Signal Smoke

Travis Audubon

The Newsletter of Travis Audubon

VOLUME 59, NO. 3 & 4 Inspiring Conservation Through Birding March/April 2010

McKee, President of the Stonegate/Oaklawn neighborhood

TRAVIS AUDUBON SANCTUARY: association, of which Blair Woods is a part, is a retired firefighter
BLAIR WOODS and current instructor of Fire Science at LBJ Science Academy.

T
ravis Audubon is pleased to announce a new, regularly
occurring feature in Signal Smoke highlighting our third
sanctuary; Blair Woods.
A big thank you goes out to the Shield-Ayres Foundation
for their recent grant of $15,000 to support our work and
programming at Blair Woods. The Shield-Ayres grant will
be used to create a small parking area, secure our small
historical barn, provide signage and fencing to delineate our
area from that used by Wildlife Rescue, and to provide the
supplies, materials and equipment for Blair Woods educational
programming. Work on the parking area and trail from the
parking area to the pond, began on January 18, 2010.
Fire Science is a two-year program for junior and senior high
school students, culminating in certification as firefighters. Larry
committed several of his junior and senior Fire Science students
to our Martin Luther King work day at Blair Woods. As an added
bonus, five other firefighters/instructors provided muscle to that
ligustrum. The results were phenomenal. Thank you, Larry!
Dustin Howell, the co-chair of the Community Service Committee
of the Young Lawyers Association, rounded up eight lawyers who
contributed their energy to the work at Blair Woods on MLK day.
Rounding out the phenomenal group of workers were several
members of the Windsor Park Neighborhood Association and
Karon Smutzor, the Norman Elementary After School supervisor,
who brought several of her family members.

On January 18, 2010, Martin Luther King Day, 55 volunteers We have reached a milestone in the restoration of Blair Woods.
heeded the call to volunteer on this National Day of Service To see pictures and a report of the work completed on January 18,
by committing their time and energy to Blair Woods. Larry 2010, go to www.travisaudubon.org/new_blair.html.
Nancy Manning

LBJ Fire Science students. Photo credits: Nancy Manning

TA Monthly Meetings
Complete meeting details on Page 3
Thursday, Mar 18 7:00 pm Thursday, Apr 15 7:00 pm
Insect Diversity Westminster Presbyterian Church
The Aransas Project 3208 Exposition Blvd. Austin,TX
Speaker: Dr. David Kattes Speaker: Jim Blackburn
Doors open at 6:30 pm for social time
 INSIDE
Travis Audubon Mission Statement
Travis Audubon promotes the enjoyment, understanding, and conservation THIS ISSUE Our Donors........................................7 TA Events....................................12-13
General Address of native birds and their habitats.
3710 Cedar Street, Box 5 From the President...........................2 Hornsby Bend News.........................8
Austin, TX. 78705 From the Travis Audubon President TA Classes........................................14
Naturalist’s Calendar........................4 Committee Corner ..........................9
Phone numbers listed below without Brunch with the birds....................15

F
an area code are local numbers in the ellow birders and conservationists, we have been given a wonderful TA News and Notes.........................5 Notes from Chaetura Canyon.....10
512 area. Travis Audubon
challenge! The Malcolm C. Damuth Foundation has presented Travis
Bird-a-thon 2010...............................6 Baker Sanctuary News...................11 Membership Form............Back page
Officers and Directors Audubon with a $40,000 challenge grant to expand Chaetura Canyon
2009-2010
Sanctuary. Every dollar raised by Travis Audubon will be matched dollar
President for dollar up to $40,000.
Valarie Bristol 300-BIRD
Vice President
Chris Masey
Treasurer
300-BIRD
Paul and Georgean Kyle have lovingly stewarded this remarkable place
from cedar brake to a thriving habitat for birds and other critters for Monthly Meeting Information
Vacant 300-BIRD over thirty years. There is some remaining undeveloped land adjacent to
Secretary
Claude Morris 300-BIRD
Chaetura, but houses are being built all around it. Travis Audubon Regular Monthly Meeting - 7:00 pm
Directors Now is the moment to secure Chaetura Canyon’s amazing diversity of (doors open at 6:30 pm for social time, 7:00 pm for announcements, speaker at 7:30 pm)
Robin Doughty native plants, birds and geology. Thirty bird species nest on the property NOTE: New permanent location for general membership meetings - Westminster Presbyterian Church at
Bill Edwards
Ann Gardner and over 150 species have been documented using it. Chaetura is a 3208 Exposition Blvd. Austin TX 78703 512-459-5497
Shelia Hargis treasure. Help protect this precious land for generations by donating to
Clif Ladd Directions: From Mopac, take the 35th street exit and go west on 35th to Exposition Blvd. Turn left on Exposition
Kelly Logan the Chaetura Canyon Challenge when the appeal is launched in March.
Marsha May approximately two blocks to Carlton Lane. The church sits on the corner of Carlton and Exposition. Drive down Carlton past
Jeff Mundy Valarie Bristol the church to the parking lot on your left. The Fellowship Hall is the large building just east of the parking lot. The building is
identified with the words “Fellowship Hall” on the outside of the building. Refreshments provided. No monthly meetings during
Executive Director June, July, or August.
Nancy Manning
300-BIRD Travis Audubon COMMITTEE CHAIRS
Office Administrator March 18, 2010 April 15, 2010
Gail Buxton 300-BIRD TAS Rare Bird Alert Eric Carpenter ecarpe@gmail.com
Advocacy Vacant Location: Westminster Presbyterian Church Location: Westminster Presbyterian Church
Bird Records Lawrence Buford 452-6344
Volunteer/Membership Director Ethel Kutac 346-7659 3208 Exposition Blvd. Austin TX 3208 Exposition Blvd. Austin, TX
Jocelyn Taijeron 300-BIRD Habitat Conservation Laurie Foss 300-BIRD
Baker Sanctuary Steward


