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

Vol. 40 No. 10 December 2009/January 2010

It’s here! It’s here! Our 2010 Membership

Banquet is almost here
and we need your help!
The 110th Christmas Bird Count!  Saturday, February 6, 2010 is Tahoma
Audubon's biggest event of the year and
By Faye McAdams Hands chapters around the world organize their own we need lots of help from our members

oy
 
CBC to continue this longest running citizen- to make this a success!
Saturday, December 19, 2009 will be the Please see details on page 2.
scientist project. Counters count every bird that is
Christmas Bird Count for our Tahoma Audubon

J
seen or heard on the designated day, within their
Chapter. You are welcome to join in the fun of this
annual holiday tradition! Every year Audubon See "CBC” on page 2

THE
OF BIRDING CLASSES
Story and
photos by
Diane Yorgason-Quinn

Tahoma
Audubon is
currently fielding three different classes for
adult birders (not to mention all the resources
made available to children and youth!), which
have been wildly popular! The intermediate Gathering of the Intermediate Birding Class at The Nature Center at Snake Lake. Instructor Ken Brown is
birding class this year had to move from the seated just to the left of the Swan sculpture in the corner.
Audubon Center at Adriana Hess Park to the
Nature Center at Snake Lake because it has
grown so much in size, actually having to turn and wet. Ken decided we’d head out anyway, headed up to the Kingston area to look for the
people away. Rumor has it that it will split next as there was a chance of breaks in the weather. Rusty Blackbird! This blackbird normally
year and become two classes – Intermediate Turns out the break was all day! Perfect fall winters in the American Southeast (breeding in
and Advanced! It looks like birding is no lon- birding weather! the northeast and Canada) and has been report-
ger an undiscovered joy! In this unusually rich season for rare birds ed usually once or twice each winter in
Ken Brown’s intermediate class at press time (see the report from Ruth Sullivan on page 7, as Washington in recent years, but I can tell you
had just taken its second field trip of the fall/ well as last month’s issue), we took our cue it’s a hard bird to pick out of a flock of several
winter season November 14 , the first week-
th
from Tweeters internet reports (Brad Waggoner
end since the weather took a turn for the cold of Bainbridge Island on November 10th) and See "Classes” on page 6

Donate to the Tahoma Audubon Society In this issue:

Common birds at risk, sharp decline of sea
birds in Puget Sound, Global warming ef-
fects on habitat, and near extinction for the
Spotted Owl. These are some of the recent
headlines that add urgency to our work to
preserve habitat for wildlife and humans.
Your donation is critical to the success of
our important work. Donate today!
Your donation is tax deductible. Click here
to go to our donation webpage.
25 Years Ago page 8
BirdSongs page 8
Calendar page 12
Education page 4
Environment Matters page 3
Field trips page 5
New Members page 11
Quizzical Owl page 8
Photo/Robert Kelton
2010 Membership Banquet is approaching quickly!
Photo/Diane Yorgason-Quinn
Here are a few photos of the fun we had last year,
including the auction and several award presentations.
We need your help for more of the same this year!
Our annual membership banquet is coming up
on Saturday, February 6th, 2010! Last year’s 40th
Anniversary celebration was a huge success and
we want to repeat the fun for this year’s event. To
make it great, we need your help:
1) We need auction items! Please consider
donating something to this year’s silent auction.
Most donations are tax deductible and all proceeds
go to support our endowment. Donations large
and small are appreciated. Ideas from past auc-
tions include art, books, tickets to museums or
sporting events, homemade goodies, guided bird-
ing trips and other fun experiences. Please call the
TAS office for more ideas or to make a donation.
2) We need party planners! This is the biggest
single event of the TAS calendar year and it takes
lots of people to make it run smoothly. If you are
interested in helping out with the banquet in any
way, please contact Melissa at (253)306-0037 or
mjnpaulson79@gmail.com We’ll need people to
help with the program, decorations, materials and
day-of logistics.
With your help, we can put together a great
event to celebrate Tahoma Audubon’s fantastic
members and activities. We look forward to see-
ing you at the 2010 banquet!

Photos/Margie Shea

The Pierce County Chapter of The National Audubon Society

Located in University Place's Adriana Hess Wetland Park
2917 Morrison Rd W University Place, WA 98466
Office hours 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. Front desk 253-565-9278

Tahoma Audubon Staff

 

Flint, Bryan Executive Director                        

bryanflint@tahomaaudubon.org 253-565-9129
Kyer, Krystal Conservation Coordinator
kkyer@tahomaaudubon.org 253-232-9978                    
Swaim, Stephanie Education Coordinator
... CBC
from page 1
Area 1: Art Wang
752-1714 artnancy@harbornet.com

Area 2: Faye McAdamsHand

StephSwaim@tahomaaudubon.org 253-327-9480

942-9233 zest4parus@hotmail.com Kesinger, Cami Development Coordinator

designated Count Circle.  Our
Circle contains 8 different Areas.
In the map at right you will see
the Areas, along with the Area
Coordinators. You can contact the
Coordinator of the Area that you
would like to count in, or contact
the Count Coordinator directly if
you are not sure, or would like to
offer you help in an Area that
might need extra birders: Faye
McAdams Hands – 253-942-
9233, zest4parus@hotmail.com
Exciting news from last year’s
CBC: out of 1,624 Counts in the US,
our very own Count Circle had top
numbers for Red-necked Grebe
(253) ! This is our second year in a
row to come out on top with this
bird. In 2007 we had the nation’s
high count also (331) . Now, if only
that Black-tailed Gull will stick around
Area 3: Diane Yorgason-Quinn 
857-3367 avosetta@hotmail.com
Area 4: Roxy & Bill Giddings 537-3075
Area 5: Rolan Nelson
292-0160 rnbuffle@yahoo.com
Area 6: Marcus Roening 756-0215
Area 7: Ed Pullen
848-5951 edwardpullen@gmail.com
Area 8: Ruth Sullivan
564-7419 godwit513@msn.com
for us! Keep your fingers crossed…..
  The Tally Dinner directly
after the Count is always a fun event,
and a great way to meet the other
birders and share stories from the
day, while eating a tasty meal!  Come
join us at The Nature Center at Snake
Lake - 1919 S. Tyler St, Tacoma -
from 5:00 – 6:30. See you there!
ckesinger@tahomaaudubon.org 253-565-9129                      
Taylor, Graham Volunteer 253-565-1884
Kerrigan, Julie Coordinators 253-223-0039
gtaylor@tahomaaudubon.org jkerrigan@tahomaaudubon.org
Benton, Ken Education Intern
kbenton@tahomaaudubon.org 253-565-1884
Tahoma Audubon Board Officers
John Garner President
Marjorie Shea Vice President
Jane Brosius Secretary
Kathleen Nelson Treasurer
Tahoma Audubon Board Members 2009
Thelma Gilmur Ione Clagett
Dick Carkner
Melissa Paulson
Marcus Roening
Bill Smith
Peggy L. Kopf Tanja Scott
Darby Veeck Charles Griffin

The Towhee is a publication of the Tahoma Audubon Society.
The Tahoma Audubon Society was chartered in 1969. TAS
advocates for the protection of wildlife and promotes conserva-
tion through education and activities that enrich its member’s
experiences in and with the natural world.
The Towhee is published monthly, ten times a year, with
combined Jul/Aug and Dec/Jan issues. Submissions of articles
and photographs of birds, bird lore, natural history, conserva-
tion, and environmental education are reviewed and considered
for inclusion by the editor. Copy is due by the 15th of the month
and may be sent by e-mail, disk, or typed. E-mail submissions
to editor@tahomaaudubon.org. Editor: David Lev
Mailing: Vera & John Cragin and Winfield Giddings
Design & Layout: Robert Kelton: robert_kelton@ mac.com
Printing: Consolidated Press

