Black Hills

Audubon Society
Olympia, Washington

Volume 40,
Number 3

May/June 2009

Annual Dinner articles ................................ pg. 2-3

When not to “Rescue”

BHAS elections ............................................... pg. 3
An evening with Paul Bannick ......................... pg. 4
a Wild Animal Conservation updates ..................................... pg. 5
Book review: The Northwest Nature Guide ..... pg. 5
(quoted from the Washington State Department of Fish Birding in Earnest ........................................... pg. 6
and Wildlife Web site, http://wdfw.wa.gov/wildlife/ May is Birdathon Month! ................................ pg. 7
rehabilitation/when_not_to_rescue.html) Mapping for Energy Projects ........................... pg. 8
Many wild animals do not need to be “rescued” and Pullout insert: Wildlife rehabilitation resources
there is almost never a time when you should remove ..................................................................pg. 9-10
a baby wild animal from its natural environment BHAS calendar ...............................................pg. 11
—even if it appears abandoned. More often than not, State of the Birds Report ................................ pg.12
just leaving a young animal alone affords it the best Prairie Appreciation Day ................................pg. 11
chance for survival. Birding Basics class .......................................pg. 11
Every year hundreds of young wild animals such as Field trips ................................................pg. 14-15
fawns, baby seals, and baby birds are needlessly “res- Nisqually programs ...................................... pg. 15
BHAS roster .................................................. pg. 16
Continued on page 4 Membership form ......................................... pg. 17

Thursday, May 1 Thursday, June 18

Underwater Wildlife Annual Picnic
of Puget Sound This month we invite Auduboners and their
guests to the traditional potluck picnic at the
Davis Jennings will offer a look at the amazing fi sh
and invertebrates in our back yard Puget Sound, rose garden shelter in Priest Point Park. We’ll
Hood Canal, the San Juan Islands and the Strait of begin gathering at 5:oo pm to do a bit of birding,
Juan De Fuca provide us with some of the best cold then plan to eat around 6:00 pm. The shelter is
water diving in the world. The density of life in covered, so come rain or shine! BYO plate and
some areas is truly amazing. Giant Pacifi c Octopus, utensils (but we will supply paper plates, cups,
many species of rockfi sh, giant anemones, fi sh eat- and cutlery for thse who forget). Please bring
ing anemones, squid, sculpin of all kinds, decorator something yummy to share, and we’ll provide the
crabs, poachers, shiners, gobies, and sea stars, oh soft drinks. In addition, Chester Allen, outdoors
my. Come get a glimpse of Washington’s undersea reporter for The Olympian, has been invited to join
world and learn more about cold water diving in us. This is a great opportunity to get to know new
our local waters. Marine conservation issues up- folks of like mind, and see old friends, so we hope
date included at no charge. to see you there!
General membership meetings are held at 7 p.m. on the third Thurs-
day evening of each month, at the Capitol Museum Coach House,
211 West 21st Street, in Olympia.
BHAS Annual Dinner 2009
Our 22nd Annual Dinner took place on March 7th,
attended by approximately 180 people, at least 30
of whom were first-time annual dinner attendees.
We hope those of you attending had a wonder-
ful experience, which included the opportunity
to hear from our new Commissioner of Public
Lands, Peter Goldmark. [Please see the related
articles on the newly-established Dave McNett
Education Award and the Auction.]
Our current board has
endorsed the concept that
the annual dinner, while a
major fund-raising event, is
primarily an opportunity for our community
to come together, connect, interact, learn from our
speaker, and enjoy being a part of a group that
values our environment and works in a unique way
to preserve a quality of life both for us and for the
wildlife with which we share space. As a result, we
eliminated the voice auction and tightened the pro-
gram, in the hope that this would result in increased
communications among attendees.\Thus far, we
have received many
favorable comments
about the experience.
But we have also been
made aware that the
below-value reception of
many items in the auction may
make it difficult for solicitors to
approach donors for items in the
future. We hope that next year (in
what we all hope will be a more favorable economic
climate), you will be able to be generous in your
support of the auction. We encourage you to send
your comments to us at blackhills-audubon
, or to our mailing address at PO Box 2524,
Olympia, WA 98507, or to our phone line at (360)
352-7299. Thanks!

2008 Dave McNett Environmental Education

Award Recipients
Our Black Hills Audubon chapter was proud to take numerous field trips to learn more about their local
present the 2009 Dave McNett Environmental Edu- area. They conduct water testing on nearby streams
cation Award to the Science Department of Kom- in conjunction with Project GREEN. They grow food
achin Middle School in Lacey. Like the late Dave on their school site and contribute produce to the food
McNett, these educators have touched many lives bank. Writing and math are included in all their science
through their work, helping to garner deep appre- projects so that students are not only learning in an
ciation and respect for the natural world that lies integrated manner but they can reflect on and create a
outside the school’s door. Those who nominated personal response to their experiences.”
them wrote of, Coordination with local organizations on plan-
“their extraordinary teaching ability and dedication to ning for field trips and developing appropriate work
their jobs”. experiences ensures that young persons are interac-
tive with the larger community in which they live
“Although money is often tight, they continue to find and may one day work or volunteer. Students are
ways to get students out of the classroom to learn, learning about birds and
work, and engage in other wildlife and about
meaningful learning about conservation of our natural
the natural world.” “Although money is often world through their work.
“The primary mission of
tight, they continue to find Their classroom learning
Komachin Middle School ways to get students out of the is deeply enhanced by the
is teaching students about classroom to learn, work, and variety of out-of-classroom
experiences they are pro-
sustainable communities.
Students learn how they can
engage in meaningful learning vided by these innovative
be a part of and contribute about the natural world.” and energetic teachers.
to their community through Below are those who make
hands-on science. Each year, students take part in up the Science Department at Komachin Middle
multiple revegatation projects with local organizations
including Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge. They Continued on next page

 Black Hills Audubon Society

 Our Business Partners Contribute to Annual Dinner
Once again, we are deeply indebted to the follow- Fishtale Ales Brewpub
ing local businesses for their generous donations Gull Harbor Mercantile
to this year’s event which raised approximately Homestreet Bank
$2700 to support the mission of Black Hills Audu- Jinjor Boutique
bon Society. We urge you to reward them with
Olive Garden Restaurant
your patronage and when you do, please let them
know of your gratitude for their support: Orca Books
Perennial Gardener
Alpine Experience
Sportsman’s Warehouse
Anthony’s Hearthfire Grill
Traditions /Fair Trade
Boston Harbor Marina
Wild Birds Unlimited
Buck’s Fifth Avenue
We also acknowledge the generous contributions of
Childhood’s End Gallery members and supporters who contributed items or
Compass Rose services. We are grateful, in addition, to those of you
Dinners Done Right who supported the auction with your purchases.
Fireside Books

