Published by the Tahoma Audubon Society: Connecting people with nature since 1969.

Vol. 40 No. 3 April 2009

Owl be back! By Diane Yorgason-Quinn

The Fall/Winter Intermediate Birding Class refused to

quit this year! An encore trip for recent members of
the class was taken in mid-February for three days to
Eastern Washington looking for Owls by Day, based
loosely on a similar Washington Ornithological Society
field trip. If we thought we knew what to expect after
the last time Ken Brown ran this trip two years ago, we
were in for surprises! This time we had fewer owls,
but there were some exciting additions, proving that
you have to do this trip regularly to see everything.
Highlights were Western Screech Owl (thanks to
Shelly’s great eyes!) in the Tri-Cities area and the now-
famous, late, lamented North Hawk-Owl near Mansfield
(hit by a car once everyone in the state had gone to
see it). These were new owls for the class. We also

Saw-Whet Owl at Bridgeport State Park. Photo/Diane Yorgason-Quinn See "Owls" on page 10

Birdathon Field Trips! April 25 - May 31

On April 23 - May 31 Tahoma Audubon will be Audubon. Say “Yes” to being a birder welcome to come on any trip
hosting the annual Birdathon fundraiser. The and gathering pledges for the scheduled (see page nine) even
Birdathon is our largest, most successful fundraiser Birdathon. A birder does not if you are not a birder; we just
and the world’s biggest birdwatching competition. need to know any birds: ask that you make a
It’s the most fun you’ll ever have saving the planet! special trips will be offered to Birdathon donation.
Each year, participants nationwide gather pledges help the novice birder. We You can call for a packet
from sponsors, helping to fund our mission of have master birders who or you can come to a
environmental education, conservation, and will help you know the birds Birder kickoff on
advocacy. Anyone can participate in the Birdathon, you are seeing and hearing. Thursday, April 23, 7:00
and there are many ways to contribute, including Many, many of you have to 8:30 p.m. at the Tahoma
gathering pledges, pledging, and even just attending helped in the past by pledging Audubon office.
an event and making a donation. Tahoma Audubon in the Birdathons. Take the See the Birdathon field
has done an exceptional job of keeping expenses next step and gather pledges, trips listed on page nine of
low. We pride ourselves on keeping expenses at and you can multiply your this newsletter.
about 1 to 1.5%. Makes you feel like contributing, contribution as much as you’d like. Remember, if Please support Tahoma Audubon’s mission of
doesn’t it? you can’t take a trip, you may wish to gather environmental education, conservation, and
You are important in helping us ensure the best in sponsors for some of our other birders—we’d love advocacy. It’s the most fun you’ll ever have saving
conservation and education programs for Tahoma to have you choose to help in this way. You are also the planet!

Membership Reminder: All renewals must be sent to Tahoma Audubon and not to National Audubon if you wish to receive the
Towhee, our newsletter. Tahoma Audubon receives no share of the fees when members renew through the national organization.
Thank you for remembering this when you renew. See membership coupon inside for details.

Be sure and In this issue:

check out BirdSongs page 8
the Youtube Birdathon pages 1, 9
Calendar page 12
slideshow Education page 4
of our 40th Environment matters page 3
Exec. Director’s column page 2
AnniversAry Field trips page 5
banquet! March program recap page 8
New members page 2
(click on the pic!) Volunteer recognition page 10
 executive director’s Corner
Celebrating people, places and partnerships
Tahoma Audubon than 400 members and had conducted ten monthly meet-
Society is celebrat- ings and 35 field trips.
ing our 40th anniver-
sary. On February Places
28th we threw our- What started as a group of concerned activists in a living
selves a party, and room in late 1968 has grown into Pierce County’s oldest,
took the opportunity largest, strongest, most comprehensive, and most effective
to look back on our grassroots environmental organization. Tahoma Audubon
history and to look has an impressive track record of protecting the environ-
forward to the ment. Many of the open spaces that we value in the area
opportunities that lie exist in large part due to the work of Tahoma Audubon.
before us. The These include the Nisqually Wildlife Refuge, Snake Lake,
theme was Growing From Our Roots, an appropriate Swan Creek, and Fort Lewis Prairies. We are also a pres-
metaphor for the exciting things going on for Tahoma ence in two special green places: Adraina Hess Wetland
Audubon. Park and Morse Wildlife Preserve.
In 1992, Dr. George and Adriana Hess bought property
Beginnings in University Place to help save the area from being devel-
In the late sixties there was an effort to expand indus- oped commercially. In December 1999, Tahoma Audubon
trial port operation in the Nisqually Delta. With the help moved in to “be the environmental education presence for
of Seattle Audubon and Hazel Wolfe, Helen Engle wrote the parks,” housing our office there and providing staffing
letters to 30 Audubon members in Pierce County with the for the interpretive center to offer trips, classes, workshops.
idea of starting a local chapter. The Morse Wildlife Preserve was established by a
More than 60 people attended the initial meeting at the donation of land from Lloyd and Maxine Morse. Situated
Mountaineer Club on a snowy day in January 1969, and at the headwaters of the north fork of Muck Creek, the
85 attended the organizing meeting of Tahoma Audubon preserve is a mosaic of forests, wetlands, meadows, and
at the Tacoma Public Library in March of that year. By remnant prairie. Jointly managed with Cascade Land
the end of our second year, Tahoma Audubon had more Conservancy, we provide environmental and stewardship
opportunities for folks of all ages.
People
Our slogan is connecting people to nature. It could just
as easily be said to be connecting people to people,
because it is the people who really make Tahoma Aud-
ubon what it is. At our 40th anniversary banquet we took
an opportunity to recognize all of the people who are part
of Tahoma Audubon, from our founding members, such
as long-time naturalists and educators John Slipp and Bob
Ramsey to our current board members and volunteers. It
is the decades of dedication of people like Ken Brown and
Marcus Roening, who both teach adult birding classes,
that have built us into the organization we are today.
Partnerships
Also within the first two years—and continuing to the
present—Tahoma Audubon collaborated with other envi-
ronmental groups. These have included the Sierra Club,
Izaak Walton League, Puget Sound Action Group,
Cascade Land Conservancy, MetroParks Tacoma, Green
Tacoma Partnership, and many others.
It is these partnerships, and the people within them, that
make it possible for us to fulfill our mission to conserve
and restore natural ecosystems, focusing on birds, other
wildlife, and their habitats for the benefit of humanity and
earth’s biological diversity. We are looking forward to the
next 40 years and the opportunities it presents.

welcome
to New and Returning Members
February 16, 2009 to March 15, 2009
Chapter New and Renewing:
Patricia C Ailshie, Doug & Sharon
Aukland, Barbara D Beaver, Ted & Kay
Burns, Geraldine & William Butman, Ruth
Carlson, Patricia Damron, Valerie Edwards,
Susan Greenwood, D Wade Hands, Karen
Harris, Duane Hatch, Christine Hoey,
The Pierce County Chapter
Introductory,
of The National Audubon Society
Recruited through Tahoma Audubon: Located in University Place's Adriana Hess Wetland Park
Armin C Antonio, Thomas Barocan, 2917 Morrison Rd W University Place, WA 98466
Mary Brzezinski, Rick & Claudia Finseth, Office hours 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. Front desk 253-565-9278
Heather Roskelley.
Introductory, Recruited by National Tahoma Audubon Staff
Audubon:  