Page 2 www.tahomaaudubon.org December 2009/January 2010

 ENVIRONMENT Matters
Saving lands across Pierce County
The future of open space in Pierce County is up to us.  forests, farms, other open spaces and trails are conserved
What we collectively envision and, crucially, fund – will
shape the livability and culture of this scenic region.
Will we still have working forests surrounding Mt.
Rainier National Park in 30 years? Or will we have
sprawling 10-acre estates that destroy forest and river
habitat and produce urban flooding downstream?  note, and start 2010 with the future in mind: on October
Will we have access to healthy locally grown foods?
Or will farmland and farmers be extinct, because they
couldn’t compete with industrial agriculture or rising
land prices or too many roads, warehouses, and suburban
sprawl?
Will we have a trails system to recreate, exercise,
provide an alternative to driving, or view birds and
wildlife? Or will we continue to build more roads only
to be stuck in traffic, which leads to more sprawl, worse
air quality, and contributes to climate change?
Each of us has our own answers to these questions,
and indeed other important questions to raise. There is
no right or wrong answer, but there is a choice to be
made.  Our future is ours, and it is our children’s.  for the future today!
In these difficult economic times, we, as a society and
as taxpayers, must make hard decisions on how and
when and where to spend our money.  That is why
Tahoma Audubon has been working to ensure that tax
dollars are spent wisely and efficiently, and that working
intern Bio
Lindsay Raab
Lindsay Raab grew up in Apple Valley,
Minnesota. She received a Bachelor of
Science degree in Biology, and a minor
focus in Psychology, from the University
of Wisconsin – Eau Claire. Lindsay is
currently in her second year of the
Masters of Environmental Studies
Program at The Evergreen State College Lindsay Raab
in Olympia, Washington. Her upcoming
thesis work will focus on nearshore birds on and near
Anderson Island in the South Puget Sound. The goal of the
research is to provide justification to expand the current
Important Bird Area boundary in the Nisqually Delta to
include the cliffs and shores of Anderson Island.
Lindsay will be coordinating and participating in a
Christmas Bird Count and Puget Sound Seabird Surveys on
Anderson Island. She will be amassing bird data from numer-
ous sources such as “E-Bird” notes and past survey data.
Lindsay also plans to interview locals to the island, as well as
seabird experts working in the Puget Sound.
intern Bio
Greg Cook
Greg Cook, a second-year student in
the Master’s of Public Administration
program at The Evergreen State Col-
lege, is undertaking an internship with
Tahoma Audubon from October
through December. During this intern-
ship,
  Greg is working with Conservation
Coordinator Krystal Kyer on the Roy Greg Cook
community open house, the TAS five-
year plan, and Pierce County’s Open Space Task Force.
Greg, a native of rural northern New York, has worked for
the Pierce County Library System since 2002. He is also a
writer whose work has appeared in various regional and
national publications. This year he is one of six reader-
columnists for The News Tribune. He hopes to graduate
from Evergreen in June, 2010.
“Interning with Tahoma Audubon has shown me some of
the struggles and rewards of life in a non-profit,” he says.
“Tahoma Audubon’s vision and work make an impact in
the Pierce County region and it is exciting to be a small part
of that.”
December 2009/January 2010 www.tahomaaudubon.org Page 3
in a thoughtful and planned way that looks holistically at
all of the issues and options.  Funding is a crucial piece
of the conservation puzzle.  No plan, as good as it may
be, will ever be implemented without funding.  available
So, here is some good news to end 2009 on a positive
27, 2009 the Pierce County Council voted in favor of
Resolution No.R2009-97s, establishing an Open Space
Task Force beginning in January 2010 that will study
and provide recommendations on how open space lands
will be acquired over the next decade.
The task force will coordinate with watershed councils,
land trusts, and environmental groups involved with
open space to create a long-range acquisition plan.
Creating an acquisition plan for open space is a key
component that needs occur before a sales tax for trails,
parks, and open space can be put before the public for a
vote.   play a key role in the task force when it commences in
We applaud the Pierce County Council for planning
Tahoma Audubon did not do this alone.  Members of
the Pierce County Sustainability Coalition (PCSC)
identified the creation of this task force as one of three
local priorities for 2009.  The other two being getting a
Mixed-Use Centers Update in Tacoma (which we
Environmental Priorities Lobby Day 2010
By Kat Crowley-York
The words “government of the people, by the
people, for the people” have always stuck in my
mind – from the days long past of studying
Abraham Lincoln and the Gettysburg Address. It
always seemed like excellent rhetoric – incredibly
inspiring, but somewhat vague and
impalpable. How could the
government be BY the people? I
vote – is that what it means? Or can
an ordinary citizen have a bigger say
in the process of government?
Three years ago, when I attended
my first Environmental Priorities
Lobby Day, it all became clear to me.
Yes, absolutely, I could be part of the
process, and yes, absolutely, my
single voice could make a difference.
It was an eye-opening and educating
experience, and one I plan to repeat
many, many more times in my life.
For 18 years, People For Puget Sound and the
environmental community have been
spearheading the annual Environmental Lobby
Day in Olympia, and the event has grown by
leaps and bounds. Last year’s event had over
500 attendees, 125 legislative appointments, 25
co-sponsors, and 42 of 49 Legislative Districts
represented.
Last year, Representative Tom Campbell (an
environmental Republican) spoke to attendees to
inspire them and acknowledge the power of
citizen advocacy. In his words, “When I see an
army of real people, I love it. I absolutely love it.”
I was surprised my first year by how willing
the legislators were to listen, and how informed
they are on the issues. Their constituents are
their top priority, and I came away from the day
really feeling like my concerns had been listened
to and my opinions would be considered when
the time came to vote on the issues.
Be Heard, Be Seen, Be Green!
When: Tue. Jan. 26th,  8:30 AM – 6:00 PM
succeeded at doing
this summer), and
making recycling
options more
to
downtown Tacoma
businesses.  The
PCSC is a coalition
formed in 2008, of
local non-profit
groups working
together to improve Contact Krystal at 253-232-9978.
Or kkyer@tahomaaudubon.org
the quality of life in
Tacoma and Pierce County by utilizing our grassroots
memberships and collective voice to advocate for
regulatory and policy changes. 
Tahoma Audubon Society took a lead in advocating
for the creation of a task force, and we will continue to
January, ensuring that open spaces such as working
forests and farms, rivers, wetlands, parks, trails, and
more are conserved and funded across Pierce County,
and so that we create a community that we continue to
want to live in, that our grandchildren will enjoy living
in, and where wildlife can find a home, a rest stop, or a
bite to eat, too. 
Where: United Churches of Olympia, 110th
East 11th Ave
Additionally: Unveiling of the sixth and newest
map of the Great Washington State Birding Trail
hosted by Audubon Washington, with special
guest, Senator Lisa Brown.
Registration fee $15. Bus transportation $15
(Tacoma Bus $10).
On line registration opens soon at
http://pugetsound.org/forms/
lobbydayreg10.
2010 Environmental Priorities:
1.    The Working for Clean Water
bill is about creating jobs, rebuilding
our local economies, and cleaning up
polluted waterways like the Puget
Sound and Spokane River.
2.    Safe Baby Bottles to protect
children’s health and the environment
by phasing out the harmful chemical
bisphenol A (BPA) from baby bottles,
food and beverage cans, and other
consumer products.
3.    Budget for our Environment to ensure
adequate funding for the core environmental
protections that make Washington State a
healthy place to live.
During Lobby Day you will hear from legislators
that are championing the Environmental
Priorities legislation, receive a training on how to
lobby from top environmental lobbyists, and
have a chance to meet face-to-face with your
elected officials.  And don’t forget the party in
the evening!
Our goal is to have 600 participants, 130
legislative appointments, and have 45 of 49
Legislative Districts represented.
My husband and I will be there – will you?
Online registration for the 2010 Environmental
Lobby Day will begin in December.
http://pugetsound.org/forms/lobbydayreg10.
For more information contact Rein Attemann,
rattemann@pugetsound.org,  or (206) 382-
7007.