BHAS Elections May 21

The
Nomi-
nating
BHAS Annual Elections of Board of Com-
Directors Thursday, May 21st, 2009, 7–9 pm mittee is
On Thursday, May 21st, the members of Black Hills accepting
Audubon Society will have the opportunity to elect names of
the officers and at-large members of the BHAS individuals
Board of Directors. This governing body is made of interested
volunteers who give of their talents to support the in participating
mission of BHAS and who are passionate about the in developing policies, and making decisions in the
natural environment. best interest of Black Hills Audubon Society.
Are you a volunteer who is ready to take that next
Dave McNett Award step by helping to shape the policies of BHAS and
also to carry out those policies? Please consider
From previous page
running for the Board of Directors.
School and received a plaque for their outstanding We also encourage you to become more active
work at the Black Hills Audubon Chapter’s Annual in your local Audubon Society chapter. There are
Dinner March 7th, 2009: numerous volunteer opportunities such as helping
Rob Cahill to staff an information table at an event, putting
Tom Condon labels on the Echo newsletter, giving presentations
to school children about birds (we have some slide
Eric Fredericks presentations ready to use), going to conservation-
Jenna Glock related meetings and hearings, and even going on
Sue Koontz field trips! If you would like to be more involved,
Vicki Leonard please contact Deb Jaqua at 360-491-3325 or send
Robin Morisette email to djaqua comcast.net. All candidates for the
Dixie Reimer Board must be BHAS members.
Raven Skydancer
Trent Truesdall
Well done, teachers!!

Black Hills Audubon Society 

 Enjoy an Evening with Photojournalist Paul Bannick:

The Owl and the Woodpecker!

June 3, 2009 Wednesday, 5:30 pm at the the country. You will agree with Audubon’s
Women’s Club in Olympia own Ted Williams, when you come to Audubon
Washington’s event on June 3, that Mr. Bannick is
What better way to support bird conservation and
an ace photographer and conservationist.
Audubon Washington than by seeing a fascinating
presentation by Paul Bannick about Owls and “The Owl and the Woodpecker is a monumental work
Woodpeckers? of photojournalism by one of North America’s top
wildlife photographers. The images you’ll encounter in
Every wild place and urban area in North America
this book are the result of an encyclopedic knowledge
hosts an owl or a woodpecker species, while
of birds and their habitats, an intense love of nature,
healthy natural places often boast representatives
and endless patience. For anyone who appreciates wild
of both. The diversity of these two families of birds,
things and wild places, each of Bannick’s stunning
and the ways in which they define and enrich the
photographs is worth ten thousand words.”
ecosystems they inhabit, are the subject of a vivid
—Ted Williams,
new book by photographer and naturalist Paul
Editor-at-Large, Audubon magazine
Bannick.
Where: Women’s Club—1002 Washington Street
The Owl and The Woodpecker showcases a
SE, Olympia Washington
sense of these birds’ natural rhythms, as well as
Food: Light snacks, wine, beer and soft drinks
the integral spirit of our wild places. Based on
will be provided
thousands of hours in the field photographing
these fascinating and wily birds, Bannick evokes Suggested donation: $30-50 per person for
all 41 North American species of owls and Audubon Washington’s statewide conservation
woodpeckers, across 11 key habitats. And by work on owls and woodpeckers.
revealing the impact of two of our most iconic
Please RSVP or for more information, call Jamie
birds, Bannick has created a wholly unique
Morgan at Audubon Washington: (360) 786-8020,
approach to birding and conservation.
x206.
Mr. Bannick is getting rave reviews from across

When not to rescue wild animals
From page 1
cued” and referred to wildlife rehabilitators. This is
extremely detrimental and harmful to the young ani-
mal, as well as disruptive and costly to wildlife reha-
bilitators when they most need to concentrate limited
resources on truly orphaned or injured wildlife. Un-
less the animal is showing obvious signs of illness or
injury such as bleeding, vomiting, panting, shivering,
lethargy, ruffled feathers or fur, attack by cat/dog,
leave them there. You can help by always consulting
a licensed wildlife rehabilitator prior to collecting the
animal, thereby preventing its handling.
Why these babies do not need rescuing. Young
animals are often left alone for hours while their
parents gather food. They are being tended by their
parents in ways best for their survival and appro-
priate for that species, ensuring that they retain
natural wild behaviors. It is normal and typical for a
deer fawn to be left alone hiding in a bed. It is also
common for young birds to leave the nest before
they are fully feathered or flight-ready. They will be
fed on the ground for a day or two by the parents
until they are able to fly. Careful observation before
distressing and collecting these animals should help
you make a correct decision whether or not they are
truly orphaned or injured and need help.
Yes, very young birds sometimes fall out of nests. If
you can safely reach the nest, put it back. The adults
will NOT reject their young because “they smell
like people.” If the bird is older or you cannot find
the nest, place it in a tree or shrub or on a shaded
portion of a roof, out of the way of cats, dogs, and
children. Do not unnecessarily handle or move it
from the general area where it was found. If a baby
bird shows obvious signs of illness or injury, call a
wildlife rehabilitator first and describe what you see.
Email wildlife rehabilitation questions to
rehabcoord wa.gov.
See the list of Wildlife Rehabilitators for the Black Hills
Audubon Society area in the center of this edition of the
Echo newsletter.

 Black Hills Audubon Society

Conservation Updates Hard Rock mine, located on the west boundary of
the Littlerock mine and acquired around 2003.
Capital Lake Adaptive Management Plan BHAS members may recall that in 2000, QRP
(CLAMP): requested to mine most of the 151 acres of the Lit-
The CLAMP steering committee will be coming to tlerock site and develop an asphalt plant. From July
a conclusion with a recommendation sometime 2001 until April 2008, BHAS and Thurston County
this summer (2009). BHAS has been involved as were in litigation with the company. That ended in
an interested public interest non-governmental 2008, as the State Supreme Court refused to hear
organization (NGO) since the early days of CLAMP QRP’s appeal of a lower court’s permit denial.
and I have been representing BHAS on a CLAMP
focus group that helped advise the formation of a BHAS plans to question all aspects of this new
net-benefi ts assessment of restoring the Lake to a proposal, which could be fi nalized in six to twelve
representation of the estuary it once was. We have months. Potential concerns are lack of enough wa-
always supported restoring the Estuary—and I will ter to conduct the business of current gravel mining,
provide more information and views on our BHAS the source of the large amount of water required
web site and Echo newsletter in the months and for concrete plant processes, and all environmental
weeks ahead. I will be writing our BHAS comments hazards generated by a concrete plant including the
and participating in the public meeting(s) scheduled effects on nearby neighborhoods. Ideally, the Coun-
for May and look forward to hearing from BHAS ty will resolve many of the contentious issues prior
members on your thoughts. Please send them to me to a hearing before the County Hearings Examiner.
at D.J.Nick comcast.net. In addition, please take a What can you do? Participate in the mineral lands
look at the following website for background infor- code revisions process that will be taking place
mation http://www.ga.wa.gov/CLAMP/index.html in hearings before the Thurston County Planning
Commission and the Board of Commissioners in the
Expanded Gravel Mine and New Concrete next six months. A Hearings Examiner must fol-
Plant Threaten Black River Corridor low county code when reviewing the specifi cs of a
Habitat: mine permit. Strong siting criteri a from the onset
In February 2009, Quality Rock Products (QRP) ap- helps ameliorate enforcement weaknesses, which
plied to Thurston County for a permit to expand its will only be weakened as a result of the 2009 staff
Littlerock gravel-mining site and to renew an alleged reductions due to the economic decline. A strong
existing permit for a concrete plant along the Black county mineral lands code is the best way to ensure
River corridor, close to the Black River National environmentally sound gravel mines. Thanks for
Wildlife Refuge. The request includes combining 80 your continued attention in protecting the Black
acres of the Littlerock pit with 80 acres of the QRP River National Wildlife Refuge.

