.They eventually had a total ronmental scientist from California Department of Water Resources in of 74 active nests in Ski Cove. Oroville, Byron Stone from the California.Department of Fish&Wildlife in Oroville, and Maureen Morales from Altacal Audubon. We are con- On our survey on August 25,2016 we counted 82 chicks(60 WEER,22 ducting two types of surveys, Roughly monthly we conduct a full sur- CLGR). It was a successful breeding season.. vey of the entire Thermalito Afterbav and get a count of the Western& some of this success was due to the lake levels being kept high until late Clark's grebes and a count of the nests and/or young we encounter.We July which helped the success of the nesting activities. Grebes need to also conduct"cove surreys"which are surveys of just the nesting coves be nesting in water with fasrly consistent water levels. If it gets too shal- to see how the grebes are progressing at their nesting and incubation low they don't feel safe because they can't dive into the water to escape of eggs. These types of surreys are done weekly to bi-weekly during threats.When the grebes abandoned their first nesting colony at Larkin the height of the breeding season. Later in the season we observe how Cove some time between our cove surveys on July 7, 2016 and July successful the grebes were at raising their young by counting the num- 21, 2016, the lake levels were still very high.This gave the grebes the hers of chicks present and also get a rough count of the brood sizes by opportunity to move to Ski Cove and rebuild their nests. By August 3rd viewing how many young are with one adult. there were 60 nests in Ski Cove. The full lake surveys are conducted in a small motor boat that can sur- The breeding season at Thermalito Afterbay for the Western and Clark's vey the large lake in four to five hours.The nesting cove surreys are grebes was a success in 2016. The breeding success ratio for young conducted in a small boat called the Mud Buddy which can operate in to adults on August 25, 2016 was 82/503=.16. The breed',ing success the shallow and pond weed filled coves that the grebes favor for nest- ratio for young to adults on September 8„2016 was 63/356=.17,These ing without getting the propeller caught up in the plants.These surreys numbers are similar to the averages in 2014 and 2015, both of which generally take two hours, were also drought years. Prior to the drought years,the averages were The surveys of Western and Clark's grebes at Thermalito Afterbay be- significantly Ngher. The water levels at Thermalito Afterbay were kept gan in 2016 on May 19.The total number of grebes counted was 632; high by the CA Dept of Water Resources until the nesting was nearly species breakdown is 392 WEER(Western Grebes),240 CLLR(Clark's complete which contributed to their success, Grebes).At that time of the year,the grebes appeared to be paired up with multiple observations of courtship displays such as"head bobbing" wive: a u � �ui� �iauiwd�� �m and"rushing. No nests or nesting behavior was observed, The nesting season began in earnest in early July.We found the grebes to be nesting in Larkin Cove which is on the east side of the lake and 9,w found 32 complete nests there.The next time we went to Larkin Cove 2 weeks later,all of the nests were abandoned.We cannot hypothesize 8. IJ WIL LIFE, Get to know YOUR NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGES1 by ASHLEY HUFF, Visitor Services Assistant BONDED FOR LIFE Have you ever witnessed the immaculate bond between two swans? Their loyalty and faithfulness to their mates is so well-known, that the image of two swans with their necks inter- twined into the shape of a heart has become a universal symbol of relationships. Ago A TA ........... As the temperatures begin to drop,and the arctic starts to freeze I a q p over, thousands of tundra and trumpeter swans get a running W� 060 25 Z1, "7 start, like galloping horses, and burst into flight, leaving their "a c breeding grounds in Alaska, Russia, and Canada behind, in S", search of the Most Suitable ice-free wintering grounds. They form long lasting pairs that stay together throughout the year Tundra Swans by Hazel Hoft and migrate in family groups with other waterfowl. By late No- The trumpeter swan is Our largest native waterfowl stretching at vember and early December, swans start to arrive in Oregon 6 feet tall with a wingspan that may exceed 8 feet and weighing and California. But why don't we see them on the Sacramento more than 25 pounds—almost twice as big as the more abun- National Wildlife Refuge Complex (Complex)? dant tundra swan. To