Martha J Humphreys, Kirk Kirkland, Nelson Blake, Cara Barre, James Delacour, Flint, Bryan Executive Director                        
David & Veronica Kulman, Cindy Mish, Linda Dick, Bill Dudley, Lois Erath, Susan bryanflint@tahomaaudubon.org 253-565-9129
Frank & Kate Morgan, Mera Neufeldt, Fine, Wayne B Knight, Mary Martinac,
Keith A Palmquist, Hal Pearson, Janice Johanna Mason, Pamela R Mayer, Barb Kyer, Krystal Conservation Coordinator
Pittman, Doris Richards, Jerry & Jean Ritz, Robertson, Karleen Schloer, Leigh Scott, kkyer@tahomaaudubon.org 253-232-9978                    
Hazel C Robinson, Marjorie Shea & Bill Nona Stephens, William E Sundstrom,
Swaim, Stephanie Education Coordinator
Richards, Jennie Sheridan, Darby Veeck Willet V Velzen, Debbie Vinyard, Lewise
& Kristi Lynett, Louise Wackerle, Colleen Weinstein, Melissa S White, John StephSwaim@tahomaaudubon.org 253-327-9480                      
Waterhouse, Ryan Wiese. Zimmermann. Taylor, Graham Volunteer 253-565-1884
Tahoma Audubon Society is so happy to Kerrigan, Julie Coordinator 253-223-0039
Chapter Joint with National
welcome you. We hope to see you at some
joining here at Tahoma Audubon: gtaylor@tahomaaudubon.org jkerrigan@tahomaaudubon.org
of our general membership meetings, held
Dr Mark Carlson, Denice Crotto, Jane             
on the second Friday of the month, 7:00p.m.
Davison, Lynne Glad, Charles Griffin, Julie   Tahoma Audubon Board Officers
at Tacoma Nature Center. We hope you
Gustafson MD, Rita & Roger Indrebo,
will also consider joining us in the annual John Garner President
Jo Ann Hunter, Doreen Ligrano, Dian G
Birdathon fundraiser. See trips offered in
Lord, Joyce & Bruce Murray, Melissa Marjorie Shea Vice President
this Towhee with a donation requested.
& Jamie Paulson, Stephanie Paulson,
You can participate as a Birder, too! Master Wayne Larsen Past President
Julie Ann Payne, Judy Rucker, David &
Birders will help you! Jane Brosius Secretary
Betsy Schultz, Buel & Luana Sever, Mary *Remember, since January 2008, The Towhee
Siegenthaler, Brian Simpson, Julie Smith & is sent only to those who renew through the local Kathleen Nelson Treasurer
David Lucas, Bonnie Stiff, Shelagh Taylor chapter because Tahoma Audubon receives no
& Lyle Quasim, Carol Wade-Woodman, share of the fees when members renew through
Dorothy Walker, Verna & Ed Warrick. the national organization. Tahoma Audubon Board Members 2008
Rob McNair-Huff Field Trip Chair
The Towhee is a publication of the Tahoma Audubon Society. Thelma Gilmur Membership Co-chair
The Tahoma Audubon Society was chartered in 1969. TAS advocates for the protection of wild-
life and promotes conservation through education and activities that enrich its member’s experi- Dick Carkner
ences in and with the natural world. Sally Larson
The Towhee is published monthly, ten times a year, with a combined Jul/Aug and Dec/Jan issue.
Submissions of articles and photographs of birds, bird lore, natural history, conservation, and envi- Marcus Roening
ronmental education are reviewed and considered for inclusion by the editor. Copy is due by the Peggy L. Kopf
15th of the month and may be sent by e-mail, disk, or typed.
Darby Veeck
Editor: editor@tahomaaudubon.org Ione Clagett
Mailing: Vera & John Cragin and Winfield Giddings
Melissa Paulson
Design & Layout: Robert Kelton: E-mail: robert_kelton@ mac.com
Printing: Consolidated Press Loren Webster Calendar Editor loren@lorenwebster.net
Printed on recycled newsprint

Page 2 www.tahomaaudubon.org April 2009

 ENVIRONMENT Matters
500+ environmental lobbyists converge on Olympia
Environmental The gentleman was
Lobby Day 2009, there to educate citi-
held Feb. 19, was zens about the long-
the biggest and best term waste and destruc-
citizen lobby event tion caused by all those
to date. More than plastic bags found in
500 people attend- grocery stores. Folks
ed the annual event, in Seattle are working
where citizens from on a campaign to get a
across the state ballot measure in
Contact Krystal at 253-232-9978.
learn about the Seattle this August put-
Or kkyer@tahomaaudubon.org environmental ting a fee on the nearly
community’s legis- indestructible bags,
lative priorities, learn how to be a citizen lobbyist, thereby reducing land-
and then actually go and meet with their elected fill volume and ocean
Senators and Representatives in the marble halls pollution.
of Olympia. Learn more at www.
This year Tahoma Audubon worked with the greenbagcampaign.org
main event organizer, People for Puget Sound, to Finally, at our last meeting, the 29th Legislative
charter a bus to Olympia from Tacoma, along with District delegation took a break on the stairs of the
buses from Seattle and as far north as Bellingham. capitol rotunda before heading in to see Senator Above: Tacoma and Port Townsend citizens
ride the bus to Olympia.
In the end, we combined the Port Townsend bus Rosa Franklin (D). Amongst the Tahoma Audubon
with the Tacoma bus and enjoyed a fun ride down delegation were myself (behind the camera), Nel Left: Bag Monster Jake Harris reminds us that
and back from Olympia, while helping to get more Batker, Roxy and Bill Giddings. As of the writing not only what we buy, but what we put it in,
cars off the road and lessen of this article, the bills (SB 5344 and HB 1409) to matters.
greenhouse gas emissions. fund a permanent rescue tug at Neah Bay
Below: 29th Legislative District constituents
The keynote speaker for the to respond to stranded ships and take a minute to rest in the Capitol dome.
event was our new Public oil spills had wide support and
Lands Commissioner, was ready to be finalized (The
Peter Goldmark. Senate bill
Commissioner passed 44-4;
Goldmark encouraged the House
citizens to express their bill passed
views on issues 62-35), and
important to them signed into
while assuring that legislation.
his office would Finally, if you
work hard to protect missed the article on the
our state’s diverse natu- four priorities in the
ral resources for future February Towhee, you
generations. can learn more and find
On our way to the legis- out their status by visit-
lative appointments, I ing the website of the
couldn’t help but stop to talk Environmental Priorities
to the Bag Monster (right), Coalition; http://environ-
also known as Jake Harris. mentalpriorities.org.

Earth Month work parties April 2009

Most people think that Earth Day is just one day, but
here in Pierce County we have decided to celebrate
our earth the whole month of April. Get involved in a
natural area around your neighborhood or city. This
is a great opportunity for you to do something as a
family and give back to your community. Come out-
side, and see how truly amazing our earth is and why
we should protect it every day.
Puget Creek work party
What: Help with restoration efforts at Puget creek
When: April 11 9:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m.
Where: Puget Creek off of Schuster Parkway
Contact: Scott Hansen (253)779-8890 or
pugetcreek@yahoo.com Please RSVP to sign-up.
CHB Squally Beach restoration work party
What: Help plant three islands that surround
Squally’s marsh with native high marsh species. We’ll
also tackle some Himalayan blackberry and other
invasive species
When: April 11 9:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m.
Where: Commencement Bay (call for directions)
Contact: Jeanine Riss (253) 383-2429 or jriss@
healthybay.org Please RSVP to sign-up.
Blueberry Park work party
What: Help prune the blueberry bushes, pull weeds
and overall maintenance
When: April 18 9:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m.
Where: Blueberry Park, off of S. 72nd and E. D St,
in the south end of Tacoma
Contact: Charlotte Valbert (253) 474-6575 or cval-
bert@wamail.net Please RSVP to sign-up.
CHB Mowich Restoration work party
and Earth Day celebration
What: Help with planting native plants, removing
invasive species and making general infrastructure
improvements
When: April 25 9:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m.
Where: Commencement Bay (call for directions)
Contact: Jeanine Riss (253) 383-2429 or jriss@
healthybay.org Please RSVP to sign-up.
Oak Tree Park work party
What: Help remove invasive species such as Scotch
Broom, English Ivy and Blackberries
When: April 25 9:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m.
Where: Oak Tree Park 7633 Montgomery St. /S 76th
St. and Pine
Contact: Ralph Klose (253) 720-3511 or rklose@
goodsteinlaw.com
Please RSVP to sign-up
To view more Earth Month volunteer opportunities
happening around Pierce County visit www.
parksappreciationday.net or call (253) 305-1027

April 2009 www.tahomaaudubon.org Page 3

 Education Matters
10th annual bird drawing contest highlights climate change
In April we launch ent the next. The National Audubon study have all increased in our area over the past
the 10th Annual Bird is significant because it examines not just 40 years, and by a significant amount.
Drawing Contest for the trends from year to year, but the over- According to Washington Audubon’s
the youth of Pierce arching trend which reveals the behavior report, the Gadwall population has moved
County. This year of every population of bird in every north by 149 miles and has increased in
we are highlighting region of the continent. The reality is that sighting frequency by 2,928%. The
three bird species this is not an isolated phenomenon. This Golden-Crowned Sparrow’s population
that Citizen Scien- is a global shift. A winning entry from last year. has moved north by 155 miles and
tists are studying as To you and your backyard this means that increased by 1,397%. And the Western
indicators of climate you are seeing a few more new species than you have in Scrub Jay’s population has moved north by 46 miles and
stephanieSWAIM change: the Golden- the past. Perhaps some neo-tropical species are passing increased by 67,673%.
Education Coordinator Crowned Sparrow, through at different times, or maybe they are staying lon- The Bird Drawing Contest has always been an oppor-
the Gadwall, and the ger than before. Or you might even notice that species that tunity for youth to learn about the birds in our area. We
Call Steph @ 253-565-5479. Or Western Scrub Jay. you saw once in a blue moon as a kid, you now expect also hope that it emphasizes how the study of birds can
StephSwaim@tahomaaudubon.org Recently, National each time you watch your feeder. To the birds however, help us understand more about our world. The 10th
Audubon released the northward shift can be devastating. For those birds that Annual Bird Drawing Contest is open to students in 2nd-7th
the results of an analysis of bird populations in North are fighting habitat loss, a northward shift may run them grades in Pierce County. Full rules are available at www.
America. Based on 40 years of Christmas Bird Count out of the only suitable habitat they have left. And as the tahomaaudubon.org/drawingcontest.
data, the study revealed that about 60% of the species rate of climate change increases, it will be harder for spe- If you would like to learn more about the results of
found on this continent have shifted northward in win- cies to adapt to their new northern home. Christmas Bird Counts and climate change, please visit
tertime as the climate has warmed. As birders, we know In Washington, we have also been watching the popula- National Audubon’s report, www.audubon.org/bird/
that local bird populations change over time, and the tion trends for our local birds. Sightings of the Gadwall, bacc/index.html and Washington Audubon’s report at
make-up of our backyard birds one year may be differ- the Golden-Crowned Sparrow and the Western Scrub Jay www.wa.audubon.org.

