Madison Audubon SocietyMessage Board | 
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Madison Audubon SocietyMessage Board |
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Entered 12/30/2008 9:47:53 PM__________________________________________
Actually, a certain percentage of Red-headed Woodpeckers overwinter. There were a few found on several of the CBCs this year.
So it's a good find, but not exactly rare.
Entered 12/27/2008 12:11:21 AM__________________________________________
Great Horned Owls are hooting it up and pairing up (I've heard there is a pair in almost every square mile of Wis)
Entered 12/23/2008 10:21:47 AM__________________________________________
Entered 12/21/2008 10:46:46 AM__________________________________________
If anyone sees any out-of-the-ordinary birds at their feeders (or in the general Madison area) today (Sunday), Monday or Tuesday, please post details here. The Madison Christmas Bird Count was on Saturday, but any species seen three days before or after can be counted as "seen in count week." Thanks!
Entered 12/19/2008 9:41:33 AM__________________________________________
No, red-bellied woodpeckers are here year round. In fact their range is apparently expanding northward. They don't migrate and in fact where I was last year near Camp Randall I saw them almost exclusively in the winter at my suet feeder.
Red-headed woodpeckers, however, I think would be unexpected here right now, as they migrate from the north/eastern parts of their range for the winter. I think they are long gone and so if you meant you saw one of them it might be worth confirming. I know I went to Pleasant Valley Conservancy a couple months back and they were already gone as far as I could see.
Entered 12/19/2008 8:13:57 AM__________________________________________
Lots of birds at the feeders this morning, including a Red Bellied Woodpecker. Shouldn't he have gone south for the winter?
Entered 12/12/2008 11:03:34 PM__________________________________________
Please help us get signatures on the Audubon petition to President-elect Obama. We want to show our support for strong initiatives that move us to clean, renewable energy, reduce global warming and help get our economy moving again with green jobs. Every name helps us get to the environmental community's goal of one million signatures and a strong voice for a more sustainable future! You can sign the petition from Audubon's home page, www.audubon.org.
Entered 12/12/2008 11:02:52 PM__________________________________________
Right - went back with a scope and clearly merganzers (there were quite a few loons a couple weeks earlier)
Entered 12/12/2008 7:49:04 AM__________________________________________
"200 Common Loons" were undoubtedly COMMON MERGANSERS. Loons are scarce-to-absent at this date, while mergansers typically show up in large numbers just before the lakes freeze. If you go back with binoculars, you should be able to tell.
Entered 12/11/2008 11:17:06 PM__________________________________________
The Milwaukee Art Museum is holding a special show featuring prints of famous bird artists John James Audubon, Alexander Wilson, Mark Catesby, and others that should be of interest to birders. It runs from Thursday, Dec. 18, 2008 through Mar. 22, 2009. A writeup and a calendar of the events and speakers is at http://www.mam.org/info/pressroom/?p=105. Contact other birders to carpool!
Entered 12/11/2008 11:14:02 PM__________________________________________
Quit counting when I got to 200 Common Loons seen swimming and diving on Lake Monona by the Williamson Street Bicycle Shop around 4pm today! Also several Common Mergansers and numerous other waterfowl. Easy to spot from the bike trail or parking lot.
Entered 12/9/2008 10:20:00 PM__________________________________________
Large number of Tundra Swans still on Mendota by Tenny Park, making quite a racket I might add, fun to see and hear. May be a bit offshore depending on ice which is starting to build up from shore
Entered 12/9/2008 3:37:45 PM__________________________________________
Update 2: Just saw one swoop down (I am overlooking Main St.) right by a park bench next to the sidewalk to grab something. It sat for a few secs as people walked by a few feet away before flying near one of the stone benches. Then it swooped down to another bench and perched on it for a few seconds. Quite the show! I may have to bring my camera tomorrow.
Entered 12/9/2008 2:41:13 PM__________________________________________
Update: and saw another one or two more just now, though I can't tell whether I am seeing the same one again and again. (Yesterday, however, I saw two at the same time).
Entered 12/9/2008 2:17:59 PM__________________________________________
Saw two or three yesterday from my window and one today. I am not looking for them, of course, as I am usually working. But several have caught my eye in the last couple days.
I do have some binocs here, but I don't consider myself that great at ID'ing hawks. That said, red tail, white chest with a bit of streaking, and maybe about 2 feet tall. (Not great binocs, and they are a bit far away).
Why do you ask?
Entered 12/9/2008 10:26:55 AM__________________________________________
Two questions re the last message: were you using binoculars, and how many is "lots?"
Entered 12/8/2008 3:13:03 PM__________________________________________
Lots of hawks on the capitol square today (red-tailed I believe), some being chased by crows.
Entered 12/6/2008 12:41:54 PM__________________________________________
12/6/08 - There are numerous bald eagles on Lake Waubesa this morning circling the open water and feeding on the ice.
Entered 11/28/2008 10:00:28 AM__________________________________________
I'm thinking the swans at Tenney right now are Mute Swans, no? The adults have very distinctly orange bills w/ black at base. The two with black bills I think are juvenile Mutes. Also at Tenney and Burrows I've seen Buffleheads, Golden Eyes, and one Ring-necked Duck. There were a ton of Tundra Swans at Burrows, but they seem to have moved on.
-Stacy Taeuber
Entered 11/27/2008 10:29:13 PM__________________________________________
The Tundra Swans are still very active and easy to spot just offshore near Tenny Park and Burrows Park in groups, someone said there were about 30 total. Their calling is very distinctive and wild sounding, esp at night.
Entered 11/27/2008 10:20:06 PM__________________________________________
Darnit! You're right, it is a female house sparrow (checked my Tekiela guide :-) ). I had thought the male and female house sparrows looked the same but was wrong. Thanks for the help!
It is interesting that all of my male house sparrows visit in a group, and all my female ones visit in a seperate group seemingly. Like middle schoolers at a dance...
Entered 11/27/2008 2:08:49 PM__________________________________________
Photo ID: hint, people call it a sparrow, but technically it's not. There are females...Look in your Sibley guide.
Entered 11/27/2008 12:41:28 PM__________________________________________
Mystery Eyebrowed Bird:
Hey everyone, Happy Thanksgiving! I was wondering if someone could help identify this bird I saw today with these distinct eyebrows. I was thinking it was a female purple finch, but my book says that those should have streaked chests. This bird has a clear chest. I see these birds come in groups of three or four. Here is a link, thank you for your help!
http://www.freeimagehosting.net/uploads/32bb075e16.jpg
Entered 11/26/2008 8:31:22 AM__________________________________________
Please consider helping with one or more of the Christmas Bird Counts - most all of them need more help, especially the smaller ones that take place on weekdays. The local ones can be found through the link on the MadAud homepage, and the full Wisconsin list can be found at this link: http://www.wsobirds.org/wso_christmas_bird_counts.html (more dates should be added soon.) Even if you don't consider yourself an "expert" birder, you can often be matched up with someone more experienced and act as a counter or tabulator. It's surprising how much fun you can have! And the sooner the coordinators hear from you, the better for planning purposes.
Entered 11/26/2008 12:40:19 AM__________________________________________
Jefferson County is updating its Rose Lake/Dorothy Carnes County Park Plan. It's important for anyone who cares about this special place to provide input. Please see the home page Action Alert link for more detail - thanks!
Entered 11/25/2008 10:51:36 AM__________________________________________
Ride your bike, walk or take the bus to see swans, etc. Bad things happen every time you drive.
Entered 11/24/2008 11:45:58 PM__________________________________________
Take a 'Swan Drive' past Tenny Park in your car or on your bike if you want to see some of these easy-to-spot birds. Tundra Swans have been often seen cruising and feeding in the bay area just off the boat landing, along with Buffleheads, Coots, Canada Geese, and Mallards. Someone even reported a couple Cormorants! Also listen for the cackling of Kingfishers still active along the Yahara canal and fairly easy to spot (they like to sit on low branches over the water).
Entered 11/21/2008 9:58:17 PM__________________________________________
Please sign this Audubon petition to RePower, ReFuel, and ReBuild America - http://audubonaction.org/campaign/repower
Entered 11/21/2008 4:26:41 PM__________________________________________
Bohemian Waxwings are rarely seen south of about Stevens Point, even in severe winters (such as the last one.) That isn't to say it's out of the question, since they do turn up around here occasionally. Incidentally, this is shaping up to be a big winter for species such as Pine Siskins and White-winged Crossbills, both of which are being seen in good numbers throughout the Upper Midwest. Keep your eyes open when you're around pine & spruce trees!
Entered 11/21/2008 10:11:55 AM__________________________________________
Do we get Bohemian waxwings regularly in the winter here in Madison/Dane Co. or are we too far south?
Entered 11/16/2008 2:10:27 PM__________________________________________
Some new birding books at the UW Arboretum bookstore: Sightings by Sam Keen, The Music of Wild Birds by Judy Pelikan, The Young Birders Guide, a Peterson Field Guide by Bill Thompson III, Best-Ever Backyard Birding Tips by Deborah L. Martin, and a new Peterson Field Guide - Finding Your Wings, a workbook for beginning bird watchers. I picked up this last one and it is great fun for any level of birder.
Entered 11/14/2008 10:59:41 PM__________________________________________
Lots of activity and large numbers of birds being reported at Goose Pond
Entered 11/7/2008 11:02:56 AM__________________________________________
From Operation Migration:
In a statement release to the news media today, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) announced that based the recommendation of the multi-agency International Whooping Crane Recovery Team (IWCRT), releases of Whooping cranes into the Florida Non-Migratory Population will be discontinued.
The IWCRT created the release program 15 years ago in an effort to establish a self-sustaining, non-migratory Whooping crane population in Florida. The decision to stop releasing cranes into the Florida Non-Migratory Population was made for a variety of reasons, including problems with survival and reproduction, both of which have been complicated by drought. Additional considerations were shorter-than-expected life spans, scarcity of birds for release, project costs and the loss of habitat from development.
The team felt that project resources, and birds produced in captivity could be better used for other Whooping crane releases as well as to maintain the captive flock. “It was a tough decision,” said FWC biologist Marty Folk. “Many people were involved, but most agreed that this was the right decision and the right time to make it.”
Beginning in 1993 biologists released a total of 289 captive-raised, non-migratory Whooping cranes into Osceola, and Lake and Polk counties in Central Florida. The last releases took place in winter of 2004-2005. The FWC was the lead agency in Florida in the cooperative effort to establish a non-migratory flock and FWC bilogists will continue to study the remaining 31 birds.
Entered 11/5/2008 9:18:56 PM__________________________________________
This is a message from Audubon President John Flicker...
I am writing to share initial thoughts on the outcome of this historic election and its meaning for some of our most pressing conservation issues. I have attached below a statement that I released to the press this morning. I hope you find it informative.
Election Results Bring Conservation Opportunity and Need for Action
"Voters in this historic election cast their ballots not only for change, but for a new era of hope for our environment, and the people, birds, and other wildlife that depend on it. Washington has been ignoring critical environmental issues for too long. President-elect Barack Obama and a more environmentally aware Congress offer the promise of leadership and fundamental change that could usher in new protections for America's great natural heritage, and a new lease on life for species in decline.
"Despite real reason for optimism, we cannot take conservation gains for granted. Audubon is committed to helping the new Administration and Congress to live up to their great promise; and to make conservation, clean energy and green jobs part of America's path to a brighter tomorrow.
"Through our local Chapters, state offices and national grass roots efforts, Audubon will join with others in the environmental community to ensure that our newly elected leaders lead the way on issues vital to our environment, our economy and diversity of life on Earth."
Issues demanding prompt attention include:
Presidential Appointments: President-elect Obama should start by appointing to key environmental positions within his Administration qualified leaders who will defend our clean air and water, protect habitat and endangered species, aggressively address global warming, and steward our great natural heritage for future generations.
Scientific Integrity: The Department of the Interior should systematically review and reverse decisions made by the past Administration under the Endangered Species Act that were influenced by political considerations and not based on sound science.
President-elect Obama should send a clear signal to everyone in his administration to restore and respect scientific integrity in all environmental decisions.
Global Warming and Renewable Energy: President-elect Obama has said that: "We cannot afford more of the same timid politics when the future of our planet is at stake." He's right. We welcome the opportunity to help him deliver his promised $150 billion plan for clean energy technologies that would protect our environment and stimulate the economy, creating up 5 million new green jobs.
The Congress should pass legislation providing significant incentives for development of renewable energy such as a strong Renewables Portfolio Standard and a long-term extension of the Production Tax Credit, and pass significant legislation to address global warming with a comprehensive cap-and-trade program. The new Administration and Congress must lead a transformation in American energy production and use through investments in energy efficiency and clean energy technologies. This can minimize the fluctuation of gas prices while protecting our beaches, coastal ecosystems and the Alaskan landscape from the threats of oil and gas drilling.
Endangered Species Conservation: We'll work with the Administration to secure reversal of the Bush administration's weakening of the Endangered Species Act, such as the controversial decision to allow agencies to self-consult regarding the impacts of federally-approved projects on endangered species. Congress should pass new tax incentives to encourage private landowners to work toward recovery of endangered species.
