Published by the Tahoma Audubon Society: Connecting people with nature since 1969.
Vol. 41 No. 3 March 2010
El Nino meets the Skagit Valley
Story and photos by Diane Yorgason-Quinn
O
n Feb. 6, 2010, Bruce LaBar and Charlie
Wright took a contingent of us northward in
search of winter. This uncommonly mild
winter in the Puget trough had blooming spring
flowers meeting the groundhog when he popped
out on Feb. 2, courtesy of El Nino. We basked in
the warmest January on file in some areas while the
rest of the country suffered one of the worst winters
in recent history, but we needed it after the nasty
season we had last year. Now our lawnmowers
were being trotted out rather than the snow shovels.
If we were searching for that wintry weather, we
Join Tahoma Audubon Society for Birdathon 2010!
See details for these Birdathon field trips on page 9.
♦ Foul Weather Bluff
♦ Purdy to Paradise/Pierce County Big Day
♦ Nisqually and Ocean Shores
♦ Crescent Valley in Gig Harbor
♦ Adriana Hess Wetland Park in University Place
♦ Morse Wildlife Preserve in Graham
♦ Titlow Park
♦ McCormick Forest in Gig Harbor
♦ Overnight Trip Moses Lake
♦ Pt. Defiance Park
♦ Lakebay near Home (see a nest of baby eagles)
♦ Ft. Lewis (restricted access area)
♦ Waughop Lake at Ft. Steilacoom
♦ Green River Watershed (restricted access area)
See a slideshow of pictures from the banquet
On February 6th, members
and friends of Tahoma
Audubon Society gathered for
the 41st Annual Membership
Banquet at Clover Park
Technical College.
Read more on page 11 of
this issue, plus see more pho-
tos online.
Simply click on the image at
right to go to Youtube.
Many groups of both Trumpeter and Tundra Swans were seen.
didn’t find it in the Skagit Valley, usually one of the
coldest areas this side of the Cascades. We met
with sunshine and temperatures up to 57 degrees,
prompting the shedding of many layers. But luckily
the birds still followed their instincts rather than the
actual temperatures, and we saw Swans almost as
soon as we crossed the county line into Skagit.
During many Swan stops during the day, we would
have lessons on the differences between Tundras
and the once dangerously declining Trumpeters
(due to lead shot). These lessons were especially
useful since Fred Matthei’s Intermediate Birding
Register now, gather your pledges, and go on a fun, adventurous field trip in May!
Do you care about our environment? Do you
want our children to get outside and have beauti-
ful, clean and safe places to explore now and
into the future? If so, then join us for
Birdathon, our biggest and most
successful fundraising event of
the year!
✔ Supports our education
and conservation programs
in Pierce County.
✔ Beginning birders as well as
expert birders are welcome to join
in on the fun.
Class tagged along and doubled our number.
Our first target birds of the day were Raptors, so
we went north to the Samish Flats early on, to work
our way southward and homeward later in the day.
A target species often missed was our first “good”
bird, the American Kestrel, smallest and most color-
ful of the Falcons. Not only did we see one imme-
diately, but we saw two sharing the same light stan-
dard! As we were driving away, a look in the
rearview window afforded some of us a peak at
See "Skagit Valley” on page 6
✔ Fun for groups and families. Great outdoor,
guided activity for everyone!
All Birdathon field trips are exciting and are
led by expert or master birders!
Please support the Tahoma
Audubon Society by getting
involved.
To Register or for more
information, contact: Cami
Kesinger - 253.565.9129 or
www.tahomaaudubon.org.
Please see page 9 for details on
Birdathon field trips.
In this issue:
25 Years Ago page 8
Birdathon field trips page 9
BirdSongs page 8
Calendar page 12
Education page 4
Environment Matters page 3
Executive Director's corner page 2
Field trips page 5
New Members page 10
Quizzical Owl page 8
 executive director’s Corner
Ensuring long term protection of our open spaces
As I drove up the
winding road to
Paradise a thought
occured to me:
“How many condos
would be here if Mt.
Rainier were not a
National Park?” It
was a beautiful
Presidents Day holi-
day and I was head-
ed to get a snow fix.
You can’t beat sunny weather and towering snow
fields.
Obviously the mountain, an active volcano, has
some natural barriers to development. Still, one could
imagine a golf course and mini mansions with their
tremendous views creeping up the mountainside. I
gave thanks for all those visionaries who locked this
land up into public hands for now and long into the
future.