Education Byron Stone
Frances Cerbines
970-5154
300-BIRD
Guest Speaker: Dr. David Kattes Guest Speaker: Jim Blackburn
Derik Caudill 219-8425 Topic: The Aransas Project
Field Trips Jeff Patterson 300-BIRD Topic: Insect Diversity
Terry Banks 300-BIRD
Chaetura Canyon Sanctaury Hornsby Bend Julia Balinsky 300-BIRD It is common knowledge that insects are an important component In the winter of 2008 – 2009, 28 Whooping Cranes starved to death
Stewards Hospitality Susan Moak 925-4590 of any ecosystem. Insects feed on plants, eat other insects, and on their wintering grounds here in Texas. There is a significant risk of
Georgean & Paul Kyle 266-3861 Latin America Bob Warneke 300-BIRD
Fundraising/Membership/Outreach Nancy Manning 300-BIRD serve as food for birds and other animals. They are also important more starving to death this winter. The root cause of their starvation
ACT Representatives Programs Ann Gardner 306-0737 pollinators and in the recycling of organic matter. But have you is the lack of adequate freshwater inflows into the bay system. The
Tony Wood (interim state president) Property and Finance Vacant ever really considered the diversity of these tiny creatures? In this lack of adequate water flow into the bay causes a crash in blue crabs,
210 408-1284 Publications Tess Sherman 300-2473 program, we will explore the vast niches that insects occupy and which are the primary food for the cranes.
Bryan Hale (state treasurer) 474-5599 Sanctuary Chair Terri Siegenthaler 263-2237
Youth Education Nancy Manning 300-BIRD discuss how they can survive in this peril-filled world.
Signal Smoke Editor In light of the extremely serious threat to the cranes, the board of the
Urban Habitat Jane Tillman 794-0058
Tess Sherman 300-BIRD
The program will begin with an overview of the importance of Travis Audubon Society voted to join with Houston Audubon, the
Travis Audubon Telephone ABOUT SIGNAL SMOKE insects in the food web and the interdependence of these creatures International Crane Foundation, Aransas County, and other diverse
The office number is 512-300-BIRD with other organisms. We will then explore the numerous methods groups to seeking court intervention to protect the Guadalupe River
(2473).
Subscription Information without permission in writing from Travis used by insects to find food and to keep from becoming food watershed and inflows into the bay. This effort is known as “The
Signal Smoke (ISSN 1931-9282), was pub- Audubon.
Travis Audubon Web Site lished 11 times yearly through Volume 56, themselves. Aransas Project.”
www.travisaudubon.org No.4, and beginning with Volume 56, No.5,
Newsletter Deadline
The submissions deadline is the first day of the Dr. Kattes is a full professor at Tarleton State University as well
is published 6 times yearly. Subscription is a Attorney Jim Blackburn is the lead attorney for the The Aransas
Travis Audubon Email month preceding the first month of publication
TA mem­­­ber­ship bene­fit. To join, use the form as the author of Insects of Texas; A Practical Guide, published Project. He will brief the TA membership on the efforts to save the
info@travisaudubon.org (for example, June 1 for the July/August issue).
on the back page of this issue or go to www. by TAMU Press. His current research covers a variety of topics cranes. In 2004, Texas A&M Press published The Book of Texas Bays
Signal Smoke (ISSN 1931-9282) Sub­mit uncopyright­ed arti­cles, ­an­nounce­­­­ments,
travisaudubon.org for an online form. For
address or subscription changes, please call
and art to Tess Sherman, tsherman1@austin. including insects, wildlife, native and exotic grasses throughout written by Jim, with photos by renowned Houston photographer Jim
Signal Smoke is printed rr.com; or mail to 210 E. Walnut Dr., Austin, Texas. Olive. He is an Adjunct Professor and Lecturer in Environmental Law
512.300.BIRD (2473) or e-mail info@travi-
TX 78753. Sub­mis­sions by e­­mail or on a CD
on recycled paper with soy ink. saudubon.org. The USPS does not forward in the Environmental Sciences and Engineering Department of Rice
are pre­ferred but not re­quired. Call Tess at 300-
Signal Smoke. Copyright © 2010. No part of University.
BIRD if you have questions.
this publication may be reproduced
2 S I G N A L S M O K E / March/April 2010 TRAVIS AUDUBON TRAVIS AUDUBON S I G N A L S M O K E / March/April 2010 3
 NATURALIST’S
CALENDAR by Bill Reiner
photo by Robert Baumgardner
T
he scissor-tail has the philosophic self-assurance of an elite,
the aplomb of a settled and unchallenged aristocracy whose
ancient privileges it is bad form even to question. He takes
his lumbersome prey on the wing in playful mood, and fights as if
he were breaking a lance more in sport than in anger. He simply
devils hawks, vultures, and crows – especially crows, enjoying
mildly the impotence of their anger. – Roy Bedichek, Karankaway
Country.
Dapper, graceful, flamboyant, and seemingly fearless, Scissor-
tailed Flycatchers are favorites of birders and non-birders alike.
Sometimes called the Texas bird-of-paradise, the Scissor-tailed
Flycatcher breeds nowhere else but on the southern plains of the
United States and adjacent Mexico. The birds can be found nearly
throughout Texas, but only Oklahomans were savvy enough to
designate this delightful species as their state bird.
Scissor-tails return to Austin from their Central American wintering
grounds about mid-March, soon after the Golden-cheeked
Warblers, and along with some of the other early migrants such
as Blue-gray Gnatcatchers, Ash-throated Flycatchers, and Black-
chinned Hummingbirds. But unlike these other migrants, which
are primarily nocturnal, you may see small groups of Scissor-tails
winging their way north during the day, when their long, banner-like
tails make them instantly recognizable.
Of all the birds that breed in North America, Scissor-tails have
the longest tails in proportion to their bodies. Males sport 9-inch
streamers, at the end of a 6-inch body. Females have more modest 6-
to 6.5-inch tails, but these are still greater than half their total length.
The outermost feathers are much longer than the other tail feathers,
so that when the tail is fanned, the resemblance to a pair of scissors
is quite remarkable.
Soon after he arrives in central Texas, a male Scissor-tail will put his
tail to use in a spectacular, tumbling, courtship display. Powering
up to maybe a hundred feet above the ground, he dives,
climbs again, dives again in roller-coaster flight, all the
while snapping his tail open and shut as if he could