Book Review by Author Maria Ruth:

The Northwest Nature Guide by James Luther Davis.
Portland: Timber Press, 2009. 447 pages. $24.95 lured some neighbors down to Capitol Lake to watch
When you live in a region of the county dubbed the bats fl ying in from Woodard Bay to feed; we stood
“Cascadia” and “Ecotopia,” you are blessed with a and waited for a good hour...on the wrong side of the
bounty of natural treasures as well as books leading lake. Due to bad planning, I’ve also missed the mi-
you to them. grating whales (too late), the blankets of alpine fl ow-
ers (too early), and the chanterelles (wrong place).
My bookshelves hold a dozen or more fi eld guides
to wildlife, hiking guides to the Olympics and Cas- Now I’ve got my hands on a book that is organized
cades, kayaking and canoeing guides to Puget Sound, according to the laws of nature—chronologically.
and dog-friendly trails in western Washington. The The Northwest Nature Guide, by James Luther Davis,
information in most of these books is organized geo- is just out in paperback and, as its subtitle promises,
graphically (by state or region) or taxonomically (by tells readers “where to go and what to see month by
phylum, class, order, etc.). More often than not, I’d month in Oregon, Washington, and British Columbia.”
set out to see migrating whales or alpine wildfl owers
Davis, a naturalist for the Metro Regional Parks and
and fi nd myself in the right place at the wrong time
Greenspaces in the Portland metropolitan area, writes
or the wrong place at the right time. Last summer, I
Continued on page 18

Black Hills Audubon Society 5

Birding in Earnest–
Sightings for February-March
2009
By Bill Shelmerdine
To reports sightings call 866-9106 or email at
georn1@hotmail.com
The main sightings for the period included owls,
winter finches, and arriving migrants.
Owls: Northern Saw-Whet and Barred Owls
were widely reported for the period.
Despite what weather indicators we
may have keyed into, the local owls
seemed to recognize spring right
about on schedule and numer-
ous calling birds were noted in
early February. Paul Hicks noted 3
Northern Saw-Whet Owls call-
ing on 2/2 near Tenino. Calling
birds were also reported from the
Steamboat Island Road area on 2/2,
2/23 and 2/24; near Olympia (Robin
Shoal), and in Lacy (Glen Hird). An
uncommon daytime sighting came from
Gary Wiles who observed one at Black
Lake Meadows being mobbed by chicka-
dees and kinglets on 3/31. Over the period
Barred Owls were reported from Lacey (Scott
Morrison) and from Watershed Park on a 2/22/09
Audubon Field Trip. Short-Eared Owls were
reported from near South Sound Speedway near
Tenino (3 or 4 on 2/7 by Paul Hicks); and one at
Nisqually on 2/10 by Phil Kelly and company. And
to round out the owls, at least one family of Great
Horned Owls, with at least two young, have been
widely reported from the Nisqually refuge through-
out the period. This species is one of the earliest
breeders in our area.
Finches: The big news for the period comes from
the finch group: Pine Grosbeaks, White-winged
Crossbills and an unusual lack of Purple Finches.
Around the first of February, 2 Pine Grosbeaks
began to frequent the Nisqually Refuge along Mac-
Allister Creek. On 2/3 Keith Brady photographed
them. The birds were seen off-and-on (much to the
frustration of some) through at least 3/11 when they
were joined by a bright red adult male (observed
by B. Shelmerdine). Eric Craig reported a flock of
6 Pine Grosbeaks on February 6 between Tolmie
State Park and the Nisqually Reach. In mid March
(3/15?), Ruth Sullivan reported up to 5 White-
winged Crossbills along Highway 8 in Western
 Black Hills Audubon Society
Thurston Co. This species has been widespread this
winter in the Columbia Basin, but I can recall only
a handful of west-side reports. Interestingly, when
so-called irruptions take place, they have often been
reported in years when Pine Grosbeaks have also
been widespread. This is the second record for the
county that I know of, having also been recorded on
the 1961 Christmas bird count. Meanwhile, Purple
Finches were conspicuous by their absence at one
of their regular haunts at the Nisqually Refuge dur-
ing the period.
Arriving Migrants: February and March are also
traditional for the first arrivals of our breeding
species and early spring migrants. It’s usually
a toss-up whether hummingbirds (Rufus)
or swallows will be first. The first Rufus
Hummingbirds I’m aware of in the
NW arrived around 2/21 on the
North Oregon Coast at Astoria,
Oregon. First reports in our area
included birds in Tenino on 3/2 (Bob Sund-
strom) and from Shelton on 3/9 (Andrew
Beelik). The main push seems to come be-
tween the second or third week of March.
Swallows seemed to show up about
on time (feel free to contact me to
prove me wrong); the first Tree
Swallow reports I noted were
on 2/21 at Nisqually. By 2/28
there were numerous Tree Swallows there, but
by 3/7 they were greatly outnumbered by Violet-
greens. Violet-green Swallows were first reported at
Nisqually on 2/22 by Bill Tweit. And rounding out
the typical early migrants, 3 Turkey Vultures were
noted near Capitol Forest by Sue Danver on 3/20.
Other Reports of Note: A flock of 20 to 25 White-
fronted Geese were widely reported from Nisqually
throughout the period (P. Kelly). And speaking of
waterfowl, a couple of exotic visitors showed up at
Capitol Lake. Two Mute Swans (an adult and an
immature) have been frequenting Capitol Lake since
at least 3/17 and were reported by AnnMarie Ri-
dling. Even more exotic was a Bar-Headed Goose
in a flock of Cackling Geese on 3/19 along the
Black River north of Littlerock.
Glaucous Gulls were reported on 2/23 by Paul
Hicks at East Bay, and along the Nisqually cut-off
road (3/7 and 3/24). All were first year birds which
is typical in our area. On February 1st, Roger Orness
spotted a Gyrfalcon at the Big Hanaford Valley,
Centralia Steam Plant area of Lewis County for per-
haps the 2nd county record. That bird did not stick
around. Bob Sundstrom sighted a Golden Eagle
Continued on page 12
May is Birdathon Month
Why should you participate in BHAS’s second
annual Birdathon? Because Washington’s native
birds and their habitat need your protection. One of
the most effective ways you can help is by joining
together with your fellow Audubon members, cel-
ebrate Washington’s birds and raise funds for Black
Hills Audubon Society.
Anyone can participate—as a sponsor,
a birder or both!
You do not need to be an expert birder. If you’re
entirely new to Birdathon, it works like a walk-a-
Guided Birdathon Trips
thon. Birdathoners will collect pledges for finding Olympia’s Waterfront – kids welcome!
and counting bird species. It’s a competitive and ed- Leader: Sheila McCartan
ucational event for any level of birdwatcher, as well Saturday, May 2, 3 hours
as for the family and friends who cheer them on. Estimated species: 20
You can join our guided trips, organize your own From Kennedy Creek to Capitol Peak
trip, or count independently. All guided trips are led Leader: Whittier Johnson
Saturday, May 9, all day
by birding experts and are a great way to make new Estimated species 40
friends and connect with other bird lovers. Guided
Bowerman Basin to Ocean Shores
trips range from intensive all day trips to more re- Leader: Phil Kelley
laxing walks in our local birding hot spots. Saturday, May 16, all day
Estimated species 70
You can join in the fun for gathering as little as $35
Thurston County Dawn to Dusk
in pledges. Pledge yourself or have your friends and
Leader: Matt Pike
family pledge you. It’s a unique and highly effective Sunday, May 17
way to support Black Hills Audubon Society. To par- Estimated species: 70
ticipate, complete the registration form below. For Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge
more information contact the Birdathon Coordinator Leader: Woody Franzen
Sheila McCartan at blackhillsbirdathon@comcast.net Thursday, May 21, 4 hours
or call (360) 357-9170. Estimated species: 40