t
Intermediate Birding Class
with Ken Brown begins on April 21 Things g e t w i l d a
Nature Day Camps!
at Adriana Hess Center 2917 Morrison Road W., 1919 South Tyler Street,
Once again we will be offering the Intermediate Birding class, University Pl. WA 98466
253-565-9278
Tacoma WA 98338
253-591-6439 www.metroparkstacoma.org
instructed by Ken Brown at the Adriana Hess Center. If you www.TahomaAudubon.org Open Tues. – Fri. 8 a.m.-5 p.m.
Open Mon – Sat. 10a.m.-1p.m.
have completed the Beginning Birding class and wish to take
& Sat. 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

birdwatching to the next level, or if you have been birding for For Ages 4-6 For Ages 5-11
years and want to improve upon your identification skills, this Mon-Wed, 9 am - 1 pm $90 per camper Mon-Fri, 8:30 am - 4:30 pm $150 per camper
may be the class for you! Class runs Tuesday evenings, April Games, stories, crafts, hikes & hands-on ac-
21 to June 9 from 7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. There are three sched- Wildlife Detectives
tivities for young children.
uled field trips: Overnights to the Washington Coast, May 2-3, Discover what’s wild and hiding right before your
Little Explorers: Explore the Backyard! eyes. Identify animals and their behaviors with nature
and to Wenas, June 6-7; and a three-day trip to Eastern
Young explorers will find this small nature hikes, games, science lab, sketching and journaling.
Washington, June 20-22. Trip expenses and transportation are
park in University Place just the right size for Make your own detective kit for exploring outdoors.
not included in the course fee. If you would like to register,
outdoor discovery and play while learning
please contact the Tacoma Nature Center. Class fee is $55 for Field trip to Northwest Trek Wildlife Park.
about nature in their own backyards.
members of Tahoma Audubon, $75 for non-members. July 6-10 Ages 8-11
June 29-July 1
The Art and Nature of Native Plants
July 13-17 Ages 5-7
July 27-29
Wet & Wild
Instructed by Mary Sue Gee and Monica Weidman. Little Explorers: Big, Small, Long, Tall
Get the underwater scoop on the amazing creatures
This field-based class brings together the natural world and Wildlife comes in all shapes and sizes! Chil-
of the ponds, creeks, rivers, tides and ocean. Field
the artist’s perspective. Native plant specialist, Mary Sue Gee, dren get closer to nature as they share a
trip to explore tidepools or a pond turtle preserve.
will provide hands-on instruction in identification and ecologi- sense of wonder with new friends at camp.
July 20-24 Ages 8-11
cal relationships during one classroom session and three field July 6-8
Aug 24-28 Ages 5-7
trips. She will ne joined by Monica Weidman, watercolor artist Aug 3-5
and botanical illustrator, to engage students in a deeper appre- Nature’s Canvas
Little Explorers: Explore Shores!
ciation and understanding of the native plant ecosystem of the Play and connect with nature and be inspired to cre-
Seas, lakes, ponds and puddles - they all
South Puget Sound. Course fee includes class instruction and ate artwork, stories, plays, music and whatever your
three field trips. Optional field trip may be scheduled with addi- have shores! Discover the cool critters that
imagination can dream up! Go on a special behind-
tional fee. Field trip transportation must be provided by partici- eat and live in the water nearby. Dive in for
the-scenes tour of an art museum and gallery.
pants. Carpooling is encouraged. Classroom session: April 15 a boatload of fun!
Aug 3-7 Ages 8-11
at Adriana Hess Center. Field trips: April 18 and May 2. Third July 13-15
Aug 10-14 Ages 5-7
field trip to be added. Call the Tacoma Nature Center to register, Aug 10-12
253-591-6439. For Ages 11-13
Little Explorers:
Mon-Fri, 8:30 am - 4:30 pm
Nurture in Nature Preschool Dipping, Diving, Skipping, Sliding
Take a skip, a swoop, and a dip as you dis-
$200 per camper
The Tacoma Nature Center is now enrolling students ages 3-6. cover how animals move and get around. Wild Expressions for Young Teens
The first session begins in September 2009. July 20-22 Let nature be your inspiration as you express your-
To get more details go to www.metroparks.org. Or call self in artwork, music, drama, stories, photography,
Aug 17-19
253-591-6439. and wherever your creativity leads. Learn tech-
niques and try new things. Two field trips into the
art community and an overnight stay on Thursday
at the nature center are included in fee.
July 27-31
Eco-Explorers for Young Teens
3 WAYS TO REGISTER: Join nature specialists in exploring the wild through
• Online at www.metroparkstacoma.org
field trips, hiking, hands-on activities, fun games,
• Call (253) 591-6439
• In person at Tacoma Nature Center
and lab investigations. Get a closer look at nature
Non-refundable $30 deposit required. at night with an overnight stay at the nature center
Full payment due 6 days before camp starts. on Thursday.
Scholarship assistance available. Aug 17-21

