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

Vol. 41 No. 6 June 2010

The best day in May? it's ...

Birdathon!
Birdathon is just so darn fun that
one tends to forget it’s a serious
pursuit, raising a substantial
portion of the operating
budget of Tahoma Audubon every May.

By Diane Yorgason-Quinn

Nine of us met May 15th at the McCormick Woods Park in Gig

Harbor to explore it with leader Melissa Sherwood. Melissa and her
husband Dennis are part of a local group that saved this piece of
woods from being clear-cut several years ago, and they remain stewards
here. This Birdathon was as much a celebration of the returning birds as it
was a tribute to the Sherwoods and others like them who are saving the
planet one acre at a time. This piece of forest along McCormick Creek near
Purdy includes a smattering of old growth Douglas fir in its diverse 122
acres, a true jewel in a rapidly developing growth area.

See "Birdathon" on page 6

Upper left, a Spotted Towhee - Photo/Pat Damron. Above, three Willettes birdathoning, Faye, Diane and Melissa - Photo/Bryan Flint

Competition and dedication part of Birdathon 2010

By Cami Kesinger
As of this writing, Birdathon is in full swing and
we are getting ready to wrap up the last of the 2010
field trips. A big THANKS to all our leaders,
donors and birding participants. The final Birdathon
report will be ready for the July/August Towhee, so
stay tuned!
In the meantime, I wanted to share a few high-
lights from this year’s field trips. Reading some of
the reports reinforced just how competitive and
dedicated birders are! Many birders went out in
groups to spot birds again this year, but two of our
Audubon staff members did a marathon field trip
on their own. Ken Benton and Graham Taylor
went to Luhr Beach, Nisqually NWR, Spanaway
Marsh, Fort Steilacoom Park, Chamber’s Creek,
Adriana Hess Wetland Park, Titlow On the Purdy to Paradise trip, the bird
Beach and Purdy Spit all in one day. count was large—I haven’t seen the
Among their sightings were a official report from the day, but
Red Cross Bill, a Wilson’s word on the street is they saw 131
Phalarope and a Black-throated species that day! One of our
Gray Warbler. They even saw a members came in our office hol-
Western Screech Owl in Ken’s lering about the count! (In a
backyard! The owl brought the competitive and good way, mind
total seen to 93. you.)
On a much shorter trip to Morse There are some 10,000 species
Wildlife Sanctuary, about ten of birds on our planet earth, and
birders set out on a gorgeous only a small number of people have
Friday and meandered through the bright blue seen over 7,000. Many birdwatchers have spent
Camas that was in full bloom. They saw 30 bird their entire lives trying to spot all the bird species of
species all together including a Red-breasted the world…and Tahoma Audubon Society mem-
Nuthatch, Western Tanager and Evening bers are no exception! Dedicated and passionate,
Grossbeaks. and even a little competitive! Thanks birders!

11th Annual Bird Drawing Contest

awards ceremony In this issue:
25 Years Ago page 8
Come to our 11th Annual Bird
BirdSongs page 8
Drawing Contest awards
ceremony. View the artwork Calendar page 12
and watch as the prizes are Education page 4
presented to the winners. All are Environment Matters page 3
welcome. Call (253) 565-927. Executive Director's corner page 2
This is at the regular membership Field trips page 5
meeting on Friday, June 11, 7:30pm –
May Meeting Recap page 11
9:00pm at Tacoma Nature Center, 1919 S.
Tyler Street. New Members page 2
Images from previous years.
 executive director’s Corner
The power of the collective Meeting with chapter leaders from across the
state I am struck by the power we have in
Is there anything I say, what is left of Audubon Washington. What Washington. No other statewide environmental
better than wan- was recently a staff of eight is now down to one group has active leadership in every county in the
dering the streets full-time and one very part-time employee. state the way Tahoma Audubon does. And the
of Port Townsend Over the last couple of years the very talented power is at the local level. The leaders of each
on a sunny Friday staff got scooped up by various state agencies. chapter know their community and the issue that
afternoon? The economic downturn forced National Audubon face it. They know the people to turn to get things
Especially if you not to replace those positions. What remains is done. They are the ones who will attend the hear-
can call it work? Christi Norman—who is working on the seventh ing to save critical habitat in their community.
I can attest from (and final) birding trail map, the Puget Sound I am so impressed with the work that is going on
recent experience loop—and Don McIvor. across the state, and the incredibly talented and
that it is pretty Into this vacuum stepped local chapter leaders tenacious people who are making it happen.
cool. It also helps take the sting out of missing my and a desire to build a strong chapter network for Frankly, spending time with such wonderful local
ferry. the future. Tahoma Audubon got a grant from the leaders is a great way to spend a sunny Friday.
I was supposed to be on my way to Whidbey Horizon Foundation that put me on the road to One thing stands out from these conversations:
Island to meet with leaders of the local Audubon chapters across the state—and in Port Townsend Chapters want to have a common voice on state-
Chapter. It was part of a two-day swing through on that sunny Friday. wide issues and in Olympia. Our challenge ahead
the Olympic Peninsula to meet with four local The Whidbey Island leadership was willing to in this tough economy is to develop the structure
chapters. The trip was part of a larger effort to wait for me and we had a great discussion about to support that work into the future. Chapters are
meet with all 26 chapters in the state. what the chapter is doing and how we can rebuild standing ready, and with the passion and talent
I am sharing the duty with Don McIvor, Science the state office to be a powerful voice for habitat that represents, I have no doubt we can make it
Coordinator for Audubon Washington. Or should issues at the state level. happen.

welcome to New
and Returning Members
April 16, 2010 to May 15, 2010
Chapter New & Returning:
Vernon Baldwin, Georgene Kunz,
Shelly Parker, Colleen & John
Herzog, Ted A. Werner, Mrs. Gisela
Taranovski, Carolyn Orwiler, Beulah
The Pierce County Chapter of The National Audubon Society
Located in University Place's Adriana Hess Wetland Park
Donna Gillespie, Jim Hills, Barbara 2917 Morrison Rd W University Place, WA 98466
Lucas, Donald Mancevich, Jack & Office hours 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. Front desk 253-565-9278
Nadine Slama, Terri Matheson,
Sharon Metteer, Kathy Mettler, E. Tahoma Audubon Staff
Rayburn, Pam Sherer.  

Parsons. When renewal time comes: A Bryan Flint Executive Director                        
Chapter & Joint Renewals with month before your membership bryanflint@tahomaaudubon.org 253-565-9129
National, Recruited through expires we will send you a reminder Krystal Kyer Conservation Coordinator
Tahoma Audubon Society: to renew. Please renew through us, kkyer@tahomaaudubon.org 253-232-9978                    
Mr. & Mrs. Frederick R. Hyde, Dr. not through National Audubon. They
Nichol T. Iverson, Jerry Broadus & do not give us a share of renewal Stephanie Swaim Education Coordinator
Clarice Clark, Peggy Kopf & Pat dues; hence we are unable to support StephSwaim@tahomaaudubon.org 253-327-9480
Mail, Isabel Ragland, Judith L. a membership that includes provid-
Rucker, Lori K. Larson, Ruth ing you with a copy of our newslet- Cami Kesinger Development Coordinator
Daugherty, Gretchen Engle, Coni & ter, the Towhee. You will not get a ckesinger@tahomaaudubon.org 253-565-9129                      
Peter Liljengren, Ronald Dyson, Towhee Newsletter if you renew
Judith Krill, Dennis & Joyce through the National Audubon Graham Taylor Volunteer Coordinator 253-565-1884
Anderson. Society. National will send you gtaylor@tahomaaudubon.org
Introductory, Recruited through packs of renewal notices—ignore Ken Benton Education Intern
Tahoma Audubon Society them! We ask you to renew here
kbenton@tahomaaudubon.org 253-565-1884
LouAnn Hanson, Shirley, Halverson, through us for a Chapter Only mem-
Andrew Hutchison, Margaret bership or a Joint membership which Tahoma Audubon Board Officers
Baccari, Len Bunge, Joan McLean. includes a Chapter Membership and
Introductory, Recruited through a National Audubon Membership. If John Garner President
National Audubon Society you have questions, call Thelma Marjorie Shea Vice President
Adelyn Hickman, Anna Lisa Kanick, Gilmur, Membership Chair, 253- Jane Brosius Secretary
M-M James Kilborn, Shirley R. 564-8210.
Knoop, Lily Wackwitz, Kathleen Nelson Treasurer
Robin Gardner, Larelle
Tahoma Audubon Board Members 2010
Alcock, Linda Ames,
Susan M. Stultz, Stan & Thelma Gilmur Ione Clagett
Judy Knapp, Frederick Dick Carkner
Melissa Paulson
Hyde & Mitizi Dan Sherman
Bill Smith
Kodish, Eileen
Peggy L. Kopf Tanja Scott
Beck, Pauline Burr,
Melee L. Dietz, Darby Veeck Charles Griffin