Birdathon Fundraiser May 1–31, 2009

Name _______________________________________________________________

Evening Phone________________________________________________________

E-mail _ _____________________________________________________________
I will go birding for the BHAS Birdathon and will recruit at least $35 in pledges.
I will sponsor a birder at $_______ per bird species the birder sees. Name of birder:___________________
I wish to sponsor a Trip Leader(s)_ __________ at $___________ per bird species seen. Send completed
Leader: Sheila McCartan May 2 Olympia’s Waterfront est. species 20 form to:
Leader: Whittier Johnson May 9 Kennedy Creek to Capitol Peak est. species 40 Birdathon,
Leader: Phil Kelley May 16 Bowerman Basin to Ocean Shores est. species 70 PO Box 2524,
Leader: Matt Pike May 17 Thurston County Dawn to Dusk est. species 70 OlyWA 98507
Leader: Woody Franzen May 21 Nisqually NWR est. species 40 Thank you for
I wish to join a Birdathon Trip(s) ______ and will recruit at least $35 in pledges. your support!
For more information, contact blackhillsbirdathon@comcast.net, or call Sheila McCartan at 360.357.9170.

Black Hills Audubon Society 

Maps That Draw a Line on Energy Projects
By Matthew L. Wald
An overused metaphor in arguments about the
environment and electricity projects is “drawing the
battle lines.’’ But that is exactly what the Natural
Resources Defense Council and the Audubon Soci-
ety did Wednesday [April 1st], on maps managed by
Google, for 13 Western states covering about half
the land mass of the continental United States.
The idea was to tell companies that want to de-
velop renewable-energy projects what locations
were likely to provoke a fight.
Although wind and solar proj-
ects do not add to air pollution
or global warming, their equipment
and the associated power lines can
hurt endangered or threat-
ened species, environmen-
talists say.
And while the battle lines are quite liter-
ally available with a few mouse clicks,
the intent is not entirely hostile, with
the national groups recognizing
that the issue is environmental
balance, pitting prairie spe-
cies like the greater sage-grouse against animals
like the polar bear, which lives on ice that is melt-
ing because of global warming, some of it probably
caused by coal-fired power plants that wind and
sun could partly replace.
The impetus, at least for the Natural Resources De-
fense Council, was in large measure the number of
renewable-energy developers I was meeting in my
work who kept saying to me, ‘please tell me where
not to go,’ ’’ said Johanna Wald, a senior attorney
with the group. Plant developers want minimum
hassle, she said.
The wind industry publishes photos of cows grazing
placidly around towers, and argues it is compat-
ible with nature. But Brian A. Rutledge, executive
director of the Audubon Society of Wyoming, said
wildlife and domesticated species were different.
“We have species of birds, for example, that won’t
nest within 200 yards of a road, period,’’ he said.
Some prairie birds will not venture anywhere near
a vertical object like a tower or a power-line pylon,
he said, probably because they are genetically im-
printed to avoid natural vertical features, like trees,
where predators perch. The lesser prairie chicken,
he said, will not cross under a power line, even be-
tween widely spaced towers. “It becomes like a river
 Black Hills Audubon Society
down the middle of their population base,’’ he said.
Matthew McKinzie, of the N.R.D.C., said that his
group had provided data on 173 species that were
threatened or endangered, some of which had only
a small habitat remaining. The list includes fish spe-
cies.
The maps, part of Google Earth, show wilderness
areas, areas where roads are banned, national
parks, wildlife refuges, areas under consideration
for wilderness protection, and many areas that lack
legal protection but are prime territory for
vulnerable species.
The effort by Google and the en-
vironmental groups comes soon
after the Western Governors
Association posted a draft map
of “renewable energy zones,”
and the new secretary of the
interior, Ken Salazar, or-
dered that a federal task force
be formed to increase use of public
lands for production and transmission of
renewable energy.
Continued on page 12
May–Vaux Swift
Roost Project
This May BHAS hopes volunteers will help with a
region-wide research effort to identify roost sites
used by Vaux Swifts. Weekend evenings at about
sunset, volunteers monitor swift use of know roosts
throughout Olympia and Thurston County, counting
birds entering the roost. In addition, volunteers will
search for “new” swift roost sites we don’t know
about.
You can participate by:
E Monitoring a single roost site
E Monitoring several nearby sites
E Sharing with BHAS any swift roost sites you
know
E Searching for and reporting the locations of
“new” swift roost sites
To participate, contact Whittier Johnson, BHAS Vaux
Swift Project Coordinator, at 866-8156.
Fall swift migration site review will begin in Septem-
ber.
 Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife
Licensed Wildlife Rehabilitators—for Regions 5 and 
(For Wildlife Rehabilitators in other parts of Washington State, go to
“http://wdfw.wa.gov/wildlife/rehabilitation/how_to_find.html” (As of April 2009)