Page 4 www.tahomaaudubon.org April 2009

 field trips and Events
Morse Wildlife Preserve with Betty Jones
Friday, April 10, 10 a.m. to noon
Come walk the trails, woods, meadows, and prairie
currently being rehabilitated. View the forested wetland
and North Muck Creek and marsh from the gorgeous
bird tower. Over the years, we’ve identified 120 species.
Early Spring Flowers at Kopachuck
Saturday, April 11, 2 p.m.
Come and see the spring flowers and plants in the woods
at Kopachuck State Park.   We will take a walk and see
what is flowering, identify the plants, and look for signs
of spring.  The st 15 people who call to register will be
taken.  There is no charge.  Call (253) 265-3606 to
register, and ask for Matt Smith.
7th Annual Dubois Grouse Days,
April 17 - 18
Grouse Days is a two-day event to celebrate the shrub-
steppe ecosystem and the unique animals which call
it home. Promote education and conservation of our
western rangeland heritage. The event is held in Dubois,
Idaho: a small ranching community in the Upper Snake
River Plain where the motto is “We have never met a
stranger yet”
Activities include a banquet, arts and craft booths, kids’
activities and an art contest, presentations by biologists
and ranchers, a raffle and a silent auction, plus guided
tours to grouse breeding grounds to view sage and
sharp-tailed grouse courtship, the Clark County Civil
Defense Cave, and The Nature Conservancy’s Crooked
Creek Ranch and other local highlights. All proceeds go
towards conservation and education, including the Kent
L. Christopher Conservation Scholarship for a local high
school senior.
Contact: Curtis or Nikki Keetch:
ckeetch71@hotmail.com; Phone: 208-374-5179
www.grousedays.org
Park Appreciation Day
Saturday, April 18, 9:00 a.m. to noon
Come to Adriana Hess Wetland Park/Tahoma Audubon
Society, 2917 Morrison Rd W. in University Place. It’s
time to pull the shot-weed and grasses giving us battle
and spread some chips. All three hours will help, but
even one hour is a great contribution. Refreshments
provided.
Watershed Conference
April 18, 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
This conference will bring together experts on
Regular programs and Events
Weekly Bird Walks at Nisqually. Wednesdays, 7:30 AM
to 11:00 AM. Join Phil on his weekly bird walks as he counts
the birds at Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge. Meet: At the
Visitor’s Center. The group may walk out to McAllister Creek
if that trail is open. Then it takes the boardwalk/trail loop
out to the Twin Barns, the Nisqually overlook area, and the
riparian area, totaling about three miles. Bring good walking
shoes or boots, raingear, water, snacks, and $3 for entry
fee unless you have a pass. Scopes are welcome. Sign-up:
Contact Phil Kelley to confirm details (especially during the
trail construction period). Phil Kelley, Lacey, (360) 459-1499,
scrubjay323@aol.com.
Beginning Birdwatching - Backyard Basics. Curious
about birds, but don’t know your crown from your tail feather?
All are welcome to this introduction to the joy of identifying
the birds that are all around us. You will learn how to identify
common birds, use field guides and use binoculars. Learn,
too, about some of the best places to see birds and practice
your new found stills. $45.00 for Tahoma Audubon Members,
$55.00 for Non-Members. Ages 18+. Call the Tacoma Nature
Center to register, 253-591-6439.
Intermediate Birding. Tue, Apr 21, 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM.
Location: Adriana Hess Audubon Center. This class is for those
April 2009 www.tahomaaudubon.org Page 5
the restoration, protection and other factors of
urban streams.   The speakers will be from various
Nonprofit City, County, State, and Tribal agencies.
This will allow our agency and other agencies that
are working on similar projects to share information
to learn the best and most comprehensive methods
to proceed with watershed issues for urban streams.
This is a great opportunity to learn about the importance
of healthy urban streams and the importance of watershed
planning.  Every individual is capable of making a positive
difference; therefore your participation would be greatly
appreciated. Please RSVP if you plan on attending.
The Mountaineers Clubhouse, 2302 North 30th St,
Tacoma WA 98407
Sponsored by the Puget Creek Restoration Society, for
more information contact Maria League, (253) 779-
8890 or pugetcreeksyti@yahoo.com
Spring Audubon Council of Washington.
Friday, May 1, 8:00 a.m. to Sunday, May 3, 5:00 p.m.
Come to Spring ACOW at the Tierra Learning Center
in Leavenworth Washington. Contact Gary Blevins at
GaryB@spokanefalls.edu for more information.
The Sun and Sage Loop
Friday, May 15 – Sunday, May 17
Celebrate the newest loop in the Great Washington
State Birding Trail with Audubon Washington. There
will be wonderful birding in May in SE Washington,
and we plan to enjoy great local food and wine
in Walla Walla when not exploring the new trail.
For more information contact Barbara Sacerdote,
Director of Development for Audubon Washington at
(360) 786-8020 or bsacerdote@audubon.org
Wenas Campout
May 22-25
For over three decades Audubon families have been
camping over Memorial Day weekend at the Wenas
Creek Campground. Officially named the Hazel
Wolf Wenas Creek Bird Sanctuary, it’s located SW of
Ellensburg,  in an “Important Bird Area” and has been
assured of protective status.   The free, “primitive”
campground along the north fork of Wenas Creek has
exceptional opportunities for birding, botanizing and
enjoying spring in the eastern foothills of the Cascades.
There are wonderful field trips scheduled, and
there will be an old-fashioned campfire in our new
“approved” fire-pit device each evening.  We do singing,
story-telling and recapping the sightings of the day.
 Please visit the Wenas website to get lots of downloadable
who have completed an introductory birder’s class or have
a good background in bird identification. In addition to the
scheduled class days, there are three field study sessions.
For more information and registration, call 591-6439. Class
meets at the Adriana Hess Audubon Canter in University
Place. Includes 3 field trips, participants are responsible for trip
transportation and expenses. $55.00 for Tahoma Audubon
Members. $75.00 for Non-Members.Ages 18+.
TGIF Breakfast & Work Party. Fridays, 10:00 AM to
12:00 PM. Location: Adriana Hess Wetland Park. Help out
with habitat restoration, such as planting, invasive species
removal, pruning.
Nature alphabet. Tuesdays, 10:30 AM to 11:30 AM or 1:30
PM to 2:30 PM. Location: Tacoma Nature Center. Preschoolers
explore different nature topics through stories, hands-on
activities, nature walks, and crafts at the Tacoma Nature
Center. Adult participation is recommended, children under
four require and adult present. Please mote alternating times.
Register by the Saturday before the program. Call 591-6439.
Homeschool Science Programs. Homeschool students
explore science through hands-on experiments, activities and
inquiry-based learning.
(Birdathon field trips are on page 9.)
rules
Call TAS to register (253-565-9278). Some trips are
people limited out of necessity.
Notify TAS 24 hours in advance if you cannot come.
Field trip leaders put in a lot of time and planning and
no-shows disrupt field trips. More than 3 no-shows a
year can result in revoking opportunity to participate.
Arrive at the meeting place early.
No pets are allowed.
Be prepared for seasonal weather.
Bring lunch, drinks and snacks if the field trip is
scheduled past mid-day.
All passengers divide total carpooling expenses.
Current guidelines are 20 cents a mile per car, not
including driver.
Beginners are always welcome.
Have fun.
informationaboutourcampout:www.wenasaudubon.org. 
There’s a bird checklist, wildflower checklist, outline of
field trips and program, directions to the campground,
and lots of photos.
For people who don’t “do websites,” contact Helen for
printed information.
Bring friends and family, and join us at
Wenas Memorial Day Weekend for as many
days as you want to stay - May 23-26, 2009!
Contact Helen Engle, hengle@iinet.com, 253-564-3112.
Trogon Tours’ Ecuador: Andes to Amazon
August 1-12, 2009
Tahoma Audubon Member Nate Chappell and
Ecuadorian birding guide William Perez will lead this
exciting birdwatching and nature photography tour.  We
will start in Quito, drive up over Papallacta Pass and
stay at three lodges on the eastern slope of the Andes
Mountains, Guango Lodge, San Isidro and Wild Sumaco
Lodge.  After that we will board a motorized canoe in
Coca for the four hour trip down the Napo River to the
superb Sani Lodge, which is located on an oxbow lake
in the heart of the Ecuadorian Amazon.  After spending
four nights there we will return by plane to Quito.  Cost
of the trip is $3,100, $400 single supplement.  For more
information and the complete itinerary please see our
website, www.trogontours.net or call Nate Chappell at
253-512-1060.
Register early, these classes fill quickly! Call 591-6439.
Beginning. Thursdays, 9:30 AM to 11:30 AM or 1:00 PM
to 3:00 PM. Tacoma Nature Center. Ages 8-10, $10. To
participate in this class, students should be able to add and
subtract numbers.
Intermediate. Thursdays, 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM. Tacoma
Nature Center. Ages 8-10, $10. To participate in this class,
students should be able to add and subtract numbers.
Advanced. Thursdays, 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM. Labs, Fridays,
1:00 PM to 4:00 PM. Tacoma Nature Center. Ages 12-15, $12.
Older homeschool students will continue their science studies
with challenging and engaging experiments and activities.
This expanded science class for Advanced Homeschool
Science students includes an integrated laboratory session as
an extension of the two hour classroom session. Students
get greater in-depth investigation of the monthly topic,
practice in problem-solving and research skills and hands-on
experimentation. Attendance in the class session is required
for participation in a lab session. Lab sessions are not required
for participation in class sessions. To participate in this class,
students should be able to calculate averages, percentages
and solve simple equations.
 40th Anniversary Banquet celebrates past, present, and future of Tahoma Audubon
O n February 28, Tahoma Audubon members gathered at Clover
Park Technical College for this year’s banquet, celebrating the 40th
Anniversary of Tahoma Audubon. The theme, “Growing from our
their service: Thelma Gilmur received the Great Egret Audubon Award,
the “Morse Force” and Ken Brown received Distinguished Service
Awards, Marcus Roenig received the Legacy Award, and high schooler
Roots” highlighted the history of the organization and its new growth. Nataly Brockwell was recognized for her internship service.

The evening started with a cocktail hour, with guests mingling and View a slideshow with more photos from the banquet online: follow the
reminiscing, inspired by the slideshow playing on screens overhead. link on the Towhee page of the Tahoma Audubon website.
Members also bid at the silent auction tables,
featuring a variety of donated prizes.

The program included several beautiful video segments featuring

long-time members meditating on the people and places of Tahoma
Audubon’s history. Several dedicated volunteers received recognition for

The dynamic team of the

Morse Force received the Photo/Margie Shea
management of the Mo Distinguished Service Aw
rse Wildlife Preserve. Tah ard, for their
servancy members pictur oma Audubon and Casca
ed are from Left to right: de Land Con-
Tom Galdabini, Thelma John Olson, Gary Gedd
Gilmur, Mary Sue Gee, Ion es, Ken Batker,
e Clagett.