get that much mass airborne, swans re- Swans prefer shallow undisturbed bodies of water such as quire a 100-meter long runwav of open water. ponds, takes, and riverine marshes - but harvested agricultural The Complex provides wintering grounds for hundreds of thou- fields growing winter grain provide excellent foraging spots for sands of other waterfowl, and this kind of open water is hard to these massive birds. One of the benefits swans have from mat- find for such impressive birds on our managed wetlands.Agricul- ing for life is learning from their successes and failures each tural fields with waste grain are the most ideal spot to find these time they raise cygnets. Cygnets stay with their family for up to amazing creatures in the winter. There is plenty of food and less four years, which helps them remember areas that provide the competition for space with other birds. best habitat for the winter season.This has bonded them to the land they have shared with their ancestors in the Sacramento Starting in mid-February, these swans start getting the urge Valley for generations. to travel again and they leave California to head north back to their breeding areas. By late March, they begin to arrive in the Great Salt Lake area of Utah and by mid-May most of them have made it back to the Yukon-Kuskokwim Delta in Alaska. stwans oggressive conservation efforts to protect ir " from market hunters and feather collectors, ........... there are now tens of thousands of swans in the western United States, One of the many places in the local area to witness the family and pair bonds is south of the Llano Seco Unit near the cross road between County Road Z and Seven Mile Lane, An- �rJ �(r�iw��m„v;�, „ �� „ ;,,1° ,, +���” ���1�� hih i`�% ��;9 y k � "� ' other popular area includes "District 10" north of Marysville. .Dandtng NORTHERNSAW-WHET OWL MONITORINGMOVES TO 2017 by DAWN GARCIA, OMPD outgoing n 2017, Altacal's Northern Saw- whet g whet Owl project will be running for 13 consecutive years! And it will be " under the new directive of banders " Ken Sobon and Julie Newman. After 12 seasons of monitoring, i made a difficult decision to step down, and 1 rot they stepped up! I couldn't be happier Y to pass the pellet to these two profes- sionals who have volunteered for the project, They recognize the value of long-term monitoring, and hope to answer other questions about spring migration and sum- by KEN SOBON, Owl Monitoring Project Director mer use of the Reserve. Ken Sobon is Altacal's Vice President, has volunteered with the project for 5 years,is a science teacher, s the new director, I am excited to continue the research and has lots of energy!Julie Newman is a retired wildlife biologist, that Dawn Garcia started. My intent is to not only continue has banded a variety of other species and has volunteered with her research but to add to and expand the data. Research has our owl project for 2 years.A great combo! shown that. Northern Saw-whet Owls are very opportunistic. If appropriate nest sites are provided they will take advantage of On the science front, our proleuL is me longest running research them.* In addition to the seasonal study of migration patterns of project on CSU, Chico's Reserves and has enlightened us to the Northern Saw-whet Owl, I plan to investigate whether or not. behavior and natural history of our local population of saw-whets our migrating and wintering owls will breed on the preserve if and contributed to the continental effort, Project Owlnet. As a provided nesting boxes, scientist it is always important to share data,and by the time you read this,the results of our owl monitoring efforts(2005-2015)will During winter vacation„ with the help of some very enthusiastic be published in the Central Valley Bird Bulletin, a locat scientific college volunteers we built fifteen nesting boxes. The nesting journal,check it out here!http://www.cvbirds.org/bulletin/.Results boxes are roughly 10 X 8 X 15 and have a three-inch entrance of our 2016 season included another 57 owls!See the previous hole.The boxes have been placed throughout the preserve on a newsletter and my blog for some of the highlights:http//birdbling. variety of locations and different tree species.My team and I will blogspot.com/ conduct regular monitoring of the nesting boxes to see whether or not Northern Saw-whet Owls, Western Screech Owls, Kes- As importantly to me as a conservationist, I am proud that we trels, or even a Northern Flying Squirrel is utilizing them. have introduced many community members to the enigmatic owl via field trips, charitable fund raisers, and student