The only way to really protect the precious wildlife
that we so enjoy here in Pierce County is to put it into
Tahoma Audubon Society's
public ownership. A lot has been done in this regard,
and the county has some programs to do just that. The
Conservation Future Program has done a wonderful
job of protecting key parcels of land.
But while we have detailed plans of where develop-
ment should take place, we do not have a comprehen-
sive, detailed plan for which open space lands should
be protected into perpetuity. Most efforts have been
ad hoc, taking advantage of threats and opportunities,
driven by land owner whishes and available cash at
the time.
All of that is about to change. In January we saw
the inaugural meeting of the Open Space Task Force,
which is setting county wide planning into motion.
Seated around the table where the heavy hitters of
open space preservation in the county. Leaders from
the three land conservancies represented in the
county, Metro Parks departments, watershed coun-
cils, Tahoma Audubon and county staff and others
rolled up their sleeves and started an ambitious pro-
cess.
The Open Space Task Force fits perfectly with the
five year goal that the board of Tahoma Audubon
adopted last year, namely to: "Influence Public Policy
to conserve, protect, and restore the more than
267,000 acres of connected open space indentified in
Pierce County."
Out of this will come a ten-year open space acquisi-
tion plan with recommendations for funding mecha-
nisms to acquire the needed land. Out of it will come
a vision of the most important open space to protect,
both public and private to ensure the long term qual-
ity of life for people and wildlife. Out of it will come
a new focus on protecting what can never be replaced
once it is paved over.
We owe thanks for the task force and to the hard
work behind the scenes of Kirk Kirkland, long time
Audubon member, volunteer and open space advo-
cate. Due largely to his persistent work, this process
is under way. We also owe our thanks to Pierce
County Council member Terry Lee for sponsoring the
ordinance that created the task force and for lining up
support on the council. And finally, thanks to the
members of Tahoma Audubon. Without your finan-
cial support we could not ensure our continued pres-
ence in this Task Force.
ENVIRONMENT Matters
Biodiversity 101
What is biodiversity? Why does it matter? How can we protect it?
These are some of the questions that pop into mind
when we say that Tahoma Audubon is working to pro-
tect the best remaining habitats in Pierce County. In
this month’s article, I will answer the first two ques-
tions, but the third one will take a bit longer.
Biodiversity. Its a flashy, snazzy, buzz-word like a
bumble-bee. And who doesn’t like those fuzzy, fat
bumble-bees? (Okay, if you are allergic you may be
biased.) The term biodiversity has been thrown around
for the last few decades and is so catchy and all-encom-
passing that it is hard for most people to completely
define it. Even I had to look it up!
Biodiversity demystified: Biodiversity is the combi-
nation of two words: “biological” and “diversity.”
Simply put: all the variety of life on earth. But wait, it
isn’t that easy. The most basic and obvious definition
includes the types and varieties of species in existence
today, all kinds of animals, plants, bacteria, viruses,
insects and more! But that is still just a start.
All of these species live on a planet endowed with
unique habitats or conditions – the earth is not all the
same. There are oceans and volcanoes, rivers and des-
erts, wetlands and prairies, alpine forests and rolling
"Biodiversity. Its a
flashy, snazzy, buzz-word
like a bumble-bee."
Trees, plants, and
fungi have saved mil-
lions of lives and the
more species we lose
to extinction the
greater the loss of
future medical
advances and lifesav-
ing drugs. Scientific Contact Krystal at 253-232-9978.
will have a variety of genes in its gene pool. This will exploration into med- Or kkyer@tahomaaudubon.org
help in its survival and ability to adapt to changing ical uses has only just
conditions such as food sources, temperature and begun. Plants are still being discovered!
breeding season. A species with a large gene pool will Biodiversity plays a crucial role in the production of
have a better chance at survival on the whole. A spe- the world’s food supply. As nature’s pesticides (insects
cies with a smaller gene pool is at risk. As more spe- like ladybugs and spiders) are wiped out by man-made
cies become at risk of extinction due to dwindling ones, and pollinators (remember the bees) are mysteri-
population numbers, their gene pools shrink, exacer- ously dying off worldwide, the ability to successfully
bating the problem. produce food crops declines. Crops become subject to
Simply put, there are three main components to bio- disease and infestation. Even within food crops them-
diversity, each occupying a different scale: species selves, genetic diversity is important. Reducing the
diversity, genetic diversity and habitat diversity. diversity amongst the type of crop grown, for example,
Now, to answer the second question: “Why does it
matter?” You are best suited to answer that for your-
potatoes, can have dire consequences – think Irish
potato famine of 1845.