Bird and Habitat Conservation: The Administration and the Congress should reinvest in the National Wildlife Refuge System and address the unacceptable $3.5 billion maintenance backlog crippling this critical tool for conservation. The Congress should pass legislation to conserve neotropical migratory birds and address the steep declines in America's common birds that are disappearing from parks, farms, and backyards across the country.
Ecosystem Restoration: The Administration and the Congress should fund significant new restoration projects to improve the status of America's great natural ecosystems: The Mississippi River, the Everglades, Long Island Sound, and the Great Lakes.
###
Now in its second century, Audubon connects people with birds, nature and the environment that supports us all. Our national network of community-based nature centers, chapters, scientific, education, and advocacy programs engages millions of people from all walks of life in conservation action to protect and restore the natural world.
Entered 11/2/2008 8:52:05 PM__________________________________________
The most important thing we can do for birds - and for all of us - is vote in favor of protecting our environment. Please keep this in mind when you vote, thanks!
Entered 10/31/2008 10:37:31 PM__________________________________________
Madison Audubon in the news -
** Sunday, Nov. 2 - WI Public Television (Madison - Noon; Milwaukee - 12:30 p.m.): Crane Count 2008 ("In Wisconsin") starring Diane Walder, students, and Nolan Kollath from Lake Mills
** Monday, Nov. 3 - Channel 3 (5 p.m., 6 p.m. and/or 10 p.m. evening news):
should have a segment about bird watching at Goose Pond
Entered 10/31/2008 10:29:02 PM__________________________________________
Great Lakes Wind Power study is accepting comments - please see home page Action Alerts to review more detail and enter comments - thanks!
Entered 10/31/2008 9:23:32 PM__________________________________________
Yes, the adult Whooping Cranes are left to migrate on their own - only the new crop of captive-hatched juveniles are led south to Florida. After that initial trip, they find their way back north for the first time on their own, which is how some of them end up scattered around the Upper Midwest. Up until this year, there had also been several "Direct Autumn Release" birds (DAR) that were reared in captivity, but then released near adults to (hopefully) learn the route south from the older birds. I believe that program was discontinued this year due to disappointing results. There is a non-migratory flock established in central Florida (originally captive-reared birds,) plus they're splitting the wintering areas for the Operation Migration birds this year for the first time, in hopes of precluding a repeat of losing the entire group to a natural disaster, as happened last year when a storm surge drowned all but one of the birds in their pen (and the lone survivor subsequently died.) The pens have been redesigned to eliminate that problem. Incidentally, the Florida birds weren't the only ones with reproductive troubles - of the ones that nested in Wisconsin this past spring, all eleven nests were abandoned before the eggs hatched (possibly due to the strange weather.)
Entered 10/31/2008 12:45:39 PM__________________________________________
I have been following the progress (or lack thereof) of the whooping crane migration at http://www.operationmigration.org
I didn't realize the only birds in the project are apparently captive juveniles? My question is: do the adults migrate on their own? And if so, have they already gotten underway?
Found this nice site on the cranes, with more info on other ones throughout the US. Apparentlty there is also a population that does not migrate in Florida, but it has been struggling with reproduction.
http://www.bringbackthecranes.org/recovery/recv2008.html
Entered 10/30/2008 5:55:39 PM__________________________________________
"...Sibley in the back seat..." Hmmm, so you ride a TANDEM bike?
Entered 10/30/2008 2:40:39 PM__________________________________________
Someone here wrote: “THANKS to everyone who reduces their carbon footprint with regards to birding, by birding by bike, bus or "yard list"! Looking at birds does not help them; stopping, and then REDUCING, global warming (climate change) DOES.”
There are too few birders who drive to watch birds relative to the total number of drivers on the road to make this a realistic strategy to save birds. Naturally, birds are impacted by global climate change, but there is no greater imminent threat to birds than habitat loss and fragmentation. If you want to do something to help birds, support conservation groups that acquire, set aside and restore habitats birds depend on. “Thanks” should go to them, and people who generously support charities like The Nature Conservancy. Friends advocacy groups are practically begging for volunteers to help remove invasives, plant prairies, and restore native habitat. Covering your windows with anti-collision screens will also save the lives of birds right in your own neighborhood. Biking or walking around with a pair of binoculars won’t proactively help birds with regard to present causes of dramatic population declines in birds.
Entered 10/29/2008 8:21:45 AM__________________________________________
While I always have the Sibley in the backseat as a reference source, especially for those odd plumages, I find the Nat'l Geographic (5th ed.) much more useful as my "take-with" guide. The written descriptions are more cogent and better-organized, and the quick-find index and thumb notches make it much faster to use. Incidentally, while Peterson just came out with a combined edition, Nat'l Geog. is coming out with separate East & West guides! (But for learning bird songs, I've always found Peterson's mnemonics to be the easiest to remember.)
Entered 10/28/2008 3:54:05 PM__________________________________________
Anyone care to share their favorite of the illustrated bird guides right now? By that I mean which of Sibley, National Geographic, and the newly-released Peterson is the best of the three? I recently got the Smithsonian, which is photo-based, and was wondering which of the three traditional "illustrated ones" (or if there's a fourth? Kaufmann is more photo/hybrid...) comes most reccomended by birders here.
Thanks,
Mike
Entered 10/26/2008 12:31:41 PM__________________________________________
Madison Audubon Friends,
I thought you might be interested in the opinion column (below) by Tia Nelson, daughter of Earth Day founder Gaylord Nelson.
Tia describes the significance of the emerging green charter schools sector in public education.
Meet Tia at the first Green Charter Schools National Conference in Madison, WI on November 7-8 http://www.ies.wisc.edu/outreach/green_charter/index.htm
THE REAL WEALTH OF THE NATION
by Tia Nelson
Wisconsin has long been an incubator for prescient ideas about the connection between human society and the natural environment.
John Muir’s boyhood in the backwoods near Portage, Wis., provided a foundation for his early leadership in a dawning environmental protection movement.
A Sand County Almanac, Aldo Leopold’s description of the area around his Sauk County, Wis., home, has inspired natural stewardship throughout the world and is required reading for anyone with an interest in conservation.
My father, the late U.S. Sen. Gaylord Nelson, launched the first Earth Day on April 22, 1970, as an annual day of observance and nationwide teach-in about environmental issues because he recognized the significance of educating children and young adults about the natural world.
Today, as we reap the effects of pernicious economic activity, a failing energy policy and atmospheric warming, I find my father’s words both foreboding and reassuring:
“Forging and maintaining a sustainable society is The Challenge for this and all generations to come. At this point in history, no nation has managed to evolve into a sustainable society. We are all pursuing a self-destructive course of fueling our economies by drawing down our natural capital—that is to say, by degrading and depleting our resource base—and counting it on the income side of the ledger. … [T]he real wealth of a nation is its air, water, soil, forests, rivers, lakes, oceans, scenic beauty, wildlife habitats, and biodiversity.”
Papa often talked about the importance of raising the next generation with environmental ethics so they make informed decisions about the use of our natural resources, which are the authentic foundation of a healthy economy. Imagine a robust and equitable economy with clean and abundant energy resources, sustainably managed farms and forests, where innovation and green jobs give us healthy choices that can lead us to a better future.
As a result of impassioned summertime conversations about the present urgency of my father’s words, environmental scientists, educators and other citizens from throughout the United States will travel to storied Central Wisconsin in November for a seminal discussion of the dual imperative for public schools to recognize sustainable “green” values as a critical aspect of citizenship and use charter-school operating arrangements to research and develop the comprehensive environmental education and conservation curricula we need to dramatically change our culture, preserve natural capital and enjoy a good life that does not deprive future generations.
It has become clear to many of us who have been focused on environmental issues that it is now critical for our nation to rethink the ways public education serves its crucial role in the development of a sustainable society.
Green educational programming is flourishing in public charter schools because these schools can break the mold of traditional school, which is bound by bricks-and-mortar, industrial-era ideas about classrooms and instruction—the boundaries that may limit our exploration of new terrain. Charter schools allow public school districts to pilot fresh programs and policies that can vary considerably from other more traditional approaches.
With 15 green charter schools, Wisconsin is leading the nation in using charter-school operating arrangements to develop contemporary environmental values.
River Crossing Charter School, a public school nestled in the region that inspired Muir and Leopold, offers a unique environmental-based educational program that uses the rich natural resources and industrial history of Wisconsin as an outdoor learning laboratory, offering hands-on programming and investigative sites along the Wisconsin and Fox rivers—waterways that extend from the paper mill towns along Lake Michigan to the Mississippi.
Earlier this year, a fledgling national network of green charter schools was organized in Wisconsin to build a collective knowledge base about environmental education that provides students the academic knowledge, technical skills and personal dispositions they need to solve our nation’s thorniest public problems.
The issues presently confronting our nation challenge us to develop a sustainable economy and culture through fundamentally transformed schools.
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Tia Nelson -- http://www.ies.wisc.edu/outreach/green_charter/speakers.htm#nelson
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The first Green Charter Schools National Conference is scheduled for November 7 – 8 at the University of Wisconsin – Madison.
“At the Heart of a Green Curriculum: What It Means to Be An Educated Person,” a foundational message delivered by WILLIAM CRONON, the Frederick Jackson Turner and Vilas Research Professor of History, Geography, and Environmental Studies at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, will open the program. William Cronon -- http://www.williamcronon.net
MORGAN BROWN will speak about “Green Chartered Schools: A Systemic View” at the noon plenary session. Brown is Assistant Commissioner, Minnesota Dept. of Education - http://www.ies.wisc.edu/outreach/green_charter/speakers.htm#brown
The conference is presented by:
Green Charter Schools Network -- http://www.greencharterschools.org .
UW-Madison Nelson Institute for Environmental Studies -- http://www.ies.wisc.edu
More information --www.ies.wisc.edu/outreach/green_charter/index.htm.
Learn more about public charter schools with environment-focused educational programs.
“New Roots to Rethink Old Education Model” -- http://theithacan.org/am/publish/opinioncommentary/200809_New_Roots_to_rethink_old_education_model.shtml
“The Urban Environment” – http://www.nytimes.com/2008/07/27/education/edlife/27charter.html?_r=1&scp=1&sq=The%20Urban%20Environment&st=cse&oref=slogin
Senn Brown, Executive Director *
Green Charter Schools Network
Tel: 608-238-7491 Email: senn@greencharterschools.org
Web: www.greencharterschools.org
* Founding Executive Secretary (2000 – 2007), Wisconsin Charter Schools Association
Entered 10/26/2008 11:30:43 AM__________________________________________
A juvie SABINE'S GULL was found near Stoughton yesterday. Here's a copy of the Wisbirdn post:
I found an Imm. Sabine's gull and it's still there. It's just west of
Stoughton on Hy 138 going towards Oregon. There's a big pond 1/3 mile west
of Stoughton, on the northside of the road. It was swimming around just left
of the little island. Pat Ready got some shots of it.
Here's some photos:
http://outdoors.webshots.com/photo/2803532610043062929yOInle
http://outdoors.webshots.com/photo/2246785400043062929BLDaWk
http://web.me.com/readyworks/Site/Sabines_gull_pix.html
Entered 10/24/2008 10:30:05 PM__________________________________________
Found only 3 kinds of warblers today, Friday, in Madison: Myrtle, Palm and Orange crowned. Has anyone seen other kinds in the last couple of days?
Entered 10/22/2008 6:31:49 PM__________________________________________
I was birding at Stewart Park in Mt. Horeb today (Oct.22nd 2008) I finally seen the Red Breasted Nuthatch. It was my first sight of such a bird. Most of the time i keep seeing the White Breasted Nuthatch.
Entered 10/21/2008 7:04:08 PM__________________________________________
Now I know for sure that Northern Shrikes kill Goldfinches -- saw a shrike today (October 21) in a Madison park with a dead American Goldfinch in its grip. Too bad for the Goldfinch, but pretty cool to see! Shrikes eat birds up to their own size, as well as a variety of rodents.
Entered 10/21/2008 12:07:25 AM__________________________________________
Nice surprise today to aee a solitary swamp sparrow at the safflower feeder joining a large flock of house sparrows, a couple cardinals, a family of black-capped chickadees, and a white-breasted nuthatch
Entered 10/17/2008 10:16:28 AM__________________________________________
Whooping cranes take off from Necedah NWR: http://www.jsonline.com/story/index.aspx?id=807115
Entered 10/15/2008 7:52:51 PM__________________________________________
THANKS to everyone who reduces their carbon footprint with regards to birding, by birding by bike, bus or "yard list"! Looking at birds does not help them; stopping, and then REDUCING, global warming (climate change) DOES.
Entered 10/15/2008 10:24:13 AM__________________________________________
USDA Seeks Help in Collecting Ash Tree Seeds
Madison, WI……The Emerald Ash Borer has arrived in Wisconsin, and with it the threat that the entire population of ash trees in the state will die off. Many precautions are in place to try to stop the spread of this invasive insect, but in the event that the ash borer cannot be contained, the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) Rose Lake Plant Materials Center is taking steps to see that the ash tree doesn't vanish forever.