Region 5 (Southwestern Washington Region)

Rick Mitchell, DVM Susan Wickersham
Ocean Beach Veterinary Clinic Contact through region five office
4011 Ocean Beach Highway, Box 111
Michelle P. Wolfe
Longview, WA 98632
13010 NE Glory Road
(360) 425-0850
Brush Prairie, WA 98606
Initial, short-term care only
(360) 896-8624
Christine L. Tolotti Black-tailed deer (fawns only)
Wildlife Rescue of the Gorge
P.O. Box 731
Bingen, WA 98605
(509) 538-2308
Raptors, songbirds and small mammals

Region  (Coastal and Olympics Region)

Jaye Moore Dr. Kenneth L. Olson, DVM
Northwest Raptor Center Willapa Veterinary Service
1051 Oak Court, Sequim, WA 98382 231 Ocean Avenue
Carlsborg, WA 98324 Raymond, WA 98577
(360) 681-2283 (360) 942-2321
All species Initial, short-term care
Hilary Richrod Carole A. Sheridan
Small Wild Bird Clinic of Aberdeen Wild Bird Clinic
707 West Fourth 9620 Barnes Lane
Aberdeen, WA 98520 P.O. Box 45241
(360) 532-2299 Tacoma, WA 98444
Small, non-raptor birds (253) 537-2241
Birds only
Dr. Jerry Brown, DVM
Yelm Veterinary Hospital Cynthia Daily
1120 Yelm Avenue West Discovery Bay Raptor Rehab & Education
Yelm, WA 98597 3464 Sherman Street
(360) 458-7707 or (360) 456-0758 Port Townsend, WA 98368
Initial, short-term care only (360) 379-0802
All species

Black Hills Audubon Society 9

Region  (Coastal and Olympics Region) continued
Jim Moore, DVM Craig E. Sparks
Cindy Alexander, DVM P.O. Box 487
Appletree Cove Animal Hospital 1000 201st Lane
11254 NE East 2nd Ave Ocean Park, WA 98640
PO Box 339 (360) 665-3595
Kingston, WA 98346 Specifi c species: see permit
(360) 297-2898 No deer, bear, cougar
Initial short-term care
Roger Blain
Charlene Weston
P.O. Box 160
Angeles Clinic for Animals
754 South Shore Road
1134 E. Front Street
Quinault, WA 98575
Port Angeles, WA 98362
(360) 288-2432
(360) 452-7686 or (360) 374-5652
Raptors Only
All species

Janet Bailey Sharnelle A. Fee

4320 Old Mill Road NE Wildlife Rehabilitation Center of the North Coast
Bainbridge Island, WA 98110 89686 Highway 202
(206) 842-6560 Astoria, OR 97103
All Species Except Large Mammals (503) 338-0331 or pager (503) 338-3954
Accepting wildlife from Pacific, Wahkiakum,
Susan Rosenburg
Cowlitz and Clark counties
21670 President Pt.
Kingston, WA 98340 Elena Fox
(360) 297-3200 321 High School Road, NE #384
Small mammals and reptiles only – Bainbridge Island, WA 98110
(limited to two at a time for now) (206) 855-9057
Mammals/Birds, No Raptors
Anton (Tony) R. Rogstad, DVM
Jeanette Rogstad Carol Ekker
T&J Wildlife Center 3515 Sundew Lane SE
PO Box 413 Tenino, WA 98589
Chimacum, WA 98325 (360) 264-4283
(360) 385-3665 or (360) 385-4488 Small Mammals
All species
Sandy Fletcher
Island Wildlife Shelter at the Bloedel Reserve
7501 NE Dolphin Drive
Bainbridge Island, WA 98110
(206) 855-9057
All species

10 Black Hills Audubon Society

$

Field Trips/Events
May 2nd, Saturday: Field Trip: Woodard Bay for Beginners. 8 am - 11:0 or noon
May 9th, Saturday, Prairie Appreciation Day at Glacial Heritage Preserved and
Mima Mounds, 10 am - 3 pm
May 15th - 17th, Friday, Saturday, Sunday, Celebrate The Sun And Sage Loop
— the newest loop in the Great Washington State Birding Trail.
Sponsored by Audubon Washington
May 16th, Saturday, Eastern Washington Birding; 6:30 am - after 7:00 pm
May 21, Thursday, Underwater Wildlife of Puget Sound, membership meeting, 7pm
May 22th-25th, Fri - Mon, Washington State Audubon Campout Weekend,
Wenas Creek Campground
May 30th, Saturday, Exploring & Birding Capitol Forest, 8:30 am -
late afternoon
June 3, Wednesday, The Owl and the Woodpecker: An evening with
photojournalist Paul Bannick. See article, page 4 for details.
June 6th, Saturday, Cowiche Canyon and Oak Creek, 6:30 am to after 6:00 pm
June 13th, Saturday, 6:45 am to 6:00 pm, Mount Townsend, Jefferson County
June 18, Thursday, annual picnic, 5pm, Priest Point rose garden shelter.
Aug. 27th (Thursday), 6:30pm to 8:30pm, and Aug. 29th (Saturday), 6 am
to 4 pm., Birding Class: Pelagic Birding Class/Trip

Black Hills Audubon Society 11

 State of the Birds Report
In an unprecedented partnership, Audubon, gov- the Birds report reveals troubling declines of bird
ernment wildlife agencies, and other conservation populations during the past 40 years—a warning
groups have come together to produce this fi rst signal of the failing health of our ecosystems. At
comprehensive analysis of the state of our nation’s the same time, we see hearten-
birds. If you have ever won- ing evidence that strategic land
dered what happens to all that management and conservation
data we collect, shivering in action can reverse declines of
the cold for the Christmas Bird birds. This report calls attention
Count, or snug in our chairs to the collective efforts needed
enjoying the Great Backyard to protect nature’s resources
Bird Count, here it is. for the benefi t of people and
wildlife.
Birds are a priceless part of
America’s heritage. They are For the rest of the report, and
beautiful, they are economically to see the video, go to the new
important—and they refl ect the website
health of our environment. This State of htt www.stateofthebirds /.