Photo/Diane Yorg
asen-Quinn
Sally Sloat and Vera Cragin mingle
after the program. Vera
holds flowers from the table decorat
ions, which were given to
the longest Audubon members at each
table to plant at home

uinn
Yorgasen-Q
Photo/Diane me-
t, is doing so
editor, Jill Eikenhors r typos?
Our intrepid
a m e ta gs ... checking fo Board me
mb
thing with th
ose n ning (righ er Darby Veeck p
t) for his resents th Photo/Ma
Photo/Diane Yorgasen-Quinn and adult yea e Le
birding cla rs of service as a b gacy award to Ma
rgie Shea
Photo/Diane Yorgasen-Quinn
birding classes tion tables. ss teache oard mem rcus Roe-
Ken Brown has been leading adult Thais Bock inspects items at the auc r. ber, field
trip leade
n for over 20 r,
and field trips with Tahoma Audubo
gnition Ken re-
years. Getting well deserved reco
rd.
ceived the Distinguished Service awa

Meet the new

At our 40th Anniversary Banquet and membership meeting three published in the February addition of the Towhee, Helen Engle
new board members where elected.  The membership welcomed requested a suspension of the rules in calling for the election, and the
Thelma Gilm
ur receive them with open arms.  Our bylaws require that we inform the election proceeded.
highest re s the Grea

Board Members
cognition t Egret Aw Photo/Mar
gie Shea
Dan Taylor for volunte ard, Natio membership in writing seven days before the meeting about the slate So it’s high time for the membership to meet the new board
(left), Aud er service. nal Audub
of Graham ubon Californ P resenting on’s
Taylor, our ia Public P the award of candidates for the board.  Though the bios you find here were not members:
AmeriCorp o licy Directo is
s Staff. r and fathe
r

Charles Griffin Tanja Scott Bill Smith

Charles Griffin spends Tanja Scott is a first grade Bill Smith is Senior
his time being a good teacher in Bethel School Environmental Specialist
steward of the land District at Elk Plain School of for the City of Tacoma
and advocating for Choice.  She is a volunteer at where he leads the work
natural habitats.  Three Cedars Hospice for on the City’s efforts in
He is an active men living with HIV/AIDS, sustainability, green
member of the and a client advocate in a building and product
Lakewood United hospice for women living stewardship.  He
Methodist Church and with HIV/AIDS.  A volunteer initiated the residential
has served as staff writer for five summers demonstration project at
president of the Men’s Club.  through the Red Cross at Madigan Army Medical Center, the landfill called the EnviroHouse.  He also
Charles is retired from the military and the she has made presentations on general bird knowledge completed the City’s carbon footprint and climate
Art with Art: Ar Photo/Diane Yo
t Wang admire rgasen-Quinn Boeing Company. He has two children and two on behalf of Tahoma Audubon for Boy Scouts.  She’s action plan.  In addition, Bill represents Pierce
auction. s some of the
art at the sile grandsons.
nt interested in bringing birding and involvement in County residents on the advisory council of the
environmental issues to younger Washingtonians. Puget Sound Clean Air Agency.
sen-Quinn
Photo/Diane Yorga
.
Kerrigan. Janet Bent in back
lie Kerrigan, Emily
Graham Taylor, Ju

Page 6 www.tahomaaudubon.org April 2009 www.tahomaaudubon.org Page 7

 march program Recap
Around the world one bird at a time
By Diane Yorgason-Quinn else become better nature pho-
tographers as well, so be sure
Tahoma Audubon was happy to wel- to bring your camera if you go
come back one of our own, Nate on a tour with him.
Chappell, owner of Trogon Tours, and his In the meantime, check out
Ecuadorian wife, Angie. They showed the online magazine where he
slides and reported on their recent birding moderates the “avian” photos,
Olive Backed Sunbird
tours at our monthly meeting on March www.naturephotographers.net.
13, including their recent trip to Thailand and previous trips to Ecuador. This will show you the kind of
They have upcoming tours lined up for Ecuador and Arizona, and soon big birds that Nate himself
Namibia! Tahoma Audubon members have been well-represented on soars with these days!
each of their tours so far, so this was a chance to see where our friends His slide show was breath- Orange-headed Thrush
had been and where we might be going next. To find out more, visit taking. The name, “Trogon Tours,” is educational as well, as his
their colorful website at: www.trogontours.net. slides included a stunning Asian Orange-Breasted Trogon, so
Nate and his brother Chris Chappell were literally raised with Trogons are not just new world birds, which was news to me.
Tahoma Audubon from childhood, and many of you know them. He’s Electrified Amazonian hummingbirds plus the Asian stand-ins for
still a field trip leader and one of our Christmas Bird Count stalwarts Hummers, the Sunbirds! Plus Lions, Leopards, and Zebras, oh my!
when he’s in the country. Angie was well-represented with her photos of mammals as well,
Nate has become one of the premier bird photographers around, and as she is catching the camera bug, too. Thanks for sharing your
even if we didn’t have our personal interest in him, just to view these riches, Nate and Angie! We always look forward to birding with
incredible photos would be psychic candy! He wants to help everyone you, even when it’s the armchair variety. Rufous-bellied Niltava

All bird photos taken in Thai-

land in January 2009 by Nate
Chappell.

Right: Faye Hands, wearing

her Thai Hornbill T-shirt, remi-
nisces with Nate at the Audu-
bon meeting about the recent
tour to Thailand that she and
her husband, Wade Hands,
went on with them. Angie
Chappell is shown at far right.

Orange Breasted Trogon Blue Eared Barbet Photo/Diane Yorgason-Quinn

the
quizzical 1.  Which of our owl species is the most diurnal?

wl
2.  What species has the largest bill in the bird world?

3.  From Canada to Argentina what grebe is the most common and easily seen?

4.  Name the only egret with bright yellow feet.

5.  Of our local cormorants, which species shows eartufts during breeding season?
By Thais Bock
(Answers below cartoon.)
by Phil Buly
BIRDSONGS

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service estimates 53.4 million Americans feed wild birds
and spend an average of $84 a year on the hobby. Ardent bird feeders spend much
more. Dolly Lara’s bird-feeding hobby goes back 35 years, and she couldn’t imagine
not feeding her feathered friends. But with nyjer seed costing $80 for a 50-pound
bag, she said with a laugh, she might have to reconsider how often she puts out the
good stuff. Sunflower birdseed is about $20 a bag now, the high end of its usual price
range. But the price of nyjer seed -- known as “black gold” in the feed industry -- is
expected to stay abnormally high through the prime bird-feeding season that lasts
until the middle of spring.
- Associated Press

Answers: 1.  Northern Hawk Owl 2.  Pelicans 3.  Pied-billed Grebe 4.  Snowy Egret 5.  Double-crested Cormorant