Through the National Ash Tree Seed Collection Initiative, seed from across the Great Lakes region and the nation is being collected and stored at the National Center for Genetic Resource Preservation in Fort Collins, Colo. The goal is to secure seed over the next few years that may allow future generations to enjoy ash trees, if the ash borer invasion is controlled. If the ash tree populations are completely decimated by the ash borer, the stored seeds can be used as the genetic base to re-establish ash trees for future forests.
NRCS is seeking volunteers to collect ash seed. All ash (Fraxinus) ash species are under attack, but the four main species in the Great Lakes Region are: Black Ash (Fraxinus nigra Marsh.), Blue Ash (Fraxinus quadrangulata), Green Ash (Fraxinus pennsylvanica Marsh.), and White Ash (Fraxinus Americana) It is essential that the exact location, date and type of ash tree where the seed is collected is recorded on the forms available from NRCS.
Emerald ash borer has so far been found in Ozaukee and Washington counties in southeastern Wisconsin. A quarantine to help stop the spread of products that may contain EAB has been put in place in those counties. The quarantine also includes Fond du Lac and Sheboygan counties. Limiting the movement of products, especially hardwood firewood, that may contain EAB larvae is one of the most effective ways of reducing the impact of this invasive pest.
Complete information on how to identity and collect ash seed, as well as the forms and instructions, are available from the USDA Rose Lake Plant Materials Center at www.ashseed.org.
Entered 10/13/2008 11:17:21 PM__________________________________________
Here's a good petition to sign - it asks the next President to restore protection for isolated wetlands: http://www.wearewetlands.org/
Entered 10/12/2008 9:21:22 PM__________________________________________
Entered 10/8/2008 12:12:56 PM__________________________________________
Mequon/Milwaukee bald eagle death update: http://www.jsonline.com/story/index.aspx?id=803124
Entered 10/7/2008 11:44:32 PM__________________________________________
Also in the news re Great Lakes Compact Signed - http://www.dailycardinal.com/article/20725
Entered 10/7/2008 10:45:44 PM__________________________________________
Madison Audubon in the news - http://www.madison.com/wsj/home/local/308186 - nice article!
Entered 10/7/2008 7:45:10 PM__________________________________________
The Northern Unit of Kettle Moraine has lots of nice trails - birds might be a little more difficult to come by this time of year, but the hiking would be great regardless. I particularly like the Zillmer Trails (trailheads near the intersection of Counties G & SS,) which offer several loops of different lengths and go through a wide variety of habitats. The Haskell Noyes Woods are nice, also (just down the road to the east a bit.) Any of the Mauthe Lake trails should also be good.
Entered 10/6/2008 11:21:47 AM__________________________________________
2 things:
1. I think Horicon Marsh is well known for being a good migration field trip spot, and not super far from Madison.
http://www.fws.gov/midwest/horicon/
http://www.enjoyhoriconmarsh.com/
http://dnr.wi.gov/org/land/wildlife/wildlife_areas/horicon/
2. Bald eagle found dead near Mequon. http://www.jsonline.com/watch/?watch=1&date=10/6/2008&id=47127
Necropsy pending...
Entered 10/5/2008 8:49:52 PM__________________________________________
Kettle Moraine Birding - Suggestions?
Hello birders - my husband and I would like to take a birding weekend this coming 10/11th for our anniversary. We were heading to Door Cty but have had recent financial strains, and need to find something closer to home. He suggested Kettle Moraine State Park- but we have never birded there. Can anyone make suggestions - it is so big I have no idea if we should go south, north, etc. If there is an area you like please offer a suggestion, also will need to try to book a one night stay Friday if possible. OR any other great birding spot 1.5 hr from Madison - would love to see something new with fall migration. Thanks!
Entered 10/5/2008 2:36:34 PM__________________________________________
FIELD TRIPS for October and beyond: not listed when you click on "Field Trips." Is this a glitch?
Entered 10/3/2008 6:47:54 PM__________________________________________
re the Mystery Night Noise, have you also listened to recordings of a juvenile GREAT HORNED OWL? or BARRED OWL? One of those seems more likely than a Black-crowned Night-Heron.
Entered 10/3/2008 5:29:37 PM__________________________________________
Re: Cackling/Canada Geese in Madison
Resident Canada Geese in Madison and all of Wisconsin are the maxima subspecies. Lesser Canada Geese are the most abundant subspecies observed in the Mississippi River flyway during migration.
The Cackling Goose subspecies most likely to be encountered in Wisconsin is Richardson's. To my knowledge no other Cackling subspecies has been documented in Wisconsin. Cackling Geese are uncommon, but by no means rare in Wisconsin during migration. Large flocks of this species can at times be observed at some of the major staging areas in the state.
Aaron Stutz
Madison, WI
Dane County
E-mail: agstutz@sbcglobal.net
Entered 10/2/2008 11:52:04 PM__________________________________________
WBCI newsletter posted - be sure to check out all the interesting articles about Whooping Cranes, Kirkland's Warblers, Ospreys, and other bird news at:
http://www.wisconsinbirds.org/newsletters/v2n2.pdf
Entered 10/2/2008 3:00:03 PM__________________________________________
RE: Canada/Cackling Goose question. I forgot to include my e-mail address if someone would like to e-mail me directly with references or information on this subject: wahooking@hotmail.com
Thanks
Entered 10/2/2008 2:53:11 PM__________________________________________
Canada/Cackling Goose question. I was visting the Madison area last week (9/26/08) from California. While golfing with friends at Tumbledown G.C. in Verona, I noticed some smaller Branta geese with the Canada Geese in the G.C. pond. These geese were significantly smaller than the 200+ larger Canada Geese in the water and on the grass, and were tightly grouped together. I initially though "Richardson's" Cackling Goose, but am unsure if they would occur here. I noted the smaller bill size, the steeper forehead and a similar breast color to the larger geese. My next choice would have been Taverner's, but the breast color did not look dark enough. I also considered Lesser Canada Goose as another possibility, but referring to Sibley back here in CA, I tend to once again think Cackling Goose. The bill length of the birds I saw did not seem to fit Lesser C.G. (too small).Can anybody give me some insight on the smaller Canada ssp and the Cackling Goose ssp, if any that may occur here during fall migration? Also, what is the normal Canada Goose ssp that occurs in the Madison area, B.c. maxima?
BTW, another group of small Branta geese were mixed with larger Canada Geese the next day, also in Verona, near Valley View and Meadow drives (Seen from the Hawk's Nest subdivision). The smaller geese had high "Cackler" voices, very different than larger Canadas.
Any thoughts, additional identifications, etc. would be very helpful.
Robert McNab, Laguna Niguel, CA
Entered 9/30/2008 1:24:58 PM__________________________________________
Thanks for the help in IDing my mystery night bird. I think it IS a Black Crowned Night Heron. It sounds just like the audio.
Thanks again!
Entered 9/30/2008 12:58:47 AM__________________________________________
PLEASE TAKE ACTION! Go to http://audubonaction.org/campaign/nmbca_sep08 and urge your congressional representatives to cosponsor the reauthorization of the Neotropical Migratory Bird Conservation Act (HR 5756/S 3490) to help save our songbirds
Entered 9/30/2008 12:58:19 AM__________________________________________
Possibly a Black Crowned Night Heron (re squualk msg below). Check out the call on eNature.com website, it's a single squalk, time and locaiton sound like it's a likely candidate.
Entered 9/29/2008 3:50:43 PM__________________________________________
Looking for help in identifying a bird. We have been hearing it for about the last three weeks. It calls around 10 PM after total darkness arrives. We may hear it for three nights in a row and then not at all for a week. Last night it called from 10 PM till 10:45 PM and then I heard it again further away at 2 AM. I best describe it as a single, loud, "squaaawk". (Wakes me from sleep even with windows closed). Not particularly deep in tone but higher range. Not a song; just a single squawk. Sometimes it sounds a little "throaty" or "hoarse". Just one call and then nothing for several minutes. Husband thought it reminded him of the alarm call of a green heron (but not exactly). We listened to some owl calls and it sounds sort of like the long-eared owl call on my John Feith CD, but then I don't hear anything like it on long-eared owl audios on-line.
We have even considered a mammal of some sort except that it is coming from the top of tall trees near our home and seems to move from one site to another rapidly just like a bird flying around would.
We live near Lake Wisconsin in Columbia County but not on the lake proper. Any ideas?? It's driving me crazy not knowing.
Thanks.
Entered 9/24/2008 10:57:45 PM__________________________________________
Also pleased to report that the wolf is back on the endangered species list where it belongs.
Entered 9/24/2008 1:15:30 AM__________________________________________
We are pleased to report that environmental education won a major boost today when the U.S. House of Representatives approved the No Child Left Inside Act of 2008.
Entered 9/17/2008 1:21:41 PM__________________________________________
When I check August, for example though, clicking it only shows 2 field trips under the Field Trips section (Aug 3 and 9). It does not show the other ones that took place or were listed in the newsletter for August. So the newsletter seems to be the only place that lists them all.
Entered 9/16/2008 8:10:18 PM__________________________________________
There is a listing of all field trips under the "Field Trips" tab on the menu on the left side of the Home Page (a few slots under the tab for this Message Board.) It's usually a good idea to check more than one source, since trips can be cancelled or rescheduled on short notice in case of inclement weather or other factors.
Entered 9/16/2008 2:12:07 PM__________________________________________
I've noticed that not all field trips show up on the main site. Do we need to look in the newsletter for an accurate listing? I only recently realized that there are many more trips than those listed on the main site, and I'd prefer to see them on the main page in that calendar on the right. But if that's not possible, I'll look in the newsletter from now on. Thanks!
Entered 9/12/2008 10:28:03 PM__________________________________________
Update - the BioCore field trip will be rescheduled for Sept 20.
Entered 9/12/2008 3:46:16 PM__________________________________________
The Biocore Bird Banding Trip at Picnic Point scheduled for tomorrow (9/14/08) has been cancelled due to the high likelihood of inclement weather.
Aaron Stutz
Madison Audubon Field Trip Committee
Entered 9/11/2008 7:07:41 PM__________________________________________
Lots of birds coming through Schmidt Woods (Waunakee School Forest) this week. If you live in northern Dane County this 40 acres is a nice place to go birding without driving too far. Good trails and the opportunity to see Magnolia Warblers, Redstarts, Nashville Warbler, Ovenbird and many others.
Entered 8/31/2008 1:32:01 PM__________________________________________
When my daughter was visiting us, she said the birds chirping at night drove her mad and deprived her of sleep. I think they were grackles, but am not sure. I found an interesting website called "Double Chirp" which was devoted to this particular problem and is very humerous and enlightening.
Entered 8/29/2008 5:54:16 PM__________________________________________
In case you missed it, the National Park Service/Wisconsin DNR are beginning a planning phase for the Cross Plains unit of the Ice Age National Scenic Reserve. The unit includes Shoveler's Sink, owned by the US Fish and Wildlide Service, as well as some DNR and NPS land (some of the land is currently private as well). They had some meetings this week with some neat presentations, and will be taking comments before creating some proposals for this fall. If anyone wants to leave comments on how you'd like to see the unit managed, or find more info, visit this link. (One of the presentations talked about the disappearance of Oak Savannah, mentioned below as the habitat of the declining red-headed woodpecker). I'm sure people here would have some suggestions, so check it out.
http://parkplanning.nps.gov/projectHome.cfm?parkId=137&projectId=21764 (comments can be made electronically on the site)
Entered 8/28/2008 12:59:02 PM__________________________________________
Does anyone have information (anecdotal or otherwise) about the migration dates of the orioles who have been here over the summer? Their appearances at our feeder have been erratic since June or so - but then so has our replenishing of the magical grape jelly. Our last sighting (Cherokee Park neighborhood) was about ten days ago.
Thanks.
Entered 8/27/2008 10:33:14 AM__________________________________________
To the person wondering about a birds of Pheasant Branch Conservancy checklist, see:
http://dnr.wi.gov/org/es/science/publications/checklists.htm
Jan
Entered 8/26/2008 3:27:35 PM__________________________________________
Article on crows and whether they can recognize people:
http://www.nytimes.com/2008/08/26/science/26crow.html
Entered 8/25/2008 1:49:41 PM__________________________________________
Thank you for the confirmation and the tips. Even better, lesser yellowlegs ID means I was right and husband was wrong. :)
Entered 8/25/2008 8:12:11 AM__________________________________________
Those were almost certainly Lesser Yellowlegs - they are extremely common right now, with only a few Greaters being seen in the area. Greater YLs also tend to migrate a little later. A good size comparison can be made with Killdeer, which are usually also numerous in the same areas. Lessers will be pretty close in size to Killdeer, although obviously taller due to much longer legs. Greaters will dwarf Killdeer (and nearly any other shorebirds except for Godwits.)
Entered 8/24/2008 5:33:07 PM__________________________________________
8/24/08 Goose Pond area. Lots of shorebirds in the still-flooded soybean fields around Goose Pond. I could ID the killdeer and we are pretty sure we saw a small flock of semi-palmated sandpipers but still arguing over the most numerous species seen; either lesser or greater yellowlegs. Nothing was posted on the board at Goose Pond so we're still not sure. Any help?