Birding In Earnest Mapping

From page 6 From page 8

overhead near Tenino on 3/10. Most local records At the American Wind Energy Association, Laurie
of this species are for late winter or spring in the Jodziewicz, a spokeswoman, said the wind industry
Southeast part of the county. was involved in the governors’ mapping effort. She
predicted that the new Google Earth offering would
Three Eurasian Collard-Doves were seen at Gla- also be useful, but said that the data was some-
cial Heritage on 3/19. Interestingly, as I was poking times too coarse to base decisions on, and that it
through my WOS News (Washington Ornithological would take inspection of the sites
Society Newsletter), I noticed that Stewart Weschler to determine if there was really
reported 3 birds from the same location in an environmental issue — just as
June of 2008. Perhaps they have taken up it takes inspection and testing to
residence there. This is a species whose see if there is a renewable ener-
range is rapidly expanding; fi rst gy resource. And the issue is not
reported in Thurston County just wind, solar and geothermal,
in 2007, it has been recorded she said; oil and gas develop-
annually since. There are now ment is still going on in the West,
at least 6 records including 2 she pointed out.
more found by Keith Brady near
South Bay on 3/28. The environmentalists are focused
on oil and gas development, too;
And fi nally a Townsends Soli- they say they would like to see such
taire was a nice fi nd along East Bay by Rob developments around existing gas
Gilbert on 3/22. This is a bird that shows up in the wells, coal strip mines that have been
lowlands in our area; typically between February fi lled in and other rural areas that are already
and April, with most records coming in March. industrialized.
Next period should bring a real increase in spring New York Times Blog, April 1, 2009, 3:22 PM
migration and arriving breeders. Spring shorebirds http://greeninc.blogs.nytimes.com/author/matthew-
should be in full swing by the end of April and early l-wald/
May. And fi nally, the offshore season begins with
the fi rst Westport Seabirds Trip of the year sched-
uled for April 25th.

1 Black Hills Audubon Society

Prairie Appreciation Day
May 9th, 2009, 10 am – 3 pm
Glacial Heritage Nature Preserve and Mima Mounds Nature Preserve
Butterfl ies and wildfl owers—look for one, you’ll fi nd Preservation
the other. On the Prairie Appreciation Day’s guided Wheelchair accessible activities for individu-
nature walks, look for the nearly twenty species als and groups will be available at the Washington
of butterfl ies that prefer prairie plants. You’ll also Department of Natural Resources Mima Mounds
learn about a unique area of Washington, the Mima Natural Area Preserve.
Mounds.
Mima Mounds is also an excellent area for those
with less time or who want a less demanding walk.
Activities:
Prairie Wildflower Walks For more information, please visit: http://www.prai-
Gardening with Native Plants rieappreciationday.org/index.html.
Ethnobotany (Native American uses of For group tours leave a message for the site man-
prairie plants) ager at 360-596-5144 or send an email to
roberta.davenport@wadnr.gov
Birds of the Prairie
Prairie Insects (Butterfl ies and Bugs)
Prairie Pollinators
Geology of the Prairies (Mystery of the Mima
Mounds)
Prairie Vertebrates (Prairie critters of all sizes)
Prairie restoration efforts
Scotch Broom pull
Hay Ride (Walk until you drop and ride back
to the parking lot)
Self-Guided Natural History Walk (Experience the May Birding Class with
prairies without the crowd) Kelly McAllister
Information on Organizations involved in Prairie
Birding Basics
Join veteran Audubon birder Kelly McAllister for
a three-day class on beginning birding skills. The
course will consist of one evening session on May
1st at 6:30pm and two Saturday morning fi eld
classes (May 2nd and 9th). The cost is $15.00. To
register, please contact Deb Nickerson to register
Field Trip Report: at debranick gmail.com or 754-5397.

Capitol Lake, March 1

Ten people joined in for the second annual walk
around Capitol Lake for families with kids and dogs.
Led by Sheila McCartan, the group saw and heard Education Volunteers
39 species. We distinguished violet green from tree
swallows as the birds perched in trees. Yellow-
Needed
rumped warblers, chickadees, kinglets, and pine If you are an avid birder and wish to extend your
siskens fl itting around the alder trees kept the group skills to the classroom, we have a need for volun-
alert. A fl ock of bushtits working over a bush beside teers who can make presentations to K-12 classes.
the lake was a fun sight as was the wood duck dab- Some PowerPoint slide shows have been developed
bling along the shoreline with the mallards. Thanks and are available to use. Contact Deb Nickerson at
to Matt Pike for his assistance with bird identifi cation debranick gmail.com or 754-5397 to inquire about
(sight and sound!) and for keeping the bird list. becoming an education volunteer.