Feathered Nest Circle savannahs, and so much more! Each of these habitats
sustain a variety of species, and not all species can
survive in all habitats. In fact, some species like the
self. Maybe it is spiritual, ethical, practical, economic,
or a combination of these and more reasons. There are
many reasons to care about biodiversity and to take
These are just a few very important reasons to care
about biodiversity. Consider why biodiversity matters
to you, and then take action. So, how can we protect
We are pleased to honor our visionaries who have named Tahoma Audubon
in their estate plans making them members of the Feathered Nest Circle. Olympic torrent salamander are found only in the action to protect it. biodiversity? What can we do locally? April 22nd
Thank you current members as of February 13, 2010: Olympic mountains of Western Washington. So, these One of the most human-centered reasons is that marks the 40th Anniversary of Earth Day. In April, I
The Pierce County Chapter of The National Audubon Society habitats or ecosystems are on a larger scale of diversity many of our most valuable medicines, both modern will highlight actions that you can take to protect bio-
Anonymous (3) John & Pat Lantz Located in University Place's Adriana Hess Wetland Park
and a key component of the definition of biodiversity. and ancient, are derived from living organisms found diversity at home in your backyard and neighborhood.
Jane Brosius Jean McCord 2917 Morrison Rd W University Place, WA 98466
What about on a smaller scale? Within a given spe- only in nature – like Penicillin (from a fungi) and And in the coming months I will share more ideas
Office hours 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. Front desk 253-565-9278
Helen Engle Guy and Cecile Montgomery cies, say a Rufous hummingbird, for example, there is Digitalin (from the “Foxglove” plant common to about how we can work together to conserve biodiver-
Bryan Flint Gary and Sharon Nestegard genetic diversity. A healthy population of any species Washington now, although an invasive species here!). sity regionally.
John Garner/Caroline Harris Melissa and Jamie Paulson Tahoma Audubon Staff
 
Thelma and Chuck Gilmur Donna Cooper Pepos* Bryan Flint Executive Director                         Spring is right around the corner!
Marjorie Griffin*
Noel & Bill Hagens
Sarah C. Sloat
Beatrice E. Thompson*
bryanflint@tahomaaudubon.org 253-565-9129 Rain gardens in the Pacific Northwest Get ready to
Rain gardens work like a native forest by driveways, and sidewalks while protecting
Frances Heidner* Darby Veeck/Kristin Lynett Krystal Kyer Conservation Coordinator
David R. Hirst Thomas Galdabini /Colleen kkyer@tahomaaudubon.org 253-232-9978                    
capturing and infiltrating stormwater from
rooftops, driveways, and other hard sur-
our local waterways. Advance registration
required. Suggested donation is $10. At the
volunteer outside
Cami Kesinger Waterhouse faces. Rain gardens — reduce flooding by workshop, you’ll receive a free rain garden The Green Tacoma Partnership is offering two free train-
Peggy Kopf/Pat Mail *Deceased Stephanie Swaim Education Coordinator absorbing water from impervious surfaces; manual and additional materials. You can ings in March for volunteers who can't wait to get outside!
StephSwaim@tahomaaudubon.org 253-327-9480 filter oil, grease and toxic materials before also start designing your own rain garden Visit www.greentacoma.org for a complete schedule of op-
they can pollute streams, lakes and bays; during the class! There will be opportunities portunities in Tacoma. RSVP Krystal Kyer to sign up at 253-
“In recognition of his Commitment: Cami Kesinger Development Coordinator help to recharge the aquifer by increasing to gain further hands-on experience by help- 232-9978 or kkyer@tahomaaudubon.org

Thomas Galdabini
In 2009 Tahoma Audubon created
the Feathered Nest Circle to recog-
nize those who have made an estate
type gift to Tahoma Audubon.  In
December we published for the first
time a list of members of the
Feathered Nest Circle.  Long time
Audubon member Tom Galdabini
saw the list and informed us that he
had previously named Tahoma
Audubon as a beneficiary in his
will.   Owner of Thomas Galdabini
Marketing Research & Planning of
Tacoma, Tom and his partner Colleen
Waterhouse have been stalwart sup-
porters of conservation, active in the
Cascade Land Conservancy and
many other local efforts. Tom has
been the chair of the Morse Force,
the volunteer committee that man-
ages the Morse
Wildlife Preserve
in a partnership
between Tahoma
Audubon
Cascade
and
Land
C o n s e r v a n c y.  John Garner President
“The bequest Thomas Galdabini
to Audubon is, really, my pleasure, “
said Tom.  “I can’t think of a better
way to contribute tangibly to our
local environment and to help a fine
organization to continue its work
into the future.”  Anyone who has
made an estate type gift to Tahoma
Audubon and informs us in writing
is inducted into the Feathered Nest
Circle.  We invite you to join Tom
Galdabini and the other members of
this special recognition Circle.