Also coots, lots and lots of ducks, pheasant, swallows, heron, red-tail hawk and numerous butterflys and dragonflys. The prairie is just wonderful with the native grasses really starting to show their stuff. Beautiful trip.
Entered 8/22/2008 8:59:06 AM__________________________________________
Speaking of Pheasant Branch - is there a bird list for Pheasant Branch anywhere? If not, has anyone ever thought of putting one together? Maybe something to direct to the Friends of PB group, but thought I'd see if one existed elsewhere.
Entered 8/18/2008 8:19:17 PM__________________________________________
Re August 17 post with photos:
Killdeer, Pewees and juvenile Cowbird.
Entered 8/17/2008 4:16:33 PM__________________________________________
Went to Pheasant Branch today. Saw catbirds, goldfinches, chickadees, house wrens, etc... Also saw these that would be in need of a positive ID:
1. I think this one's a plover, and sounded like a killdeer, but looks grayer than all the killdeer photos I have seen. Could just be the photo, or is this a different plover? Was hanging around along a puddle near a gravely path before some bikers scared it off. Sorry the photos are a tad distant.
http://image60.webshots.com/760/0/59/90/2570059900059461204JYTTFb_fs.jpg
http://image69.webshots.com/569/9/77/51/2458977510059461204WiLElk_fs.jpg
2. A flycatcher, I assume an eastern wood-pewee. Sound is right but just thought I'd be sure. I doubt it would be any easier from these photos, but was near the path in the woods, making that (pee-oo-wee) sound. Appeared to be feeding another bird that was just making short cheeps (presumably the juvenile).
Adult: http://image72.webshots.com/72/2/67/5/2783267050059461204ELlROB_fs.jpg
Juvenile: http://image60.webshots.com/760/1/26/49/2339126490059461204XJXvrw_fs.jpg
3. This last one was silent. Hanging around a path, walking around, but with its mouth constantly open. Wasn't too shy but when someone came by would fly up in the tree. Looks like a female blackbird or bunting or something perhaps? Pretty plain looking bird with no real markings, but with somewhat streaked chest.
http://image65.webshots.com/765/4/10/74/2322410740059461204vBLfbK_fs.jpg
http://image50.webshots.com/750/6/25/91/2997625910059461204eQeZgd_fs.jpg
PS: Thanks for the tip on Pleasant Valley. Will have to try it some time.
Entered 8/16/2008 10:24:52 PM__________________________________________
Oddly enough, I was also at Necedah today and saw several Red-headed WPs with young. The area you mentioned is a savannah restoration being actively managed specifically for Red-heads, which are quite scarce in Wisconsin these days. I've heard that a reliable spot to see them closer to Madison is the Pleasant Valley Conservancy south of Black Earth (a Google search will bring up their informative website.)
Entered 8/15/2008 8:40:19 PM__________________________________________
Stopped by today at Necedah NWR. Saw the whooping cranes, though they were so far you really need a scope or some good binoculars to enjoy them. Saw an eastern kingbird as well as well as others. But the highlight for me was tons and tons of red-headed woodpeckers, including juveniles (which have brown heads). They like dead and burnt down trees, and clearly there had been some presumably controlled fires in this one area of the refuge. So I could not go a few seconds in this area without hearing or seeing one, and almost ran over one (but he/she was fine). I see red-bellied, downy and hairy ones (more in the winter) pretty commonly (and the occassional flicker/pileated on hikes), but had never seen any red-headed ones before.
I was wondering, is there a good place closer to Madison to see red-headed woodpeckers? I found them to be pretty neat to see and watch (and quite chatty birds).
Anyway, a great place, though extremely mosquito-infested in parts right now. I would have gone exploring more, but the woodpeckers had my attention for a while and my time was short. Hard to get the perfect photo when mosquitos are everywhere and you're short on time, but here was my best one:
http://image72.webshots.com/72/9/66/92/2331966920059461204TXJsdJ_fs.jpg
Entered 8/11/2008 8:54:14 PM__________________________________________
SANDPIPERS in Owen Park: these are migrating SOLITARY SANDPIPERS. Eyering, "salt-and-pepper" plumage, greenish-yellow (NOT orange) legs. The tail pattern is distinctive, when they fly...
Entered 8/11/2008 9:13:33 AM__________________________________________
Oops, see last message, but here are the correct links. Just ignore the two in the message below.
http://image60.webshots.com/760/7/77/94/2311777940059461204ebWFuH_fs.jpg
http://image50.webshots.com/750/7/22/3/2857722030059461204EEYEdg_fs.jpg
Entered 8/11/2008 9:11:02 AM__________________________________________
Can anyone help ID these sandpipers seen this weekend at Owen Park in Madison? My field guides are packed away at the moment, so I was relying on the Wisconsin bird checklist and some online sites, which don't seem to suggest that these sandpipers are common here in the summer...
Anyway, I forgot to look for whether there was tail bobbing or not, but I did note that there were two of them. Small sandpiper, grayish on top with white spots, I'd say maybe 9 inches?
http://image50.webshots.com/750/7/22/3/2857722030059461204EEYEdg_fs.jpg
http://image50.webshots.com/750/1/74/65/2913174650059461204ajRAQJ_fs.jpg
Entered 8/4/2008 9:17:40 PM__________________________________________
Here is a link to a Channel 3 article and video about Cherokee Marsh
and Tuesday's (Aug 5) Common Council vote: http://www.channel3000.com/goinggreen/17092296/detail.html. Please see the madisonaudubon.org home page 'Action Alert' for more info, and links to send comments to Mayor Dave and the Council. Thanks!
Entered 8/4/2008 9:08:24 PM__________________________________________
Thanks, Clare for the sighting report!
Entered 7/31/2008 1:48:33 PM__________________________________________
Hi!
I don't belong and I don't even live in Dane county and my sighting isn't even in Dane county, but I was unsure of whom to contact. Today we were driving on Hwy 138/59 in Union township in Rock county about 3 miles from US 14 and saw 3 sandhill cranes and 2 sandpipers in a little leftover mudpit on the south side of the George farm (I believe) across the road. It was very exciting as I had never seen one, only heard of them and they aren't even in our Birds of Wisconsin field guide by Stan Tekiela. We wrote it in, of course.
Not sure if this helps, but thought you would be interested anyway!
Sincerely,
Clare Whitten
Entered 7/20/2008 9:19:16 PM__________________________________________
Canoe Cherokee Marsh Ecological Restoration - Sunday, August 3, 8:30 a.m. Sponsored by the Wisconsin Wetlands Association in partnership with Madison Audubon Society
Field trip leader: Russ Hefty
Learn about the fascinating history and restoration story of Cherokee Marsh, the wetland at the mouth of Lake Mendota. When a dam at Tenny Park was created in 1849, and again in 1900, the Cherokee area was flooded with seven feet of water. The peat layer "delaminated" and rose to the surface forming a floating bog. But erosion over the decades has destroyed more than one square mile of wetland. Russ Hefty will show us how the shoreline of this floating bog is being stabilized by plantings to form a vegetation breakwater and silt fence. This should be peak bloom for the thousands ofAmerican Lotus Water Lilies used as a buffer! We hope to see a number of Great Egrets and other wetland birds.
Directions -Bring your canoe or kayak and meet at 8:30 a.m. at the School road boat landing. Take School Road north from Northport Drive until the road starts turning east. Instead turn left onto the gravel road and proceed to the pier for Cherokee Marsh Conservation Park. Contact leader, Russ Hefty, at (608) 233-8513 or rhefty(at)ci.madison.wi.us, only if you have a question about the trip.
Entered 7/17/2008 12:10:29 AM__________________________________________
Madison lake levels Action Alert - this is your chance to help improve YOUR urban ecosystem and area lake watershed bird and wildlife habitat, especially Cherokee Marsh! please see the home page Action Alerts for details!
Entered 7/9/2008 7:43:42 PM__________________________________________
Please help encourage Congress to support legislation to conserve our rapidly disappearing Migratory Birds! This is legislation cosponsored by Wisconsin US Rep. Ron Kind. Thanks!
http://org2.democracyinaction.org/o/5400/t/2205/campaign.jsp?campaign_KEY=284
Entered 7/8/2008 10:26:39 PM__________________________________________
Great Kirkland Warbler article in today's State Journal, in case you missed it.
Entered 6/30/2008 7:37:25 PM__________________________________________
News from Goose Pond!
Water levels are at a record level at Goose Pond. The water goes from east of the east pond 1.5 miles west to Highway I. After the heavy rains Goose Pond was seven feet deep. In the past couple of weeks the water level dropped about 5 inches. However it rained 1.2 inches this afternoon. It appeared that many ducks that may have lost their nest are still paired up and may be egg laying. The rain and increase in wetland habitat might be stimulating hens to keep renesting. Brand Smith and Mark Martin counted water birds on the evening of June 26 and found the following: Birds were observed with a scope from distance and not all were counted.
Single drakes may indicate a hen incubating a clutch. Single hens may be incubating but off the nest feeding.
| Pairs | Males | Females | Total Birds | ||
| Mallards in pairs or small groups | 26 | 27 | 1 | 83 | |
| Mallards in one large flock (hens probably done trying to nest) | 88 | 35 | 123 | ||
| Mallard hens with brood | 7 | 7 + 58 young in 7 broods | |||
| Blue-winged Teal | 6 | 11 | 2 | 25 | |
| Green-winged Teal | 8 | 8 | |||
| Shovelers | 3 | 5 | 4 | 15 | |
| Redheads (hopefully will nest) | 2 | 2 | 6 | ||
| Ruddy Ducks (later nester, increase in numbers past 2 weeks | 3 | 40 | 13 | 59 | |
| Coots | 34 | ||||
| Pied-billed Grebes | 4 one with a brood of at least 3 young | ||||
| Great Blue Herons | 2 | ||||
| American Bittern (saw on 25th) | 1 |
Entered 6/27/2008 2:40:58 PM__________________________________________
I am in the Menomonie area for the summer and do not know who to contact in Wisconsin about rare sightings. I think I saw a Red-naped Sapsucker the other day and from everything I can find on them, they should not be too far east of the Rocky Mountains. I do need to get another look at this bird, and hopefully I can get a picture next time. If anyone has any info that can be useful please send it to: dlgraham@mtu.edu
Thanks :)
Entered 6/24/2008 10:23:41 PM__________________________________________
This is a nice summary of prairie plants for the midwest region
http://plant-materials.nrcs.usda.gov/technical/plantid/herbaceous/CentralSeedlingID.html#SpeciesList
Entered 6/23/2008 10:59:18 PM__________________________________________
Saturday, June 28, 10 a.m.-noon, Butterflies of Cherokee Marsh - Co-sponsors: Southern Wisconsin Butterfly Association, Madison Audubon Society, and the Wisconsin Wetlands Association, Trip leader: Kathy Kirk
On this morning walk we’ll observe and learn about butterflies, those small but exquisitely beautiful creatures that dance about our ankles in summer. Conservation Biologist Kathy Kirk will lead this two-hour walk at Cherokee Marsh on the northeast side of Madison. We will observe a variety of butterflies as they take nectar from wildflowers, and learn about their identification, behavior, and lifestyle. Bring binoculars if you have them. Close-focusing ones work best. Consider wearing long pants and a hat for protection from the sun. Meet at 10 a.m. On the north side of Madison take Northport Drive (Highway 113) then turn north on Sherman Ave. Meet at the Cherokee Marsh parking lot at the north end of Sherman Ave. Call Kathy only if you have a question about the trip, at (608) 442-1642.
Entered 6/18/2008 11:14:20 AM__________________________________________
Oldest bald eagle in Midwest found in Vilas Co.
http://www.jsonline.com/story/index.aspx?id=763291
Entered 6/18/2008 8:17:49 AM__________________________________________
Yes - Red-eyed Vireo and House Wren. A large bird with a "much, much smaller" bird chasing it would not be an adult and a juvenile hawk. By the time a hawk fledged, it would be nearly the size of the parents. It was almost certainly a Red-winged Blackbird attacking a hawk (most likely a Red-tailed.) Smaller birds of all kinds will attack any larger birds they perceive as a threat (although they do seem to realize that it isn't wise to mess with, say, a Cooper's Hawk, although smaller birds will sometimes mob even dangerous predators like that.) Red-winged BBs are particularly feisty, and will attack Great Blue Herons and Sandhill Cranes, also.
Entered 6/17/2008 8:52:32 PM__________________________________________
Update from last post: I think the second image link I posted below may be a red-eyed vireo. I just can't tell the eye is red from that angle.