The Towhee is a publication of the Tahoma Audubon Society.
The Tahoma Audubon Society was chartered in 1969. TAS advo-
cates for the protection of wildlife and promotes conservation 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, conservation, 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.
Editors: David Cohn, 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 June 2010

 ENVIRONMENT Matters
Have you seen Wood Ducks in Crescent Lake?
May 8, 2010 – On a gorgeous spring Saturday, a copy of your
field trip leader Rosanne Becker led Gail Peach and checklist or report it
me on an adventure just north of Gig Harbor in an directly to the
area called Crescent Valley. We were on a mission Cornell Lab of
to count birds as part of a multi-national effort to Ornithology’s eBird
celebrate International Migratory Bird Day (IMBD). program for free.
We met at Crescent Creek Park, a city park in Gig We did not see any
Harbor. We saw or heard 16 species of birds and a Wood Ducks (or
total of 48 individual birds. Species highlights Brown Creepers)
include: Pine Siskin, Nuthatch, Black-headed This brought our total species for the day to 26, there that day, but if
Grosbeak, Chipping Sparrow, Warbling Vireo, with a total of 76 individuals. We had barely you do, please let us Contact Krystal at 253-232-9978.
Or kkyer@tahomaaudubon.org
White-crowned Sparrow, and several hard-to-miss explored the woods when our time was up and our know!
American Goldfinches. stomachs started to growl and the songs of the bird To volunteer to be
Just as the peewee league was getting underway and diminished at midday. a Wood duck nest box monitor, contact Krystal at
barbeques were being rolled out, we This area is a hidden 253-232-9978 or kkyer@tahomaaudubon.org
decided to head north to our destina- jewel. In fact, it is rec- This field trip, and the student’s Wood Duck nest
tion: the south end of Crescent Lake. ognized as such as part box project is due in thanks to two grants from the
Crescent Lake is a small lake sur- of the Crescent Valley KGI Watershed Council’s Lu Winsor Memorial
rounded by houses. At the south end Biodiversity Manage- Grant and the Greater Tacoma Community
of the lake is an undeveloped county ment Area. A BMA is Foundation’s Green Partnership Funds (Pierce
park property, and Pierce County recognized as a location Conservation District). Additional student projects,
Surface Water Management lands. On that is high in biological education, and outreach in the Crescent Valley are
the ground we were welcomed by diversity. There are 16 underway as part of the grant project.
flowering plants like Salmonberry, other BMA’s in Pierce For more information:
Large-leaved avens, Pacific bleeding Rosanne Becker points out a heard bird County, and each one Crescent Valley Alliance – grassroots steward-
heart, Fringecup, Western trillium, and through the trees to Gail Peach represents the best ship: www.crescentvalleyalliance.org
yet-to-flower False lily of the valley. remaining habitats for IMBD: www.birdday.org
In the air, we saw – or, more often than not, heard wildlife. Our job is to help keep them that way. So, Pierce Co. BMA’s: http://www.co.pierce.wa.us/
– birds. We were on the lookout for illusive Brown if the sun is out next weekend and you want to pc/services/home/property/pals/other/biodiversity.
Creepers. But first went off the beaten path to the explore nature nearby, visit Crescent Lake. We even htm
southern tip of the lake to inspect some newly have maps available at our office, so stop by, and Wood ducks: http://www.seattleaudubon.org/bird-
installed Wood Duck nest boxes. Addison Richards, pick up a map and a bird checklist. Go explore, and web/bird_details.aspx?id=62
a student from Peninsula High School constructed don’t forget to tell us what you see! You can give us eBird: www.ebird.org
and installed five boxes this spring with the assis-
tance of long-time Tahoma Audubon member Jim
O’Donnell, and Crescent Valley Alliance Steering
Committee member Lucinda Wingard. Three of
the large boxes were easily spotted. We inspected
one, with no activity. The goal is to have Wood
ducks nest at the lake.
Volunteers are needed
to help monitor the
boxes for activity
each spring.
On the rest of our
walk through the
woods we saw or
heard ten more spe-
cies, including an
Orange-crowned
Warbler, Pacific-slope
Flycatcher, Western
Tanager (spotted by
Gail), Black-throated
Warbler, Hutton’s
Vireo, Winter Wren,
Hermit Thrush, and
One of the newly installed two very large Band-
Wood duck nest boxes near
Crescent Lake, currently
tailed Pigeons sitting
unoccupied in a (not pear) tree. A peak-a-boo view from the southern tip of Crescent Lake. Photos/Krystal Kyer

Meet Tahoma Audubon's new intern ...

Hi, my name is Rai Nauman Mumtaz and I'm
currently a student at the University of Washington
Tacoma (UWT). At UWT, I've received a B.A. in
Interdisciplinary Arts and Sciences and am cur-
rently working on a B.S. in Environmental Science
and a M.A. in Interdisciplinary Studies.
In my internship with the Tahoma Audubon
society, I plan to work with local middle and high
schools to have them adopt neighboring conser-
vation sites, with the end result ending in a service
learning project. This project will not only enhance
the knowledge of students and the greater com-
munity, but will provide them with ways to be
more sustainable in their daily lives.

June 2010 www.tahomaaudubon.org Page 3

 Education Matters
Another successful
school year at Hess!
On May 12th we completed our home-school classes for the
year at Adriana Hess Wetland Park. Budding Scientists is an
introduction to the scientific method, and to exploring the
natural world for students aged 5-7. This year we met over 25
students in both our morning and afternoon classes who regu-
larly participated in our curriculum. We spend a good part of Learning about density.
each class learning
hands-on about the
stephanieSWAIM topic of the month,
Education Coordinator and then we spend the
Call Steph @ 253-327-9480. Or rest of the time outside
StephSwaim@tahomaaudubon.org exploring the park. We
begin again on
September 13th with
one class from 10:30-12noon and one from 3:15-
4:45pm. Enjoy these photos of our studies.
Have a Great Summer! Bug hunting. Examining our bugs.

Fall Adult Birding Classes

Registration Opens July 20th for all Fall Birding
Classes! Stay tuned for information about Beginning
Birding with Marcus Roening, and Advanced
Birding with Ken Brown.
Sat. morning workshop options are available.
All participants must submit a national back-
T ip t o e t h r o u g h
ground check form. Fee: $20 per workshop,
or $100 for all 6 workshops. Call the Tacoma
Nature Center, 253-591-6439 to be placed on
our notification list. We will call you when

T id e p o o l s
Birding Basics with Rolan Nelson registration opens mid-summer.   Dates and
Classes take place September 13, 20, 27 and topics are subject to change depending on the
October 4th 7-9pm at Tacoma Nature Center. Field availability of expert instructors.
Trip will take place on Saturday morning, Oct. 2. Sunday, July 11 @ Titlo
Fee: $45 Tahoma Audubon members, $55 non- Class Schedule: w Beach
members. September 14th  or 18th  9:00-12:00 - 10 am - 1 pm - FREE!
Introduction to Interpretation Bring your family and join us on one
Volunteer Naturalist Training September 21st  or 25th  9:00-12:00 - Birds to explore the beach, learn about tideof the lowest tides of the year
pool life and have lots of fun!
This 6-week training is designed to prepare and and Birding Low tide of -3.4' will be at 11:30 am
educate adults who wish to volunteer to teach our September 28th  or October 2nd  9:00-12:00 • Self-guided tide pool exploration with
naturalists available for questions
education programs. Topics include Birds, Mammals and Washington Wildlife • Guided bird walk in Titlow Park
Mammals, Wetlands, Forests, and Tidepools. Local October 5th  or 9th  9:00-12:00 - Forest • Create a craft and take part in other
activities
experts help teach about the details of each of these Ecosystems For more info, call 253-591-64
topics while our environmental educators teach you October 12th or 16th 9:00-12:00 - Wetland 39
how to lead field trips, hikes and programs at our Ecosystems
sites. Additional training on how to be an effective October 19th  or 23rd  9:00-12:00 -
nature interpreter are included. Tues. morning and Interpreting to Young Audiences

Tacoma Nature Center Adriana Hess

Nature Day Camps!