ckesinger@tahomaaudubon.org 253-565-9129                       the quantity of water that soaks into the ing create rain gardens later in the summer.
ground; provide beneficial wildlife habitat. Pierce County Workshops start at 6pm and Organizing successful
Graham Taylor Volunteer Coordinator 253-565-1884 end at 8pm. To register for a Pierce County large work parties training
gtaylor@tahomaaudubon.org FREE WORKSHOPS workshop, please contact the Pierce Stream Saturday, March 20; 9:30am-Noon
Learn how to build your own rain garden Team at (253) 845-2973 or streamteam@ Adriana Hess Wetland Park, 2917 Morrison Rd W, Uni-
Ken Benton Education Intern to help soak up rainwater from downspouts, piercecountycd.org versity Place WA 98466
kbenton@tahomaaudubon.org 253-565-1884 Don’t get caught unprepared in April! Volunteers will
Tahoma Audubon Board Officers
Rain garden workshops in Pierce Co. learn how to plan, coordinate, and execute a safe and
successful large work party. Plus a bit on outreach,
publicity and volunteer recruitment.
Marjorie Shea Vice President
Jane Brosius Secretary
Kathleen Nelson Treasurer Invasive Plants/Weeds ID
and Removal techniques
Tahoma Audubon Board Members 2010 Saturday, March 27; 9:30am-Noon
Thelma Gilmur Ione Clagett Tacoma Nature Center, 1919 S. Tyler St.
View demonstrations and get hands on practice iden-
Dick Carkner
Melissa Paulson
tifying and properly removing the most common inva-
Dan Sherman
Bill Smith
sive plant species found in Tacoma’s parks and natural
Peggy L. Kopf Tanja Scott areas. Includes proper tool use and safety. This is an
Darby Veeck Charles Griffin outdoor training and walk on the trails at Snake Lake.

The Towhee is a publication of the Tahoma Audubon Society. The Towhee is published monthly, ten times a year, with combined disk, or typed. E-mail submissions to editor@tahomaaudubon.org. Spring ACOW has been cancelled
The Tahoma Audubon Society was chartered in 1969. TAS advo- Jul/Aug and Dec/Jan issues. Submissions of articles and photographs Editors: David Cohn, David Lev
Instead there will be a meeting on
cates for the protection of wildlife and promotes conservation through of birds, bird lore, natural history, conservation, and environmental Mailing: Vera & John Cragin and Winfield Giddings
education and activities that enrich its member’s experiences in and education are reviewed and considered for inclusion by the editor. Design & Layout: Robert Kelton: robert_kelton@ mac.com March 20th, in Leavenworth, WA
with the natural world. Copy is due by the 15th of the month and may be sent by e-mail, Printing: Consolidated Press for chapters.
Call 253-565-9278.
Page 2 www.tahomaaudubon.org March 2010 February 2010 www.tahomaaudubon.org Page 3

Adult birding classes, bird drawing contest, and summer camps
Birding Basics
w/Rolan Nelson
Ages 18 + $45
TAS members, $55
nonmembers. Mon-
days, March 8 – 29,
7-9 pm at the Tacoma
Nature Center
Curious about
birds but don’t know
stephanieSWAIM your crown from
your tail feather? All
Education Coordinator
are welcome to this
Call Steph @ 253-327-9480. Or introduction to the
StephSwaim@tahomaaudubon.org joy of identifying
the birds that are all
around us. You will learn how to identify common
birds and use a field guide and binoculars. Learn about
some of the best places to see birds and practice your
newfound birding skills. There is one local field trip to
Steilacoom Park on Saturday, March 27 at 8am. For
information and to register call (253) 591-6439.