Black Hills Audubon Society 1

Field Trips and Events
May 2nd, Saturday
Woodard Bay for Beginners
8 am–11:00 or noon
Leaders: Sam Merrill and Tracey Scalici
This walk is designed primarily for beginning bird-
ers. We will look and listen for woodland birds in
spring migrations as we walk through the deep
forest of cedars and Duglas Fir and approach Hen-
derson Inlet where we expect to see cormorants
and seals among others.
When the tide is low,
Great Blue Herons con-
gregate along at the Martin Way Park and Ride before 6:30
Woodard Creek, stalk-
ing prey. We expect to do
the approximately 2 mile loop, which
includes an easy trail with boardwalk
sections and return by a pedestrian-only
road. To reach the Woodard Bay Natural
Resource Conservation Area from Olympia,
take Boston Harbor Road north, then right
on Woodard bay Rd, crossing Libby Road.
Park in a small parking area on the left just before
crossing Woodard Bay. Bring binoculars if possible.
Call BHAS at 360-352-7299 to reserve a spot. Limit
15 persons.
May 9th, Saturday
Prairie Appreciation Day at Glacial Heritage
Preserve and Mima Mounds
10 am–3 pm
Butterflies and wildflowers—look for one, you’ll find
the other. On the Prairie Appreciation Day’s guided
nature walks, look for the nearly twenty species
of butterflies that prefer prairie plants. You’ll also
learn about a unique area of Washington, the Mima
Mounds. See article on page 13 for details.
May 15th–17th, Friday, Saturday, Sunday
Celebrate The Sun And Sage Loop—
the newest loop in the Great Washington
State Birding Trail.
Join Audubon Washington In Walla Walla. There
will be wonderful birding in May in SE Washington.
And we plan to enjoy great local food and wine in
Walla Walla when not exploring the SUN and SAGE
LOOP Birding Trail. Invitation, price, schedule, and
travel arrangements are available as a PDF at Audu-
bon Washington’s Web site: should also find Pygmy Owls. A special attempt will
http://wa.audubon.org/PDFs/invitation.pdf.
14 Black Hills Audubon Society
May 16th, Saturday
Eastern Washington Birding
6:30 am–after 7:00 pm
Leaders: Dave and Sherry Hayden
This trip will cover the Quilomene Wildlife Area,
Vantage, French Coulee, and Birder’s Corner. We
will look for Sage Sparrows, Sage Thrashers, Say’s
Phoebes, Golden Eagle, Yellow-headed Blackbirds,
White-throated Swifts, Black-crowned Night Her-
ons, shorebirds, and waterfowl. It is
also possible to find Burrowing Owl.
There will be some easy walking. Meet
am, and expect to return there after 7:00
pm. Bring lunch, water, snacks, etc. This trip
is limited to 10 people. Call the BHAS office at
360-352-7299 to reserve your spot.
May 22nd–25th, Fri–Mon
Washington State Audubon Campout
Weekend at Wenas Creek Campground
Every Memorial Day Weekend, members of Wash-
ington State’s Audubon Chapters and their friends
gather in the Wenas Valley, located on the east
slope of the Cascade Mountains between Ellens-
burg and Yakima. With a variety of natural history
and recreation opportunities, the Wenas Valley is
a beautiful area that supports a fascinating as-
sortment of spring flora and fauna, and offers the
spiritual fulfillment of simply being outdoors in the
spring. Everyone whether members of Audubon
chapters or not is welcome to join us for this outing,
which is attended each year by around 200 men,
women and children and a large number of birds
which, we like to think, enjoy being watched ever as
much as we enjoy watching them. See more infor-
mation at: http://www.wenasaudubon.org/
May 30th, Saturday
Field Trip:  Exploring & Birding
Capitol Forest
8:30 am–late afternoon
Leaders: Jim Pruske and Sue Danver
Spend the day exploring Capitol Forest from sea
level up to 2,700 ft. We will be searching for bird
species that inhabit streams, mixed forest, and sec-
ond growth forest. Dipper, Hermit Warbler, Gray Jay,
Hermit Thrush, and Fox Sparrows are expected. We
be made to find Mountain Quail. Other unique ele-
Continued on next page
ments of the fl ora and fauna will be examined. Club wide vistas and hillsides with wildfl owers. At the
moss and liverworts are a specialty. We will identify summit, there are views of the heart of the Olympic
butterfl y species as well. Meet at Mud Bay Park and Range, Puget Sound, the Cascades, and Vancouver
Ride at 8:30 am. This trip is limited to 3 cars. Call Island. Target birds are Hermit Thrushes, Varied
the BHAS offi ce at 360-352-7299 to register. Thrushes, Sooty Grouse, Hermit Warblers, Olive-
sided Flycatchers, and Horned Larks at the summit.
June th, Saturday Participants should be prepared for strenuous hiking
Cowiche Canyon and Oak Creek because of the steep trail. Meet at the Mud Bay
:0 am to after :00 pm Park and Ride before 6:45 am. Dress in layers, bring
Leaders: Dave Hayden and Lonnie Somer binoculars, sunscreen, sunglasses, lunch, snacks,
Cowiche Canyon lies just west of Yakima and is and 2 quarts of water. This will be an all-day trip,
owned by the Nature Conservancy. This is a 3 mile with a return to Olympia of about 6:00 pm. This trip
round trip scenic trail. We will look for Yellow- is limited to 3 cars or a total of 10 people. Drivers
breasted Chats, Bullock’s Oriole, Rock and Canyon will need a Northwest Forest Pass. Call Gary at 360-
Wrens. Oak Creek has a variety of habitats. There 943-8786 to register.
we will look for Lewis’s Woodpeckers, cassin’s
Vireos, Western Tanagers, Nashville Warblers, and Aug. th (Thursday), :0pm to 8:0pm, and
Calliope Hummingbirds. Meet at the Centralia Park Aug. 9th (Saturday),  am to  pm.
and Ride (exit 81 off I5) at 6:30 am. Expect to return Birding Class: Pelagic Birding Class/Trip
after 6:00 pm. This trip is limited to 10 people. Bring Leader: Matt Pike and Westport Seabirds.
lunch, water, snacks, etc. Call the BHAS offi ce at Here is an opportunity to learn more about the
360-352-7299 to reserve your spot. pelagic species of the Pacifi c. Participation in this
program is two-fold: it includes a class in Olympia
June 1th, Saturday on Thursday, August 27th from 6:30pm to 8:30pm
Mount Townsend, Jefferson County at the Olympia Center and a trip out of Westport
:5 am to :00 pm with Westport Seabirds on August 29th from 6am
Leader: Gary Wiles and Jan Sharkey to 4pm. Matt Pike will teach the class and will be
This trip will visit the peak of Mount Townsend in a leader on the chartered boat trip. There is a limit
Olympia National Forest, and involves an 8 mile of 24 persons. This is expected to fi ll quickly so
roundtrip hike between 3,200 and 6,200 feet eleva- contact Matt Pike at hoodedcrow3b@yahoo.com to
tion. The trail begins in thick forest with rhodo- register. Cost is $140.00.
dendrons blanketing the understory, then climbs to

Free Weekend Interpretive Programs at

Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge
From April through June, the Nisqually National Explore all the Refuge has to offer with this gen-
Wildlife Refuge is offering free interpretive programs eral nature walk.
on Saturdays and Sundays. The guided walks will E Historic Nisqually.
depart from the Visitor Center fl ag pole, and talks May be a walk or a talk, depending on the
will be held in the Visitor Center Auditorium. Walk- speaker.
ing trails are smooth and level. There is no charge  Medicine Creek Treaty. Learn about the
for programs, but $3 per family Refuge entrance fee events surrounding the signing of the Medicine
still applies. Programs usually last 1-2 hours. Creek Treaty, an important piece of U.S. history.
 The Farming Days. This program highlights
Topics include:
the history of farming on the Refuge, including
E Quiet Beauty: the Plants of Nisqually NWR.
the Brown Farm era.
Explore the Refuge with a focus on plant life. For more details, please go to the Nisqually Na-
E Take Flight: the Birds of Nisqually NWR.
tional Wildlife Refuge, Interpretative Weekends Web
Explore the sights and sounds of various birds site: http://www.fws.gov/nisqually/events/weekend_
along the trail. programs.html.
E The Wonder of Nisqually.

Black Hills Audubon Society 15

 Board of Directors 008-009 Member Volunteers
Bird-a-thon Coordinator:
Officers Sheila McCartan ......................... 360-357-9170
President: Sam Merrill ...............360-866-8839 schooleymccartan omcast.net
smerrill@zhonka.net Bird ID: Bill Shelmerdine .......... (360) 866-9106
Vice President: Kris Schoyen ..... 360-754-1710 georn1@hotmail.com
kschoyen@hotmail.com
Bird Feeder Cleaning
Secretary: Debbie Nickerson ......360-754-5397
Debbie Nickerson ......................360-754-5397
debranick gmail.com
debranick gmail.com
Treasurer: Susan Markey ..........360-438-9048
slmarkey comcast.net Conservation: Sue Danver .........360-705-9247
sdanver7 aol.com
Board Members At Large Echo Designer: Lee Miller ........360-753-0942
Debra Jaqua ................................360-491-3325 aleemiller igc.org
djaqua comcast.net Echo Editor: Debra Jaqua .........360-491-3325
Whittier Johnson ........................360-866-8156 webdeb1 gmail.com
whittierwj comcast.net
Forest Issues: David Jennings .... 360-866-7551
Mike O’MalIey ............................360-943-2369
nativeforest gmail.com
Committee Chairs Healthy Olympia Task Force, E3 Washington:
Conservation: Donna Nickerson Jean MacGregor...........................360-866-0166
D.J.Nick comcast.net Office Support: Carolyn Harmon, Bonnie Wood
Field Trips: Kristin Stewart .......360-456-5098 Webmaster: Debra Jaqua .........360-491-3325
kristinstewartO1 comcast.net djaqua comcast.net
Membership: Margery Beeler ....360-352-5437
mswampcat aol.com
Programs: Kris Schoyen ........... 360-754-1710
kschoyen@hotmail.com