1919 S. Tyler St., Tacoma Audubon Center

2917 Morrison Rd. W., University Place
For Ages 5-11
Mon-Fri, 8:30 am - 4:30 pm $150 per camper For Ages 4-6
Off-site field trip included for 8-11 yr. old campers Mon-Wed, 9 am - 1 pm $90 per camper
Nature Detectives Little Explorers Nature Camps
play, learn and grow.

Find fascinating ways that wildlife survives and thrives
here in the Pacific Northwest. Learn to identify animals
and their behaviors with nature hikes, games, crafts,
science lab, sketching and journaling.
# 54434 June 28-July 2 Ages 8-11
opportunities to
Young explorers will find this small nature park
in University Place just the right size for outdoor
discovery and play while learning about nature in their
own backyards.

# 54435 July 5-9 Ages 5-7 LE: Fantastic Forests

Creating healthy

Sea to Shore
Get the underwater scoop on amazing creatures of the
ponds, creeks, rivers, tides and ocean. Hikes, games,
crafts, stories and a science lab will bring you into this
wet and wild world. Play an important role in protecting
the nurseries of turtles, tadpoles and butterflies.
# 54436 July 12-16 Ages 8-11
# 54437 July 19-23 Ages 5-7
Wild Expressions
Play and connect with nature and be inspired to create
unique artwork, stories, plays, music and whatever your
imagination can dream up!
Things get wild at
Beat the heat in the shade of the forest while looking for
squirrels, rabbits and other tree dwellers.
# 54441 June 21-June 23
LE: Hoo Lives Here?
This camp is for the birds! Get better acquainted with
robins, finches, owls & other feathered friends.
# 54442 June 28-30
LE: Tiptoe Through the Tidepools
Explore the creatures that hide in tidepools: sea stars,
shore crabs, moon snails & octopus!
# 54443 July 12-14

# 54438 Aug 16-20 Ages 8-11 LE: Winter Wonderland

# 54439 Aug 2-6 Ages 5-7
For Ages 12-14
Mon-Fri, 8:30 am - 4:30 pm
$225 per camper
Eco-Explorers for Young Teens
Join nature specialists in exploring the wild and
understanding better how to “live green” through field
trips, hiking, hands-on activities, fun games, and lab
investigations. Get a closer look at nature at night with
an overnight stay at the nature center on Thursday.
# 54440 Aug 9-13
It’s winter in July as we cool off with animals that live at
the poles or know how to stay warm in cold weather.
# 54444 July 19-21
LE: Small Wonders
Use microscopes & magnifiers to discover the smallest
wildlife that live in our backyards.
# 54445 July 26-28
LE: Wild About Wetlands
From frogs to crayfish, minnows to ducks, learn how wet-
land animals live deep in the muck.
# 54446 August 2-4

Page 4 www.tahomaaudubon.org June 2010

 field trips and Events
June Citizens for A Healthy Bay, Carbon River Corridor,
rules Chambers-Clover, Student Conservation Association,
Weekly Bird Walks at Nisqually MetroParks and more, much more. At: the Engle
Call TAS to register (253-565-9278). Some trips are people limited out
Wed June 9, 7:30 AM to 11:00 AM  of necessity. Garden, 4011 Alameda Ave., University Place south of
Bird watching has been good at Nisqually.  There is a Fircrest. Featuring: The displays by our friendly
new dike out past the Twin Barns. Over 1/2 mile long, Notify TAS 24 hours in advance if you cannot come. Field trip leaders put in
groups plus, licensed falconers with their live birds,
a lot of time and planning and no-shows disrupt field trips. More than 3
it goes toward McAllister Creek, but not quite to it.  no-shows a year can result in revoking opportunity to participate. native plants for sale, photo exhibit, special music by
Join Phil Kelley on his weekly bird walks as he counts Puget Sound Revels, and Earth-friendly ideas. Children
the birds at Nisqually NWR.  The group walks over to Arrive at the meeting place early.
and grandchildren are most welcome. We Furnish:
the new area near the visitor’s center to view the entry No pets are allowed. Mountaineer Coffee & punch. Beer, wine is BYO. You
road estuary, and then takes the boardwalk/trail loop Bring: A hot or cold entree, plus a salad or dessert;
Be prepared for seasonal weather.
out to the Twin Barns, and the Nisqually overlook area.  plus your own table service and a ‘situpon.’ No RSVP
From there, the group walks the new dike, and back to Bring lunch, drinks and snacks if the field trip is scheduled past mid-day. necessary. Rain does not cancel. Helen Engle, 253-564-
the Riparian Forest.  The walk totals about 2 miles.  All passengers divide total carpooling expenses. Current guidelines are 3112, hengle@iinet.com (e-mail preferred).
Bring: Good walking shoes or boots, raingear, water, 20 cents a mile per car, not including driver.
snacks, and $3 for entry fee unless you have a pass.  Beginners are always welcome. Family Walk at Adriana Hess Park
Scopes are welcome.  Sun June 27 4:00 PM to 5:00 PM
Meet: At the Visitor’s Center Pond Overlook.  Have fun.
Location: Adriana Hess Park
Directions:  Take I-5 south from Tacoma and exit to A family program to encourage families to appreciate
Nisqually NWR at exit 114.  Take a right at the light.  Third Sunday Bird Walk at Point Defiance Park the park by providing information and opportunities
Sign-up: Call or email Phil Kelley for details.  Phil Join Rob McNair-Huff on his monthly Third Sunday with a guided walking tour.
Kelley, Lacey, (360) 459-1499, scrubjay323@aol.com.  Bird Walk at Point Defiance Park in the North End of Call Dixie Harris for details 253-564-6373 
Nisqually NWR has been doing a 3-4 year estuary Tacoma. The 5-mile walk starts at 8 a.m. from back of
reconstruction project.  For info, go to http://www.fws. the Point Defiance Zoo and Aquarium parking lot, in the July
gov/nisqually/ and click on Events and News.  B lot. The walk traverses wooded trails along the spine
of the park, with potential views of flycatchers, warblers Summer Volunteer Appreciation Dinner
Birdwalk Homestead Park Gig Harbor
and woodpeckers. The walk takes about 3.5 hours. July 13th 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Thu June 9 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM
Bird Walk at Adriana Hess Wetland Park Where: Adriana Hess Wetland Park
Location: Homestead Park Gig Harbor
Mon June 14 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM What: Potluck & Socializing
Join Melissa Sherwood as she leads an evening
Enjoy a guided bird walk through the park Who: ALL VOLUNTEERS!
monthly birdwalk through the new Homestead Park in
Why: Because we love you!
Gig Harbor.  Wear appropriate clothing and waterproof
Titlow Park Birding Field Trip All Tahoma Audubon volunteers are invited to come
shoes or boots as you may cross creeks.  Maybe you
Wed. June 16 8:30AM to 12:00PM celebrate their service at our Summer Volunteer
will spot some owls! Directions: Off Hwy 16 in Gig
Leaders: Vera Cragin & Pat Damron Appreciation Potluck. Whether you are a receptionist,
Harbor take Burnham Drive Exit heading West until
Location: Titlow Park & maybe Ft. Steilacoom Park. a field trip leader, a Towhee writer, editor, a restoration
you get to a “T” which is Sehnel Drive continue
Come enjoy some morning birding at Titlow Park.We volunteer or a data enterer, you are invited to come join
straight until you get to 78th Ave and turn left, you will
might move to Ft. Steilacoom park afterwards. us for an evening of food and socializing! Please bring
come to the park.  Go in and toward the back/southside
Dress appropriately and bring your binoculars! at least 1 entrée, or dessert to share! See you there!
of the park.  Meet in the Meadow area.  Call Melissa if
you have questions 851-7230.  Call Tahoma Audubon
Ohop Creek Field Trip
for more details and to sign up, 253-565-9278.  Plant Walk at Adriana Hess Wetland Park
Sun Jul 25 9am – 12pm
Mon June 21 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM
Morse Wildlife Preserve Open Trails Where: Ohpp Creek. Join volunteers on a field trip to a
Enjoy a guided plant walk through the park! 
Sun  June 13 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM site undergoing major habitat restoration on Ohop
Location: Morse Wildlife Preserve Helen Engle’s Big Backyard picnic Creek, near Eatonville, WA.  Volunteers will share their
Explore this natural treasure as you walk the trails and Summer Solstice Time, June 24, Thursday, 6-9 p.m. species identification skills and collect data using
discover the beauty of the five habitat zones in the Displays by Pierce County outdoor and environmental NatureMapping.  No training required, but helpful. 
preserve. Located in Graham, the preserve has the allies: Mountaineers, Audubon, Foothills Trail, Native Registration is available by calling 360-832-7166 or
following special open dates. Call 253-591-6439.   Plant Society, Cascade Land Conservancy, Sierra Club, emailing reserve@nwtrek.org 