Announcing Volunteer Naturalist training
The educators at
Tahoma Audubon
Society and Tacoma
Nature Center are
excited to announce
the new Volunteer
Naturalist Training
Program which
begins in 2010!  8:45pm  or  Sat. Jan. 16, 9:30-11:45am
From January to
stephanieSWAIM March, active and
Education Coordinator informative
workshops will
Call Steph @ 253-327-9480. Or teach participants
StephSwaim@tahomaaudubon.org about the ecology of
our region, and how
to inspire a sense of wonder in those who seek to
explore it.
  Volunteer Naturalists are the backbone of our
strategic goal of expanding nature education across
Pierce County.  With only one educator on staff at
Tahoma Audubon, we rely on a corps of trained,
enthusiastic volunteers to bring environmental
education into the community and into school
classrooms.  After receiving training, Volunteer
Naturalists are asked to commit to at least five hours of
Education Matters
outreach or on-site presentations.
Training consists of six workshops held at Tacoma
Nature Center and taught by specialists and staff. The
workshops will give you a broad knowledge of each
subject area, and the tools to create an atmosphere of
exploration and excitement for the natural world.
Required workshops:
✔ Introduction to Interpretation – Tue. Jan. 12, 6:30-
✔ Feathered Friends (Birds) – Tue. Jan. 26, 6-9pm 
or  Sat. Jan 30, 9-noon
✔ Washington Wildlife (Mammals) – Tue. Feb. 9,
6-9pm Volunteer Naturalists share the wonder of nature.
✔ Forest Fun (Forest Ecology) – Tue. Feb. 23, 6-9pm 
or  Sat. Feb. 27, 9-noon The fee for a workshop is $10.  The Introduction to
✔ Wetland Wonders (Wetland Ecology) – Tue. Mar. 9, Interpretation workshop is a prerequisite and is free of
6-9pm  or  Sat. Mar. 13, 9-noonTide pools (Intertidal charge.  Receive a $20 discount if you register for all
Ecology) – Tue. Mar. 23, 4:30-7:30pm at Titlow Beach six workshops at once!  Call Tacoma Nature Center at
In addition to the six required workshops, Volunteer 253-591-6439 to sign up.  Space is limited.
Naturalists will have the opportunity to participate in To be a Volunteer Naturalist you must be age16 or
“elective” workshops.  These will be open to the older, and available to lead programs during the school
public, but preference will be given to those who day, on weekends, and/or in the evenings depending on
complete the training. Elective workshops may include: the requests from teachers and community groups.
Animal Tracking, Nature by Kayak, Marine Mammals, If you have any questions, give me a call at 253-327-
Geology of Puget Sound, Neotropical Birds, Butterflies 9480 or email StephSwaim@TahomaAudubon.org.
and Dragonflies. Join us and help connect others with nature!

schedule of recurring classes

Budding Scientists
Ages 5-7, $9.00 per student. Young homeschoolers and
other children begin science and nature exploration
through games, hikes, and crafts.
Beginning Homeschool Science
Ages 8-10, $12 per student. Homeschool students
explore science through hands-on experiments and
activities. Register Early - these classes fill quickly!
Note - topics are repeated during the month, so select
class appropriate for your child’s knowledge and
abilities. Beginning science students should be able to
add and subtract numbers.
Intermediate Homeschool Science
Ages 10-12, $12 per student. Homeschool students
explore science through hands-on experiments and
activities. Register Early - these classes fill quickly! Note
- topics are repeated during the month, so select class
appropriate for your child’s knowledge and abilities.
Intermediate Science Students should be able to multiply
and divide numbers, add and subtract fractions.
Advanced Homeschool Science
Ages 12-15, $15 per student. Homeschool students
explore science through hands-on experiments and
activities. Register Early - these classes fill quickly!
Note - topics are repeated during the month, so select
class appropriate for your child’s knowledge and
abilities. Older homeschool students will continue their
science studies with challenging and engaging
experiments and activities. To participate in this class,
students should be able to calculate averages,
percentages, and solve simple equations.
Advanced Homeschool Science Lab
Ages 12-15, $15 per student. Homeschool students
explore science through hands-on experiments and
activities. Register Early - these classes fill quickly!
Note - topics are repeated during the month, so select
class appropriate for your child’s knowledge and
abilities. Older homeschool students will continue their
science studies with challenging and engaging
experiments and activities. To participate in this class,
students should be able to calculate averages,
percentages, and solve simple equations.
Nature Storytime
Ages 2-6, $6 per child, $3 Audubon member, free to
adults and U.P residents. Join us as we explore the park
at the Adriana Hess Audubon center in University
Place with nature stories based on the current theme.
Adults are welcome with the children. This a wonderful
grandparent/ grandchild activity! Space is limited to the
first 20 registered guests (adults and children).
Nature Alphabet
Ages 3-6, $6 per child. 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 an adult present. Please note alternating
times. Register by the Saturday before the program.
Adriana Hess Park Photography Class
Mon Dec 7 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM
Location: Adriana Hess Park. An adult program
encouraging people to appreciate nature and how they
can incorporate it into their photography. Call Dixie
Harris for details 564-6373.
Christmas Irisfolding Card Class
Mon Dec 7 6:30 PM to 8:30 PM
Location: Adriana Hess Audubon Center. Cost $12 per
person to be paid at class. You will leave class with at
least two cards and patterns to make your own.  Other
techniques such as Teabag Folding and Spirelli may be
included along with the Irisfolding. Supplies needed:  a
small scissors, Scotch Brand Magic tape (green
dispenser), and a small craft mat (if you have one). Call
Adriana Hess Audubon Center @ 565-9278 to reserve
your spot.  For more details, call Rosanne Becker @
564-7115.
 
Intermediate Birder’s Class
Tues Dec 8 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM
Continuation of class.
Snake Lake Science club
Tues Dec 15 3:30 PM to 5:30 PM.
Location: Tacoma Nature Center. Ages 10-14, no
charge for club meetings, $10 per student to join the
club. Snake Lake Science Club for homeschool and
other students age 10-14 years old who want to learn
more about science and the natural world. Students pay
a once per school year fee of $10 to join the club and
are then free to participate in any program offerings,
including the 2010 Snake Lake Science Fair. The
following programs are designed to help students learn
more about science and the scientific process through
hands-on discovery. Pre-registration for each program
is required as space is limited. Call The Nature Center
to register 591-6439.
Adriana Hess Park Photography class
Mon Jan 4 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM
Location: Adriana Hess Park. An adult program
encouraging people to appreciate nature and how they
can incorporate it into their photography. Call Dixie
Harris for details 564-6373.
Adriana Hess Park Photography class
Mon Feb 1 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM
Location: Adriana Hess Park. An adult program
encouraging people to appreciate nature and how they
can incorporate it into their photography. Call Dixie
Harris for details 564-6373.

1919 South Tyler Street, 2917 Morrison Road W.,

Tacoma WA 98338 University Pl. WA 98466
253-591-6439 www.metroparkstacoma.org 253-565-9278
Open Tues. – Fri. 8 a.m.-5 p.m. www.TahomaAudubon.org
& Sat. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Open Mon – Sat. 10a.m.-1p.m.

Check our websites for the latest updates on classes and schedules.

Page 4 www.tahomaaudubon.org December 2009/January 2010

 field trips and Events
Weekly Bird Walks at Nisqually
Wed. Dec 2. 7:30 AM to 11:00 AM
Wed. Dec 9. 7:30 AM to 11:00 AM
Wed. Dec 23. 7:30 AM to 11:00 AM
Wed. Dec 30. 7:30 AM to 11:00 AM
Location: Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge
Leader: Phil Kelley
Birdwalk hikes changed in spring, 2009.  The boardwalk
loop, including the twin barns and riparian overlook,
are now the only areas open to the public due to
construction related to dike removal. Even so, bird
watching has been good.
Join Phil on his weekly bird walks as he counts the
birds at Nisqually NWR. The group takes the boardwalk/
trail loop out to the Twin Barns, the Nisqually overlook  Be prepared for seasonal weather.
area, and the riparian area, totaling about 2 miles.
Bring: Good walking shoes or boots, raingear, water,
snacks, and $3   for entry fee unless you have a
pass.  Scopes are welcome. Meet: at Visitor’s Center.
Directions:  Take I-5 south from Tacoma and exit to
Nisqually NWR at exit 114.  Take a right at the light.
Sign-up:   Call or email Phil Kelley to confirm
details.   Phil Kelley, Lacey, (360) 459-1499,
scrubjay323@aol.com.
Nisqually NWR has started a 3-4 year estuary
reconstruction project.   For more information about
trail closures, go to ttp://www.fws.gov/nisqually/ and
click on Events and News. During the reconstruction,
some trails have been closed.
 