Entered 6/17/2008 8:39:34 PM__________________________________________
Went to the arboretum today. As I walked in, tree swallows began swooping down and chirping at me. At first I thought they were just having fun but then I realized they were not being friendly. I must have been near one of their boxes so I moved away and I was fine. Later saw some turkeys getting the same treatment, which was pretty funny. Saw tons of cedar waxwings there, goldfinches, chipping sparrows, etc... Also saw these two guys. First one I think is a house wren, but not 100%
http://image60.webshots.com/660/4/59/16/2910459160059461204lvIdMA_fs.jpg
This second one I am not sure about. Had a caterpillar or something in its mouth, but the throat is unstreaked. Seemed to have a gray crown and a blackish eyestripe. I think a robin then went after him then so I lost him.
http://image66.webshots.com/666/3/52/96/2966352960059461204XlaBZv_fs.jpg
Also saw a very large bird gliding overhead with a much much smaller bird kind of chasing it sort of eratically. Was this maybe a hawk and a juvenile?
Entered 6/15/2008 2:56:13 PM__________________________________________
Some new books of interest to birders are available at the UW Arboretum bookstore. I was over there today and bought "60 Hikes within 60 Miles/Madison" by Kevin Revolinski. Sections on wildlife hiking, wildflower hikes, good for bird-watching hikes etc. Also, "Birdwatcher" The Life of Roger Tory Peterson by Elizabeth j. Rosenthal and "Captivating Bluebirds" by STan Tekiela.
Entered 6/14/2008 6:47:52 PM__________________________________________
It seems to be an Orange-crowned Warbler. It's too greeny-yellow colored and the eye stripe is not distinct enough for Arctic Warbler.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
"I promise this is my last out-of-state ID help request for a while, but I figure this is a chance to test your skills. Saw this one near Juneau, AK. Was maybe a little bigger than a kinglet I think, but not much. No real marks, just kind of a light-greenish-yellow with some gray on the wings. Is it a yellow warbler?"
"http://image66.webshots.com/666/2/44/69/2023244690059461204qGddma_fs.jpg"
Entered 6/14/2008 1:17:38 PM__________________________________________
Does anyone have any suggestions for reducing the amount of junk mail (including catalogs, wall calendars, sheets of return address labels, dozens of note cards, etc.) received from environmental organizations? I have already asked NAS, WI DNR, and WI DOT to keep my name off of the lists that they sell/share, but I still receive far too many unwanted money/membership requests from environmental organizations that I can not afford to support. I do recycle these mailings, but recycling involves some use of energy, chemicals, etc. ("We have met the enemy and he is us!"--Pogo) Any ideas or thoughts? Is there a "do not junk mail list" for environmental organizations similar to the one for credit card companies? There should be. I'd write back to each organization with my "do not bother me" request, but they no longer include post-paid envelopes in their mailings.
Entered 6/12/2008 2:28:24 PM__________________________________________
6/12/2008
Saw white pelicans flying overhead in West Salem, WI today around noon, an amazing sight. There is a Lake nearby that they flew to. There were so many - but I figure at least 30 to 50 birds!
K. Jacob, Melrose, WI
Entered 6/10/2008 8:10:36 PM__________________________________________
Cherokee Marsh/Yahara River/Cherokee Park neighborhood: Big reconfigurations of shoreline with the high waters this weekend (the river rose about 2 1/2 feet with the weekend's rains). Large chunks of marsh breaking off and floating away. The areas of marsh closer to solid ground were swamped, and yesterday there were dozens of carp swimming and jumping where normally the marsh is semi-solid. Carp are one of the threats to the marsh. We have to wonder, if the marsh 'sponge' is lost, what will happen to the city in times of high water...
One plus though, is that a pair of cranes, looking for dry footing, walked closer to homes than ever before, accompanied by a chick.
Entered 6/10/2008 11:00:20 AM__________________________________________
I promise this is my last out-of-state ID help request for a while, but I figure this is a chance to test your skills. Saw this one near Juneau, AK. Was maybe a little bigger than a kinglet I think, but not much. No real marks, just kind of a light-greenish-yellow with some gray on the wings. Is it a yellow warbler?
http://image66.webshots.com/666/2/44/69/2023244690059461204qGddma_fs.jpg
Entered 6/8/2008 6:12:44 PM__________________________________________
White pelicans 'team fishing' by the Lake Butte Des Mortes bridge in Oshkosh, also in Door County bays when perch are running.
Entered 6/6/2008 1:23:55 PM__________________________________________
A lady found a hummingbird nest and got pictures all the way from the egg to leaving the nest. It took 24 days from birth to flight. Be sure to click Next at the bottom of each page (5 pages)
http://community.webtv.net/Velpics/HUM
Entered 6/2/2008 7:27:00 PM__________________________________________
Dear Madison Audobon Society:
My name is Steve Jindra. I am reaching out to you with the hope that you may be able to help me. I am the owner of a Congo African Gray Parrot which was lost from my home on Sunday, May 18. I live on the west side of Madison, in the Westmorland neighborhood. I am trying every avenue I can think of in trying to find my bird. Her name is Gracie. We have been searching everywhere we can to try to find her. She was recently seen in the Midvale Heights area. We have also received a couple of phone calls with leads about her being spotted in the Nakoma area, which is not too far away from our neighborhood.
I am asking for your assistance in alerting your members in the Madison area to be on the lookout for her. In a separate e-mail, I am going to send you a listing from "Craigs List" which contains a description of Gracie as well as a link to open which will include a picture of her.
I would be deeply appreciative of any help you could give me. My girlfriend and I have walked hours upon hours, since we lost her, to try to find her, and we are reaching out for any help we can get.
My address is 621 Chatham Terrace; Madison, WI 53711
Phone: 608-238-5748
Cell: 608-212-1926
email: sjindra@charter.net
Your help would be appreciated. If you would like to call me, please do so at one of the numbers above. There is also a listing on "Craigs List" which has a picture of Gracie.
Entered 5/31/2008 9:21:41 PM__________________________________________
"Well, I am a local member but wondering if someone could help ID a bird seen at Mt. St. Helens in Washington state last week. To me it most resembles a song sparrow, but it is more gray instead of white. Is this just cuz it's a different subspecies? If another view would help let me know. (My first trip to the northwest - I would still call myself an amateur but was excited to also see a red-breasted sapsucker, chestnut-backed chickadees, three-toed woodpeckers foraging in two of the national parks I visited, and numerous Steller's jays)."
"http://image58.webshots.com/758/8/9/12/2044809120059461204vxFAYv_fs.jpg"
It's a Western variant SONG SPARROW.
Check out the bill size, dark stripe behind the eye and overall color. Nice picture though.
Entered 5/29/2008 8:29:09 AM__________________________________________
Thanks for the suggestion of a red-winged blackbird female. I've looked carefully at as many photos of the back as I can find and that's not it. If you happen to think of anything else that has the vertical white stripes on the back, I'd be interested. Other useful info--the bird is a bit less bulbous shaped than the blackbird (more slender, if you will) and the tip of the tail feathers is a straight line (not notched).
Entered 5/29/2008 4:53:48 AM__________________________________________
Your flock of mystery birds were probably female Red-winged Blackbirds - can't think of anything else that fits the description and that would be seen in a flock.
Entered 5/28/2008 9:10:16 PM__________________________________________
Memorial Day Audubon Birding Weekend at Lake Lucerne (near Wautoma) was super. We matched the prior record of 107 species. Highlight was a tour of Buena Vista Marsh with a researcher, we got to see a Prairie Chicken. Plan now to attend this weekend birding trip next year - help beat the record!
Entered 5/28/2008 10:27:47 AM__________________________________________
5/27/08 I saw a flock of about 15 birds on a lawn near Olbrich lake/park. Birds were approx. 7-8" and coloring was somewhat sparrowlike--except that (1) I thought I saw a small crest on the head, (2) there were white markings going down the back towards the tail that were visible when the bird flew, and (3) there were yellow markings on the tail when it flew. Any ideas of what this might be??? It's not a cedar waxwing (no mask) and it's not an evening grossbeak (not yellow enough).
Thanks!
Entered 5/27/2008 8:27:04 AM__________________________________________
Your bird might be a Lincoln's Sparrow - it's a little hard to tell, but the malar stripes look buffy, and it has the broad gray eyestripes and finer back streaking I'd expect to see on a Lincoln's. Looking at a range map, I see they are found in the Cascades.
Entered 5/27/2008 3:02:29 AM__________________________________________
Well, I am a local member but wondering if someone could help ID a bird seen at Mt. St. Helens in Washington state last week. To me it most resembles a song sparrow, but it is more gray instead of white. Is this just cuz it's a different subspecies? If another view would help let me know. (My first trip to the northwest - I would still call myself an amateur but was excited to also see a red-breasted sapsucker, chestnut-backed chickadees, three-toed woodpeckers foraging in two of the national parks I visited, and numerous Steller's jays).
http://image58.webshots.com/758/8/9/12/2044809120059461204vxFAYv_fs.jpg
Entered 5/26/2008 8:09:13 AM__________________________________________
Hi all,
A Madison Audubon Field Trip visited Baxter's Hollow this morning.
Highlights:
15 Warbler Species
2 Connecticuts
2 Ceruleans
a few Canadas
6-8 L. Waterthrushes
2 Hoodeds
1 Mourning
a few Black-throated Greens and Black-and-Whites
a Wilson's & Magnolia,
many Redstarts, Yellows, Common Yellowthroats, Ovenbirds and Blue-wings
Jesse Peterson saw and heard a YELLOW-THROATED WARBLER just north of the 2-car parking area.
Other notables include Winter Wren, Acadian Flycatchers along the road and a possible Yellow-bellied Flycatcher calling briefly at the top of the road.
The old Klondike Campground area had many ALDER FLYCATCHERS and 1 BLACK-BILLED CUCKOO.
Aaron Stutz
Madison, WI
Dane County
E-mail: agstutz@sbcglobal.net
Photos: http://community.webshots.com/user/agstutz
Entered 5/24/2008 12:36:49 PM__________________________________________
Forgot to mention!! Coming back towards the Hickory Hill entrance, same spot we first saw a tanager, we also viewed a Wilson's Warber. There were a lot of songs we did not recognize..but had to get home to let the early morning babysitter go.
Entered 5/24/2008 12:34:57 PM__________________________________________
Scarlet Tanagers!! Woo hoo - first for me! Spent several hours 6-8:45 am walking Hickory Hill Conservancy in Cross Plains which led into the Ice Age Trail. First tanager heard and seen early on in the trail as we just got past the path topped with loose gravel. Took some pics but the male is not so great - bird is not looking at the camera. However, he was not shy and kept on singing.
Once we entered onto Ice Age Trail land we saw several fanning turkeys in the 2nd field untel they saw us. Heading east in that field we took a freshly chopped wide path to the Ice Age wooded trails. Along these trails we heard, but did not see a pileated woodpecker near a fork in the trail. We heard there was a nest on Ice Age Trail land and were hoping to see something. As I proceeded up a climbing path and came to another clearing I saw more turkeys and red tail hawk. Rejoining my husband who had been viewing more scarlet tanagers.
Entered 5/21/2008 8:09:48 AM__________________________________________
Harlequin Ducks are normally found only on the Great Lakes or large rivers in the Midwest - they wouldn't be found in a creek or ditch. Are you sure it wasn't a drake Blue-wing Teal? They have very striking facial markings and large, light blue patches with white borders on the wings, very noticeable when they flush. They're quite common in small creeks and drainage ditches around here.
Entered 5/20/2008 5:49:37 PM__________________________________________
I was biking on the Military Ridge Train from Blue Mounds on Sunday (5/18) and I about 1-2 miles west of Verona when I thought that I saw a Harlequin in a small creek (irrigation ditch?). I am not sure if that is what it was or not, the blue/gray with white patches was pretty obvious, but when it took off I also saw white patches on the wings or belly, which I didn't think Harlequins had. Could this have been a Harlequin? I didn't think that they would be found around here. And if not then what was it? Any help is appreciated.
Entered 5/19/2008 1:33:20 AM__________________________________________
re: Sora Rails and other bird calls you might not recognize - here's a link to eNature.com field guides (this link is also posted on the MadisonAudubon.org home page) -
http://www.enature.com/fieldguides/intermediate.asp?curGroupID=1
Entered 5/18/2008 7:52:05 AM__________________________________________
Thanks very much to whomever posted the sightings of Sora Rails in Cherokee Marsh. We’ve heard their calls frequently this Spring in the part of the marsh that is our “back yard” without knowing what we were hearing! On May 8 I saw four Sora Rails on the watery edge of the marsh while canoeing -- again without being able to identify them. So thanks again from a novice bird watcher!
Entered 5/16/2008 2:28:46 PM__________________________________________
If you get up to Devil's Lake and want to see a Sandhill Crane on a nest (without disturbing it), stop at the parking lot by the South Lake Road boat landing and look near a tall stump across the pond, past the beaver dam. The bird on the nest looks like a big clump of grass - until you see the bright red on it's head! Binocs or a scope definitely help.
Entered 5/16/2008 2:22:43 PM__________________________________________
The folks doing the Cherokee Marsh IBA (Important Bird Area) surveys are finding lots of Sora Rails. This is a lot of fun, and 'birding buddies' are welcome, some by canoe, some on foot. If interested email paul_noeldner@hotmail.com. ps - We got someone lined up for the Lake View Hill Park survey on Saturday - thanks everyone!
Entered 5/14/2008 1:12:40 PM__________________________________________
3 pair of Ruddy Ducks seen on Odana Golf Course pond at 11 am 5/14/08.