Recurring class Schedule

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 sci-
ence 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 appro-
priate 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 appro-
priate 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 calcu-
late 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 appro-
priate 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 calcu-
late averages, percentages, and solve
simple equations.
 
Nature Storytime
Ages 2-6, $6 per child, $3 Audubon
member, free to adults and U.P resi-
dents. 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/ grand-
child 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 pro-
gram.

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.

June 2010 www.tahomaaudubon.org Page 5

 ... Birdathon!
from page 1
Other people might like May Day or the
Summer Solstice, but for birders, the ultimate bird-
ing day of the year might be May 15th. There are
more Big Days and Birdathons on this date than
any other day of the year short of the Christmas
Bird Count. This is the juxtaposition of departing
winter birds, arriving Neotropic migrants, early
nesting fledglings, and much courtship and bird
song. No wonder it’s also the week of International
Migratory Bird Day and the midpoint of Tahoma
Audubon’s Birdathon marathon.
ability to recognize birds by their songs and calls.
flocks (the female will be along in another
week). They nicely taught us their song and
calls as they vocally kept in touch with each
other. A very small Banana Slug attempted to
cross the trail in front of us, likely setting itself
up as a bird meal with all the activity over-
An unexpected bird was a Varied Thrush! With head. “Quick, three beers!” rang out in the
most having left for higher ground to breed, we distance, our first Olive-Sided Flycatcher of
were thrilled to see the last remaining thrush in the the year. “Kip kip kip” revealed that that flock
lowlands and greet first-of-the year Swainson’s way overhead was Red Crossbills! Douglas
Thrushes at the same time. Both of these thrushes Squirrels occasionally piped up as well.
cost some of us extra on this Birdathon! Towhees and Bewick’s Wrens kept up a con-
Deeper into the woods we came upon several stant audible backdrop for all the other songs of
Western Tanagers, another first-of-the-year that nature. Black-headed Grosbeaks were singing
anyone would be happy to pay extra for. Although on territory and will be nesting here. We actu-
they breed here, the first birds are probably just ally witnessed a number of birds picking up
passing through in their male-only migration nesting material including a pair of Hutton’s
Photo/Diane Yorgason-Quinn
Vireos, what seemed like a bunches of Brown
Creepers, and a lovely Black-throated Gray
Warbler uncharacteristically on the ground in
front of us picking up little sticks! Nothing says
spring like feathering one’s nest!
We were able to tick 37 species in just four
hours of a local Birdathon! Species NOT
seen included Starling, House Sparrow, and
Eastern Gray Squirrel! Maybe we should
pay extra for the privilege of visiting an area
unspoilt by these unwelcome interlopers.
Just across the street from the park in the
adjacent woods, though, Melissa found some
Herb Robert (AKA Stinky Bob), an unwel-
come and hard-to-get-rid of weed, which she
is on a personal crusade against. It’s not
there now, thanks to Melissa!
We were privileged to have Bryan Flint
birdathon with us this year. Tahoma Audubon’s
executive director generally goes out on one
or two birdathons each year, and he’s actually
turning into a fair birder! As expected with his
background and expertise, he was the biggest
fundraiser of the day by far, but all of us were
able to turn our fun morning into money for
Audubon, keeping as our cut the experience of
a wonderful spring morning and new exper-
tise in our spring and summer birds.
Birdathon is important as a fundraiser, but
it’s also important because it gets so many
people out in the field. Get out your check-
books, but get yourself out there, too, and
look at some birds while you’re at it! You
won’t be sorry.

Since this was just a half-day walk, clever tactics

were used to raise the ante. Some of us charged
double if it were the first sighting of the season for
a particular species, and Faye Hands actually paid
double for birds in her favorite bird family, the two
species of Chickadees. We do all frequently pay
for entertainment in the country, and that’s Faye’s
favorite entertainment. Some of us paid extra for
new fledglings (we saw young juncos and young
robins!).
We parked at the Swede Hill Fire Station and
immediately had the robins and juncos, as well as
Mourning Doves, Spotted Towhees, and Eastern
Cottontails! Crossing the street to the park brought
us a great sighting – a portable toilet! No longer do
we have to hold it for four-plus hours! The weath-
er was perfect, the trails were dry, and birdsong
was everywhere!
When one peruses a birding field guide, the war-
blers look so brightly colored that it seems you
couldn’t possibly miss them, but in the field they
look like the newly unfurled leaves of the spring.
Only their constant motion gives them away, but
that’s the other reason one seldom gets good looks!
However, most of us eventually got good looks at
four species of beautiful Warblers (Orange-
Crowned, Wilson’s, Black-Throated Gray, and the
Audubon subspecies of Yellow-rumped Warblers), Photo/Diane Yorgason-Quinn
mainly by triangulating in on their songs. This Above: Joanne, Faye, and Cindy Lou bird at the entrance to the park. Below left: Tahoma
worked as well on several newly arrived Pacific- Audubon Executive Director Bryan Flint rhapsodizes over old growth. Below right: Normally
slope Flycatchers. Melissa has a great talent for invisible Brown Creepers surrounded us at one point.
hearing and recognizing birds’ songs and can even
sing back to a few. Faye Hands noted that this was,
“A Birdathon plus a bonus class!” No one left the
woods that day without having expanded his or her

Photo/Diane Yorgason-Quinn
Top: American Robin was the first bird seen on this birdathon Above: Leader Melissa Sherwood, Faye, Joanne, Faline, Pat, Bryan Flint, Cindy Lou, Dennis, Piper.
Left: Leader Melissa was on a crusade to eradicate this noxious weed, Herb Robert, AKA Stinky Bob. Below left: There were warnings about bears posted in the part,
but this rabbit is the most vicious mammal we ran across. Below right: Mourning Doves were the second birds seen.