Winter Birding in Roy
Sat Dec 5 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM
Location: Roy, WA - Head of the University of Puget
Sound’s Slater Museum of Natural History, Gary
Shugart, will lead a Nature Mapping field trip along
the rail tracks, city park, and oak woodland prairie
areas in Roy, WA. Join his winter bird watching trip to
get a taste of what was seen during our recent BioBlitz!
We will be carpooling from University of Puget
Sound’s Thompson parking lot off of Union & N. 14th
at 7:15am - we will depart at that time. If not carpooling,
meet at Roy City Park at 8:00am.
Call 565-9278 to sign up or for driving directions.
Plant Walk at Adriana Hess Park
Mon Dec 21 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM
Location: Adriana Hess Wetland Park. Enjoy a guided
ENVIRONMENT Matters
Work party reflections
By
Julie Kerrigan
On October 24th, 2009 the Tahoma Audubon
Society, University Place Parks and Recreation, and
the University Place Volunteer Center came together
to host the Together Green Volunteer Days in
University Place. This event was a great example of
organizations in the community coming together to
encourage and support the preservation of local
urban open space.
Over 35 volunteers celebrated Make a Difference
Day on Saturday October 24th
at Adriana Hess Wetland Park
and City of UP property on 67th
Street. At Adriana Hess
Wetland Park, volunteers
helped plant over 318 native
plants and spread wood chips
for trails at the Thelma Gilmur
Outdoor Education Shelter
area. This area is designed to
be a demonstration site for the
public to learn about how to
grow native plants and utilize
December 2009/January 2010 www.tahomaaudubon.org Page 5
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.
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.
plant walk through the park!
Family Walk at Adriana Hess Park
Sun Dec 27 4:00 PM to 5:00 PM
Location: Adriana Hess Park. A family program to
encourage families to appreciate the park by providing
information and opportunities with a guided walking
tour.  Call Dixie Harris for details 564-6373
Weekly Bird Walks at Nisqually
Weds Jan 6 7:30 AM to 11:00 AM
Weds Jan 13 7:30 AM to 11:00 AM
Weds Jan 20 7:30 AM to 11:00 AM
Weds Jan 27 7:30 AM to 11:00 AM
Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge. Leader: Phil
Kelley. See earlier description for details.
Bird Walk at Adriana Hess Park
Mon Jan 11 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM
Location: Adriana Hess Park. Enjoy a guided bird walk
through the park!
compost bins and rain barrels.
At the 67th Street property volun-
teers filled two large dumpsters
full of invasive species such as
Scotch Broom, English Ivy,
Himalayan Blackberries and
Knot-Weed. Combined, the volunteers
contributed over 160 hours to improve
and restore their community!
These events were made possible
through the National Audubon Society
and Toyota Together Green Volunteer
Days grants. Each year, 40 Audubon
Centers and Chapters receive a $7,000
grant that pays for six volunteer events.
This year Tahoma Audubon partnered
with the University Place Volunteer
Center to host the six work parties in
the city of University Place. The two
Plant Walk at Adriana Hess Park
Mon Jan 18, 2010 from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM
Location: Adriana Hess Wetland Park.
Explore the Skagit Flats
Saturday, January 23rd, 2010, 7:30 am - 4:00 pm
Leaders: Marcus Roening & Heather Ballash; Limit 14
participants. Join Marcus & Heather in an exploration
of the rich farmland of the Skagit & Sammamish Flats.
One of Washington’s nature spectacles is seeing up to
10,000 Snow Geese, along with a mix of Trumpeter
and Tundra Swans. The area is also magnet for raptors,
with Bald Eagles, Red-tailed & Rough-legged Hawks,
Short-eared Owls and up to 5 falcons. Bring lunch,
warm clothes & full rain gear. MUST carpool! Limit of
4 cars, holding 4 people each (14 + 2 leaders).
MEET: at 7:30 am at Tacoma Dome P&R off of
Puyallup Ave, at the East G. St entrance, 1st floor, SE
corner inside. Call 253-565-9278 to sign up.
Family Walk at Adriana Hess Park
Sun Jan 24 4:00 PM to 5:00 PM
A family program to encourage families to appreciate
the park by providing information and opportunities
with a guided walking tour. Call Dixie Harris for
details 564-6373.
Weekly Bird Walks at Nisqually
Weds Feb 3 7:30 AM to 11:00 AM
Wed Feb 10 7:30 AM to 11:00 AM
Wed Feb 17 7:30 AM to 11:00 AM
Wed Feb 24 7:30 AM to 11:00 AM
Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge. Leader: Phil
Kelley. See earlier description for details
Bird Walk at Adriana Hess Park
Mon Feb 8 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM
Plant Walk at Adriana Hess Park
Mon Feb 15 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM
Enjoy a guided plant walk through the park!
Family Walk at Adriana Hess Park
Sun Feb 28, 2010 from 4:00 PM to 5:00 PM
A family program to encourage families to appreciate
the park by providing information and opportunities
with a guided walking tour. Call 564-6373.
work sites selected were Adriana Hess Wetland Park
and City of University Place property on 67th Street.
Currently four of the six work parties are complete.
Together Green has engaged 10,657 volunteers with
over 52,837 volunteer hours nationwide.
Together Green volunteer events are designed to
connect people to local conservation efforts. By
building stronger alliances with the many local
organizations in Piece County, Audubon hopes to
attract a new and diverse group of volunteers to help
address the many ongoing environmental issues of
our region.
 ... CLASSES
from page 1
hundred Blackbirds! I myself had chased this bird
for years before Patrick and Ruth Sullivan put me
on one at Carnation about three years ago! This
particular individual, however, was more coopera-
tive than most, separating himself apart from any
flock and staying loyal to a particular farmyard,
making our job much easier. When our group
arrived on the scene, he was making himself
scarce, but buoyed by reports from birders already
present (Marv Breece and Evan Houston) who
had seen him earlier that morning, we put our 50
eyes to work, and eventually he walked out and
took his bow! As more birders from around the
state had arrived, a single Swan had warmed up
the audience prior to the star turn. If we hadn’t
been concerned about scaring away the bird, there
would definitely have been applause! Good looks
were had by all!
Incidentally, the class’ first field trip in October
to the coast had yielded up the Bar-Tailed Godwit
at Tokeland, so now we’ll be expecting a rarity on
every outing! This amazing year might deliver on
that promise, courtesy of El Nino and so many
searching eyeballs.
We then birding the Bremerton and Port Orchard
areas, finding all kinds of other goodies! A raft of
30 Long-Tailed Ducks at Bremerton! Harlequins!
Scoters! Loons! More Swans! Eagles! Both
Goldeneyes and Buffleheads everywhere!
American and Eurasian Wigeons! Yes, the winter
birds had definitely arrived! What a wonderful
Hooded Mergansers patrolled the Port Orchard waterfront at our lunch spot.
Page 6 www.tahomaaudubon.org December 2009/January 2010
Top: Scoping Manchester State Park. Above: The group
(Ken Brown, front and center) at the Waterman pier.
Rarity Rusty Blackbird near Kingston.
The city of Seattle, visible across the sound from Harper.
Photos/Diane Yorgason-Quinn
antidote to darker and wetter days! Just look out
on the winter waters of Puget Sound!
Just about everything we looked for, we found,
with the exception of rockpipers, but that was
undoubtedly due to the high tides. The small
Pacific and Red-Throated Loons were scarce,
though there were many large Common Loons in
all plumages. All the expected Grebes were
around, with Horned Grebes catching fish just a
few feet from us at the Waterville pier. We were
short on Alcids, however, with only Pigeon
Guillemots representing that Murre/Auklet family.
Large and small Gulls, particularly Olympic Gulls
(Glaucous-Winged/Western hybrids) and Mew
Gulls, patrolled the skies everywhere along the
waterfront.
In non-bird news, a
fisherman must have
hauled out that huge
24-tentacled Sunflower
Seastar that we almost
stepped on at Waterville
(thanks for the ID,
Shelley!), but it was alive, so Shelley and Faye put
it back in the sea to live another day.
Of course, we saw Harbor Seals, but there was
a long rippling something coursing rapidly through
the water near Harper, which turned out to be
three or four huge Sea Lions in an undulating line.
Or maybe it really was a giant sea serpent...
We finished up our day at Mace Lake just north
of the Pierce County line, where the amazing sight
of 40+ Wood Ducks amid hundreds of Green-
Winged Teal and other freshwater ducks gave a
fitting finish to a fine day, fine in birds, fine in
weather, and fine in companionship.
Georgia Ramsey is a resource person for the class,
pictured here at the Nature Center at Snake Lake
under the sign designating the name of the lab after
her late husband, Bob Ramsey