Entered 5/12/2008 10:36:14 AM__________________________________________
Pheasant Branch was really hoppin' with migrants early this a.m. - from 6:45-7:15, I had about a dozen species of warblers just in one clump of trees, with at one point Blue-winged, Chestnut-sided and Magnolia within a few feet of each other. Also Golden-winged, Black-throated Green, Am. Redstart (lots!), Blackburnian, several Black & Whites, No. Waterthrush, Ovenbird, etc. Also Veery, Wood & Swainson's Thrushes, lots of Baltimore Orioles, Indigo Buntings, Carolina Wren. The warbler walks there tomorrow and Thursday (6:00-8:00 a.m.) should be very good.
Entered 5/11/2008 11:12:38 PM__________________________________________
Correction to prior message - the time is 6:30am-8:30am - Good Birders - One (or more) person is needed to do the annual Lake View Hill Park Bird Survey, Sat May 17th, 6:30am-8:30am, to count the birds heard and seen. The person who normally does this is not available this year, so please fill in if you can. This is the highest point in Madison overlooking NorthPort Drive and Warner Park, registered as a Dane County Conservancy Park. It is being monitored for changes in bird poulations as it is being restored and invasives are removed. If available to help, email janet@grammata.com. Thanks!
Entered 5/10/2008 6:57:16 AM__________________________________________
My spring resident white throated sparrows have left for their summer homes. There were sometimes 25 or so scratching around the garden and eating cracked corn. Will miss them!
Entered 5/9/2008 10:56:11 AM__________________________________________
If you'd like to make a pledge to Big Birding Day and help donate to Madison Audubon, there's still time! (it's tomorrow). Our Team Sustain Crane is doing the whole day on bikes again using the great Madison area bike trails (go Green!) You can pledge a small amount per species, for example 5 cents per species would total $5 if our team sees 100 species. I can be contacted at paul_noeldner@hotmail.com, Thanks!
Entered 5/8/2008 10:13:19 PM__________________________________________
CHESTNUT-SIDED WARBLERS SIGHTED
I don't post often but thought I would mention my family went birding at Festge Park, off KP outside of Cross Plains today and spotted three chestnut-sided warblers. A first for us.
Regarding the Harris Sparro -we're keeping our eyes open as they usually stop in our wooded back yard for a few days this time of year - we have a large rock with a "basin" and they love to drink from it. Keeping our eyes open!
In addition to the orioles, for which I put the feeder out on Monday, I saw three ruby throated hummingbirds. Seems as though all of our regulars are back for the summer breeding season.
Entered 5/8/2008 1:55:05 PM__________________________________________
Chestnut-Sided Warbler, Indigo Bunting, Orioles - backyard near east end of Lake Mendota.
Entered 5/8/2008 1:10:20 PM__________________________________________
Needed - One or more Good Birders for the annual Lake View Hill Park Bird Survey, Sat May 17th, 5:30am-7:30am time range, can be flexible. Count birds heard and seen for 2 hours. Regular birder is not available. This is a beautiful urban forest area on the highest point in Madison overlooking NorthPort Drive and Warner Park, registered as a Dane County Conservancy Park. It is being monitored for changes in bird poulations as it is being restored and invasives are removed. If available to help, email janet@grammata.com. Thanks!
Entered 5/7/2008 4:30:42 PM__________________________________________
Not coincidentally, just today a reliable source reported seeing four Harris' at the Nature Conservancy's Spring Green Preserve parking lot - they're in the area!
Entered 5/7/2008 1:20:54 PM__________________________________________
RE: Harris Sparrow. I've taken another look and it sure looks like a Harris Sparrow to me (at least from the pictures in my book). It's mixed in with my White-Crowns and scratching and hopping about my prairie garden. I have taken pics and if I can figure out how to download them to the computer, I will post them if someone can confirm my ID.
Lake Wisconsin/West Point area
Entered 5/7/2008 10:08:51 AM__________________________________________
Just to alert any former pet owners: we saw a green parrot at Token Creek Park last week. It was very tame (but didn't like being captured and thus, isn't). It was hanging around the 3rd outhouse building. We have a picture if anyone wants to identify it.
Kathy Sajdak, kathysajdak@sbcglobal.net
Entered 5/7/2008 8:05:56 AM__________________________________________
Yes - Harris' are in the "rare, but regular" category, especially this time of year and in fall. With the strong southwest winds we've had recently, you'd expect to see a few in the state. If you've seen one, it would be of interest to many birders around here, especially if it was coming to a feeder on a regular basis.
Entered 5/7/2008 7:46:02 AM__________________________________________
Is a Harris Sparrow possible around here?
Entered 5/6/2008 8:35:30 AM__________________________________________
All three grackle species are glossy blue-black all over for males, and dark grayish for females, with no white at all anywhere. Any individual bird could have scattered white feathers from a genetic defect, but it would be unlikely for two individuals to have the same coloration. Boat-tails would be extraordinarily unlikely in Wisconsin, while Great-tailed were recorded in the state for the first time last year (single males in Dodge & Grant Counties.) The bird at Horicon was unlikely, especially since it first showed up in January. Grant County is much more likely, as Great-taileds are expanding their range up the Mississippi drainage and are commonly seen in Iowa. Both species have immense tails and are quite large compared to our Common Grackles. They also have loud, extraordinary vocalizations that sound almost electronic in nature.
Entered 5/5/2008 10:35:04 PM__________________________________________
Incidentally I was just in Miami Beach a month or so ago and took some photos of boat tailed grackles. The male is pretty much all black with no white as far as I know, while the female looks totally different so I assume you mean the female. (Also, apparently the great-tailed grackle is very similar, which would be more likely to be seen in Wisconsin according to http://www.dnr.state.wi.us/org/land/er/publications/GWBNT/checklist.pdf (just added to the list in 2008).)
I have some pics of both sexes of BTGs, but the female is here:
http://travel.webshots.com/photo/2072284630059461204oTttEc?vhost=travel
http://travel.webshots.com/photo/2993171570059461204AVzvYJ?vhost=travel
In any case neither grackle sounds like it's what you're talking about since you mention white. Anyone else have an idea?
Entered 5/5/2008 10:07:39 PM__________________________________________
Went yesterday to New Glarus Woods SP: I *think* I saw indigo bunting (near a farm, bright deep blue), gray catbird and winter wren, among others. I also saw white throated sparrows around my house I think (near Camp Randall).
Entered 5/5/2008 9:26:50 PM__________________________________________
Hello! I live along Saunders Creek in Edgerton, WI. On Sunday morning (the 4th) I saw two new birds in my back yard. I tried to soak up as much as I could about them before they flew away then searched in my bird guides. The only conclusion that I could reach was boat-tail grackle! Is that possible?? Could they have gotten "blown up" by the recent storm system from the south? They were definitely black-bird type birds. They had large tails, lighter brown underparts, and white along and under the chin and around the eye area. They also bobbed their heads deeply up and down as they shuffled along the branches.
Entered 5/4/2008 8:51:09 AM__________________________________________
Saturday, May 3rd, awoke to five male Baltimore orioles, two male orchard orioles, one female Baltimore, one male hummer, a flock of eight white-crowned sparrows, and one male rose-breasted grosbeak. Three grape jelly feeders being used non-stop as are the seed feeders. Lots of bickering and pushing and shoving. Luckily, the female oriole seems to be holding her own with all the guys. Lake Wisconsin/West Point area.
Entered 5/3/2008 7:32:34 PM__________________________________________
We had two at our bird feeder yesterday in the Cherokee Park neighborhood.
Entered 5/3/2008 12:04:01 PM__________________________________________
Where are the Orioles? I've seen a couple of reports of sightings within the last week in Whitewater, Green Bay, and Cottage Grove. Has anyone in Madison seen any?
Entered 5/3/2008 8:00:57 AM__________________________________________
Entered 5/1/2008 8:31:45 AM__________________________________________
Your first one is an Ovenbird (a type of warbler.) The shorebird is a Solitary Sandpiper - note the dark wing and eyering - they also bob up and down frequently, which is a good behavioral clue. Both Yellowlegs species will occasionally bob once or twice upon landing, or when alarmed, but Solitaries doe it more often, although not as often as Spotted Sandpipers (which do it almost constantly.) Spotties are smaller and brown, with an obvious white shoulder mark.
Entered 4/30/2008 9:10:26 PM__________________________________________
Oops, see below but figured out the last one is a male blue-gray gnatcatcher.
Entered 4/30/2008 8:58:22 PM__________________________________________
Went to the arboretum today. Saw downy woodpecker, yellow-rumped warbler, chipping sparrow. Also saw three I need help IDing:
1. Looks like a Swainson's Thrush. It looks olive green, has nothing on its cheek like a wood thrush, has a little streaking on its head, and was smaller than a robin.
http://image69.webshots.com/469/0/1/50/2831001500059461204MlmTHt_fs.jpg
http://image58.webshots.com/758/9/78/46/2876978460059461204pXfBhH_fs.jpg
2. Looks like some kind of yellowlegs. Seems more gray than brown and has white spots and yellowish legs with an eyering.
http://image58.webshots.com/658/3/62/67/2725362670059461204QSrnnD_fs.jpg
http://image69.webshots.com/469/3/41/12/2144341120059461204gdMgIF_fs.jpg
3. I have no idea what this is. Kind of bluebird looking but has a black line around its crown that runs along the top of its eyes. Chest pure white. Rest of it is bluish-gray.
http://good-times.webshots.com/photo/2965177670059461204jAEyMX
http://image69.webshots.com/469/0/13/48/2788013480059461204vkXWGA_fs.jpg
Any help appreciated. Sorry if these are "easy" but I am still a learner. Thanks! ~Mike
Entered 4/28/2008 11:57:34 PM__________________________________________
Whooper Update - An aerial search for whooping crane nests in and around the Necedah National Wildlife Refuge revealed very exciting news … Four new nests were found, bringing the total number of actively incubating pairs to 10! Two additional pairs are showing signs of nesting, but incubation has not been confirmed. Needless to say, this is wonderful news for the project! Four members of the Class of 2007 also completed migration on April 23, bringing the total to 10 juveniles now back in the Necedah area, with three others in the region. The current estimated maximum size of the eastern migratory population is 72 birds (39 males and 33 females) and as of 21 April, 56 whooping cranes were confirmed back in Wisconsin. Let's hope that 2008 is a good year for wild whooping crane chicks!
Entered 4/27/2008 9:57:05 PM__________________________________________
Reminder - Expert Birders needed for Cherokee Marsh Important Bird Area survey - can you do 1 day for 2 hours? Kickoff meeting Mon Apr 28, 5:30-7 (with pizza!) at the Madison Audubon office, 222 S Hamilton, Madison. We'll go over the maps and you can pick a route. If you miss the meeting, you can still participate. Call 608-698-0104 or email Paul_Noeldner@hotmail.com for more info.
Entered 4/26/2008 3:27:48 PM__________________________________________
4/26/08 Cherokee Marsh/Yahara River: 4 pelicans flying south down river this morning. Quite a few sizable chunks of marsh being driven north by the wind and water today, and the marsh shoreline being chewed away as we watch.
Entered 4/25/2008 9:52:20 PM__________________________________________
Webmaster update - links to MadisonAudubon.org were not working for a period Thursday evening Apr 23 through Friday afternoon Apr 24, due to a problem at the internet name server. Links using the name MadisonAudubon.com continued to work. The MadisonAudubon.org links are back online.
Entered 4/25/2008 9:44:01 PM__________________________________________
The Field Trip to Wyalusing on Saturday is also cancelled due to inclement weather risks.
Please check back later re possiblity of rescheduling this.
Entered 4/25/2008 3:20:46 PM__________________________________________
Due to Tornado Watch, tonights Field Trip at Cherokee Marsh has been cancelled.
Entered 4/24/2008 9:33:59 PM__________________________________________
Webmaster note - the http://madisonaudubon.org web address was not working for a bit for some
reason, it appears to be working now for some folks but others are still having problems.
You can also tell people for whom it's not working, to try http://madisonaudubon.com.
Entered 4/23/2008 8:27:19 AM__________________________________________
Friends of Cherokee have announced that the Wednesday Evening Watershed Walks are back! These walks are wonderful ways to learn about the marsh and nearby natural areas within the Upper Yahara River Watershed. Watershed Walks begin at 6:30 p.m. These are the first two walks:
- April 23, Culver Conservancy, Token Creek Watershed Assn-3667 Egre Rd, DeForest, Hwy 19, N on Portage Rd, E on Egre Rd. Meet John Hutchinson, chair of Token Creek Watershed Association, for a glimpse of the springs and progress of the restoration of Token Creek.
- April 30, Cherokee Marsh, Yahara Heights-Dane County Park-Catfish Ct, Waunakee, Hwy 113, E on River Rd, immediate right on frontage road. Meet Nancy Schlimgen at the dog park parking lot. Walk along uplands overlooking Cherokee Marsh/sites within Yahara Hts Park. The complete schedule is at http://www.countyofdane.com/lwrd/parks/ - Jan Axelson
Entered 4/22/2008 9:55:32 PM__________________________________________
There were at least three Woodcock "peenting" close to the Nine Springs E-Way parking lot on Moorland Road tonight. I think they'll stay put for at least a few more evenings, if anyone wants a convenient spot to watch their antics. None did an aerial display in the ten minutes I watched, but it may not have been quite dark enough at 8:00 p.m.