be pruning a hedge with it. He also shows off
the stunning salmon-pink coloring under
his wings, as Bedichek notes: “The
sides of these birds are afire
in the setting sun. Never
before have I felt the
real glory of
pink.”
4 S I G N A L S M O K E / March/April 2010 TRAVIS AUDUBON
The displays are accompanied by loud cackling, or, especially
at dawn and dusk, by the dawn song, which has been effectively
described as “pup-pup-pup-pup-pup-pup-perLEEP.” The last note
is loudest and highest in pitch. (This helps to distinguish it from
the similar dawn song of the related Western Kingbird, which
accents the third or fourth note from the end, then drops in pitch.)
As showy as it is, the tail may be a bit of a handicap when the
birds try to chase down their insect prey. One study found that
the shorter-tailed females have a higher success rate on aerial
sallies. The females also tend to forage from lower perches than
the males, though this may not be a deliberate attempt by the pair
to avoid competing with each other. Rather, the males may choose
higher foraging perches so they can also more effectively defend
their territories.
Grasshoppers are by far the favored prey of Scissor-tailed
Flycatchers. They consume a higher percentage of these insects, so
abundant in their habitat, than any other flycatcher. They are also
more likely than any of their kin to drop to the ground, bluebird-
like, to snatch it up.
Scissor-tails are most at home on the prairies and savannas, and
are rarely seen in woodlands, except as they migrate overhead.
The female generally chooses a large, isolated tree for her nest,
and is particularly likely to pick a mesquite. She will use a variety
of twigs, rootlets, grasses, and other small plants, especially the
low fuzzy-white plants called rabbit-tobacco (Evax sp.). She will
commonly also incorporate cotton, twine, horsehair, or bits of
rags.
The birds are quite adaptable to artificial environments. They
frequently make their homes in trees around shopping-center
parking lots, though they are less likely to thrive in urban areas
than their Western Kingbird cousins. Their adaptability even
earned them a footnote in Austin history. George Finlay Simmons,
in his 1925 publication, Birds of the Austin Region, wrote that
Scissor-tails were building nests in the light towers around Austin,
a mere 30 years after the first “moon towers” were constructed in
1895.
Perhaps the reason was the wealth of moths and other flying
insects drawn to these lights after dark. Scissor-tails have learned
to exploit this bonanza, staying up well past sunset to do so.
Wasn’t it nice of us to provide them the equivalent of an all-night
diner?
In addition to the sources cited within the article, references
included Life Histories of North American Flycatchers,
Larks, Swallows, and their Allies, by Arthur Cleveland Bent,
and “Foraging Patterns of Male and Female Scissor-tailed
Flycatchers,” by Kevin Teather, in The Journal of Field
Ornithology, vol. 63, no. 3.
Photo credit: Jim deVries
News and Notes
SIGNAL SMOKE CHANGES
As you can see we are experimenting with some changes to our in amounts of bleach between our old uncoated paper and our new
newsletter. We have gone to color, thanks to a grant we recently glossy paper is insignificant.
received. Some of you have asked questions about the type of
paper we have chosen. Here is everything you ever wanted to There is the issue of chlorine. If there is ANY amount of post
know about paper. consumer waste (recycled material) in your paper, then your paper
is chlorine free. Both our old issues and new glossy issue contain
Paper is either “coated” or “uncoated.” Coated means it is coated 10% post consumer waste. Therefore, there is no chlorine in any of
with a clay base, which gives it its sheen once it is “calendared.”
the papers we use to print the Signal Smoke, dull or glossy finish.
What is “calendared” you may ask? “Calendaring” is when the
So, why use glossy? Uncoated paper absorbs the color and causes
paper is put through steel rollers, which smash it down. The more
a somewhat blurry look. Whereas, the color will sit on top of the
it is “calendared” the glossier the paper. The paper we used for
coated paper and look cleaner and crisper.
our newsletter before the glossy January/February 2010 edition
was “uncoated.” So, it just didn’t have a clay base and wasn’t
Why paper at all? Our survey results indicated that 66% of
calendared. our respondents prefer the paper version of Signal Smoke.
Additionally, we provide our newsletter to specific retail outlets
In terms of bleach, all paper contains bleach. Every piece of which provide Travis Audubon more exposure in the community.
paper sitting on your desk, in your house, or that comes in the
mail, contains some bleach. All re-cycled paper contains some When you receive your eblast with the link to the survey, please let
bleach. The only paper not bleached is newsprint. The difference us know what you think of this issue of Signal Smoke.
Nancy Manning
TRAVIS AUDUBON ANNOUNCES Annual Meeting on March 18
NEW VIP FIELD TRIP Please join us for our annual business meeting on March 18, 2010.
As a special thank you to our members who support Travis We’ll be reporting on our successes from the prior year as well as
Audubon with annual donations totaling $250 or more, talking about upcoming goals. Also, current TA members will vote
Travis Audubon has instituted a special VIP Field Trip just on a slate of candidates for the Board of Directors. The new term
for you! The total amount donated will be calculated from will begin on April 8, 2010.
all donations made between January 1 and December 31,
including membership fees, annual appeals, and any other type The slate, along with brief biographical information, is available
of donation. The field trip leaders will be awesome and the on our website. Make sure your membership is current so you can
location will be special. So, don’t miss out on this! Leaders and
vote in this election and have a voice in the governance of Travis
location will be announced toward the end of the year.
Audubon.
The Friends of Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge
cordially invite you to join them for the 10th annual Balcones
Songbird Festival, April 23 – 26, 2010. This year there are more
ways than ever to experience the refuge and the birds, so don’t
delay. Register today at www.friendsofbalcones.org.
TRAVIS AUDUBON S I G N A L S M O K E / March/April 2010 5
 Bird-a-thon 2010 tha
y
Man ks!
n Our Donors
Save the dates: MAY 1, 2010 – MAY 8, 2010