Page 8 www.tahomaaudubon.org April 2009

 Birdathon field trips
Nisqually NWR and Ocean Shores
Saturday, April 25, 7:00 a.m. to evening.
Leaders: Ken and Nell Batker
The trip will begin with a walk on the Nisqually
dike trail on the Refuge, followed by a sack
lunch (bring your own). We will then carpool
to Gray’s Harbor National Wildlife Refuge and
from there to the Ocean Shores area to cap a
good day’s birding. Everyone is welcome to
come along on all or any part of the day’s
activities. We usually finish at Nisqually
between 11:00 a.m. and noon so anyone wishing
to join us for only the Gray’s Harbor and Ocean
Shores segments can meet us then at Nisqually.
We usually finish the day with the optional
activity of a meal at a nice restaurant in
Aberdeen where we can total up, check our bird
lists, and recall fun sightings of the day. Meet
at the flagpole by the visitors’ center at Nisqually
NWR.
Birding-By-Ear for Birdathon
Saturday, April 25, 8:00 a.m. to noon.
Leader: Melissa Sherwood
Explore McCormick Forest, the old growth
preserve off Bujacich Dr. near Gig Harbor. If
you know our local birds by sight and would
like to get to know their songs and calls, please
join Melissa. We’ll meet at the Swede Hill Fire
Station just west of Hwy. 16 at the Burnham Dr.
exit. We’ll walk through the forest, some steep
trails; time permitting we may explore a couple
of other birdy areas nearby. Hopefully we’ll
pick up on some of the migrating warblers and
flycatchers moving through as well. Wear
comfortable hiking/walking shoes and dress
comfortably for whatever the weather.
Wapato Lake Park
Sunday, April 26, 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.
Leader: George Schonhard
Come join George for a trip he usually does
several times a week. Identify water, woods,
and grassland birds for your list. Families
welcome! Come in the main entrance on South
68th Street, turn right to the parking lot.
Titlow Park
Tuesday, May 5, 10:00 a.m. to noon.
Leaders: Rosanne Becker and Joann Sims
Families welcome! Enjoy both water and
songbirds at this Tacoma park. A variety of
habitats include salt water, pond, and forest.
Meet at the lodge at Titlow Park which is at the
west end of 6th Avenue in Tacoma.
Nisqually NWR and Ocean Shores
Thursday, May 7, 5:30 a.m. until about dark.
Leaders: Ed and Kay Pullen
Meet at the I-5/Highway 512 Park & Ride at
5:30 a.m. Bring food and drink for the day.
Expect close to 100 bird species. Return about
dark. Call Tahoma Audubon to reserve a place.
Walk one to two miles at Nisqually, mostly
short walks otherwise.
Pierce Co. Big Day: “Purdy to Paradise” on
International Migratory Bird Day
Saturday, May 9, 5:15 a.m. till dusk.
Leaders: Bruce LaBar and Charlie Wright
Starting at Purdy Spit, this trip visits Point
Defiance, McChord, and other points of interest
April 2009 www.tahomaaudubon.org Page 9
on the way to the Mountain. We aim each year
to show that you can find 100 species by birding
just in Pierce County. One year we identified
124. Meet at the far end of Purdy Spit at 5:15
a.m.
Green River Watershed
on International Migratory Bird Day
Saturday, May 9, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Leaders: Greg Volkhardt and Master Birder
Join us for a day of birding in the Green River
Watershed and maybe Nolte State Park and
Auburn Narrows wetlands. This is a rare
opportunity to see the protected watershed
managed by Tacoma Water. We’ll leave the
Tacoma Public Utilities Administration Building
at 8:00 a.m. in one or two vans, and arrive at the
watershed gate at about 9:00 or 10:00 a.m.
We’ll bird the forests and fields around Howard
Hanson Reservoir (elevation 1200 feet), then
visit Eagle Lake (elevation 2200 feet) before
maybe heading to Auburn Narrows. We’ll plan
on returning to Tacoma by 4:30 p.m. Space is
limited; this trip is open to the first 12 people to
sign up. Meet at the Tacoma Public Utilities lot
A1 on the west end of the administration
building. The building is located at 3628 South
35th Street.
Adriana Hess Wetland Park-
Audubon Center
Monday, May 11, noon to 2:00 p.m.
Leader: Ruth Sullivan
Ruth Sullivan will lead this regular bird
identification visit at this small, unique park at
2917 Morrison Rd W. in University Place.
Come if you are counting for Birdathon or just
to enjoy the day’s count. The year before last
we identified 40 birds on this count. Since this
is being used as a Birdathon trip, we hope all
participants are willing to give a Birdathon
donation, but not required.
Fort Lewis
Wednesday, May 13, 8:00 a.m. to noon.
Leader: Fort Lewis’s Jim Lynch
Jim Lynch from the Fort’s Wildlife Department,
will meet the group at the Roy Y Park & Ride
at 8:00 a.m. We will carpool to visit the open
oak woodlands and riparian habitats found
among the prairies of the Fort Lewis Training
Grounds. Expect to identify 55-60 species.
Morse Wildlife Preserve
Friday, May 15, 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.
Leader: Betty Jones
Walk the trails and check out the marsh, dry
Douglas-fir forest, moist lowland forest, prairie
and meadow. Take a look at the pond in the
marsh and the forested wetland from the bird
tower. Ask for directions when you sign up.
Tacoma to Potholes
(Overnight in Moses Lake)
Saturday and Sunday, May 16 and 17, 5:30 a.m.
Saturday to Sunday afternoon.
Leaders: Marcus Roening and Heather Ballash
Marcus and Heather lead an exciting, full-day
trip from Tacoma to the Potholes in Moses
Lake. The trip will cover 15 habitat zones, with
special emphasis on migratory birds in the
Columbia Basin sage, pinelands, and wetlands.
Expect to see at least 120 species in one fast-
paced day. Meet at 5:30a.m. and arrive in
Moses Lake at 8:30p.m., where we will stay
overnight. Leisurely return through favorite
bird areas on Sunday. Please provide e-mail
address when you sign up in order to coordinate
lodging details and meeting place. E-mail
marcus.d.roening@gsk.com for further details.
Point Defiance Park
Sunday, May 17, 8:00 a.m. to noon.
Leaders: Rob and Natalie McNair-Huff
Join Rob and Natalie for the Birdathon version
of their monthly nature walk at Point Defiance
Park on May 17. They will set out at 8:00 a.m.
from the zoo parking lot and walk through the
forest trails along Five Mile Drive, walking a
little more than four miles. This Birdathon trip
will end with birding along the ponds near the
park entrance and with a drive down to Owen
Beach. The trip should wrap up around noon.
Lakebay Area
Friday, May 22, 9:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
Leader: Homeowners Dee and Wayne Knight
and Master Birder
Visit acres of woods with songbirds, fields with
ravens and shores with eagles, osprey,
sandpipers, herons. Two eagle nests, too. Bring
lunch, we’ll serve coffee and dessert by the
fireplace. There is a very low tide near noon.
Bring beach shoes; we can walk quite a distance.
Directions: 3715 165th KPN. Go across the
Narrows, take Purdy exit, through the Purdy
stop light, go through the Key Center blinking
red light and 3.8 miles past. You’ll see a huge
billboard on the right saying Dudley Top
Apples, pass the small green 38th St sign on the
right and across from this there will be signs
and balloons on left at a tiny road. Go right past
the Knight signs and balloons to right and wind
down a long wooded road with a steep hill.
You’ll see an old barn and turn to the left to their
house.
Waughop Lake and
Fort Steilacoom Park
Saturday, May 23, 8:30 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.
Leader: Betty Jones
Meeting spot is the parking lot by the barns at
Fort Steilacoom Park. Identify birds in the oak
woodlands, grasslands, and Waughop Lake,
some evergreen areas. Hope to see 50 species.
Foulweather Bluff
Saturday, May 30, 7:00 a.m. to mid-afternoon.
Leader: Rolan Nelson
We’ll visit Foulweather Bluff, Point-No-Point,
and the Hansville Greenway. Join us for this
Birdathon event to check out the west Sound
migrants that should be passing through. We’ll
see wetlands, saltwater, forest glades, and
meadows. We hope to identify over 65 species.
Bring rain gear and layered clothes and a scope
if you have one. Pack a lunch or you can buy
supplies at the Hansville Store. Meet at Purdy
Park & Ride off Highway 16. Take Highway
16 across the Narrows Bridge from Tacoma.
Exit at the SR302/Purdy off-ramp and drive
straight through Purdy (three stoplights) to
144th. The Park & Ride is just beyond the
Chevron Station.
 volunteer Recognition
Intern helps Tahoma Audubon’s conservation and education programs
By Jill Eikenhorst
Angela Baker, a junior at PLU, is engaging her
passion for conservation and nature education
in an internship at Tahoma Audubon this spring.
She’s working with Krystal Kyer, Conservation
Coordinator, on bio-conservation projects, and
teaching kids’ classes with Margie Shea.
Both aspects of her internship speak to Angela’s
interest in conservation: her fieldwork projects
and work on the Bioblitz, for example, are helping
Tahoma Audubon further its conservation goals.
Meanwhile, by teaching nature classes to kids,
Angela hopes she is “getting the next generation
interested in bio-conservation” she said.
Angela grew up in Duvall, WA, which was “all
pastureland” when she was young, she said, “but
it’s quite big now.” Growing up in a small rural
community inspired her interest in conservation.
Doing fieldwork at Tahoma Audubon has helped
her learn more about her career goal of biology
fieldwork. She wants to work in bio-diversity
hotspots like Madagascar or the west coast of
Australia, and she hopes to study abroad in the
Galapagos Islands next year. She hopes her career
will help further conservation efforts.
“People don’t realize that the world is changing
rapidly” Angela said, and her message for the
world is that “we need to take care of these natural
resources or we’ll be out of luck.” Her plan to get
that message out is about knowledge and education,
she said, “I just let people know what’s going on,
and they can make their decisions from there.”

Ken points out the sights at Dry Falls.

Northern Hawk-Owl near Mansfield. Photo/Vicki Biltz

... owls
from page 1

got great looks at Northern Saw-Whet and Great Horned

Owls, as well as fleeting glimpses of Barn Owls.
Interestingly, the Long-Eared Owls that were the feature of
the previous trip were nowhere to be found this year. It’s Owl Pellets explained by leader Ken Brown.
always different! Loads of non-Owl species were seen, too,
including great looks at Prairie Falcon and Rough-Legged
Hawks galore! We also hunted down several reports of
those elusive White-Winged Crossbills, which are still a
hypothetical species in my opinion. Eurasian Collared
Doves in the dozens were everywhere! An exciting pioneer
just a couple of years ago, they now almost dominate the
landscape in such places as Mansfield and Washtucna.
Speaking of Washtucna, the hot spot discovered and made
famous by our own Patrick Sullivan, we visited the com-
memorative bench in Bassett Park there, signifying that he
had put this very spot on the birding map. What great
people – they’re all birders now! Patrick did more than just
find birds and identify them, and he will be remembered
fondly in many out-of-the-way places. Wesern Screech Owl. Photo/Melissa Sherwood
Our owling didn’t stop until we got home the third night,
when Faye Hands heard a Barred Owl in her own yard as
she was going to bed!
Great Horned Owl . (All photos by Diane Yorgason-Quinn unless otherwise noted.)