Photo/Diane Yorgason-Quinn Photo/Diane Yorgason-Quinn Photo/Pat Damron Photo/Diane Yorgason-Quinn Photo/Pat Damron

Page 6 www.tahomaaudubon.org June

2010 www.tahomaaudubon.org Page 7
 Just the other day... Tahoma Audubon in June 1985
By Helen Engle Citizens Advisory Committee. on the spruce budworm damage to fir trees in the

25
The big news for Tahoma Audubon
was that our charter mem-
bers  Francis and Ilene
Marckx  were recognized for their Years Ago
efforts in international wildlife aware-
ness and observation; their volunteer
work in water supply and storm water run-
off management in King County; and for their dona-
tion of 35 acres of Hylebos Creek headwaters to
Washington state Parks Department toward estab-
lishment of Hylebos Wetland State Park.  (Now West
Hylebos Wetlands Park, City of Federal Way. See:
http://hylebos.org/west-hylebos-wetlands-
park.)  Francis & Ilene were awarded the State of
Washington Environmental Excellence Award.
      One of the longest life lists among Tahoma
Audubon members made it to the 600th bird
when  Bob and Georgia Ramsey  identified a
Flesh-footed Shearwater (formerly the Pale-footed
Shearwater) on the May pelagic trip.   They were
cheered by fellow passengers aboard the Monte
Carlo, 30 miles out of Westport.  Theirs was a shared
list, the Ramseys having made it a point that they
both sighted birds added to it.
At a public meeting on June 13, it was announced
that the results of the study done over the past two
years confirmed that the Commencement Bay Near-
Shore Tideflats Area is eligible for cleanup as a
Superfund Project.  Walt and Nona Adamswere
Tahoma Audubon’s representatives on the Superfund
The Towhee's June calendar included
invitations urging Auduboners to attend
the public meeting on Commencement
Bay/Tideflats Superfund Project; and
the 17th Annual Big Backyard Potluck
picnic in the Engle garden.  Field trips
included a wildflower hike at Capitol
Forest with  Mary Fries; Nisqually Wildlife
Refuge with  Norris Cone; a five-day trip to the
northeast corner of the state with Bob & Georgia
Ramsey; China Lake summer Solstice picnic
with  Thelma Gilmur; and Flett Creek Basin
with Charles Plummer.
Doug Wechsler, Habitat Preservation Biologist
with the State Dept. of Game (now WA Dept. of
Fish & Wildlife) was requesting breeding bird data
for the Nongame Program of the Dept.   There is
only limited data for a large number of bird spe-
cies.    For instance Common Loons once bred in
lowland lakes, but only two places are known now;
Black Swifts’ nesting records are very scarce;
Purple Martins originally nested in tree cavities, not
birdhouse condos.   Besides the above three spe-
cies, the Dept. would like help in acquiring breeding
information on: Horned Grebe, Red-necked Grebe,
great Egret, Black-necked Stilt, Flammulated Owl,
Black-backed, Three-toed, and White-headed
Woodpeckers, Ash-throated Flycatcher, Western
Bluebird.
Paul Webster, one of  The Towhee's  most
dependable contributors, wrote an extensive piece
Naches Ranger District of the Wenatchee National
Forest. The spruce budworm is present in our for-
ests, normally causing little damage, but the popula-
tion has increased rapidly and has caused severe
defoliation of thousands of trees. Options for control-
ling the outbreak include spraying with Sevin 4 Oil;
spraying with natural bacteria -- Bacillus Thuringiensis
(Bt); or doing nothing.   The budworm infestation
can collapse naturally, or grow. In Oregon in 1980 it
covered 6,000 acres and now has spread to 2.5 mil-
lion acres.  
Tahoma Audubon’s Board of Directors was strong
and hard-working.   They were:   President  Roxy
Giddings, Vice President  Annabelle Reed,
Secretary  Evelyn Patton, Treasurer  Pat Olson,
Past Presidents Bob Ramsey, Walt Adams, Jean
Gillmer, Thelma Gilmur.
Directors at large
were:  Cathy Jerbic, John
McCann,  Leota Moore,
Sally Sloat,  Nancy
Thomas,  Bea Thomp-
son,  Allen
Zulauf.   National Audubon
Society Directors were Judd
Day and Helen Engle.  The
Towhee  editor was  Paul Helen Engle
Webster. from days of yore.
Feedback, comments and reminiscences welcome,
253-564-3112, Hengle@iinet.com.

For dozens of years we saved stamps for Thais Bock. money all goes to help fund the bird sanctuaries in

Save
Every stamped envelope that came in the door was England.
mutilated for its stamp which was stuffed into a bag to Fred says he sorts the stamps so there are no dam-
deliver to Thais. aged ones. He adds, “They mostly want USA com-

Stamps I don’t think many of us knew what in the world she

did with all those cancelled stamps.
memoratives, not standard postage like the ‘Forever’
Liberty Bell stamp and the 44¢ USA Flag.”

For
Well, don’t stop saving stamps now! Thais is gone, Bundle up your stamps and send them to:
but we have found someone to replace her in the stamp Fred Ritsema
collection business. He is Fred Ritsema. 18220 – 44th Ave S

Birds He will tidy up the piles of stamps we send him and

ship them to England’s Royal Society for the Protection
of Birds. The RSPB sells the stamps to dealers and the
SeaTac WA 98199-4532
The Chaffinch, Blue Tit, Greenfinch and Lapwings
will thank you!

BIRDSONGS by Phil Buly

Some charities have run rubber duck races in which
hundreds or thousands of rubber ducks are dumped
into a river, pool, or other body of water and then
floated down a race course marked off with buoys.
The first one to float past the finish line is the winner.
The rubber ducks are then retrieved and used again
later. Due to environmental concerns, sites for duck
races must be chosen with care.
There are hundreds of races held in the USA and
internationally. The largest race in the United States
benefits the Freestore Foodbank in Cincinnati, Ohio;
over 100,000 ducks are raced to raise money for the
organization.
From http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rubber_duck

Page 8 www.tahomaaudubon.org June 2010

 Honoring an amazing birder
By Heather Roskelley
A plaque was presented to Ruth Sullivan in
memory of her son, Patrick, at Bottle Beach
State Park on April 30 and installed on a new
bench along the boardwalk. A group of bird-
ers were on hand to witness the dedication
including Joseph Higbee, Gregg Thompson, Patrick Sullivan
Hans-Joachim Sedden, and bird book pub-
lisher and author, Bob Morse, who donated the
plaque. The efforts of Bob Morse and other birders
together with Grays Harbor Audubon and local cham-
bers of commerce made this honor possible.
The inscription on the plaque was written by
Dennis Paulson, Director Emeritus of the Slater
Museum of Natural History at the University of Puget
Sound, and reads: “In memory of Patrick Sullivan, an
extraordinary birder who enjoyed discovery, peace &
solitude in this beautiful place.”
Although I’m new to birding and never met Patrick, Sandpiper and Least Sandpiper and a few Killdeer.
I feel I know something of his character after hearing
the same words used repeatedly to describe him:
helpful, humble, and kind - and an
amazing birder. Patrick went out of his
way to help other birders and to show
those from out-of-town the shorebirds
of Grays Harbor and in particular,
Bottle Beach. Patrick passed away
three years ago on September 19, 2007.
It’s fitting that the dedication took place on
the first day of the Grays Harbor Shorebird
Festival. Patrick loved this area and enjoyed identify-
ing and observing shorebirds along with his mother,
Ruth. As many birders know, shorebirds are dear to
Ruth’s heart, and I was fortunate to have her expert
instruction on shorebird identification on my first trip
to this area as a birder.
After the dedication, Ruth and I walked to Bottle
Beach. The water was rather high and deep despite
being approximately an hour before high tide. We
saw a relatively small group of Dunlin, Western
Ruth then drove us to a private pond next to Bottle
Beach State Park where we saw around a hundred
Dowitchers and approximately 45 Greater
Yellowlegs.
Next stop was Tokeland, one of Ruth’s favorite
spots. We walked to the end of the dock near My
Suzie Willapa RV Park and viewed approximately
500 Marbled Godwits as well as Long-billed and
Short-billed Dowitchers and Dunlin at the jetty. A
beautiful male Common Loon and a Western
Grebe were diving nearby, and a Harbor Seal
swam close by, curiously watching us as much as
we were watching him.
On the east side of the marina, we were excited
to see two Willets, three Whimbrels, one
Semipalmated Plover and 14 Ruddy Turnstones.
The Ruddy Turnstones were a real treat for me with
their beautiful harlequin pattern breeding plumage,
orange-red legs, and the behavior that gives them
their name: the turning over of stones – and shells
– on the beach.
Ruth completed our day with a stop at Ocosta
Third Street pond. We saw many swallows, including
Northern Rough-Winged, Tree, Barn and Violet-Green
and a number of Red-winged Blackbirds. The lovely
sight of Cinnamon and Blue-winged Teal pairs also
greeted us.
It was a memorable week for Ruth from April 30
through May 5. Ruth celebrated her 80th birthday on
May 4, and enjoyed birding with friends during this time.
The weekly Nisqually birding group led by Phil Kelley
celebrated her birthday with a cake and card. As Shep
Thorp commented, we all hope to be as active in birding
as Ruth when
we’re her age.
When you
see Ruth,
wish her all
the best.