and vol- When we find that the boxes are being used we will measure unteer recruitment. The project requires well-trained„ dedicated chicks and adults and place a small aluminum band on their volunteers, and we had a great 2016 crew; Ken and Julie, .lube leg.The band number and data will be sent to The National Bird Woodruff, Wyatt Hersey, Maureen, Erika lacuna, and Kim Arm- Banding Laboratory, a national database. With this information, strong.Thank you all for your enthusiasm and efforts. See you we can see if the owls return to our site or one of the other 120 under the stars in 2017! Project Owlnet banding stations across the country. *On the Breeding Biology of Northern Saw-whet.Owls(Aegolius acadicus) We will also conduct spring mist netting and banding, and fall Authors) Jeffrey S.Marks,Ann Nightingale„Jenna M.McCullough Source: mist netting and banding. Information from the project will con- Journal of Raptor Research,49(4):486.457. Published By:The Raptor Fie- tribute to local and regional knowledge and to the North Ameri- search Foundation. DOL http://dx.doi.org/10.3356/rapt-49-54-486-497.1 can (US and Canada) program, Project Owlnet. URL:http://www.bioone.org/doi/full/10.3356/rapt-49-04-486-497.1 10.. Local CIiapter Membership Application ease of its! LTACAL YOUR MEMBERSHIP WILL HELP ' '�, Auclul,x-m 6oci 'et ALTACALAUDUBON SOCIETY CONTINUE ITS IMPORTANT WORK. Racal Audubon Society (AAS) is a chapter of the National Audubon.Society.AAS is a separately incorporated non-profit OTHER ALTACAL.ACTIVITIES organization with a kcal chapter membership.. 100% of member- ship dues goes to support local projects and activities.AAS is an Major sponsor„ participant and fiscal agent for the annual all-volunteer organization that conducts all of its programs with SNOW GOOSE FESTIVAL unpaid staff. Pounder and,ongoing supporter of the We offer regularly scheduled field trips that focus on birds and bird CHICO CREED NATURE.CENTER habitats;membership programs with media presentations on birds Sponsor of the City of Chico and related topics;a bi-monthly newsletter,the White-tailed Kite;; OXIDATION PONDS WILDLIFE SANCTUARY website www.altacal.org/;and advocacy to protect and conserve Leading annual CHRISTMAS BIRO COUNTS local habitats as well as special projects and programs. in Chico and Oroville for over 55 years Submission of Articles Focusing on our YOUTH through to theWh.Lt e-ta.a-ed X it e SCHOLARSHIPS and ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION Articles for publication shouid be sent to Denise Devine Advocating for BIRDS and WILDLIFE byernailto dsrdevine(cPhotmail.corn when they are threatened on the first of the month, prior to the next issue. Conducting surveys and participating in THANKS to all of you who contribute regularly by sending in reports, AVIAN RESEARCH PROJECTS articles and photos for the White-tailed Kite—Denise, Editor. SOCIETY l 25 Basic ., $35 Family $15 Student/Levu Income I $59 Sponsor $100 Sustaining $ -Additional Donation Name Address. _.... _...__.._.r. _ _... City _.. _ _... State w_ Zip .. _ Phone i _._..._....____ _.. email Save Paper! Send me an email only New Member Renewal 1 Gift ernail me Altacal in Action Alerts I would be interested in volunteering to help ] Cash f Check Date IMPORTANT: Membership in Altacal Audubon Society does not include membe=rship in the National Audubon Society."+i1ie encourage you to also support National Audubon In their important education and lobbying efforts. To join the National Audubon Society contact them at their website www,audubon.org/ Please make check payable to ALTACALAUDUBON SOCIETY Mail to AAS, P.O. BOX 3671, CHICO, CA 95527-3671 ALTACALAUUUBON SOCIETY, INC Requested POST OFFICE BOX 3671 In-home Delivery Nein-Profit Organization U.S. Postage CHICC, CA 95927-3671 1/30-2/1/2016 P'A I D 3-Day Window BUrrECOUNTY Permit No, 86 ADMI V➢sTRATicM Chico, Calif. 95927 FEB 10217 OROVILLI�CA'I IF'OR I A CURRENT RESIDENT BOARD OF SUPERVISORS 25 COUNTY CENTER DR. OROVILLE, CA 95965 CAL . .__.. ( :f�[i3o3a"hiis'=lir.=".r =:€ilii=�t.;:il=,xa, 3 a};3 =•-_;`� White-taiCed Rite ALTACAL Programs FEBRUARY/ MARCH 2017 � .;. Feb 20 DATES TO REMEMBER Burrowing Owls. Feb 11 CV Bird Club Feb 18 Tuscan Loop and GRC Mar 20 Feb 20 Program-Burrowing Owls Caribou r Feb 25 Sac Nat wildlife Refuge Mar 11 Situs Reservoir Mar 18 Table Mountain Mar 20 Program - Caribou Arm For updated information check the Altacal website altcal.crg Mission: To promote the awareness„ appreciation and protection of native birds and their habitats through PRINTED ON RECYCLED PAPER education, research and environmental activities.