Entered 4/21/2008 8:45:00 PM__________________________________________
Although the Prairie Chicken festival is over, this morning I saw a dozen males boom for the benefit of 3 females about one-half hour north of WI Rapids. A farmer has constructed blinds on his property, and for $25/person you can observe. Name is Carl Flaig, and his phone is (715)570-0782. Email is
Entered 4/21/2008 4:49:25 PM__________________________________________
Looks like a Phoebe - I was thinking Pewee, but the bill is all dark. If it was wagging its tail, then it was definitely a Phoebe.
Entered 4/21/2008 9:33:06 AM__________________________________________
Can anyone help me ID this one? Is it just a phoebe? It seems to have some dark blue on the wing. Taken at Governor Dodge SP yesterday.
http://image66.webshots.com/666/6/8/60/2889608600059461204CYTcge_fs.jpg
Entered 4/20/2008 10:29:52 PM__________________________________________
Sat May 3 - 10 am to noon - Spring Thaw Hike at Cherokee Marsh
Join naturalist Emily Steinwehe on a “Spring Thaw” hike in Cherokee Marsh, Dane County’s largest wetland. Seek out spring wildflowers, sandhill cranes, and great blue herons. Meet at
Cherokee Marsh Conservation Park parking lot, 6098 N. Sherman Ave., Madison,
No charge. Refreshments provided. Sponsored by the Friends of Cherokee Marsh, www.CherokeeMarsh.org
Entered 4/20/2008 10:27:15 PM__________________________________________
Also saw Rufus-Sided Towhee in Maple Bluff
Entered 4/19/2008 3:05:52 PM__________________________________________
Saturday 3:00PM April 19. West side of Madison near Elver Park. Rufus sided Towhee in the backyard.
Entered 4/19/2008 2:59:23 PM__________________________________________
Saturday 9:00AM April 19. West side of Madison near Elver Park. White throated sparrows showed up in my garden today.
Entered 4/19/2008 2:50:54 PM__________________________________________
Saw TONS of kinglets...mostly Ruby-crowned but some Golden-crowned, Yellow-Rumped Warblers, Palm warbler, song sparrows, green herons, various species of ducks on Picnic Point on UW campus. Will be better sightings during the week though with less people, dogs, etc.
Entered 4/19/2008 1:32:54 PM__________________________________________
Pelicans, meadowlarks, and sandhill cranes (walking around) at Gov. Nelson SP
Entered 4/19/2008 12:52:05 PM__________________________________________
At least 8 Horned Grebes at Nine Springs this morning (third pond in from the entrance.) Also a Green Heron and several common duck species, plus a Canada Goose on a nest already. There also was a couple quite a ways ahead of me with a dog (offleash, at that.) A reminder: pets are not allowed on the dikes at Nine Springs (nor are bikes, although that's not on the signage.) I'm trying to get better, more obvious signage installed.
Entered 4/19/2008 6:40:49 AM__________________________________________
WHITE PELICANS: coincidence or not (see earlier post here), I did see a group of FIVE yesterday (April 18th) in Madison. Also some other personal -first-of-the-year birds: Green Heron,
Palm Warbler and Grasshopper Sparrow. Good hawk migration, too; about 80 Broadwings included.
Entered 4/18/2008 3:06:57 PM__________________________________________
I'm trying to fill out a group to view some of the orginal Audubon prints at The Overture Center. The date is Tuesday April 22nd. From 1:00pm to 2:00 pm. The cost is five dollars a person. If interested please respond to the following e-mail address ( cadlostpines@earthlink.net ). I need to let The Overture Center know how many viewers might be showing up, so the sooner the better. Chris
Entered 4/18/2008 11:15:34 AM__________________________________________
Friday morning: I checked out the Hwy V ponds west of De Forest and observed a flock of Bonapart's Gulls. The Canvasbacks, Redheads, Buffleheads, Ruddy Ducks are still at Goose Pond.
Entered 4/17/2008 9:50:34 PM__________________________________________
"4/16/08 - Saw 5 large white birds soaring over Lower Mud Lake at approximately 10:45 a.m. Trying to confirm whether Whooping Cranes or Great American White Pelicans. Anyone else with a similar sighting?"
Just a little ID help:
You would know if they were Cranes or not. If you're not certain, then they're more likely to be Pelicans.
You might mistake the Pelican's long bill for a long neck at a distance but Cranes have long legs. Pelicans do not. They look like someone clipped their tail off.
Pelicans have rather extensive black on the underwing. Cranes have only a little more than the wingtips dipped in black.
Now, I'm not saying that the two are impossible to mistake. I have done that myself.
These are just some pointers to help ID at a medium range. Using binoculars does help to make ID easier.
Entered 4/17/2008 9:10:22 PM__________________________________________
Eastern Towhees are just beginning to migrate through our area. Most won't go too much farther north to breed, and they can be found around here all summer. Check brushy woods for them - learn the "chewink" call note and the "drink-your-tea!" song, and you'll hear them all over.
Entered 4/17/2008 2:06:07 PM__________________________________________
Not sure about the immediate Madison area, but up in Marquette county we see Eastern Towhees all summer.
Entered 4/17/2008 1:08:17 PM__________________________________________
Saw a male Eastern Towhee at our feeder today (in Fitchburg). Does anyone know if this is their normal time for migrating through or will they stay here? I don't know anything about them and this is my first time seeing them. I am hoping to catch a picture of him sometime today...if they are migrating how long can I expect to see him?!?
Thanks for your help in advance :)
Entered 4/16/2008 9:40:12 PM__________________________________________
Another 'close encounter with a hawk' today. A Sharpie swooped and landed right on the trunk of a parked car just as I drove by on Franklin Street in downtown Madison.
Entered 4/16/2008 4:47:31 PM__________________________________________
4/16/08 - Saw 5 large white birds soaring over Lower Mud Lake at approximately 10:45 a.m. Trying to confirm whether Whooping Cranes or Great American White Pelicans. Anyone else with a similar sighting?
Entered 4/16/2008 8:56:52 AM__________________________________________
At least 16 Great American White Pelicans seen yesterday at the north end of Lake Mendota at the Yahara River. It was quite a sight as they worked together along the shore looking for food. Later on they all huddle together on or near the little island with one tree on it.
Heddy
Entered 4/15/2008 8:16:42 PM__________________________________________
Great horned owl nesting on the island at Warner park. I'm not the best photog, but did get a few shots of the nest and an adult watching over...
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2136/2416950679_d149f3b887_b.jpg
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3292/2416953625_a6331ee974_b.jpg
Entered 4/15/2008 5:14:55 PM__________________________________________
Anyone have a tip for keeping house sparrows out of BLUEBIRD houses?? They come back no matter how many times I take out the nest.
Also, in the city of Lodi, saw a lone Bufflehead on a pond and heard a Great Horned Owl.
Entered 4/14/2008 9:26:45 PM__________________________________________
On Monona Bay this evening - 52 Common Loons, with another 44 (at least) on the main lake. Just perfect viewing conditions with no wind - unfortunately, tomorrow will be much windier.
Entered 4/14/2008 1:55:50 PM__________________________________________
Speaking of Cherokee Marsh, is there a controlled burn there today? I just noticed a huge column of smoke up in that direction while checking out Lake Mendota from behind the UW Memorial Union (at least 8 Common Loons and 18 Horned Grebes out on the lake - ideal conditions right now.)
Entered 4/14/2008 1:35:27 PM__________________________________________
Cherokee Marsh/Yahara River: 3 Great Egrets at river's edge this afternoon.
Entered 4/14/2008 8:19:18 AM__________________________________________
Friends near Goodland Park (S of Madison) reported a wood duck female in a tree in their backyard yesterday. And this morning I have one perched in a maple in my yard in Windsor (N of Madison) being investigated by starlings who have already nested in the tree's holes.
Entered 4/14/2008 7:28:57 AM__________________________________________
re Northern Goshawk in a Madison backyard, it's more likely to be either of the other two Accipiter species, Sharp-shinned or Cooper's Hawk. If it's still here in June, then Cooper's, since Sharp-shinned don't nest in Madison.
Entered 4/14/2008 7:28:34 AM__________________________________________
re Northern Goshawk in a Madison backyard, it's more likely to be either of the other two Accipiter species, Sharp-shinned or Cooper's Hawk. If it's still here in June, then Cooper's, since Sharp-shinned don't nest in Madison.
Entered 4/13/2008 8:52:06 PM__________________________________________
Your photos are of a Hermit Thrush - note the olive-brown back with the rufous tail (only thrush with this coloration.) They also habitually wag their tail slowly. Again, it would be extremely early for a Wood Thrush (current record early date is April 16.) Your warbler was most likely a Yellow-rumped - like the Hermit Thrush, they're usually the first of their family to come back in spring.
Entered 4/13/2008 7:01:32 PM__________________________________________
Northern Goshawk sighted in a back yard on the north side of madison 04/12/08. Adam 347-2326
Entered 4/13/2008 5:57:06 PM__________________________________________
Oops forgot the link. See the post right below this one: http://community.webshots.com/album/563002937mOVIch?vhost=community
Entered 4/13/2008 5:56:14 PM__________________________________________
Speaking of thrushes...
Went to Lake Kegonsa SP today and saw a ruby crowned kinglet, brown creepers, scaups, ruddy ducks, common mergansers, coots, downy woodpeckers, song sparrows and chickadees. Also saw a thrush, photo at the link below. Not sure if this is a wood thrush or hermit thrush. My guess is the latter.
Then went to Blue Mound SP. Saw some kind of warbler I think (colored yellow, black and white), another thrush (see photo), juncos and a fox sparrow I think.
Take a look at the last 2 photos and see what you think (click on the photo then click the little magnifying glass that says view full size). I am not too experienced so help is appreciated. Reply here or leave a message at the site under the comment section for the photo.
I'll put up the other photos later. Got some decent ones of the kinglet and creepers, among others.
Entered 4/12/2008 9:17:07 PM__________________________________________
Another possible source of confusion with Wood Thrush would be Brown Thrasher, which has very similar coloration (albeit with a much longer tail,) and behaves in exactly the manner described. They are back now - saw a couple at Lake Farm Co. Park this a.m.
Entered 4/11/2008 8:18:56 PM__________________________________________
I remember when a Wood Thrush was reported around this time in Madison, years ago. It turned out to be a FOX SPARROW, even the original observer agreed. So that is another possibility to consider...
Entered 4/11/2008 8:03:12 PM__________________________________________
If you're absolutely certain about that being a Wood Thrush, I would strongly urge you to report it officially to the Wisc. Soc. for Ornithology, because it would be a record early date (previous early arrival date is Apr. 16, in 1979.) You can submit a report at this url: http://www.wsobirds.org/wso_forms.html
Entered 4/11/2008 4:48:51 PM__________________________________________
Beautiful bright rust-colored Wood Thrush in my back yard (off Regent Street by West High)today, tossing leaves around as it foraged actively. Hermit Thrushes come through every year, first time for a Wood Thrush.
Entered 4/11/2008 1:51:17 PM__________________________________________
On my lunch break today, I went to the stone pier behind Memorial Union on the UW Campus. There are at least 32 Common Loons visible on Lake Mendota, some of them quite close to shore & calling! There were also 4 Horned Grebes, one in full breeding plumage, right behind the Red Gym on Langdon St. I love spring!
Entered 4/11/2008 11:12:02 AM__________________________________________
Cherokee Lake/Marsh/Yahara River area -- eight or nine floating "islands" drifting northward after yesterday's heavy rains caused water levels to rise in the marsh.
Entered 4/11/2008 10:33:28 AM__________________________________________
On the Yahara, at Cherokee Marsh, 4 cormorants and a heron this morning.
Entered 4/8/2008 4:47:11 PM__________________________________________
An observer reported 77 (!) Common Loons on Lake Kegonsa this morning (Tues. 4/8) - there are also many on Lake Waubesa (I had 26 easily visible from the boat landing at Lake Farm County Park last night.) I'm sure there are easily dozens on Lake Monona & Monona Bay, also. (Lake Mendota is still largely frozen.)
Entered 4/7/2008 4:10:34 PM__________________________________________
I took a drive over to Goose Pond this afternoon. There were large flocks of Canvasbacks, male and female; probably over 200. Or to be more precise, a paddling of ducks, a raft of ducks, a team of ducks and a dopping of ducks.
Entered 4/7/2008 10:03:43 AM__________________________________________
Saw juncos, robins, cardinals, chickadees, phoebes, wild turkeys, downy woodpecker, house finches, brown-headed cowbird, brown creeper, red-tailed hawk, and tree swallows at the Arboretum yesterday.
Those brown creepers are really quiet and hard to see, lucky I saw one.