Orchard Oriole.
Field trip Bonanza!
By Ruth Sullivan
 
October 24th was a special day
to pick for a field trip for a
combined trip for Tahoma and
Black Hills Audubons to Ocean
Shores. We had 10 eager birders
who all participated in finding
the four rare birds at Bowerman
Basin (Grays Harbor National
Wildlife Refuge). We all agreed
to spending extra time here until
everyone  saw these birds.  We
all had good looks at the
Chestnut-Collared Longspur,
Orchard Oriole, Palm Warbler,
and the Clay-Colored Sparrow.  spent some time looking at this
On the way home we got a tip
from one of the parties who had
to leave early that there had Group shot at the ocean. Ruth is on the far right.
been a Tropical Kingbird also at
Bowerman Basin.  In all the years that Patrick and
I birded, we never had 5 RARE BIRDS in one place.  happened so fast as we were busy studying a
We ended the day with 72 Species.  We also were
lucky to have had good weather with plenty of
sunshine, so everything was in our favor.
  Here are some highlights  from our trip:  We
saw a Peregrine Falcon dive down on the sewage
Chestnut-Collared Longspur.
December 2009/January 2010 www.tahomaaudubon.org Page 7
Photo/Ruth Sullivan Photo/Ruth Sullivan
Clay-Colored Sparrow.
a Northern Shrike that sat and
posed for us.  Another highlight
was on Damon Point where we
walked out and witnessed 4
large groups of small peeps,
mostly all Western Sandpipers. 
We were wondering why they
were flying with such speed
and never trying to land, when
we discovered a dark Falcon
that appeared to be a young
Merlin since he came up empty
even with so many shorebirds.
A lone single Dunlin was
discovered standing all alone
and looked suspicious.  We
bird, but in the end it was a
lone Dunlin. 
We also had high counts on
Common and Red-Throated
ponds in Ocean Shores to grab a small  bird.  This Loons and returning Bufflehead ducks. We also
found all three Scoters, with the Black Scoter being
group of Short-Billed Dowitchers, but we were all kind of early, since they usually come back in early
thinking that the prey was the tiny female Green- November, but this
Winged Teal that we all adored, and the Teal was can vary from The elusive
not seen again.  In the ponds also was a Pectoral year to Tropical
Sandpiper.  Near the marina we had a good look at year.  King-
  We bird.
did not do
m u c h
around the
jetty since
the tide was
coming in, and
staying close to the
jetty we kind of got
swamped by the waves. 
There were a few Surfbirds
and a big flock of Black
Turnstones.  It was after 5
PM when we hit Bowerman
again looking for the Tropical
Photo/Ruth
Kingbird that was on Paulson Sullivan
Road.  Again this bird was not
found the next morning or
thereafter.  But still, it was a
record-breaking weekend for
rare birds that we will likely
Photo/Ruth Sullivan not experience again. 
 Just the other day... Tahoma Audubon in November 1984
By Helen Engle up the bay and the role of individual Tabbutt of the League of Women Voters.

25
members of the public.  Thais Bock’s “Word on Birds” reported great
Tahoma Audubon’s 1984 Christmas We were scheduled to hear David
Bird Count was on December 15, Wurzbach tell of the recovery the
with our traditional count circle Years Ago Osprey, this interesting bird that exists
divided in the traditional 8 areas.  almost solely on fish.  Elimination of the
Ken Brown was Chairman with the use of DDT has halted the ospreys’
following count Leaders:  Joe Quinn, Thais decline and birders can see them again in their
Bock, Ken Batker/Fred Tobiason, Mary Jane nests along our rivers and lake shores.
Cooper, Chris & Nate Chappell, Burt Ostenson, Our winter birding field trips were to Spanaway
Stan Johnson, and Betty Heitman.  The tally of North Woods with Jim Scearce; Bald Eagle survey
the  bird lists was at a chili dinner, hosted by Stan with Kelly Mc Allister of the WA Game Dept. (now
& Helen Engle. Fish & Wildlife Dept.); nature study and games at
The monthly meeting’s program was “Who is Titlow park with Thelma Gilmur; Bainbridge Island
Watching Commencement Bay?” by Dr. Sheri with Thais Bock; and Wally Wilkins led a trip to
Tonn.  We realized this was the kickoff of Tahoma the Skagit river valley for eagles, swans and Snow
Audubon’s involvement in the cleanup of Geese.
Commencement Bay, our very own Superfund site.  Jim Scearce kicked off his six-weeks course on
Dr. Tonn, a fellow Auduboner and Associate “The mammals of the Pacific Northwest” at James
Professor  of Chemistry at Pacific Lutheran University, Sales School.
presented a Our members attended an open forum co-
history of sponsored by the League of Women Voters and the
conservation in Tacoma-Pierce County Health Department.  The
Commencement Forum’s theme was devoted to problems  influencing
Bay, including the health, economy and environment of our
chemical and community.  You will remember them:
biological studies, Ernesta Barnes, Region X Administrator the US
government EPA; Kim Lowry, UW, Ruston-Vashon Pathways
a g e n c y Study; James Krull, Project Manager,
involvements, the Commencement Bay cleanup, WA Dept. of Ecology; 
Superfund as Christine Luboff, Regional Coordinator for Western
Sheri Tonn, PhD. means to clean WA Toxics Coalition.  The moderator was Betty
winter birding. Ken Brown’s birding class went to
Ocean Shores/Tokeland and saw Rough-legged
Hawks, Brown Pelicans, Golden Plovers, Merlin,
Long-billed Curlews, Marbled Godwits, and
Whimbrels.  At Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge
there were lots of raptors including Peregrine
Falcons, Northern Harriers, Rough-legged and Red-
tailed Hawks; plus a Barn Owl and 6 Short-eared
Owls.  Many of us saw the Snowy Owl that sat on
the roof of Nordstrom’s at the Tacoma Mall. 
Hummingbirds were seen in Spanaway and
Steilacoom – some of the earliest to begin wintering
in this area.
Walt Adams’ boat trip gave TASers a great view
of marbled Murrelets, Common Murres, Rhinoceros
Auklets, and Harlequin Ducks.
The December 1984/January 1985 Towhee was
the work of the new editor,
Paul Webster.  We are
familiar with his wonderful
articles as he worked
assisting Chuck Bergman,
longtime Towhee editor. 
The delightful line-drawings
of birds by Paul Porter
continues to grace the pages
Helen Engle
of our excellent newsletter. from days of yore.
Feedback, comments and reminiscences welcome,
253-564-3112, Hengle@iinet.com.

the
quizzical 1. Especially in winter what thrush is known for its solitary habits?

wl
2. The feathered "thumb" of a bird's wing is called an ________.

3. What name is given to a group of hawks with similar characteristics?

4. Only one of our small owls has dark eyes; which one is it?
By 5. What shorebirds gather food by flipping over shells, seaweed, and other small bits on the beach?
Thais Bock
(Answers below cartoon.)

BIRDSONGS
"We surveyed an even dozen
by Phil Buly full-sized birding scopes sent
to us by manufacturers as
their top-of-the-line scopes….
Perusing the prices, you may
catch yourself blinking. Can
you now really spend $4,000
on a spotting scope? Indeed
you can, and more than half
of those in our survey cost
more than $2,000….Are the
top scopes worth their price
tags? If you’ve got the mon-
ey, yes, of course! To be able
to see the vein detail in a ci-
cada’s wings, held in the bill
of a kingbird at 80 yards, is
an experience worth every
penny you’d pay for it."