T
his year participants have a full eight days in which to have their Bird-a-thon. A Bird-a-thon is still a 24-hour event, but

W
now you can plan for the weather or find a day within that range that fits your schedule. It is also possible to have more
than one Bird-a-thon during that period and compete for prizes with more than one team. First, second, and third place e gratefully acknowledge the Shield-Ayres
prizes will be awarded in two categories: Foundation for their generous grant which will
fund several projects (see the Blair Woods article
Business Members
• Most money raised by a team (overall) on the cover). We also acknowledge the Jacob and Terese Travis Audubon is delighted to
• Most money raised by a team that’s never participated in Bird-a-thon Hershey Foundation for awarding us a grant for our Education recognize its Business Members:
and Outreach Programming. We extend our deepest thanks
to all our donors. Your support is critical to the ongoing Powell, Ebert & Smolik, PC
Prizes include seven fabulous field trips! Brief descriptions appear below; see website for more details.
conservation and education efforts of Travis Audubon. To learn about the benefits of supporting Travis Audubon as a
• A morning bird walk at the Laguna Gloria Art Museum grounds, led by Sam Fason (the younger). Expect to find Business Member, please go to www.travisaudubon.org and
Annual Appeal click on Business Members, or contact Travis Audubon at
migratory birds, Barred Owls and Red-shouldered Hawks.  512.300.BIRD (2473).
Margaret and Heinz Aeschbach
• Field trip at Acacia, on the banks of the Pedernales River. Acacia’s nesting specialties include several pair of Golden- Barbara Anderson
cheeked Warblers, plus Red-shouldered Hawks, Ash-throated Flycatchers, hummingbirds, and a variety of sparrows, Robert and Margaret Ayres
buntings, woodpeckers, tanagers, warblers, vireos, wrens, etc. Judith Bailey
Linda and Gary Berg Nancy Podio
• 7 Oaks Ranch on the banks of the Lampasas River will be the site of a field trip. Recorded species include warblers, Ann Bishop and Penny Potter Joan Pratt
Valarie Bristol Painted Bunting
vireos, sparrows, painted buntings, and the occasional Bald Eagle. Rose Ann Reeser
S. Bruce Brown and Mary Braunagel-Brown Judith Bailey
Martha Renfroe Lawrence Buford
• Field trip on one of the BCP properties led by Laura Zebehazy, natural resource specialist for Travis County. Laura Nancy Charbeneau Leland and Sue Roberts
Jo Clifton and Roger Duncan Barbara Felkins and Jimmy Stanley
will choose a property with the largest Black-capped Vireo colony on the BCP and surrounded by Golden-cheeked Phillip and Beverly Scott
Cinda Crosley Norma Grubert
Warbler habitat. Stuart Shipnes
Fred Dalbey Barbara Kyse
Steve Sigman Wayne and Rachel Lindsay
• Two field trips are being offered to Cherry Springs Ranch, which was purchased from J. Frank Dobie and has been in Marjorie Dearmont Winifred Simon and Shirley Danforth
Jon Devries Julia Marsden
the Edwards family for more than half a century. In addition to the excellent birding, you will also see dinosaur tracks Ernest Smith III
Anne and John Donovan Jorjanna Price
that have been in the creek for 100 million years. Ray Toburen
Olive Forbes Daphne Vaughan
Michael and Joan Foster Vireo
• Full day field trip offered by Jeff Mundy as a Bird Guide to help you track down those elusive life birds in Central Marvin Veselka
Chris Funke Thomas and Gelya Camp
Texas and/or on the Central Texas coast. Maria Weber
Margaret Gorton Lee Decker and Faye Harris
Andrea Weissenbuehler
Beth Gross and David Wolfe Patrick Dillon
Winners in other categories, such as for the best team name, most of one species of bird, will be given recognition in Signal Larry and Jane Wilson
Chris and Alice Gunter Nancy Sue and Carroll Ray Hall
Smoke and at the awards Pot Luck on May 22, 2010. For a full listing of our categories, see our Bird-a-thon webpage at
Sheila Hargis and Laurie Foss Cheryl and Richard Hazeltine
www.travisaudubon.org/Birdathon2010.html. Annual Appeal in Memory of
Jim Hargrove, Jr. Jill Hinckley
Ed Kutac Bev Hoffman and J. Paul Comola
Kay and Joseph Hart
Mark your calendars for the May 22, 2010 Bird-a-thon celebration party at Baker Sanctuary John and Dorothy Hendrick
Michael Gagarin and Donna Carter Ron and Susan Martin
Lucy Jalbert Anna Faye Peterson
George Holmgreen
ON OUR WEBSITE - www.travisaudubon.org/Birdathon2010.html Ulo Kiigemagi Joan Pratt
John Lacy and Marianne Mulrey Annual Appeal in Memory of Jim Walker
You can download a packet of information on our Bird-a-thon page. Jim Markle
Clif Ladd Nancy Webber
The packet includes: Sandy Barling
Dan Levine
• Introduction to TAS Bird-a-thon and invitation to participate Nancy Manning Memorial Gift in Honor of
• Rules for the TAS Bird-a-thon Bert and Louise Marcom Annual Appeal in Tribute to Bert W. Lindsay
• Tips for having a successful Bird-a-thon Chris Marcum Homer Rushing Wayne and Rachel Lindsay
• Sample emails/letters Ron and Susan Martin Todd Jermstad
• Timelines (including deadlines for getting money back) Elizabeth Maxim Chaetura Canyon
• Pledge Form and Report Form Suzanne McAnna Unrestricted Don and Ann Connell
Kim McKnight James Cousar Tess Sherman
If you are putting together a team, make sure to let the office know so we can add you to our Bird-a-thon web page. Leslie Anne Morris Priscilla Dickenson
Rusty Osborne and Cecilia Green Ingrid Huskey GTBC Towhees
Kristy Ozmun Barbara Kyse Judith Bailey
Mary Thorpe Parker Kelly Logan Jim Walker
6 S I G N A L S M O K E / March/April 2010 TRAVIS AUDUBON TRAVIS AUDUBON S I G N A L S M O K E / March/April 2010 7
 Hornsby Bend News Travis Audubon Committee Corner
T
his issue we highlight and recognize the Urban Habitat principles and many other topics. Anne Bellomy says the training is
2010 Purple Martin Season “Exceptional; it’s fun and inspirational.” The next training will be
Committee. This committee has a long and active history
Underway at Hornsby Bend with Travis Audubon. It is chaired by Jane Tillman with co- offered in September 2010.    
Purple Martin scouts leave their wintering grounds in Brazil during Janu- chair Anne Bellomy.
ary and reports of them being seen in Texas begin trickling in. Sometime Most of the Urban Habitat Committee’s
'round mid-month Andy and I head to Hornsby not only to see what great This active committee’s broad reach has members are trained stewards. This last fall
winter birds are on the ponds and in the woods, but also to get the Purple a tremendous impact in our community. the Urban Habitat Committee designed and
Martin colony ready for another season of nesting. Their primary goal is to engage, helped to install a butterfly garden at Norman
encourage, and share with the public, Elementary, our “adopted” school near Blair
In early 2009 we installed a fourth nest rack making 50 compartments for their enthusiasm for gardening for birds. Woods.
these sweetest of all songbirds to raise their young. They used all but four They do this in a number of ways such as
of these for nesting, and we are expanding again this year. The Hornsby giving presentations and staffing tables at On the Travis Audubon website the Urban
Committee is spending some of the money we raised at the 50th Year of various events eight times per year. They Habitat Committee has created a page devoted
Birding at Hornsby Celebration on another gourd rack, this time with a provide information, advice, and links to to backyard birding. They are in the process
capacity of 32 more compartments! It's a circular wagon wheel design. valuable resources. of developing what they feel will be a major
We invite you to come out and see it. resource to foster habitat for birds; a Bird
Photo credits: Andy Balinsky Along with the Wildlife Austin program Habitat Plant list for Travis County which will
Purple Martins nest near water and humans, which makes Hornsby the of Austin’s Parks and Recreation be added to their web page when complete. You
perfect spot. Andy and I go every week to lower the housing units so Department, the committee co-sponsors can see their web page at: www.travisaudubon.
we can count and record nests, eggs, and young while removing the (hosts) the National Wildlife Federation org/urbanhabitat.html.
unwelcome House Sparrow nests. Last year we had the largest number Habitat Steward training annually.
of fledglings since the colony was established in 1999, a whopping 170. Stewards, once trained, serve their To get involved with this active and fun
Come on and lend a hand with Purple Martin monitoring out at Hornsby community to help restore wildlife habitat committee, contact Jane Tillman at: mljt@
Bend, 2210 South FM 973, Austin, TX. We go every 5-7 days into early in backyards, school yards, and other mail.utexas.edu. Let her know if
June. You can email me and we'll arrange to meet you there to show you private and public areas. The training you have a group that would enjoy a
Pictured: Back row from left to right: Jane Tillman, Mary
the ropes. Literally. Happy Spring, y'all. covers native plants for wildlife, invasive Martin, Joan Rivers. Seated from left Julie Sanford, Anne talk on Backyard Birds and/or Bird
Julia Balinsky plants & habitat restoration, attracting Bellomy. Not pictured: Jeanette Sweson, Cathy Gattuso, Gardening.
birds and butterflies, landscape design Kim McKnight. Photo credit: Nancy Manning Nancy Manning
P.S. The first Purple Martin scout showed up in freezing temperatures on
January 31 just after we put nesting material inside the clean gourds. We       
are delighted!
 