Above: Ruddy
Turnstones, doing
what they do best ...
Right: Whimbrels
in Tokeland.
Far right: Ruth
Sullivan sits on
the bench with
Patrick's plaque.

Tahoma Audubon Society's Anonymous (3) Noel & Bill Hagens Gary and Sharon Nestegard

Feathered Nest Circle

Jane Brosius Frances Heidner* Melissa and Jamie Paulson
Helen Engle David R. Hirst Donna Cooper Pepos*
Bryan Flint Cami Kesinger Barbara Petersen
Thomas Galdabini Peggy Kopf & Pat Mail Sarah C. Sloat
We are pleased to honor our visionaries who have named John Garner & Caroline John & Pat Lantz Beatrice E. Thompson*
Tahoma Audubon in their estate plans making them mem- Harris Diane J. Malone Darby Veeck & Kristin
bers of the Feathered Nest Circle. Thelma and Chuck Gilmur Jean McCord Lynett
Thank you current members as of May 15, 2010: Marjorie Griffin* Guy and Cecile Montgomery *Deceased

How fresh is ... ... the flounder?

Photo/Diane Yorgason-Quinn
The evening of May 8th found Aberdeen to be overrun by Tahoma Audubon birders as the Photo/John Riegsecker
Advanced Birding Class met the Nisqually/Ocean Shores birdathon group led by Ken & Nell One of the Osprey pair on the cell tower on North Peacock in
Batker at a restaurant after a long day of birding. Gig Harbor brings in a flounder!

June 2010 www.tahomaaudubon.org Page 9

 volunteer Recognition
Earth Day 2010: T

ogether Green restoration party
On Saturday April ration event at that site. Additional grant money helped of all, make a difference.
24, volunteers worked Audubon and the University Place Volunteer Center To all our wonderful volunteers who showed up to
with the Tahoma thank volunteers with morning snacks, afternoon pizza make a difference and celebrate Earth Day, Audubon
Audubon Society to and plenty of refreshments! offers it’s most sincere thanks. We could not do this work
continue the ongoing However, it was not all fun and games. Volunteers without you, and we greatly hope to see you again next
restoration efforts at worked particularly hard at both locations. While volun- time. Additionally, Audubon is grateful to all the work
Adriana Hess Wetland teers were pulling out invasive species at 67th Street and heart the Adriana Hess Park Committee showed in
Park and the 67th Property, volunteers at the Adriana Hess Wetland Park organizing this event, and to Julie Kerrigan, who secured
Street Property. The were working diligently to spread nearly 40 yards of the original grant. Thank you Julie, your passion and atti-
event was a monu- wood chips all over the north end of the park. Volunteers tude are constantly inspirational.
mental success, draw- worked through the rain and humidity
ing more volunteers to wash benches, weed plant beds, Our volunteers
gtaylor@tahomaaudubon.org than any other single- load chips, spread chips, clear debris, donated 256 hours
or (253) 565-1884 day Tahoma Audubon prune  shrubbery, and most important of their time!
restoration event in
recent memory. Altogether, Audubon hosted over 66 vol-
unteers who donated over 256 hours of their time!
Sponsored by the Toyota Together Green Grant,
Tahoma Audubon and the University Place Volunteer
Center pledged to put together multiple restoration work
parties throughout the year in order to encourage the com-
munity to appreciate and restore local park land. While
Audubon had previously used a portion of the grant to
purchase composting bins, rain barrels, and other impor-
tant items, Audubon did not spend any money on new
materials for this event. Instead, Audubon kept the resto-
ration work simple, using the money to ensure comfort in
the form of a port-a-potty at 67th Street Property.
Additionally, the grant paid for the two gigantic dump-
sters that were filled to the brim with invasive waste at
67th Street Property. By cutting costs to the City of
University Place, Audubon helped ensure a smooth resto-

Purple Martins have returned

– and we need your help!
Volunteers are needed this spring to monitor new nest box sites along Tacoma's shorelines.
Another Citizen Science project brought to you by Tahoma Audubon Society
and the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife.

Contact Krystal Kyer at 253-232-9978 or kkyer@TahomaAudobon.org

A big thank you to our 2010 PSSS volunteers

Chris Anderson, gathering scientifi-
Terri Baerwald, cally crucial density
2009-2010 Tallied Species (51)
David Beatty, Nora data on the winter- Brant   (179) Pied-billed Grebe   (18)
Burton, Debbie ing seabirds of Puget Cackling Goose   (10) Horned Grebe   (860)
Campbell, Janet Sound! Canada Goose   (134) Red-necked Grebe   (370)
Carroll, Cheryl Childs, Dan Christian, Fiona Cohen, This was our third and most successful survey sea-
Trumpeter Swan   (1) Eared Grebe   (108)
Cathie Connolly, Jack Cragin, Vera Cragin, Philip son to date: 427 surveys were conducted at 68 survey
Gadwall   (64) Western Grebe   (498)
Craven, Steve Dang, Jeff Eagin, Maureen Ellis, sites - in five counties - with density data collected on
Stephen Elston, Dan Evans, Rebecca Evans, Joe 51 species of near-shore birds. This represents  160 Eurasian Wigeon   (1) Clark’s Grebe   (1)
Evanson, Woody Franzen, Zoe Froyland, Rebecca total hours of survey time and 297 volunteer hours, American Wigeon   (348) Brandt’s Cormorant   (396)
Galloway, David Gluckman, Jack Gossett, Steve not including time spent getting to and from sites. Mallard   (238) Double-crested Cormorant   (406)
Grayson, Alex Greene, Barbara Guthrie, Nathalie A taxonomic list of the 51 species was tallied dur- Northern Pintail   (8) Pelagic Cormorant   (64)
Hamel, Ingrid Hansen, Lisa Harkins, Carl Haynie, ing the 2009-2010 season, included in the table on the
Redhead   (3) Great Blue Heron   (2)
Dave Hays, Amy Hildebrand, Seth Hildebrand, right. We had some great birds including both Marbled
Michael Hobbs, Peter Hodum, Bill Horder, Jocelyn and Ancient Murrelets, Clark’s Grebe, Eurasian Ring-necked Duck   (11) Bonaparte’s Gull   (26)
Horder, Kay Humm, David Jameson, Jean Johnson, Wigeon  and  Redhead. The numbers indicate how Greater Scaup   (30) Heermann’s Gull   (91)
Steve Johnson, Marcia Kamin, Becca Lewis, Kris many individuals, over the course of the season, were Lesser Scaup   (37) Mew Gull   (325)
Lightner, Valerie Lindborg, Terry Mace, Peter Mann, on the water long enough to have distance data col- Harlequin Duck   (164) Ring-billed Gull   (72)
Bob Martin, Ron Martin, Ian Maunsell, Krissy lected. Species in italics were new birds for the list but
Surf Scoter   (2325) Western Gull   (58)
Mazur, Chris Millow, Joyce Murray, Eric Myers, never landed on the water. Scientists are reviewing
Gabriel Newton, Tristan Nunez,Jim Oakland, Scott and analyzing this year’s data. Check back on Seattle White-winged Scoter   (167) California Gull   (9)
Pearson, Sarah Peden, John Pierce, Matthew Pike, Audubon’s website for more details this summer: Black Scoter   (14) Herring Gull   (22)
Lindsay Raab, Ken Rauscher, David Richardson, www.seabirdsurvey.org Bufflehead   (1644) Thayer’s Gull   (10)
George Ritchotte, Ann Root, Dan Roscoe, Govinda Would you like to join our team of hardy (or salty) Common Goldeneye   (706) Glaucous-winged Gull   (755)
Rosling, Laura Saunders, Tracey Scalici, Bill Puget Sound Seabird Survey volunteers? We will be
Barrow’s Goldeneye   (922) Caspian Tern   (7)
Shelmerdine, Janet Shonk, Ron Sikes, Rosemarie recruiting for returning and new volunteers in late
Sikes, Gary Smith, Jo Smith, Lynne Smith, Sharon summer, with a training planned for September. Hooded Merganser   (49) Common Murre   (7)
Sneddon, Bob Stallcop, Pam Stewart, Susie Stillman, Not ready? Study up - learn ID skills in the seabird Common Merganser   (43) Pigeon Guillemot   (198)
Beth Stimson, Bernice Tannenbaum, Maureen off-season: visit “The Birds of PSSS” online at Red-breasted Merganser   (253) Marbled Murrelet   (16)
Thompson, Stan Wagner, Jean Walat, Ileen Weber, :  http://bit.ly/dzKjqr, and for our local gulls, please Red-throated Loon   (19) Ancient Murrelet   (2)
Bob Whitney, John Williams, Cynthia Wilson, Ken visit: http://bit.ly/4ajddS Pacific Loon   (27) Rhinoceros Auklet   (14)
Wilson, Sue Yates   For more information or to volunteer contact
Common Loon   (95)
A HUGE THANKS to all the PSSS volunteers for Krystal at 253-232-9978.