The memorial birding bench for Patrick Sullivan in Washtucna. Melissa Sherwood thinks she’s on the track of an owl. Eurasian Collared Doves.

Page 10 www.tahomaaudubon.org April 2009

 Stan Engle, son of Kathryn and Russell Engle, was
Stanley Russell Engle a Tacoma grocer, mountain climber, and long time
University Place resident. Born in Yakima, Nov. 12,
1921, he passed away March 23, 2009.
Stan graduated from Stadium High School in
1939, became a journeyman welder in a local ship-
yard while pursuing his hobbies - model airplanes
with the “Tacoma Gas Wings,” bicycle trips, sports
cars and camping. He served in Germany and Aus-
tria in the Army’s 71st Division to the end of WWII,
returning home to work in the “Market Basket,” his
dad’s independent grocery store. After his dad’s
passing he ran the store, Lakewood Thriftway, and
eventually other stores in Tacoma.
A lifetime member of The Mountaineers, he was
recently awarded honorary status. He climbed the
six major glaciated peaks of Washington and as-
cended Mt Rainier over 20 times by many routes,
once bivouacking in the summit crater on a winter
climb. He helped build the Quonset hut at Camp
Schurman on Mt. Rainier and was active in Moun-
tain Rescue. He organized many Cascade mountain
climbing adventures, summited Alaska’s Denali in
1969, and climbed in the Alps, Kilimanjaro, and the
Andes. Stan was also an avid backpacker, runner,
cyclist, and kite-flyer.
Stan served in leadership roles in many citizen
organizations advocating for wilderness, parks,
and trails. He was a charter member of Tahoma
Audubon Society and also the Foothills Trail Coali-
tion, serving on its board many years. He created
furniture in his shop, and his benches, arbors and
trellises grace many local gardens. Stan’s gregari-
ous personality made him many friends, ensuring
a ready supply of companions for his adventures.
He leaves a loving family including his wife Hel-
en, their seven children, David (Margaret), Chris
(Dianne Bennett), George (Janet), Gretchen (Al
Bolinger), Bill (Alison), Heidi (Rob Sandelin), and
Melanie; six grandchildren, Aaron (Gina) & Erica
Engle, Robin Engle & Avery Winslow, Kara & Helen
Sandelin and great-grandsons Emmett and Aidric
Engle.
Stan would be honored with remembrances to
The Mountaineers Foundation, Foothills Trail, or Ta-
homa Audubon.

Save our history: Save Sequalitchew Creek

Fact: The vitality of Sequalitchew Creek over thou-
sands of years has attracted members of the Nisqually
Tribe, The Hudson Bay Company, The DuPont Com-
pany and Weyerhaeuser to its banks. Man has lived
off of the fish which once ran it, found shelter in its
canyon, trapped and profi ted off of the beaver which
lives in it, and utilized it’s deep water port for indus-
trial purposes. The Methodist Mission site (where
teacher Chloe Clark lived) was located to the north of
the creek due to its fresh water and food supply. The
creek, historically, is seen by many as a vital link to
Washington State history.
The historical, natural flow of Sequalitchew Creek
runs from Sequalitchew Lake, through Edmonds
Marsh, down the canyon and out to Puget Sound. The
creek corridor is home to hundreds of species, includ-
ing eagles, hawks, song birds, herons, ducks, owls,
frogs, salamanders, snakes, beaver, raccoons, coyotes,
deer, rabbits and mountain lions.
The intent of the 1994 Settlement Agreement was
to protect the historical, natural fl ow of Sequalitchew
Creek. Glacier Northwest’s current Conditional Use
Permit violates this agreement, and the City of DuPont
is ignoring it. Glacier Northwest’s proposed mine ex-
pansion will cut into an underground aquifer which
will lower the ground water level of Edmonds Marsh,
which is a protected class one wetland. Glacier North-
west’s proposed mine expansion will alter the flow of
Sequalitchew Creek, from Sequalitchew Lake down to
Puget Sound, which is outside of the existing and pro-
posed mine boundary. DuPont’s Land Use Code is was
put into place to protect wetlands, hillsides and streams.
Read DMC Chapter 25.105 to learn more. The DuPont
Hearings examiner will decide whether or not the pro-
What Can You Do?
• Testify during the hearing examiner dates (April 29
& 30) either in writing or in person.
• Educate yourself and peers on the issue.
• Donate to the Nisqually Delta Association to assist
in their legal costs.
• Visit www.oly-wa.us/NDA for links to the 1994 Set-
tlement Agreement & more info. on the creek.
• Experience for yourself - walk through Edmonds
Marsh and down Sequalitchew Creek Canyon.
• Read the staff report, Glacier’s mine application &
Hearing Examiner notice at www.ci.dupont.wa.us.
posed mine expansion can proceed as requested. Du-
Pont City Council has no say in the matter. The hearing
examiner decision can be appealed to Superior Court.

Northwest Trek Wildlife Park presents: NatureMapping:
NatureMapping provides an opportunity for everyone to observe, monitor,
and inventory their local habitats and use the information gathered to
affect real change. Data collected can be used by scientists on
state and local levels to help make decisions that
determine a healthy future for fish and wildlife. This
workshop will involve both classroom and field work
and will include the use of maps, wildlife identification
tips, habitat coding, building a search image, and data col-
lection procedures.
Data Collection and Monitoring
Data Collection & Monitoring Workshop
$40 per participant (discounted - regularly $70)
May 30 & 31, 2009 Friday: 9am - 5pm, Saturday 9 am -5 pm
This workshop is for citizens interested in using the NatureMapping pro-
cess to keep track of wildlife in their backyard, local parks and forests,
or any other natural area. This hands-on environmental learn-
ing workshop helps people take the next step after learning to
enjoy wildlife.

To register, call 360-832-7166 or e-mail reserve@nwtrek.org

Registration closes April 22nd, 2009
For more information contact Jessica Moore at 360-832-7160
Checks payable to: Tahoma Audubon 2917 Morrison
Rd. W. University Place, 98466 Tahoma Audubon
Society, established in 1969, is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit

Membership Fee:
___ Introductory (first year) $20
___ Joint National/Tahoma Audubon $50
organization. Donations are tax deductible.

Membership

___
___
Chapter member renewal
Other Contributions _____________
$30

Tahoma Audubon is the Pierce County chapter of National Audubon. As

an Introductory member of Tahoma Audubon you also receive a National Member(s) Name: _______________________________________
Audubon membership and Audubon Magazine for one year. Renewing Address: _______________________________________________
your Chapter Membership ensures that we can continue to do our work in
Pierce County. Chapter membership includes: Towhee newsletter sub- City______________________________ Zip__________________
scription, free family events, birding trip invitations, class & book dis- Phone: home ___________________business _________________
counts, conservation activities, annual celebrations and more. Joint TAS/
e-mail: ________________________________________________
National Audubon membership includes: Chapter membership, National
membership, annual Audubon Magazine subscription, and support of
Member #: _______________________________ (office use only)
Important Bird Areas (IBA) and state and national conservation agendas.