From Bird Watchers Digest,

“High End Scopes,”
Michael and Diane Porter,
Nov/Dec 2009
ANSWERS: 1. Hermit Thrush 2. Alula 3. Buteo 4. Flammulated Owl 5. Turnstones

Page 8 www.tahomaaudubon.org December 2009/January 2010

 Feathering the nest of the Tahoma Audubon Society
Feathered Nest Circle
Charter Members
As of 11/13/09
B irds instinctively know how to care for their young.  a beneficiary in his or her revocable estate plans (bequest,
They carefully line their nests with feathers to prepare insurance, retirement plan, etc.) or has made an irrevocable
warm and safe places for the next generation.  A well- “estate-type” gift (remainder or lead trust, charitable gift
feathered nest provides an ideal foundation for the young annuity, gift with retained life tenancy, etc.), either directly with
chicks to grow and develop.  Similarly, a growing Tahoma Audubon or through The Greater Tacoma
  (updated right before deadline)
number of Audubon members are Community Foundation for the Society’s
Anonymous (3) Members
preparing the foundation for our next benefit.  All those who notify Tahoma
Jane Brosius
generation of conservation leaders.  of the Feathered Audubon by December 31st, 2014 that
Helen Engle They are doing so by leaving a Nest Circle look be- they have done so will be perpetually
Bryan Flint
John Garner/Caroline Harris
planned gift to Tahoma Audubon.  yond the here and listed as Charter Members of this
To honor these visionaries we ongoing group. 
Thelma and Chuck Gilmur have created the Feathered Nest
now to the work of If you have designated Tahoma
Marjorie Griffin* Circle. Previously, Tahoma connecting future Audubon for a planned gift and we
Noel and Bill Hagens Audubon’s Endowment Club generations are not aware of it, or if you are
Frances Heidner* honored those who planned to give with nature. interested in doing so please contact
David R. Hirst to the Society’s endowment in their Bryan Flint at (253) 565-9129 or
Jean McCord estate plans.  This new group incorporates bryanflint@TahomaAudubon.org. We would
Guy and Cecile Montgomery Endowment Club members and also honors all love to give you the recognition you deserve.  Or
Gary and Sharon Nestegard
those who will be helping Tahoma Audubon through their your commitment can remain anonymous. Those not
estate plans, whether for endowment or other purposes. choosing anonymity will be listed in the Feathered Nest Circle
Melissa and Jamie Paulson
Members of the Feathered Nest Circle look beyond the here section of the annual report in perpetuity and will be
Donna Cooper Pepos*
and now to the work of connecting future generations with recognized at fundraising events and annual membership
Sarah C. Sloat
nature.  Members will receive a beautiful color print of an banquet.
Beatrice E. Thompson* original watercolor by noted wildlife artist Dale Thompson.  We are grateful to those who have joined us as Charter
Darby Veeck/Kristin Lynett The sole criterion for membership is notification in writing Members of the Feathered Nest Circle. Together we are building
*Deceased 
to Tahoma Audubon that the person has included the Society as the next generation of conservation leaders.

Photo Illustration/Robert Kelton

December 2009/January 2010 www.tahomaaudubon.org Page 9

 Coming full circle at
Photo/Allen Frazier

Nisqually
Story and photos by Heather Roskelley

A
s if on cue for the ceremony,
an eagle circled overhead as
Nisqually tribal members
drummed and sang on this
brisk but sunny November day.
Both speakers and attendees gazed
up at the great bird, and I’m sure each
person was thinking the same as me:
can it be more perfect? Nisqually tribal
elder, Zelma McCloud, noted just before
she gave the tribal blessing that eagles
are important to her people, and today
the eagles were flying over us, giving us
their blessing.
So began the ribbon-cutting ceremony
that took place on November 12 marking
the restoration of the Nisqually estuary. Over 300
people came to celebrate the return of the tides
and to hear speeches from representatives of the
Nisqually Tribe, Ducks Unlimited, the U.S. Fish and
Wildlife Service, Congressman Norm Dicks and his
son David Dicks, the Executive Director of Puget
Sound Partnership, and representatives of the
Governor and Congressman Adam Smith.
I felt like I had come full circle since April, when
I had walked the 5-1/2 mile Brown Farm Dike Trail
for the last time before it closed permanently on
May 4, 2009. It was hard to say goodbye.
Like many birders and naturalists, I loved the old
loop trail and was deeply saddened when I learned
it was to be demolished. Walking the loop and see-
ing a river otter, a flock of shovelers and wigeons, or
a heron gracefully walking through the reeds never
failed to clear my head and lighten my spirit.
I didn’t return to Nisqually until the beginning of
November, when I attended the weekly Audubon
walk led by Phil Kelley. A new Audubon member, I
was dazzled by the illuminated image of a Pileated
Woodpecker through Phil’s Swarovski scope. I real-
ized that Nisqually still has treasures to witness,
albeit in a smaller area.
For the ceremony, Phil and several other Audubon
members set up their scopes on the new exterior
dike just past the Twin Barns. The area to the north-
east of the dike is largely bare at present except for
snags set up for raptors, but it will be replanted with
native bushes and trees to provide a riparian surge
plain forest – a great habitat for songbirds.
I was pleased to see Cheri, a Nisqually volunteer
with whom I had commiserated while walking the
last days of the loop trail. Today, Cheri was forward
looking. “They’ll start building the mile-long board-
walk to the mouth of McAllister Creek next year,”
she said, “and there’s supposed to be a gazebo at
the end, which will be a nice addition.”
Many of the speakers during the ceremony cred-
ited Jean Takekawa, the Nisqually NWR Refuge
Manager, with asking 10 years ago “what if” the
estuary was restored, and then work-
ing diligently with the community and
various groups to see it happen.
Takekawa told the attendees that in
the short time since October, when the
tides were allowed to flow freely, it’s
amazing to see that “the estuary is
already evolving and the land is heal-
ing.”
Nisqually Tribal Chair, Cynthia Iyall,
spoke about how her people believe
that all rocks, plants and animals have
spirits, so it is fitting that the longest
historical slough will now bear the
name Leschi Slough, in honor of Chief
Leschi of the Nisqually Indian Tribe.
The slough will be officially registered as a geo-
graphic feature in the State of Washington.
After the ribbon was cut, we walked the new half
mile Nisqually Estuary Trail. More area, Phil noted,
for the weekly Audubon walks. I came to the end
marked by a gate and looked out over the flooded
fields dotted here and there with stranded apple
trees, the old dike trail nowhere to be seen in the
distance.
As I turned back, I saw Michelle Tirhi, the district
biologist for Pierce and Thurston Counties with the
Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife. I had
spoken with Michelle and several other biologists at
the BioBlitz held in May and was finally convinced
that the estuary restoration was the right thing to
do.
“This is a big day for all of us,” said Michelle.
And it was a big day for Nisqually. I could imag-
ine the delta waiting to exhale for over a hundred
years, and now it finally happened. Nisqually had
come full circle.

Top photo: Nisqually tribal drummers lead the ceremony. Above left: Jean Takekawa, Nisqually NWR Refuge Manager, addresses over 300 attendees at the ceremony
celebrating the restoration of the Nisqually estuary. Front row from left: Congressman Norm Dicks; Jay Manning, Chief of Staff for Governor Gregoire; and Cynthia Iyall,
Tribal Chair for the Nisqually Indian Tribe. Above right: Nisqually tribal elder Zelma McCloud gives the tribal blessing while Jay Manning and Cynthia Iyall look on.

Page 10 www.tahomaaudubon.org December 2009/January 2010

 The amazingly self-reliant people of Graham
By Wayne Cooke quadricycle out of PVC pipe… and on and on
 
and on… amazing people!
“The Self Reliant Community promotes
Gail Tverberg, writing in The Oil Drum,
knowledge of skills that will add to
says “Many people have started making

Image from group's website, scallopswa.org

people’s self-reliance for basic needs, both
for their own satisfaction and if there is a
breakdown in the dependable supply of
food and fuel.”
 