Page 10 www.tahomaaudubon.org June 2010

Brandon and Zachary Hawn – teen volunteers extraordinaire!
By Marjorie Shea
When Brandon and Zachary Hawn attended a wed-
ding reception with their family at Tacoma Nature
Center in 2005, they didn’t know that they were being
watched. The Tacoma Nature Center staff saw their
avid interest in the
exhibit animals, so
they approached
them and enjoyed
easy conversation
with them through-
out the night. When
offered the chance to
join a newly forming
teen volunteer pro-
gram at the nature
center, Brandon and
Zachary quickly
jumped on board.
Since that time
these two 17-year-
Brandon and Girl Scouts on olds have become an
nature hike at Snake Lake integral part of the
education team for
Tahoma Audubon and Tacoma Nature Center pro-
grams and events. They serve as lead teen staff for
summer nature camps, run birthday parties, oversee
activities at Morse Wildlife Preserve family events, and
offer Girl Scout badge programs. They mentor young-
er teen volunteers and help train seasonal camp staff
and volunteer naturalists. The brothers are noted for
their keen interest in reptiles and
skilled caretaking of the exhibit
animals at the nature center. To
the delight of young and old, they
have even shared their own col-
lection of reptiles in education
programs.
Brandon and Zachary are part
of a family of five that demon-
strates how service can be a pow-
erful multi-generational experi-
ence. They immediately became
enhancements to the education
program, and haven’t slowed
down since, providing 1,500
hours of volunteer service togeth-
er over the past five years. And,
we believe they are at least a part
of the inspiration that has prompt- Zach & Brandon teaching about reptiles at nature summer camp
ed their younger brother Kyle to
volunteer 100 hours last year. Be it the native plant that even if they don’t pursue conservation as part of a
sales, landscaping and trail upkeep, event preparation, profession, it will always be a passion.
or long days of summer camp, they always agree to do In recognition of their exemplary volunteer service,
whatever is asked of them, and always with a smile. In Brandon and Zach received the 2010 City of Destiny
fact, their mom, Beth Hawn, states that they hurry to Award for Youth Sustained Service on May 11 in front
get all their homework and chores done anytime there of an appreciative audience of friends, family, peers,
is a need at the Nature Center that they can help with. and community leaders at Stadium High School.
They are genuinely interested in supporting all activi- During their acceptance speech the teens acknowl-
ties with only moderate debates over who gets the edged the support of the Tahoma Audubon and nature
prime jobs each time and always profusely thank their center staff in giving them the opportunity to engage in
mom for taking them on the return trip home. The what they love to do. Kudos to these members of our
boys are still exploring their future careers and know Tahoma Audubon and Tacoma Nature Center flock!

May
membership
meeting recap

Raptors in the room! Photos/Diane Yorgason-Quinn

Those that attended the May membership meeting saw a wonderful presentation by
Brian Kellogg, Falconer. Brian had several live birds on hand plus a slide show with
wild and captive Falcons and raptors followed by a Q&A period. Brian and Linda Kel-
logg are licensed master falconers. Brian has been a practicing falconer for over 40
years and Linda for over 30.

Above: Tahoma, an immature female Golden Eagle, was saved from certain death and
will eventually be released back into the wild after Brian finishes her rehabilitation.
Above right: Brian Kellogg wows the audience at the Tahoma Audubon meeting,
May 14th, with Tahoma, a Golden Eagle.
Right: Woman Power! Jennifer and Linda with their female Redtail and Harris Hawks.
Falconry is no longer just the province of males!
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
C9ZY020Z

membership, annual Audubon Magazine subscription, and support of

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

June 2010 www.tahomaaudubon.org Page 11


Unless otherwise stated -
To register for field trips, call (253)
565-9278 To register for education
classes, call (253) 591-6439
See further descriptions inside.
Check out our calendar online at
http://www.TahomaAudubon.org
for more information and updates
june 2010
TGIF Restoration Activity
Fri June 4, 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM
Come enjoy the outdoors and help beautify
the grounds at Hess.
Location: Adriana Hess Wetland Park
 
Habitat Stewards Training
Sat Jun 5, 9:30 AM – 3:30 PM
Come learn how to be a habitat steward for
a local urban area near you.  This training
is FREE, lunch provided. Upon completion
of the training participants will receive a
free field guide and a variety of services
provided by the Green Tacoma Partnership
to assist in restoration projects. Location:
Tacoma Nature Center, 1919 S. Tyler St.
 
Adriana Hess Park Photography Class
Mon June 7, 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM
An adult program encouraging people to
appreciate nature and how they can
incorporate it into their photography.
Call Dixie Harris: 253-564-6373.  Wed June 16, 8:30 AM to 12:00 PM
 
Advanced Birder’s Class
Tue June 8, 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM
Location: Tacoma Nature Center. Ken
Brown, Instructor  afterwards. Dress appropriately and bring
Weekly Bird Walks at Nisqually
Wed June 9 7:30 AM to 11:00 AM
Location: Nisqually National Wildlife
Refuge. Leader: Phil Kelley.
 
Birdwalk Homestead Park Gig Harbor
Thu June 9, 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM
Location: Homestead Park Gig Harbor
Join Melissa Sherwood as she leads an
evening monthly birdwalk through the
new Homestead Park in Gig Harbor.  Third Sunday Bird Walk
Call Tahoma Audubon for more details
and to sign up, 253-565-9278.  Join Rob McNair-Huff on his monthly
 
TGIF Restoration Activity
Fri June 11, 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM
Come enjoy the outdoors and help beautify
the grounds at Adriana Hess Park!  parking lot, in the B lot. The walk traverses
Location: Adriana Hess Wetland Park
 
Conservation Committee
Fri June 11, 12:00 PM to 1:30 PM
Help Audubon achieve our 5 year goals
for conserving, protecting, and restoring
habitats in Pierce County
Location: Adriana Hess Audubon Center
Membership Meeting
Fri June 11, 7:30 PM to 9:00 PM
Location: Tacoma Nature Center, 1919 S.
Tyler Street. Monthly membership meeting
of Tahoma Audubon. All welcome.  Check
web site for program -  www.
TahomaAudubon.org.  (253) 565-9278
 
Rain Garden Installation
Sat Jun 12, 9 AM – Sat Jun 12 3 PM
Volunteers and sponsors wanted to support
planting and mulching six rain gardens.   Tue June 22, 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM
RSVP @253.845.2975,  streamteam@
piercecountycd.org    Fri Jul 9, 7:30pm
 
Invasive Plants ID
and Removal Techniques Training
Sat Jun 12, 9:30 AM – Sat Jun 12 12 PM
View demonstration and get hands on
practice identifying and properly removing
the most common invasive plant species
found in Tacoma’s parks and natural areas.
Location: Tacoma Nature Center, 1919 S.
Tyler St  See earlier description.  Morse Wildlife Preserve
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
Morse Wildlife Preserve Open Trails
Sun June 13, 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM
Location: Morse Wildlife Preserve
Explore this natural treasure as you walk
the trails and discover the beauty of the
five habitat zones in the preserve. Located
in Graham, the preserve has the following
special open dates. Call 253-591-6439 for
more information.   Adriana HessAudubon center in University
 