Black Hills Audubon Society Board meetings are at 5:30 p.m. on the second
1063 Capitol Way So., Rm 208, Olympia, WA 98501 Wednesday of each month. The site varies from
Phone: 360-352-7299 month to month, so please call us at the offi ce if
Website: www.blackhills-audubon.org you would like to sit in.
E-mail: info blackhills-audubon.org
Phone and e-mail messages are welcome, but please
Black Hills Audubon Society is a non-profi t remember that we are a volunteer-based organization,
organization. A member chapter of the National and it may take us a few days to get back to you.
Audubon Society, it represents Audubon members in
Lewis, Mason and Thurston Counties. The Echo is published bi-monthly. Editor: Deb
Jaqua. Layout and design by Lee Miller. Graphics by
Our goals are to maintain, restore and protect our Nature Icons/Ultimate Symbol unless initialed.
ecosystems for future generations, and to promote
environmental education and nature-based Material for The Echo should be sent to
recreation. PO Box 2524, Olympia, WA 98507, or e-mailed to
Deb Jaqua at djaqua comcast.net.
General membership meetings are held at 7 p.m.
on the third Thursday evening of each month, Deadline for the July/August 2009 issue is
September through June, at the Capitol Museum June 5, 2009.
Coach House, 211 West 21st Street, in Olympia.

1 Black Hills Audubon Society

Black Hills Audubon Society (BHAS) Membership form
Type of Membership—check appropriate box Yearly benefits:
Member of Black Hills Audubon Society Chapter (BHAS) only
Singles or household

$20, regular member All dues go to support local

$35, regular member for 2 years NEW! Black Hills Audubon chapter efforts.
$50, regular member for 3 years, NEW! Receive the chapter newsletter,
$15, senior or full-time student The Echo, which describes local
chapter conservation action, events,
$25, senior or full-time student for 2 years NEW! and field trips.
$35, senior or full-time student for 3 years NEW!
Please make check payable to Black Hills Audubon Society.

Member of Black Hills Audubon Society Chapter and National Audubon (both)
$20, fi rst-time member price
$15, Senior or full-time student Most of the dues go to support national efforts.
Please make check payable to National Audubon Society. Receive the award-winning national magazine,
Renewals: please renew your National Audubon Membership by Audubon, and the chapter newsletter, The Echo.
filling out the forms sent to you by National and sending directly Chapter: C 9 Z Y12 0 Z
to National Audubon. Thanks!

Subscription only—receive the chapter newsletter, The Echo (does not include membership)
$10 chapter newsletter only Receive the chapter newsletter,
The Echo
Please make check payable to Black Hills Audubon Society.

I would like to help Black Hills Audubon’s programs of education and conservation.
Enclosed is my additional donation of $_________
Renewals: please renew your National Audubon Membership by filling out the forms sent to you by National and send-
ing directly to National Audubon. Thanks!

Name: ________________________________________________________________________
Address: __________________________________City/State/zip _______________________
Phone/Email __________________________________________________________________
My check for $__________ is enclosed.

Please fill out this form and mail it with your check to the appropriate address:
Membership Membership
Black Hills Audubon
Society is a 501(C)3 Black Hills Audubon Society National Audubon Society
organization. PO Box 2524 225 Varick Street, 7th fl oor
Contributions are Olympia WA 98507 New York, NY 10014
deductible to the
extent allowed Thank you for supporting the Black Hills Audubon Society!
by law.

Black Hills Audubon Society 1

Book Review
From page 5
of 150 “best bets” for wildlife adventures with knowl-
edge, enthusiasm, and humor. The guide is a whopping
500 pages and is best used as a planning guide at home
or left in the car to read before you head into the field.
Each month of the year is given a full 25 to 30 pages
of coverage that includes Davis’ top six wildlife attrac-
tions as well as practical information on how, when, and
where to best experience them at their peak in Oregon,
Washington, and British Columbia (within 150 miles
of Victoria). Some of the events could be considered
classics, others are refreshingly quirky. In January, for
instance, Davis focuses on wintering raptors, tundra
swans, and wildlife strategies for winter survival (the
classics) and sections on wildlife watching on skis, fro-
zen waterfalls, stars, smelt, and starlings (the quirks).
You’ll have a hard time deciding whether to read this
book cover to cover or (if you’re like me) skip to the
current month, read it, then grab your backpack and
binoculars and head out the door to explore. Clean
maps, detailed directions, and photographs throughout
the book make this an extremely practical guide for
planning your trip at home or using as a reference book
on your trip. It’s a bit too hefty a book to be used as a
field guide.
Black Hills Audubon Society
PO Box 2524
Olympia WA 98507–2524
Return Service Requested
May is the month Davis recommends for a pilgrimage
to Malheur National Wildlife Refuge and nearby fields
in southeastern Oregon to enjoy the return of migrat-
ing birds. But not just any old time in May—late May
is the best time for the greatest diversity of species and
numbers of unusual sightings. In a two- to three-day-
day visit, Davis writes, an experienced birder can see
125 species in 35 different families. Davis devotes eight
pages to a mile-by-mile tour of the refuge to take in the
birdlife as well as interesting geologic formations, oases,
ponds, reservoirs, grassy fields, and even a cafe in the
town of Fields where you can get one of their “famous
milkshakes.”
If you’ve already been to Malheur in May, how about
a trip to the Blue Mountains east of Walla Walls to see
all the woodpecker species of Washington State? Or the
central Oregon coast for peak rhododendrons, cobra
lillies, and Steller sea lions? Or Vancouver BC’s Queen
Victoria Park on a cloudy day for migrating songbirds?
Curious about newts, spittlebugs, cyanide millipedes, or
why birds sing? May is their month, this is your book.
Davis knows his territory. And he clearly loves it. His
affection for the Northwest is like that of a good friend—
easy, comfortable, profound. With Davis as a guide,
readers will feel similar affection when they discover or
rediscover the joys of the Northwest month by month.
Nonprofit Org.
US Postage
PAID
Olympia WA
Permit #87