This is the mission statement of a group
of citizens in Graham who take seriously
the challenge of providing for themselves
and their families without depending on
outside resources. They grow as much of
their own food as they can, have a
backup water supply, have a bicycle to
use for emergency transportation, and
can take care of their family in a lengthy
electricity outage. They believe in living
sustainably as much as possible. In fact, the group
is one of seventy groups in the Puget Sound area
loosely connected to SCALLOPS (Sustainable
Communities ALL Over Puget Sound).
These people wouldn’t describe themselves as
amazing, but when Jerry shows off his home-built
biodiesel generator and solar energy designs, one
can only say, “amazing.” When Anuttama and
William show us their permaculture-designed
garden, their farm animals, and the non-electric
workshop, one is amazed at their practical self-
sufficiency. Deej has become an expert on growing
mushrooms and Roy can build you a street-legal
preparation for the time when food needs to
be produced locally and electricity is often
not available.”
The Self Reliant Community of Graham
suggests “Seven Things” people can do to
prepare: 1) Build a greenhouse, 2) Know
neighbors well, 3) Grow Food, 4) Preserve
food for winter, 5) Prepare a “warm room,”
6) Install a rain barrel, 7) Have a good
bicycle.
The Self Reliant Community provides
workshops to teach these things, and more,
to the public. They realize that many of
these skills were commonly known a century
ago, but now are largely replaced by the dependence
on stores and utilities.
Yet many people today recognize the long-term
unsustainable reality of our highly organized food and
power networks and seek pride and comfort in being
able to fend for themselves if necessary. That, and
the enjoyment of knowing each other as friends, is
what the Self Reliant Community is all about.

welcome to New and Returning Members

October 16, 2009 to November 15, 2009
Chapter New and Renewing:
Julie Anderson, Karen & Stan Bloustine, Micki
Boyle, Laurie Bruineis, L Delamaza, Andrew
Ebersole, Ernest L Karlstrom, David Kemp, Annie
Meyer, Kathleen Olson, Ron & Helen Robinson,
Tom Skjyerweld, Linda Zehnder.
Chapter Joint with National,
Recruited through Tahoma Audubon Society:
Ken Batker, Susan Behrns, Patricia Berger, Nels &
Winnie Bjarke, Kathleen Callahan, Louise Kazda
Carson, Philip & Karen Craven, Eric Davis, Bob
Flint & Letha Schwiesow, Bryan Flint, Burt & Do-
ris Johnson, Pam McGee & Dale Leggett, Annie
Meyer, Mary Pat Minor, Robin
Partington, Wilma Rosenow, Ruth Stevick, David
& Julie Veeck, Debbie Young.
Introductory,
Recruited through Tahoma Audubon Society:
Bill Anderson, Andrew Austin, Judy Berry, Bryan
Bissell, Stacey Cachules, Lisa Campos, Michelle
Cardinaux, Maggie Corbin, Philip Cowan, Nancy
Davis, Beth Elliott, Andy Estep, Kit Evans, Joe,
Flora, Katelyn & Ryan Galloway, Sarah Garitone,
Kristy Gledhill, Jim Halmo, Maralise Hood,
Roger Hunt, Monty Mahan, Pat MCarty, Jim
Merritt, Owen Miller MD, Ian Morrison, Dan-
iel Muir, Linda Nielsen, Mark Rettmann,
Skye Schell, Luke Smiraldo, Nancy Smith,
Edie Sperling & Chris Gilliard, Bruce
Stirling, Kay Townsend, Lauren Walker,
Marilyn Westervelt, Sarah Wilcox.
Introductory,
Recruited through National Audubon Society:
Jennie Allen, Cindy Bailey, Rob & Michelle Baird,
Laura Barnes, Kathy Best, Barb Bourscheidt, Jor-
dan Bowerman, Erida Bowles, Carolyn Chapman,
S Conway, Kay Kallal, George Dolley, The Dunlap
Family, Eric & Lisa Ellis, Cathy Farr & Kids, War-
ren N Finch, Loretta Franks, Nadine Fuller, Bryan
Habeck, Avis Jobrack, Lila Keller, Mary Kenney,
Candace L Kerr, George Kier, Joni Leiding, Frank
Longano, Patricia C Lynch, Robert & Irene Mills,
Mathew & Andrea Murakami, Suzanne Olson,
Leslie Pearson, Debbie Pope, Clifford H. Quisen-
berry, Jennifer Radley, Cecilia Roebuck, Dannie
Lee Sayers, Lance & Sally Stark, Daniel Suckow,
Bob Wells, Betty Weynick.
Towhee Subscribers:
Glenn Savitz, Frank & Adeline Ehle.
Time to Renew?! Remember when renewal time
comes, you must renew through TAS. We will send
you a renewal form a month before your member-
ship expires. You may get several renewal forms
from NAS that we ask you to ignore because re-
newing through NAS will not give you our Towhee
newsletter. NAS does not share renewal dues with
us and hence we can not maintain a membership.
Christmas and other Holidays are Coming!
An Audubon membership is a good gift idea! Call
and ask for materials to put together for a gift pack-
age. Call: Thelma Gilmur, Membership Chair,
253-564-8210
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
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membership, annual Audubon Magazine subscription, and support of

Member #: _______________________________ (office use only)
Important Bird Areas (IBA) and state and national conservation agendas.

December 2009/January 2010 www.tahomaaudubon.org Page 1


Unless otherwise stated -
To register for field trips can (253) 565-9129
To register for all education classes call (253) 591-6439
See further descriptions inside the Towhee
Check out our calendar at www.TahomaAudubon.org
for more information and updates
december 2009
Intermediate Birder's Class
Tues Dec 1 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM
Continuation of class.
 
Weekly Bird Walks at Nisqually
Weds Dec 2 7:30 AM to 11:00 AM
Location: Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge
Leader: Phil Kelley
 Bring: Good walking shoes or boots, raingear, water, snacks, and
$3   for entry fee unless you have a pass.  Scopes are welcome.
Meet: At the Visitor's Center.
Directions:  Take I-5 south from Tacoma and exit to Nisqually
NWR at exit 114.  Take a right at the light. Sign-up:  Call or email
Phil Kelley to confirm details.   Phil Kelley, Lacey, (360) 459-
1499, scrubjay323@aol.com.
Beginning Homeschool Science «Planet Earth»
Thu Dec 3 9:30 AM to 11:30 AM
Location: Tacoma Nature Center. Ages 8-10, $12 per student.
Register early! Note - topics are repeated during the month, so
select class appropriate for your child's knowledge and abilities.
Contact Margie with questions or for more info: 591-6439 or
marjories@tacomaparks.com. Students should be able to add and
subtract numbers.
TGIF Restoration Activity.
Fri Dec 4 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM.  Fri Dec 18 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM.  Environmental Legislative Workshop
Adriana Hess Wetland Park. Come enjoy the outdoors and help
beautify the grounds at Adriana Hess Wetland Park!
Nature Alphabet «Q is for Queens»
Fri Dec 4 10:30 AM to 11:30 AM
Location: Tacoma Nature Center. Ages 3-6, $6 per child. Adult
participation is recommended, children under four require an
adult present. Please note alternating times.
Register by Saturday before program. Call 591-6439.
 
Winter Birding in Roy
Sat Dec 5 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM
Location: Roy, WA Carpooling from University of Puget Sound's
Thompson parking lot off Union & N. 14th at 7:15am. If not
carpooling, meet at Roy City Park at 8:00am. Call 565-9278 to
sign up or for driving directions.
 
Adriana Hess Park Photography Class
Mon Dec 7 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM
Location: Adriana Hess Park. An adult program encouraging
people to appreciate nature and how to incorporate it into their
photography. Call Dixie Harris for details 564-6373.
 
Christmas Irisfolding Card Class
Mon Dec 7 6:30 PM to 8:30 PM
Location: Adriana Hess Audubon Center. Cost $12 per person to
be paid at class. Supplies needed:  a small scissors, Scotch Brand
Magic tape (green dispenser), and a small craft mat (if you have
one). Call Adriana Hess Audubon Center @ 565-9278 to reserve
your spot.  For more details, call Rosanne Becker @ 564-7115.
 
Conservation Committee
Tues Dec 8 4:00 PM to 5:30 PM
Location: Pacific Lutheran U. Reike 112, Parkland WA.
 
Intermediate Birder's Class
Tues Dec 8 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM. Continuation of class.
 
Weekly Bird Walk at Nisqually
Weds Dec 9 7:30 AM to 11:00 AM. Location: Nisqually
National Wildlife Refuge. Leader: Phil Kelley.
 
Budding Scientists «World of Wonder»
Weds Dec 9 10:30 AM to 12:00 PM, 3:15 PM to 4:45 PM
Location: Adriana Hess Audubon Center. Ages 5-7, $9.00 per
student. Register at least two days prior to the session by calling
253-591-6439.
Intermediate Homeschool Science
«Think Globally, Act Locally»
Thu Dec 10 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM
Location: Tacoma Nature Center. Register early! Contact Margie
with questions or for more information at 591-6439 or marjories@
tacomaparks.com. Ages 10-12, $12 per student. Intermediate
Science Students should be able to multiply and divide numbers,
add and subtract fractions.
 