Tower Transformation
Two of the three Chimney Swift kiosk towers at Hornsby Bend got a face-lift by
the folks who constructed them in 2000: Paul and Georgean Kyle. They covered
the old, weathered wood with Hardi panel, which will last much longer and will
require much less maintenance. The third Tower, on Platt Lane, had already
been constructed with Hardi panel. On hand to help paint the towers were three
volunteers from the Hornsby Bend Committee, Julia Balinsky, Andy Balinsky, and
Julia Heskett.

The tower at Pond Two did have a nest, but there was no indication that any eggs
were laid. The tower on Platt Lane did not show any evidence of nesting last
summer.

At the tower near the CER, there was one nest discovered. Georgean was able to
ascertain, by the debris at the bottom of the tower, that there were three eggs that
hatched. There was one small fledgling skeleton in the debris, which meant that
one fledgling did not make it. But Georgean was heartened by evidence indicating
that two fledglings might have survived in a year with such a catastrophic drought.

Funding for the materials and for the new interpretive displays was made possible
by a grant to Travis Audubon by Texas Audubon.
Julia Balinsky The tower’s before look Time for new siding. A fresh coat of paint. The tower’s great new look
Photos courtesy of Paul & Georgean Kyle

8 S I G N A L S M O K E / March/April 2010 TRAVIS AUDUBON

TRAVIS AUDUBON S I G N A L S M O K E / March/April 2010 9
 Notes from Chaetura Canyon Baker Sanctuary News

A W
vian species number 158 for the Sanctuary was Lesser Goldfinches on a home-made thistle sock inter is slowly giving way to spring and that means
Photo credits: Paul Kyle Baker Sanctuary is again open to all Travis Audubon
discovered on January 17. El Nino rains had
increased the water table level in the canyon enough members to enjoy the Golden-cheeked Warbler nesting
to allow the wet weather creek to finally flow again after two season from March through August. The warblers spend the
years of drought conditions. Water bubbling and gurgling winter months in southern Mexico and Guatemala, but every
year in March they begin their long journey to Central Texas to