April 2009 www.tahomaaudubon.org Page 11


april 2009
Weekly Bird Walks at Nisqually Wed, Apr 1, 7:30 AM
to 11:00 AM. F
Project FeederWatch Ends for 2008-2009 Season Fri,
April 3.
TGIF Breakfast & Work Party. Fri, April 3, 10:00 AM
to 12:00 PM. F
Seabird Survey 7 Sat, April 4, 10:47 AM to 2:47 PM..
Location: assigned survey sites
Weekly Bird Walks at Nisqually Wed, Apr 8, 7:30 AM
to 11:00 AM.
Budding Scientists “The Tiniest Things” Wed, April 8,
10:30 AM to 12:00 PM.
Budding Scientists “The Tiniest Things” Wed, April 8,
3:15 PM to 4:45 PM.
Begining Homeschool Science: Too Little to be Seen.
Thu, April 9, 9:30 AM to 11:30 AM. F
Beginning Homeschool Science: Too Little to be Seen.
Thu, April 9, 1:00 PM to 3:00 AM. F
Tahoma Audubon Board Meeting Thu, April 9, 6:30
PM to 8:30 PM. Location: Adriana Hess Audubon Center.
Monthly Meeting of the Tahoma Audubon Board. Guest
Welcome, please call ahead at (253) 565-9278.
TGIF Breakfast & Work Party Fri, April 10, 10:00 AM
to 12:00 PM. F
Membership Meeting Fri, April 10, 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM..
Location: Tacoma Nature Center, 1919 S. Tylor Street.
Monthly membership meeting of Tahoma Audubon. All
welcome. Program: Gone to the Goonies: Midway Atoll.
Morse Preserve Open Trails Sun, April 12, 12:00 PM
to 4:00 PM.
Bird Walk at Adriana Hess Wetland Park Mon, April
13, 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM. Enjoy a guided bird walk
through the park!
Nature Alphabet: G is for Gardens Tue, April 14, 10:30
AM to 11:30 AM.
Conservation Committee Tue, April 14, 4:00 PM to
5:30 PM. Tahoma Audubon Offices.
Nature Snapshots: Invertebrates Tue, April 14, 6:30
PM to 8:30 PM.. Location: Tacoma Nature Center. Ages
12 and up, $15 per person or $30 per family (4 people
max) Join us for a “snapshot” of nature as we explore the
basics of identification and help families learn a few of the
local native wildlife. Call 591-6439 to register.
Weekly Bird Walks at Nisqually Wed, April 15, 7:30
AM to 11:00 AM. F
Art & Nature of Native Plants Class Wed, April 15,
7:00 PM to 9:00 PM. Location: Adriana Hess Audubon
Center. This field-based class brings together the natural
world and the artist’s perspective. Native plant specialist,
Mary Sue Gee, will provide hands-on instruction in
identification and ecological relationships during one
classroom session and four field trips. She will be joined
by Monica Weidman, watercolor artist and botanical
illustrator, to engage the students in a deeper appreciation
and understanding of the native plant ecosystem of the
South Puget Sound. E E
Intermediate Science: Under the Microscope Thu,
April 16, 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM.
Education Committee Meeting Thu, April 16, 5:00 PM
to 6:00 PM. Location: Adriana Hess Conference Room
TGIF Breakfast & Work Party Fri, April 17, 10:00 AM
to 12:00 PM. F
Parks Appreciation Day - Tacoma. Sat, April 18,9:00
AM to 12:00 PM. Location: Tacoma Nature Center. Help
out at the Tacoma Nature Center as a family or a group in
celebration of Earth Day. Pull invasive plants, maintain
the trails, and many ohter proects in support of this great
wildlife habitat in the heart of Tacoma. Pre-registration
required. call 591 6439. F
Bird Walk at Adriana Hess Wetland Park Mon, April
20, 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM. Enjoy a guided bird walk
through the park!
For additional information:Tahoma Audubon - 253-565-9278; or www.tahomaaudubon.org Or The Tacoma Nature Center:253-591-6439 or www.metroparkstacoma.org
Calendar
Tahoma audubon programs
Free to members and non-members!
Gone to the Goonies: Midway Atoll
Friday, April 10. Refreshments at 7:15 p.m.,
meeting at 7:30 p/m.
Tacoma Nature Center, 1919 South Tyler, Tacoma
Valerie Elliott will present; she is Audubon mem-
ber and Natural Resource Planner for the U.S. Air
Force (an avid birder for many years with an ABA
list of over 650 species).
Midway Atoll National Wildlife Refuge/Battle of
Midway National Memorial, part of the
Northwestern Hawaiian Islands Marine National
Monument, is probably best remembered forthe
Intermediate Birding Tue, April 21, 7:00 PM to 9:00
PM. E
Weekly Bird Walks at Nisqually Wed, April 22, 7:30
AM to 11:00 AM. F
Budding Scientists “MicroWorld.” Wed, April 22,
10:30 AM to 12:00 PM.
Budding Scientists “MicroWorld.” Wed, April 22, 3:15
PM to 4:45 PM.
Advanced Science: Bio-Science: Microbiology Thu,
April 23, 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM. F
TGIF Breakfast & Work Party Fri, April 24, 10:00 AM
to 12:00 PM. F
Nature Storytime “Earth Day Stories” Fri, April 24,
10:30 AM to 11:30 AM.
Advanced Science Lab: Microbiology Fri, April 24,
1:00 PM to 4:00 PM. F
Self Guided Tour Workshop at Tacoma Nature
Center Sat, April 25, 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Location:
Tacoma Nature Center. For the self-guided tours at the
Tacoma Nature Center at Snake Lake, specially trained
group leaders like YOU learn natural history and ecology
information and activities to share with your class on your
field trip. You will have access to your science lab and
equipment, our hands-on exhibit area, our 71-acre nature
preserve and our nature biofacts, field guides and more!
$50.00 per person. Ages 18+ Call the Tacoma Nature
Center to register, 253-591-6439.
Intermediate Birding Tue, April 28, 7:00 PM to 9:00
PM. Continuation of April 21st class. Location: Adriana
Hess Audubon Center. E
Weekly Bird Walks at Nisqually Wed, Apr 29, 7:30 AM
to 11:00 AM.
May 2009
TGIF Breakfast & Work Party Fri, May 1, 10:00 AM
to 12:00 PM. F
Native Plant Sale Sat, May 2, 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM.
Location: Tacoma Nature Center.
Intermediate Birding Tue, May 5, 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM.
Weekly Bird Walks at Nisqually Wed, May 6, 7:30 AM
to 11:00 AM. F
TGIF Breakfast & Work Party Fri, May 8, 10:00 AM
to 12:00 PM. F
Membership Meeting Fri, May 8, 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM.
Location: Tacoma Nature Center. Monthly membership
meeting of Tahoma Audubon. Speaker: Miriam Easley,
Sustainability Outreach Coordinator, Versar, Inc. Fort
Lewis, Public Works-ED. Presentation Abstract: Fort
Lewis is committed to the support of a strong national
defense, securing the integrity of our natural and cultural
heritage, and conserving our natural resources for
tomorrow’s generations. In 2002 Fort Lewis emerged
as a leading force for sustainability. Fort Lewis’
Installation Sustainability Program (ISP) is guided by
eight long-term goals that are divided into six subject
areas: Air Quality, Products & Materials Management,
WWII Battle of Midway. The military has departed
and today the islands have gone to the birds.
Laysan and black-footed albatross abound, with
the largest nesting colonies in the world. Midway
Atoll also has nesting colonies of 15 other seabird
species.
However, the albatross face threatening issues at
sea and on land – longline fishing, plastics, lead,
and invasive species. Valerie Elliott had the oppor-
tunity to visit Midway Atoll in December 2006.
Her presentation will cover species
on and around Midway Atoll and the
atoll’s albatrosses and threats to their
continuing existence.
Water Resources, Sustainable Training Lands, Energy
and Sustainable Communities. A multidisciplinary team
oversees implementation of the ISP within each subject
area. Sustainability has applications to every organization
and Fort Lewis sends this message through its outreach
programs, participation in technical conferences,
willingness to serve as an R&D demonstration site
for technology innovations, and leadership as an early
adopter of sustainable practices. Ms. Easley is a civilian
contractor for the Public Works department at Ft Lewis.
She has extensive knowledge about the sustainability
efforts within the Army and on military bases nationwide.
International Migratory Bird Day Count Sat, May 9.
Morse Preserve Open Trails. Sun, May 10, 12:00 PM
to 4:00 PM.
Bird Walk at Adriana Hess Wetland Park. Mon, May
11, 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM. Enjoy a guided bird walk
through the park!
Nature alphabet: I is for Inch by Inch Tue, May 12,
10:30 AM to 11:30 AM. F
Conservation Committee Tue, May 12, 4:00 PM to 5:30
PM Location: Tahoma Audubon Offices.
Nature Snapshots: Tidepools. Tue, May 12, 6:30 PM to
8:30 PM.
Intermediate Birding Tue, May 12, 7:00 PM to 9:00
PM. Continuation of May 5 class. E
Weekly Bird Walks at Nisqually Wed, May 13, 7:30
AM to 11:00 AM. F
Budding Scientists “The Living Web.” Wed, May 13,
10:30 AM to 12:00 PM.
Budding Scientists “The Living Web.” Wed, May 13,
3:15 PM to 4:45 PM.
Beginning Homeschool Science: The Web of Life Thu,
May 14, 9:30 AM to 11:30 AM. F
Beginning Homeschool Science: The Web of Life Thu,
May 14, 1-3 PM. F
Tahoma Audubon Board Meeting Thu, May 14, 6:30
PM to 8:30 PM. Location: Adriana Hess Audubon Center.
Monthly Meeting of the Tahoma Audubon Board. Guest
Welcome, please call ahead at (253) 565-9278.
Nisqually BioBlitz May 15 to May 16, 2009. Location: Roy/
McKenna area. Attention Nature Mappers, animal and plant
lovers! Learn to be a citizen scientists by being part of a team
of citizens and experts and help identify the flora and fauna
of a biologically diverse area. Camp overnight and look for
nocturnal animals! Find bugs, amphibians, butterfies, birds,
and mammals! Contact Krystal for details and upcoming
training opportunities at 253-232-9978. On the web, go to:
http://depts.washington.edu/natmap/about/howto.html.
F Field Trip Page
V Volunteer page
M Environment Matters Page
A Related article in Towhee
E Education Page