TAS Board Meeting
Thu Dec 10 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 Restoration Activity.
Fri Dec 11 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM.  Fri Jan 1 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM.  (See page 2 for more details!)
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
Adriana Hess Wetland Park. Come enjoy the outdoors and help
beautify the grounds at Adriana Hess Wetland Park!
Membership Meeting
Fri Dec 11 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM
Location: Tacoma Nature Center, 1919 S. Tyler Street. Monthly
membership meeting of Tahoma Audubon.  All welcome. 
Kathryn Kravit-Smith, Director Pierce County Parks and Rec.
Department, will talk about the vision of Parks in Pierce County
and the services they provide along with the challenges that lay
ahead.  Call (253) 565-9278.
Bird Walk at Adriana Hess Wetland Park
Mon Dec 14, 2009 from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM. Enjoy a guided
bird walk through the park!
 
Snake Lake Science club
Tues Dec 15 3:30 PM to 5:30 PM.
Location: Tacoma Nature Center. Ages 10-14, no charge for club
meetings, $10 per student to join the club. Pre-registration for
each program is required as space is limited. Call The Nature
Center to register 591-6439.
 
Weekly Bird Walk at Nisqually
Weds Dec 16 7:30 AM to 11:00 AM
Location: Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge. Leader: Phil
Kelley. See above for details.
Homeschool Advanced Science «The Ecosphere»
Thu Dec 17 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM
Location: Tacoma Nature Center. Contact Margie with questions
or for more information at 591-6439 or marjories@tacomaparks.
com. Ages 12-15, $15 per student. Older homeschool students
will continue science studies with challenging experiments and
activities. To participate in this class, students should be able to
calculate averages, percentages, and simple equations.
TGIF Restoration Activity.
Adriana Hess Wetland Park. Come enjoy the outdoors and help
beautify the grounds at Adriana Hess Wetland Park!
Nature Storytime «Let's go to Africa!»
Fri Dec 18 10:30 AM to 11:30 AM
Location: Adriana Hess Center, U.P. Ages 2-6, $6 per child, $3
Audubon member, free to adults and U.P residents. Adults are
welcome with the children. Space is limited to the first 20
registered guests (adults and children). call 253-591-6439.
Homeschool Advanced Science LAB «The Ecosphere»
Fri Dec 18, 2009 from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM
Location: Tacoma Nature Center.Register early! Note - topics are
repeated during the month, so select class appropriate for your
child's knowledge and abilities. Contact Margie with questions or
for more info at 591-6439 or marjories@tacomaparks.com.
Ages 12-15, $15 per student. Older homeschool students will
continue their science studies with challenging experiments and
activities. To participate in this class, students should be able to
calculate averages, percentages, and solve simple equations.
 
Nature Alphabet «R is for Reindeer»
Fri Dec 18 1:30 PM to 2:30 PM.
Location: Tacoma Nature Center. Ages 3-6, $6 per child
 Adult participation is recommended, children under four require
an adult present. Please note alternating times. Register by
Saturday before program. Call 591-6439.
Plant Walk at Adriana Hess Wetland Park
Mon Dec 21 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM Location: Adriana Hess.
 
Christmas Bird Count
Sat December 19, 2009 Contact Faye McAdams Hands,  253-
942-9233,  or zest4parus@hotmail.com for details.
Weekly Bird Walks at Nisqually
Weds Dec 23 7:30 AM to 11:00 AM. Location: Nisqually
National Wildlife Refuge. Leader: Phil Kelley.
 
Vashon Island Christmas Bird Count
Sun December 27. Contact Diane Yorgason-Quinn at  253-857-
3367  or email avosetta@hotmail.com for further information
 
Family Walk at Adriana Hess Park
Sun Dec 27 4:00 PM to 5:00 PM. Location: Adriana Hess Park.
Call Dixie Harris for details 564-6373
Weekly Bird Walks at Nisqually
Weds Dec 30 7:30 AM to 11:00 AM. Location: Nisqually
 National Wildlife Refuge. Leader: Phil Kelley.   Volunteer Naturalists: Intro To Interpretation
Morse WinterFest
Weds  Dec 30 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM
Location: Morse Wildlife Preserve
Join us to celebrate the natural beauty and wonder of the winter
season at the Morse Wildlife Preserve in Graham. Families can
enjoy nature hikes, games, crafts, storytellers, wildlife discovery
and hot cocoa! Call 253-565-9278 for more details
january 2010
TGIF Restoration Activity.
december program
Fri Dec 11 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM
Location: Tacoma Nature Center, 1919 S. Tyler
Street. Monthly membership meeting of Tahoma
Audubon.  All welcome.  Kathryn Kravit-Smith,
Director Pierce County Parks and Rec. Department,
will talk about the vision of Parks in Pierce County
and the services they provide along with the
challenges that lay ahead.  Call (253) 565-9278
Adriana Hess Wetland Park. Come enjoy the outdoors and help
beautify the grounds at Adriana Hess Wetland Park!
 
Adriana Hess Park Photography class
Mon Jan 4 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM
Location: Adriana Hess Park. Call Dixie Harris 564-6373.
Weekly Bird Walks at Nisqually
Weds Jan 6 7:30 AM to 11:00 AM
Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge. Leader: Phil Kelley.
TGIF Restoration Activity.
Fri Jan 8 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM. 
Adriana Hess Wetland Park. Come enjoy the outdoors and help
beautify the grounds at Adriana Hess Wetland Park!
Membership Meeting
Fri Jan 8 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM
Location: Tacoma Nature Center, 1919 S. Tylor Street. Monthly
membership meeting of Tahoma Audubon.  All welcome.  This
month David Knibb will be speaking about his book, «Grizzly
Wars: The Public Fight Over the Great Bear» that highlights the
efforts to preserve the remaining grizzly bears that range through
the North Cascades. 
Sat Jan 9 9:30 AM to 2:30 PM
Location: Seattle Pacific University. Attend the annual
Environmental Priorities Coalition Legislative Workshop as the
state’s leading conservation groups prepare for the upcoming
legislative session. We'll hear from legislators, environmental
lobbyists, members of the media and others regarding the
community's four legislative priorities.
The legislative workshop is hosted by Washington Environmental
Council. Space is limited, so register online: http://www.
wecprotects.org/events/legislative-workshop. Contact Kerri
Cechovic, WEC Organizer, at 206-622-8103 x 212 or kerri@
wecprotects.org with any questions.
 
Bird Walk at Adriana Hess Wetland Park
Mon Jan 11 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM
Conservation Committee
Tues Jan 12 4:00 PM to 5:30 PM
Location: Pacific Lutheran University, Reike 112, Parkland WA.
 
Volunteer Naturalists: Intro to Interpretation
Tues Jan 12 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM
 
Weekly Bird Walks at Nisqually
Weds Jan 13 7:30 AM to 11:00 AM
Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge. Leader: Phil Kelley.
Budding Scientists «I am a Scientist»
Weds Jan 13 10:30 AM to 12:00 PM, 3:15 PM to 4:45 PM
Location: Adriana Hess Center. Ages 5-7, $9.00 per student.
Register at least two days prior to session -253-591-6439.
Beginning Homeschool Science «Let's Talk Science»
Thu Jan 14 9:30 AM to 11:30 AM
Location: Tacoma Nature Center. Register early! Contact Margie
with questions or for more information at 591-6439 or marjories@
tacomaparks.com. Beginning science students should be able to
add and subtract numbers.
 
TAS Board Meeting
Thu Jan 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.
TGIF Restoration Activity.
Fri Jan 15 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM. 
Adriana Hess Wetland Park. Come enjoy the outdoors and help
beautify the grounds at Adriana Hess Wetland Park!
Sat Jan 16 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM.
 
Plant Walk at Adriana Hess Wetland Park
Mon Jan 18, 2010 from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM
Location: Adriana Hess Wetland Park.
Mark your calendars now!
What: Annual Membership Meeting and Banquet
When: Saturday, February 6th, 2010
Where: McGavick Student Center at CPTC