Photo credit: Derik Caudill

over the rocks could be heard from the deck. We donned
our binoculars and followed the trail downhill. Dozens of nest and reproduce. Baker Sanctuary is a nationally recognized
Chipping Sparrows were taking turns bathing in the flowing “Important Bird Area” that literally attracts birders from around
water on the large flat rocks, then flying up to preen on the world hoping to catch a glance of the Golden-cheeked Warbler.
sun drenched tree branches. Northern Cardinals and House This is because the Golden-cheeked Warbler is a federally listed
Finches chose the deeper depressions to drink, wade and endangered species and nests only in about 30 counties in Central
splash. A pair of Carolina Wrens scolded continuously. They Texas and nowhere else in the world. Baker Sanctuary represents
were totally ineffective in deterring the bathing party or our a habitat that is suitable for these birds but also close to a major
approach. A Canyon Wren crept into cracks and crevices urban center, a situation that is truly rare.
of the dry rocks toasting in the sun above creek level. He several days are also set aside for guided hikes. These hikes allow
darted off uttering high-pitched “skreet” calls when we From November until February the sanctuary is normally closed to amateur birders to follow trained biologists and birding experts who
raised our binoculars. We continued down the steps toward visitors for the annual White-tailed Deer harvest; an important part can provide interesting information about the native flora and fauna,
the footbridge crossing the creek. With the first step onto of managing the Golden-cheeked Warbler habitat because White- and identify the many species of birds that call Baker Sanctuary
the structure, a small brownish bird shot out from under the tailed Deer eat young oaks and damage other plants that host their summer home. We are all exited to open the gates of Baker
bridge. It stopped in the shadow of a large boulder about insects and caterpillars that are food for the warblers. Sanctuary again and hope you will all join us in welcoming the
twenty feet away. From the behavior, we were certain that annual migration.
The beginning of nesting season also marks the beginning of the Derik T. Caudill,
it was a wren. However, the size and shape of the bird was
Baker Sanctuary volunteer season; Travis Audubon members and Travis Audubon Baker Sanctuary Steward
different from the Carolina and Canyon that we had just
volunteers get together every year to help get the Sanctuary ready
observed and it was not a long tail wagging Bewick’s. We
for the annual migration by clearing trails and brush and giving
trained our binoculars on it and hoped to get a better look.
the sanctuary a facelift before the birds arrive. Travis Audubon
The bird popped up to a branch, turned away from us and
encourages people to come to the sanctuary to help manage the
disappeared, but not before revealing a slight eye stripe and
habitat and to attend our special events. Several of these events
a “sparkling” grayish back: Rock Wren. We hope there are
and volunteer days are scheduled or will be scheduled this year,
two!!
and will be posted on our website. Since the arrival of the Golden-
cheeked Warbler is such a rare and unique experience to witness,
A BIGGER BAKER OPEN HOUSE
Everyone who feeds birds is keenly aware that goldfinches SAVE THE DATE: APRIL 10, 2010
love thistle seed. The small niger seed can be offered to the Whoop it up with the warblers. This year we again invite families
birds using a variety of specialized feeders to join in the fun. We will provide kid-friendly activities and the
that efficiently dispense the expensive treat. Williamson County Native Plant Society of Texas (NPSOT) will
You can create your our own thistle feeders host a booth displaying the native plants which can be found at
by recycling a common packaging product. Baker Sanctuary. Many of you may remember the great childrens’
The Nature Sweet tomatoes arrive packaged activity sponsored by NPSOT last year and they plan an encore
in a red mesh bag. Take two empty bags (one for this year.
is too porous). Cut the paper label off of the
ends. Insert one bag inside the other and tie a Baker Sanctuary is a 690-acre tract of pristine woodland terrain
tight overhand knot into one end of the double located just north of Austin and is one of the only places in the
bag. Fill the bag with thistle seed and use a world to see the endangered Golden-cheeked Warbler in its
recycled twist tie to secure the top. Take a natural habitat.
piece of wire or coat hanger and bend a “U”
shape onto each end. Thread one end through Guided tours will take place from 9 am to noon. Tours will
the seed bag just below the twist tie and hang focus on ecology and feature Golden-cheeked warblers, plants,
the other end over a hook or branch. Stand butterflies, and bugs.
back and wait for the finches to feast!
Light snacks will be served but we encourage you to bring a sack
Georgean and Paul Kyle, lunch for those longer walks. Please contact Travis Audubon
Sanctuary Stewards with any questions at 300-BIRD or info@travisaudubon.org.
For directions and a map to Baker Sanctuary, please go to our
website: www.travisaudubon.org and click on Sanctuaries.
Bridge across the creek where the Rock Wren was spotted Admission is FREE!