Announcing our 11th Annual
Young Student Bird Drawing Contest 2010
We are happy to announce the 11th Annual Bird
Drawing Contest for Pierce County students. You are
invited to submit an original 2 dimensional artwork
depicting one of three birds in their habitat. The maxi-
mum paper size is 11” X 14”. Students in grades 2-7
or ages 7- 14 are encouraged to participate! Living in
Pierce County, there are many diverse green spaces for
us to enjoy. The birds we have selected this year are
common residents of Mt. Rainier National Park, the
Foothills Trail, and Kopachuck State Park and they are
the Clark’s Nutcracker, American Kestrel, and Red-
necked Grebe. This year we invite our artists and natu-
ralists (and everyone!) to get outdoors and to observe
these birds in their natural habitats. All submissions are
due by May 17th. Winners will be notified by June 1.
The awards ceremony will take place at the member-
ship meeting on June 11. All are welcome.
Education Matters field trips and Events
March
rules
Evening Birdwalk Homestead Park
Join Melissa Sherwood as she leads an evening
Enrollment for Nature Day Camps days, and include hikes, crafts, games, hands-on activi- Weekly Bird Walks at Nisqually Call TAS to register (253-565-9278). Some trips are people monthly birdwalk through the new Homestead
begins Mid-March! ties and snack. All of these camps are spent exploring Every Wednesday 7:30 AM to 11:00 AM Park in Gig Harbor. Wear appropriate clothing and
the natural world. Dates and ages for the camps can be limited out of necessity. shoes or boots as you may cross creeks. Maybe
Tahoma Audubon and Tacoma Nature center will Location: Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge.
begin enrollment March 16 in our Summer Nature Day found by visiting the MetroParks Tacoma Website, Leader: Phil Kelley. Notify TAS 24 hours in advance if you cannot come. Field trip lead- you will spot some owls! Directions: Off Hwy in
Camps through MetroParks Tacoma. Our camps are www.metroparkstacoma.org. Please register by calling Join Phil on his weekly bird walks as he counts the ers put in a lot of time and planning and no-shows disrupt field Gig Harbor take Burnham Drive Exit heading West
held at both the Adriana Hess Audubon Center and at the Nature Center, 253-591-6439. birds at Nisqually NWR. The group takes the boardwalk/ trips. More than 3 no-shows a year can result in revoking oppor- until you get to a "T" which is Sehnel Drive con-
Tacoma Nature Center. The Little Explorers camps are Little Explorers Camp - $90 per week, including $30 trail loop out to the Twin Barns, the Nisqually tunity to participate. tinue straight until you get to 78th Ave and turn left,
specially designed for the youngest explorers at nonrefundable deposit overlook area, and the riparian area, totaling about 2 Arrive at the meeting place early. you will come to the park. Go in and toward the
Adriana Hess Park in University Place. They are held Tacoma Nature Center Camps - $150 per week, miles. Bring: Good walking shoes or boots, rain gear, back/southside of the park. Meet in the Meadow
No pets are allowed. area. Call Melissa if you have questions 851-7230.
3 half-days per week, and include games, activities, including $30 nonrefundable deposit water, snacks, and $3   for entry fee unless you have a
songs, crafts, and snack, plus lots of time exploring Scholarships are available! Please inquire by calling pass.  Scopes welcome. Meet: At the Visitor’s Center. Be prepared for seasonal weather. Call Tahoma Audubon for more details and to sign
outdoors. Tacoma Nature Center Camps are 5 full- 253-591-6439. Directions:  Take I-5 south from Tacoma and exit to up, 565-9278.
Bring lunch, drinks and snacks if the field trip is scheduled past
Nisqually NWR at exit 114.  Take a right at the light. April 7, May 19, June 9, July 21. 6p-8pm.
Nature Day Camps Sign-up:   Call or email Phil Kelley to confirm
details.   Phil Kelley, Lacey, (360) 459-1499,
mid-day.
Morse Wildlife Preserve Open Trails
Date Ages 4-6 Camps Ages 5-7 Ages 8-11 Ages 12-14 All passengers divide total carpooling expenses. Current
Adriana Hess Park, Tacoma Nature Tacoma Nature Tacoma Nature scrubjay323@aol.com. guidelines are 20 cents a mile per car, not including driver. Apr 11 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM
University Place Center Center Center Location: Morse Wildlife Preserve
Beginners are always welcome.