Bird Walk at Adriana Hess Park
Mon June 14, 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM
Enjoy a guided bird walk through Adriana
Hess Wetland Park!  TGIF Restoration Activity
 
Titlow Beach Tour for Homeschoolers
Tue June 15 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM
Special field trip for all homeschool
students to explore low tide at Titlow
Beach while utilizing nature study tools &
discovery sheets. PRE REGISTRATION
REQUIRED. Call 253-591-6439  A family program to encourage families to
 
Advanced Birder’s Class
Tue June 15, 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM
Location: Tacoma Nature Center. Ken
Brown, Instructor    snails & octopus.    For details and to
 
Weekly Bird Walks at Nisqually
Wed June 16, 7:30 AM to 11:00 AM
Location: Nisqually National Wildlife
Refuge. Leader: Phil Kelley.
See earlier description.  feathered friends.    For details and to
Titlow Park Birding Field Trip
Come enjoy some morning birding at
Titlow Park. If there is interest, the trip
might move to Ft. Steilacoom park
your binoculars!
Leaders: Vera Cragin & Pat Damron
Location: Titlow Park & Possibly Ft.
Steilacoom Park after.
 
TGIF Restoration Activity
Fri June 18, 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM
Location: Adriana Hess Wetland Park
Come enjoy the outdoors and help beautify
the grounds at Adriana Hess Park!  Mon July 5 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM
at Point Defiance Park
Third Sunday Bird Walk at Point Defiance
Park in the North End of Tacoma. The
5-mile walk starts at 8 a.m. from the back
of the Point Defiance Zoo and Aquarium
wooded trails along the spine of the park,
with potential views in June of flycatchers,
warblers and woodpeckers. The walk takes
approximately 3.5 hours.
Little Explorers Camp:
Fantastic Forests
Mon June 21, 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM
Beat the heat in the shade of the forest
while looking for squirrels, rabbits, and
other tree dwellers.  Register by calling the
Nature Center, 253-591-6439.
 
Plant Walk at Adriana Hess Park
Mon June 21, 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM
Location: Adriana Hess Wetland Park
Enjoy a guided plant walk in the park! 
 
Little Explorers Camp:
Fantastic Forests
Register w/Nature Center, 253-591-6439.
Advanced Birder’s Class
Tue June 22, 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM
Location: Tacoma Nature Center. Ken
Brown, Instructor  Audubon.  All welcome.  Check web site
 
Weekly Bird Walks at Nisqually
Wed June 23, 7:30 AM to 11:00 AM
Location: Nisqually National Wildlife
Refuge. Leader: Phil Kelley.
Little Explorers Camp:
Fantastic Forests
Wed  June 23, 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM
Register @ Nature Center, 253-591-6439.
Nature Storytime “Bug Life”
Thu June 24, 10:30 AM to 11:30 AM
Join us as we explore the park at the
Place with nature stories based on the
current theme. Adults are welcome with
the children. 253-591-6439 to register.
Fri June 25, 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM
Location: Adriana Hess Wetland Park
Come enjoy the outdoors and help beautify
the grounds at Adriana Hess Park!  five habitat zones in the preserve. Located
 
Family Walk at Adriana Hess Park
Sun June 27, 4:00 PM to 5:00 PM
appreciate the park by providing
information and opportunities with a
guided walking tour.
Call Dixie Harris 253-564-6373
Little Explorers Camp:
Hoo Lives Here?
June 28 - 30, 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM. This
camp is for the birds! Get better acquainted
with robins, finches, owls and other
register, call Nature Center, 253-591-6439
Weekly Bird Walks at Nisqually
Wed June 30, 7:30 AM to 11:00 AM
Location: Nisqually National Wildlife
Refuge. Leader: Phil Kelley.
July 2010
TGIF Restoration Activity
Fri July 2, 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM
Come enjoy the outdoors and help beautify
the grounds at Adriana Hess Park! 
Location: Adriana Hess Wetland Park
 
Adriana Hess Park Photography Class
An adult program encouraging people to
appreciate nature and how they can
incorporate it into their photography.
Call Dixie Harris. 253-564-6373. 
 
Weekly Bird Walks at Nisqually
Wed July 7, 7:30 AM to 11:00 AM
Location: Nisqually National Wildlife
Refuge. Leader: Phil Kelley.
Call or email Phil for confirm details (360)
459-1499, scrubjay323@aol.com. 
TAS Board Meeting
Thu Jul 8 6:30pm – Thu Jul 8 8:30pm
Adriana Hess Audubon Center.  Monthly
Meeting of the Tahoma Audubon Board.  the grounds at Adriana Hess Park!
Guests Welcome, please call ahead at
(253) 565-9278. 
 
TGIF Restoration Activity
Fri July 9 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM
Location: Adriana Hess Wetland Park
 
Conservation Committee
Fri Jul 9, 12 PM to 1:30 PM
Adriana Hess Audubon Center.  Help
Audubon achieve our 5 year goals for
conserving, protecting, and restoring
habitats in Pierce County. 
 
Membership Meeting
Tacoma Nature Center, 1919 S. Tyler
Street
Monthly membership meeting of Tahoma
for program - www.TahomaAudubon.org.  Jul 26 - 28, 9 AM to 1 PM
Call (253) 565-9278  Use microscopes & magnifiers to discover
 
Morse Wildlife Preserve Open Trails
Sun Jul 11, 12 PM – 4 PM
JUne program
Regular membership meeting on
Friday, June 11, 7:30pm – 9:00pm
at Tacoma Nature Center, 1919 S.
Tyler Street. 11th Annual Bird
Drawing Contest awards ceremony.
Come to our 11th Annual Bird Drawing
Contest awards ceremony. View the
artwork and watch as the prizes are
presented to the winners. All are
welcome. Call (253) 565-927
Explore this natural treasure as you walk
the trails and discover the beauty of the
in Graham, the preserve has the following
special open dates. Call 253-591-6439.  
 
Little Explorers Camp:
Tiptoe Through the Tidepools
Jul 12 - 14, 9 AM to 1PM
Explore the creatures that hide in the
tidepools: sea stars, shore crabs, moon
register, Nature Center, 253-591-6439.
 
Bird Walk at Adriana Hess Park
Mon July 12 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM
Enjoy a guided bird walk in the park! 
 
Weekly Bird Walks at Nisqually
Wed July 14, 7:30 AM to 11:00 AM
Location: Nisqually National Wildlife
Refuge. Leader: Phil Kelley.
See earlier description. 
TGIF Restoration Activity
Fri July 16, 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM
Location: Adriana Hess Wetland Park
Come enjoy the outdoors and help beautify
the grounds at Adriana Hess Park! 
 
Little Explorers Camp:
Winter Wonderland
Jul 19 - 21, 9 AM to 1 PM
It’s winter in July as we cool off with the
animals that live at the poles or know how
to stay warn in cold weather. Details and to
register, Nature Center, 253-591-6439.
Plant Walk at Adriana Hess Park
Mon July 19, 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM
Location: Adriana Hess Wetland Park
Enjoy a guided plant walk in the park! 
 
Weekly Bird Walks at Nisqually
Wed July 21, 7:30 AM to 11:00 AM
Location: Nisqually National Wildlife
Refuge. Leader: Phil Kelley.
TGIF Restoration Activity
Fri July 23, 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM
Come enjoy the outdoors and help beautify
 
Location: Adriana Hess Wetland Park
Nature Storytime “Bug Life”
Fri Jul 23, 10:30 AM to 11:30 AM
For details and to register, 253-591-6439 
Ohop Creek Field Trip
Sun Jul 25, 9 AM to 12 PM
For details and to register, call 360-832-
7166 or email reserve@nwtrek.org 
Family Walk at Adriana Hess Park
Sun Jul 25, 4 PM to 5 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 
 
Little Explorers Camp: Small Wonders
the smallest wildlife that live in our
backyards.  
For details and to register, call the Nature
Center, 253-591-6439.