10 S I G N A L S M O K E / March/April 2010 TRAVIS AUDUBON TRAVIS AUDUBON S I G N A L S M O K E / March/April 2010 11

 TA Events - March 2010
Saturday, Mar 6 Beginners Bird Walks at Zilker Park
9 am to 10:30 am Directions: turn onto Stratford Drive from Barton Springs Road, park in the lot under the Mopac Bridge, walk up
the hill and meet at the Zilker Nature Center. Led by Stan VanSandt. No registration required.
Tuesday, Mar 9 The Outer Limits – Caldwell County Bird Survey (one day only).
7 am to Contact Stan at empidider@yahoo.com to register. We will explore Lockhart State Park and possibly some
mid-afternoon private property we might get access to. Plan on barbeque in Lockhart for lunch.
Saturday, Mar 13 Monthly Bird Count at Hornsby Bend
7 am & 4 pm Sponsored monthly by the Hornsby Bend Bird Conservatory. Contact Eric Carpenter at ecarpe@gmail.com for
more information.
Sunday, Mar 14 Chimney Swift Tower Workshop at Chaetura Canyon
1 pm to 4 pm Full details for this workshop appear on page 14.
Tuesday, Mar 16 Two Hour Tuesday at Camp Mabry
8 am to 10 am Registration required. Contact Jake at jakemccumber@gmail.com for more information. Like many military
bases, Camp Mabry has some good bird habitat that is rarely birded, at least by us civilians. Take advantage of
this unique opportunity.
Saturday, Mar 20 Monthly Bird Walk at Hornsby Bend
7:30 am to noon Austin’s premier birding site. Field trip leaders for March are George Kerr and Ken Zaslow. Go to www.horns-
bybend.org for more information – no registration required.
Tuesday, Mar 23 Two Hour Tuesday at Brushy Creek Greenbelt, led by Dan Callaway
8 am to 10 am From Interstate 35, go west on 734 (Parmer Lane) for nine and 3/4 miles. Turn right onto Brushy Creek Road,
then take an immediate right into the park. No registration required.
Saturday, Mar 27 The Outer Limits – Llano County Bird Survey
all day Contact Stan at empidider@yahoo.com to register. Limit of 12 participants. Group and area assignments will
be made beforehand so that groups can choose their own meeting place for carpooling. Countdown restaurant to
be announced.
Sunday, Mar 28 The Outer Limits – Llano County Field Trip
7:30 am to Contact Stan at empidider@yahoo.com to register. Limit of 12 participants (but not necessarily the same 12 as
mid-afternoon the day before). We may break into two or more groups: I promise we won’t all go to Enchanted Rock.
Saturday, Mar 27 Ecological Literacy Day at Hornsby Bend
9 am to 1 pm Every last Saturday of the month, for more information: Julia Balinsky at jwaxwing@gmail.com or Kevin
Anderson, 972-1960.
Tuesday, Mar 30 Super Tuesday! – Fayette County, led by Stan VanSandt
7:30 am to Contact Stan at empidider@yahoo.com to register. Limit of 12 participants. Plan to have lunch at a restaurant in
mid-afternoon La Grange, then bird for another hour or two.
12 S I G N A L S M O K E / March/April 2010 TRAVIS AUDUBON
TA Events - April 2010
Saturday, Apr 3 Field Trip to Fort Hood led by Rich Kostecke
6:30 am to lunchtime Limited to 12 participants. To register contact Stan at empidider@yahoo.com. Fort Hood contains one of the largest popula-
tions of Golden-cheeked Warblers and Black-capped Vireos anywhere, thanks to the successful conservation efforts of Rich and
his co-workers at the Nature Conservancy and the U.S. Army. We can almost guarantee you will see these birds if you are quick
enough on the draw. Almost. These are really shy and sneaky little birds.
Saturday, Apr 3 Beginners Bird Walk at Riata Pond, led by Virginia Rose
9 am to 11 am Excellent for beginning birders of all ages. Join Virginia to see what turns up at Riata Pond in North Austin. The trail is easy
walking and wheel chair accessible. Driving Directions to Riata Pond: From 183 at MOPAC, take 183 north to the Oak Knoll
exit. Take the Oak Knoll exit. From the 183 access road, turn right onto Riata Trace Parkway. After the road bears to the right the
pond will be on your right. Meet in the business parking lot on the right just after you go past the pond. Alternatively, from the
intersection of MOPAC and Parmer Lane, take Parmer Lane west about 2 miles to the light at Riata Vista Circle. Turn left onto
Riata Vista Circle. Take Riata Vista Circle to the stop sign at Riata Trace Parkway. Turn right onto Riata Trace Parkway. The
pond is a short distance on your left. Meet in the parking lot near the pond on your left.
Tuesday, Apr 6 The Outer Limits Bird Survey – Guadalupe County
7:30 am to Limited to 12 participants. To register contact Stan at empidider@yahoo.com. Home of the famous Warbler Woods,
mid-afternoon which some of us will visit while others search less-explored habitat in Seguin. Draw straws?
Saturday, Apr 10 Monthly Bird Count at Hornsby Bend
7 am and 4 pm Sponsored monthly by the Hornsby Bend Bird Conservatory. Contact Eric Carpenter at ecarpe@gmail.com for more informa-
tion.
Sunday, Apr 11 Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge, co-sponsored by TAS and Friends of Balcones Canyonlands NWR
6:45 am to noon This trip will focus on finding Golden-cheeked Warblers and spring migrants at the refuge. Shelia Hargis and Laurie Foss will
lead participants to an area of the refuge not open to the public. Due to the narrow trail that we will be following, the maximum
number of participants will be kept very small, so that all participants will have a good opportunity to see the birds. The trip is
limited to eight participants and reservations are required. The steep and rocky trail will require good hiking boots and adequate
physical condition. Bring water and snacks. If you’re interested, contact Laurie at lauriefoss@flywayadventures.com or call
751-3677, for more details and to make reservations.
Tuesday, April 13 Super Tuesday! in Gillespie County, led by Stan VanSandt
7:30 am to Contact Stan at empidider@yahoo.com to register. Limit of 12 participants. Let’s add some migrants and summer
mid-afternoon residents to the list we started in January. We’ll have lunch in Fredericksburg – I hate to eat a sandwich when there’s
so many good restaurants around
Saturday, Apr 17 Monthly Bird Walk at Hornsby Bend
7:30 am to 11:30 am Austin’s premier birding site. The walk will be led this month by Stu Wilson and Jim Hargrove. For more information go to
www.hornsbybend.org – no registration required.
Tuesday, Apr 20 Super Tuesday! – Kendall County, led by Stan VanSandt
7:30 am to Contact Stan at empidider@yahoo.com to register. Limit of 12 participants. We will concentrate on Cibola Nature Preserve in
mid-afternoon Boerne, but might hit another possible migrant trap or two after lunch.
Tuesday, Apr 27 Super Tuesday! – Lee and Burleson Counties, led by Stan VanSandt
7:30 am to Contact Stan at empidider@yahoo.com to register. Limit of 12 participants. If Flag Pond and Nails Creek are as good
mid-afternoon as I hope, we may not get out of Lee County.
No field trips scheduled for the weekend of April 24 - see y’all at the Balcones Songbird Festival! See page 5 for
details.
Saturday, Apr 24 Ecological Literacy Day at Hornsby Bend
9 am to 1 pm Every last Saturday of the month, for more information: Julia Balinsky at jwaxwing@gmail.com or Kevin Anderson, 972-1960.
Saturday, May 1 Bastrop County and Back Again, led by Barry Lyon
7 am to Hooded Warblers, Louisiana Waterthrushes, and Yellow-throated Vireos nest east of Austin in Bastrop County along
early afternoon Alum Creek. We will begin the morning searching for these and other eastern birds, then work our way back to
Hornsby Bend to catch the migrating shorebirds, swallows, raptors, and whatever else might be around. Limited to
15 participants – contact Stan at empidider@yahoo.com to register.
TRAVIS AUDUBON S I G N A L S M O K E / March/April 2010 13
Travis Audubon Classes
Chimney Swift Tower Workshop
at Chaetura Canyon
Chimney Swifts are now listed as an endangered species
in Nova Scotia, and the future for these aerial insectivores
is also uncertain in the remainder of
their breeding range. Georgean and
Paul Kyle will conduct a workshop
on building and maintaining new
habitat for this declining species on
Sunday, March 14th, from 1-4 pm.  over 380 species listed on the Austin Region
The workshop will begin with an
introduction to Chimney Swifts
that includes a slide presentation
and video highlights from a typical
nesting season.
Participants will then construct
an actual Chimney Swift Tower. After the project is
completed, participants will take a one-mile walking
tour of the Chaetura Canyon Bird Sanctuary. There are
currently 16 Chimney Swift towers on the property that
demonstrate a variety of designs and materials. One of the
towers will be opened, and the class will be shown how
to evaluate the nesting productivity of last year’s season.
Refreshments will be served on the deck overlooking the
Canyon following the tour.
 
Chaetura Canyon has been the epicenter for Chimney
Swift conservation and research world-wide for more
than 20 years. Master Naturalists and property owners
with wildlife exemptions may find this workshop useful
in their conservation efforts. Chimney Swift towers
also make great Eagle Scout projects, so Scout Masters,
Eagle candidates and their parents should consider taking
advantage of this unique opportunity.
Registration is limited to ten builders (16 years of age
and older). The cost of this workshop is $35 for Travis
Audubon members and $50 for non-members. The fee
includes a copy of the Kyle’s book “Chimney Swift
Towers: New Habitat for America’s Mysterious Birds”.
 