Nisqually Wildlife Refuge Bird Walk Explore this natural treasure as you walk the trails and
June 21-23 Little Explorers:
Sat Mar 6 8:00am to approximately noon. Have fun. discover the beauty of the five habitat zones in the
Fantastic Forests
Leader: Shep Thorp. Check out the changes on the preserve. Located in Graham, the preserve has the
June 28-July 2 Little Explorers: Nature Detectives: NEW DIKE and get reacquainted with this local jewel.  Expect great looks at cormorants, loons including following special open dates. Call 253-591-6439 for
June 28-30 (Little Hoo lives Here? Explore Snake
We will be looking for raptors, bittern/heron, waterfowl, Pacific Loon, sea ducks including Long-tailed Duck, more information.
Explorers Only) Lake
owl, shrike, shorebirds, gulls, passerines and migrants.  shorebirds; and wonderful scenery. The trip leaves the
July 5-9 Nature Detectives: Meet at the Visitor Center Pond Overlook at 8am. Walk Winslow City Dock at 10:00 AM and returns at 1:30
Bird Walk at Adriana Hess Wetland Park
Explore Snake
is approximately 2 miles - wear warm clothing and be PM.  Call or e-mail George for a brochure and sign-up
Mon Apr 12 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM. 
Lake
prepared for rain.  It can become breezy and cold on the form.  You will need to send a check for $65 to reserve
Enjoy a guided bird walk through the park!
July 12-16 Little Explorers: Sea To Shore dike. Bring drinks and snacks.  Scopes encouraged. your spot.  Call or e-mail SOON! Signup:  Call or
July 12-14 (Little Tiptoe Through
Directions: http://www.fws.gov/nisqually/  e-mail George Gerdts for the brochure and more
Explorers only) Tidepools details: 206-842-8138, geopandion@aol.com Ohop Creek Field Trip
Sign up:  Contact Shep Thorp, sthorp@theaec.com,
July 19-23 Little Explorers: Sea to Shore Family Walk at Adriana Hess Park Sun Apr 18 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM
253-370-3742.
July 19-21 (Little Winter Wonderland Sun Mar 28 4:00 PM to 5:00 PM Location: Ohop Creek
Explorers only) Bird Walk at Adriana Hess Wetland Park Location: Adriana Hess Park Join volunteers on a field trip to a site undergoing
July 26-30 Little Explorers: Mon Mar 8 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM.  A family program to encourage families to appreciate major habitat restoration on Ohop Creek, near
July 26-28 (Little Small Wonders Enjoy a guided bird walk through the park! the park by providing information and opportunities Eatonville, WA.  Volunteers will share their species
Explorers only)
with a guided walking tour. Call Dixie Harris for identification skills and collect data using
Plant Walk at Adriana Hess Wetland Park NatureMapping.  No training required, but helpful.
August 2-6 Little Explorers: Wild Expressions: details 564-6373
Mon Mar 15 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM Registration is available by calling 360-832-7166 or
August 2-4 (Little Wild about Nature and Art
Explorers only) Wetlands Enjoy a guided plant walk through the park! April emailing reserve@nwtrek.org
August 9-13 Eco-Explorers for Circumnavigate Bainbridge Island Boat Trip Weekly Bird Walks at Nisqually
Young Teens Sun March 21 10:00 AM to 1:30 PM Every Wednesday 7:30 AM to 11 AM Plant Walk at Adriana Hess Wetland Park
August 16-20 Wild Expressions: Winslow City Docks, Cost:  $65. Location: Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge. Mon Apr 19 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM
Nature and Art Leader:  George Gerdts Leader: Phil Kelley. Enjoy a guided plant walk through the park!

class Schedule class Schedule

Budding Scientists “Marshes, Bogs
March
and Swamps, Oh My!”
Weds Mar 10 10:30 AM to 12:00 PM
Adriana Hess Photography class
and 3:15 PM to 4:45 PM
Mon Mar 1 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM
Location: Adriana Hess Center
Location: Adriana Hess Park
Ages 5-7, $9.00 per student
An adult program encouraging people to
Young homeschoolers and other children
appreciate nature and how they can
begin science and nature exploration
incorporate it into their photography. Call
through games, walks, and crafts. Register
Dixie Harris for details 564-6373.
at least two days prior to the session by
Intermediate Birder’s Class calling 253-591-6439.