Latest photos at the end, http://outdoors.webshots.com/album/561738243kxlSdf?vhost=outdoors
Entered 4/6/2008 9:26:38 PM__________________________________________
There was a Ross's Goose found on Saturday by the Madison Audubon field trip, and it was still there this afternoon. It was at the seasonal pond on Harvey Rd., just north of Hwy 60 (just south of Schoeneberg's Marsh - see the map & directions by following the "Sanctuaries" link on the main page.) It's the only white goose there, although there is also a blue-phase Snow Goose.
Entered 4/6/2008 8:15:19 AM__________________________________________
Oops. Amendment to my previous post. Eastern phoebe I meant not black obviously, and the ID help I need is with these.
http://good-times.webshots.com/album/563002937mOVIch?vhost=good-times
~Mike
Entered 4/5/2008 9:21:28 PM__________________________________________
We went for a walk in Governor Nelson State Park yesterday and saw 10 eastern meadowlarks, a few bluebirds, song sparrows, and a red-tailed hawk. Today went to the Arboretum, Goose Pond and Otsego Marsh. We saw these today: Tundra Swans, Canada Geese, Sandhill Cranes, Canvasbacks, Ruddy Ducks, Lesser Scaup, Black Ducks, Wood Ducks, Blue-Winged Teal, American Widgeon, Bufflehead, Shovelers, Mallards, Coots, American Kestral, Northern Shrike, Song Sparrows, Brown Creeper, Blue Jay, Pheseant, Blue Heron, Great Horned Owl, Eastern Phoebe and of course your WI regulars :) Good Luck Birding!
Entered 4/5/2008 8:20:51 PM__________________________________________
Went to the arboretum today. Saw the usual chickadees, nuthatches and house finches, but also saw several bluebirds, what I think were black phoebes, some juncos (assuming they are still around), a yellow-bellied sapsucker, and some robins. Some of those are here, at the end of the album: http://outdoors.webshots.com/album/561738243kxlSdf?vhost=outdoors&start=28
Others I could use assistance with (click view full size, it's a little magnifying glass): saw a hawk in the sky that doesn't quite match the photos, but I think it's a red-tailed. And a sparrow-looking bird which I can't seem to ID. Appears to have a white stripe above the eye and one right on its neck. And it's kind of a brown color. Kind of looks like a clay colored sparrow but not sure if the colors are right.
Help is appreciated with those. Also have some photos up from some trips I've taken including one down to Texas (Big Bend and Guadalupe Mountains National Parks) and New Mexico (White Sands) this winter and a spring break trip to the Everglades and Biscayne National Parks. Some good bird photos in those.
Entered 3/31/2008 12:55:35 AM__________________________________________
Good article re how what we eat affects birds - paying a bit more for organic and fair trade food, is a good step to help avoid this kind of problem - http://www.nytimes.com/2008/03/30/opinion/30stutchbury.html?em&ex=1207108800&en=110a4c484f3ed9f9&ei=5087%0A
Entered 3/30/2008 9:20:12 PM__________________________________________
Thank you! I think it is a song sparrow. The picture in my book wasn't detailed enough, but other pics I now look up definitely match him.
Btw, saw an amazing flock of 10 sandhill cranes yesterday over at the waste water treatment plant on moorland road in madison:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qu-PsYiI7_8
Entered 3/30/2008 8:42:46 PM__________________________________________
Even though most of the actual ponds in northern Dane & southern Columbia Counties are still frozen, there are some excellent flooded fields with a lot of waterfowl. A couple of the better ones are on Schumacher Rd., north of Cuba Valley Rd. (Schumacher goes north from the Waunakee Culver's,) and a very large complex of flooded fields northeast of DeForest, bordered by County DM, Harvey Rd., & Wangsness Rd. There were Tundra Swans, three species of geese (Canada, Cackling, and Greater White-fronted,) and fourteen species of ducks there Sunday afternoon.
Entered 3/30/2008 6:54:39 PM__________________________________________
Your mystery bird looks like a song sparrow to me. The Sibley's guide has a good drawing of the bird from the front.
Entered 3/30/2008 6:52:33 PM__________________________________________
Got out hiking to Indian lake on 3/30, and besides two Eastern Medowlarks, the big find was two Black Baked Gulls on the lake. It's mostly frozen with an area of open water in the middle. Couldn't tell if they were Greater of Lesser as they were some distance away and I didn't have a scope, just binoculars.
Alan
Entered 3/30/2008 5:43:22 PM__________________________________________
Hey there everyone! I was wondering if I could ask for help identifying this new bird that has been arriving at my feeder for the last few weeks. He looks like a sparrow, but the dark triangles on his chest don't match the sparrows in any of my books. Here are a few pictures of him/her (below).
I am in the middle of residential verona, wi. He is finch and sparrow sized. Thanks!
http://img2.freeimagehosting.net/uploads/9033032dc8.jpg
Entered 3/30/2008 10:20:50 AM__________________________________________
Connecting Students, Teachers, and Parents to Wildlife in the Madison Area - The Madison Audubon Society is hosting an afternoon mini-workshop and evening program on how to involve youngsters and their parents with Madison-area wildlife. The workshop, for formal and non-formal educators who work with youth and nature, will be held at the Aldo Leopold Nature Center, 300 Femrite Drive, Monona, on Saturday, April 5 from 3:30 p.m. to 6 p.m. The workshop will be followed by an indoor live Wisconsin Frogs program at 7:30 p.m. that is open to the public. Participants at the evening frog program may walk trails to listen to calling frogs if the weather warms. Please dress accordingly. During the afternoon workshop, members of the Madison Audubon Education Committee will explain their bird education programs and other nature education opportunities that are available to local schools and families throughout the year. Randy Korb, an environmental educator formerly of Green Bay now living in St. Croix Falls, will discuss how schools and non-profit organizations can prosper by connecting students and parents to nature through local wildlife field trips and citizen science projects. The evening program is a real life demonstration of the principles learned during the afternoon workshop. Pre-registration is not required for the afternoon workshop or evening program. Both sessions are free but a $5 donation to offset expenses is appreciated. For more information contact Randy Korb at rkorbbio@aol.com or 715/483-2742.
Entered 3/27/2008 3:42:32 PM__________________________________________
The recent edition of Birder's World has a very nice article about Nine Springs Natural Area by Chuck Heikkinen.
Entered 3/27/2008 2:58:30 PM__________________________________________
As a Bird Mentor, I checked out the selection of books at the UW Arboretum Bookstore and found some books for teachers and families. Sharing Nature With Childre, Nature Smart, Sharing the Wonter of Birds with Kids, Wildlife Habitats and Small Wonders are all very helpful books to teach students and family members about birds.
Entered 3/27/2008 2:36:03 PM__________________________________________
I was recording birds in my backyard for Project Feeder Watch today and spotted a SONG SPARROW. This makes 44 species noted in my city backyard. Not sure if this is average or not, but I don't usually get Song Sparrows.
Entered 3/26/2008 3:56:34 PM__________________________________________
Goose Pond still frozen and birdless on March 26, with just a little thawing on western edge.
Entered 3/25/2008 10:54:14 AM__________________________________________
Birding Lake Farms Co Park - 3/29/08
UPDATE
Because the Heritage Center gets used for events that take up the parking area I decided not to meet there anymore. So we will meet at the #1 shelter lot on Libby Rd and go from 9-11. Two hrs is plenty of time for the area we cover. Bring a scope if you want as we will see ducks on Lk Wabesa and Upper Mud Lk. Wear boots for muddy conditions.
Entered 3/25/2008 10:29:08 AM__________________________________________
Attention Madison-area and All Wisconsin Birders!
Go birding, help birds, win prizes. Registration has begun for Avian Odyssey, a fun birding event coming this May to support the lifesaving work for wild birds at the Wisconsin Humane Society’s Wildlife Rehabilitation Center. Prizes will be awarded in several categories. You can participate by birding in your own yard or neighborhood, or take a Big Day trip across the state! To register or for more information visit: savinglives.wihumane.org/avianodyssey.
Entered 3/25/2008 10:24:01 AM__________________________________________
Goose Pond is still frozen as of 3/23/08.
Entered 3/25/2008 9:34:10 AM__________________________________________
You're invited to a "Spring Thaw" hike in Cherokee Marsh with naturalist Emily Steinwehe. Seek out spring wildflowers, sandhill cranes, and great blue herons. Refreshments provided. April 12, Saturday, noon to 2 pm, Cherokee Marsh Conservation Park, 6098 N. Sherman Ave. (Follow N.
Sherman to the very end.) Sponsored by the Friends of Cherokee Marsh. We hope to see you there!
Jan Axelson www.CherokeeMarsh.org
Entered 3/23/2008 1:42:07 AM__________________________________________
Pretty neat close encouter with a Sharpie or Coopers hawk today! It flew out from under a large evergreen shrub by the patio when I was kneeling to leash my dog. It's wings brushed my head and back as it went by, just got a glimpse of it. It was probably in the shrub hunting for sparrows and I may have interrupted a meal. Also saw Redwing Blackbirds today in quantity, happily singing summer songs perched above the snow.
Entered 3/22/2008 8:42:02 AM__________________________________________
The northeast winds yesterday opened up the ice along Lake Monona from Monona Terrace to BB Clarke Beach. Should be good numbers of ducks there today (and keep your eyes open for the Eurasian Widgeon that was spotted on Mud Lake in McFarland last weekend - it hasn't been seen all week, but it could still be in the area.)
Entered 3/20/2008 1:07:58 PM__________________________________________
Nine Springs Water Treatment area was wonderful last night. We saw probably 250 Mallards, 25 Shovelers, a lesser Scaup, 4 Sandhills, some Blue-winged Teal, lots of Red-winged Blackbirds and American Tree Sparrows.
Entered 3/20/2008 6:56:52 AM__________________________________________
I'm not sure about Goose Pond, but Whalen's Grade (Lake Wisconsin) was excellent this past weekend. All kinds of ducks, coots, swans, gulls, cranes, etc. I counted 13 Bald Eagle's fishing and standing about the ice. We got some excellent photos plus the location of the open water where the birds congregated meant you could hear them just by rolling down the car windows. The eagles were very vocal.
Also, locals counted 30 Bald Eagles on Okee Bay this past week. The water has opened up a lot the last few days so they are more dispersed but there are lots of other waterbirds to be seen. Harder to find a viewing spot in Okee, however.
Entered 3/19/2008 3:58:49 PM__________________________________________
Does anyone know if there is open water at Goose Pond yet?
Entered 3/19/2008 1:42:49 PM__________________________________________
The Mississippi River has started opening up over the past week, so waterfowl watching
should be good. On March 8, when there was still considerable ice on the river, someone found
Redhead, Ring-necked Duck, Lesser Scaup, Common Goldeneye, Hooded Merganser, Common Merganser,
& Ruddy Duck at Cassville. At Potosi, which had VERY little open water, he found Trumpeter Swans
(2 with neck bands) and Canada Geese. By this weekend, there should be much more on the river.
Entered 3/19/2008 12:36:58 AM__________________________________________
Robins are back all over town
Entered 3/18/2008 3:49:17 PM__________________________________________
I'm looking to update my SW Wisconsin DUCK LIST. Any tips for finding them Easter ('08)
weekend when I'm back in the area between Prairie du Chien and Dubuque? THANKS! lauriek@alpinecom.net
Entered 3/17/2008 4:40:32 PM__________________________________________
Sat, April 12, 1:30 - 3:30 p.m.: Meet author, Mariette Nowak, who will be at the Arboretum
Bookstore, 1207 Seminole Highway, to talk about and sign copies of her book, "Birdscaping
in the Midwest: A Guide to Gardening with Native Plants to Attract Birds." Call Peggy Brown
at 608-265-5215 for more information.
Entered 3/17/2008 4:08:15 PM__________________________________________
Everyone is invited to join the Friends of the Lakeshore Nature Preserve at their annual meeting
on Tues., April 8, at 7 p.m. at the UW Arboretum Visitor Center. Award-winning author, historian,
and environmentalist David Mollenhoff will speak on "The Remarkable Power of Great Civic Vision".
Mollenhoff asserts that from the time humans first saw the place we now call Madison, they
considered it special and that this exceptionalism, coupled with compelling visions, is
responsible for a long list of city and University of Wisconsin achievements.
Using this framework Mollenhoff analyzes the Lakeshore Nature Preserve. Turning his attention
to the Preserve’s future, he will propose two exciting opportunities for visionary leadership:
participating in the development and implementation of a practical vision for Lake Mendota and
creating a memorable new entrance to the Preserve. Mollenhoff is the author of "Madison: A
History of the Formative Years" (UW Press, 2003) and the presenter of an influential address
"A Vision for the Madison Lakes" at the First Annual Yahara Lakes Conference in May, 2007.
Refreshments will be provided.
Entered 3/17/2008 1:09:56 AM__________________________________________
Scotland loves it's Starlings - this is an amazing video - http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/21134540/vp/23661741#23661741
Entered 3/15/2008 6:52:06 PM__________________________________________
Today, 3/15/08, is the first day that the red-winged black birds have shown up at our backyard feeders (Cherokee Marsh area).
Entered 3/15/2008 6:47:52 PM_