For more information or to sign up for the workshop,
please contact Anne Donovan at 472-3030 or email her at
ajdonovan@att.net.
For a preview of the walking tour, visit www.
ChimneySwifts.org and click on the “Chaetura Canyon
Bird Sanctuary” link.
14 S I G N A L S M O K E / March/April 2010 TRAVIS AUDUBON SOCIETY
Bird Songs and Vocalization
Travis Audubon is offering a new class for intermediate
Join us for Brunch with the Birds
birders beginning in March and extending into May: Bird
Songs and Vocalization. Learning birdsong is a difficult,
at Baker Sanctuary
Y
but rewarding undertaking. Highly skilled
birders rely on bird vocalizations for many
field identifications. Some closely related ou are cordially invited to one of the most memorable
species are only distinguishable in the field by mornings at Baker Sanctuary this Spring:
the differences in their songs. However, with
Date: Saturday, May 8th, 2010
checklist, even learning local birdsong can be Time: 7am to noon
an intimidating proposition. Jeff Patterson will Place: Baker Sanctuary
be teaching this class intended to improve your
skills at bird identification through birdsong. Join Victor Emanuel, founder of the acclaimed Victor Emanuel Nature Tours, and retired University
of Texas Botany professor Marshall Johnston, and experienced VENT tour guide Barry Lyon on
The class is intended for intermediate a unique tour of Baker Sanctuary.
birders who want to begin to develop, or to
sharpen their skills with birdsongs and other You will be serenaded by the morning songs of the birds and enjoy shade-grown coffee, homemade
vocalizations. The class will focus on the breeding birds and
muffins and fresh fruit before the tour. At 11:30, after working up an appetite, participants will feast
winter Texans that regularly vocalize in the Central Texas
on an exquisite gourmet brunch prepared by Chef Heidi Wittenborn.
area. While learning bird songs, flight calls, contact calls,
scolds, and other vocalizations for field identification is the
MENU
primary goal of the class, topics such as: why birds sing;
Bacon and Mushroom Quiche
the vocal anatomy of birds; preparation for Texas field trips; Rich custard of eggs and cream filled with bacon and mushrooms
dialects; diagnostic birdsongs; resources; and other subjects
related to birdsong will also be discussed. Tomato, Zucchini, and Black Olive Quiche
Rich custard of eggs and cream filled with tomatoes, zucchini, and kalamata olives
The classes will be held at 6:30 pm on the Wednesday
evenings of March 24, March 31, April 21 and May 5 with Cranberry Coconut Slaw
field trips on the Saturdays following each class (March Cabbage, carrots, coconut, and cranberries in a light sour cream dressing
27, April 3, April 24, and May 8). Class location will be
Greek Pasta Salad
announced at a later date. An optional out-of-town field trip
Artichokes, roasted red peppers, bowtie pasta, kalamata olives, and feta cheese
will also be considered, depending on class preferences.
dressed with a dill vinaigrette
Field trip locations may include Hornsby Bend, Webberville
Park, Reimer’s Ranch, Balcones NWR, Pedernales Falls Muffin Trio
State Park, and Choke Canyon State Park. Poppy seed sour cream, rich lemon, and cinnamon sugar doughnut muffins
Jeff is a life-long birder who developed a curiosity for Beverages
birdsong during the mid-1980s. With the current availability Mimosa Maiden
of a variety of birdsong resources, he has been able to Lemonade
improve his birdsong knowledge over the past few years Pomegranate Passion
and is eager to interact with interested students. Jeff is
employed as a technical specialist at the state environmental Admission is $125 per person with all proceeds going into the Travis Audubon Baker Sanctuary
commission where he often teaches work-related technical fund. The fund is used for maintenance and ongoing conservation projects at Baker Sanctuary.
classes. The event is limited to 15 participants, so don’t wait too long!
The class tuition is $60 for Travis Audubon members and
To secure your reservations, call: (512) 300-2473 or email info@travisaudubon.org. Travis
$75 for non-members.To register for the class, please
Audubon is a tax-exempt 501(c)(3) organization.
contact Frances Cerbins at fcerbins@yahoo.com or by
phone at 512-372-9039. Registration is limited to 12
participants.
TRAVIS AUDUBON S I G N A L S M O K E / March/April 2010 15
Travis Audubon Nonprofit Org.
3710 Cedar Street U.S. Postage Paid
Box 5 Permit No. 2301
Austin, TX. 78705 Austin, Texas

Dated Material - DO NOT DELAY

Visit the Travis Audubon Web site:

www.travisaudubon.org

Travis Audubon
YES! I want to enjoy the benefits of Travis Audubon chap-
Travis Audubon ter membership. Enroll me as a member of Travis Audubon.
Enclosed is my check for:

Jcaloin your local Audubon chapter, Travis Audubon, by using the

form at the right.Your dues will be put to use supporting lo-
conservation, education, research projects, field trips, and
other Travis Audubon activities right here in Central Texas.
We seek your support through your membership in our lo-
cal chapter. (To become a member of the national Audubon,
please go to their website at www.audubon.org. Don’t forget
to include the National Audubon Source Code of 79M7 and
the Travis Audubon Chapter code of W03, so Travis Audubon
receives credit.)
Join Travis Audubon now and support
local birds, wildlife, and their habitats.
Travis Audubon chapter members receive six issues of this
Signal Smoke newsletter, priority sign-ups on local field trips,
discounts on our educational classes, the opportunity to par-
ticipate in our e-mail group and attend our wonderful monthly
lectures, and more!
To join Travis Audubon:
Make your check payable to Travis Audubon and send it with
this form to Travis Audubon, 3710 Cedar St., Box 5, Austin, TX
78705, or join on-line using any major credit card by going to
www.travisaudubon.org and clicking on Membership.
 $10
Youth Membership (up to age 18)
 $25
Individual Membership
 $35
Family Membership
 $75
Painted Bunting Membership (embroidered patch of
Painted Bunting)
 $100 Vireo Membership (Embroidered patch of Vireo, TA
car decal)
 $250 Warbler Membership (Embroidered patch of War-
bler, TA car decal, 1 free class,VIP field trip)
 $1,000 Lifetime Membership (Special Lifetime Member
embroidered patch, T-shirt, TA car decal, Invitation
to special events,VIP field trip)
T-shirt size (for premium memberships) ________________
 This is a gift membership from ________________________
Name___________________________Phone______________
Address___________________________________________
City_______________________ State_____ Zip_ __________
Email _____________________________________________

16 S I G N A L S M O K E / March/April 2010 TRAVIS AUDUBON