Every Monday 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM
Beginning Homeschool Science
Birding Basics with Rolan Nelson “Wet & Wild”
Every Monday 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM Thu Mar 11 9:30 AM to 11:30 AM and
Location: Tacoma Nature Center. $45 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM
TAS member, $55 non-member. All are Location: Tacoma Nature Center.
welcome to this introduction to the joy of Homeschool students explore science
identifying birds that are all around us. through hands-on experiments and
Learn how to identify common birds and activities. Register Early - these classes
use a field guide and binoculars. Learn fill quickly! Note - topics are repeated
about some of the best places to see birds during the month, so select class
and practice your newfound skills. There appropriate for your child’s knowledge
is one local field trip to Steilacoom Park and abilities. Beginning science students
on Sat, Mar 27 at 8am. For information should be able to add and subtract
and to register call (253) 591-6439.  numbers. Contact Margie with questions
1919 South Tyler Street,
Tacoma WA 98338
253-591-6439 www.metroparkstacoma.org
Open Tues. – Fri. 8 a.m.-5 p.m.
& Sat. 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
Check our websites for the latest updates on classes and schedules.
or for more information at 591-6439 or
marjories@tacomaparks.com.
Nature Alphabet
“W is for Windy Days”
Fri Mar 12 1:30 PM to 2:30 PM
Nature Alphabet “X is for
eXoskeleton”
Fri Mar 26 10:30 AM to 11:30 AM
Location: Tacoma Nature Center
Preschoolers explore different nature
topics through stories, hands-on activities,
nature walks and crafts at the Tacoma
Nature Center. Adult participation is
recommended, children under four
require an adult present. Please note
alternating times. Register by Saturday
before class. 253-591-6439.
Snake Lake Science Club
Tue Mar 16, from 3:30 PM to 5:00 PM
Intermediate Homeschool Science
“Wet & Wild”
Thu Mar 18  9:30 AM to 11:30 AM and
1:00 PM to 3:00 PM
Location: Tacoma Nature Center
Register Early - these classes fill quickly!
Note - topics are repeated during the
month, so select class appropriate for
your child’s knowledge and abilities.
Contact Margie with questions or for
more information at 591-6439 or
marjories@tacomaparks.com. Ages
10-12, $12 per student. Intermediate
Science Students should be able to
multiply and divide numbers, add and
subtract fractions.
Nature Storytime
“Wet, Weedy, and Wonderful”
Thu Mar 25 10:30 AM to 11:30 AM
Location: Adriana Hess Center, U.P.
Ages 2-6, $6 per child, $3 Audubon
member, free to adults and U.P residents.
Adults are welcome with the children.
This is a wonderful grandparent/
grandchild activity! Space is limited to
the first 20 registered guests (adults and
children). Call 253-591-6439 to register.
Class schedule
continued on next page.
2917 Morrison Road W.,
University Pl. WA 98466
253-565-9278
www.TahomaAudubon.org
Open Mon – Sat. 10a.m.-1p.m.
Class schedule continued
from previous page.
Homeschool Advanced Science
“Wetland Ecosystems”
Thu Mar 25, from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM
Lab Fri Mar 26 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM
Location: Tacoma Nature Center
Early - these classes fill quickly! Note -
topics are repeated during the month, so
select class appropriate for your child’s
knowledge and abilities. Contact Margie
with questions or for more information at
591-6439 or marjories@tacomaparks.
com. Ages 12-15, $15 per student. Older
homeschool students will continue their
science studies with challenging and
engaging experiments and activities. To
participate in this class, students should
be able to calculate averages, percentages,
and solve simple equations.
April
Adriana Hess Photography class
Mon Apr 5 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM
Location: Adriana Hess Park
An adult program encouraging people to
appreciate nature and how they can
incorporate it into their photography. Call
Dixie Harris for details 564-6373.
Budding Scientists
“The Marine Scene”
Wed Apr 14 10:30 AM to 12:00 PM
Location: Adriana Hess Audubon Center
Ages 5-7, $9.00 per student
Register at least two days prior to the
session by calling 253-591-6439.
Beginning Homeschool Science
“It’s a Salty Life”
Thu Apr 15 9:30 AM to 11:30 AM and
1:00 PM to 3:00 PM
Location: Tacoma Nature Center
Register Early - these classes fill quickly!
Note - topics are repeated during the
month, so select class appropriate for
your child’s knowledge and abilities.
Contact Margie with questions or for
more information at 591-6439 or
marjories@tacomaparks.com. Beginning
science students should be able to add
and subtract numbers.
Nature Alphabet “Y is for You”
Fri Apr 16 1:30 PM to 2:30 PM
Nature Alphabet “Z is for Zebra”
Fri Apr 30 10:30 AM to 11:30
AMLocation: Tacoma Nature Center
Adult participation is recommended,
children under four require an adult
present. Please note alternating times.
Register by the Saturday before class.
253-591-6439.
Advanced Birder’s Class
Tue Apr 20 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM
Tue Apr 27 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM
Location: Tacoma Nature Center.
Ken Brown, Instructor
Intermediate Homeschool Science
“Tidepools to Deep Waters”
Thu Apr 22, 2010 from 9:30 AM to
11:30 AM and 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM
Location: Tacoma Nature Center. Register
Early - these classes fill quickly! Note -
topics are repeated during the month, so
select class appropriate for your child’s
knowledge and abilities. Contact Margie
for more information at 591-6439 or
marjories@tacomaparks.com.
Ages 10-12, $12 per student. Intermediate
Science Students should be able to
multiply and divide numbers, add and
subtract fractions.
Nature Storytime “Salty Waters”
Thu Apr 22 10:30 AM to 11:30 AM
Location: Adriana Hess Center, U.P.
Ages 2-6, $6 per child, $3 Audubon
member, adults and U.P residents free.
Adults are welcome with the children.
This a wonderful grandparent/ grandchild
activity! Space is limited to the first 20
registered guests (adults and children).
call 253-591-6439 to register.
Homeschool Advanced Science
“Marine Ecosystems”
Thu Apr 29 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM
Location: Tacoma Nature Center
 Register Early - classes fill quickly! Note
- topics are repeated during the month, so
select class appropriate for your child’s
knowledge and abilities. Contact Margie
at 591-6439 or marjories@tacomaparks.
com. Ages 12-15, $15 per student. Older
homeschool students will continue their
science studies with challenging and
engaging experiments and activities. To
participate in this class, students should
be able to calculate averages, percentages,
and solve simple equations.
Sumi Painting Class for youth
Thu Apr 29, from 3:30 PM to 5:30 PM
Location: Tacoma Nature Center
Ages 8-15, $12 per student
 All materials are provided and participants
will take home several finished pieces.
Class taught by members of the Puget
Sound Sumi Artists, a non-profit
educational organization founded in
Tacoma in 1986 to promote the
understanding and appreciation of Sumi
(sumi-e) painting and Asian brush
calligraphy (shodo) PRE-
REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED. call
253-591-6439.
Homeschool Advanced Science LAB
“Marine Ecosystems”
Fri Apr 30, from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM
Location: Tacoma Nature Center
Register Early - classes fill quickly! Note
- topics are repeated during the month, so
select class appropriate for your child’s
knowledge and abilities. Contact Margie
with questions or for more information at
591-6439 or marjories@tacomaparks.
com.Ages 12-15, $15 per student.

Page 4 www.tahomaaudubon.org March 2010 March 2010 www.tahomaaudubon.org Page 5


... Skagit Valley
from page 1
copulation happening! Spring for sure!
That was the first taste of Falcon fever! Merlins proved
to be uncommonly common, too. About one Merlin per
hour made us all pretty adept at their profiles and flight
patterns by the end of the day. The king of the falcons –
and purported to be the fastest bird on earth – the
Peregrine, took awhile to show up, but numbers of them
came at last. At one spot we had three visible at once near
Samish Island! A possible pair plus an immature. Many
spotting scopes provided good views to all.
Lots of Northern Harriers patrolled the lower airspace
including several Gray Ghosts (as the stunningly-designed
males are sometimes called with their pearl plumage), an
unusual bird in this area where the females usually winter
in much greater numbers. This is also an exceptional year
for Rough-Legged Hawks, and we saw many including a
dark morph which showed up just as we thought we
learned how to recognized them – just to keep us from get-
ting overconfident in our abilities to ID this wintering
Buteo hawk.
Lots of waterfowl, too, although the famous Snow
Geese of the Skagit Valley kept their distance, not giving
us the up-close looks that the January field trip led by
Marcus Roening had been privileged to get. But we sure
trounced them on Falcons! Other great waterfowl includ-
ed a long line of Pacific Loons seen off Samish Island
Trumpeter Swans, here identified by grin marks and loud trumpeting.
Page 6 www.tahomaaudubon.org March
Story and photos by Diane Yorgason-Quinn
along with Harlequins and Long-Tailed Ducks. Many
places we saw the ubiquitous Wigeons and tiny Green-
Winged Teal and Buffleheads.
Many participants got their first looks at Eurasian
Collared Doves at Edison, a species you may all have as a
yard bird in the foreseeable future as they continue their
phenomenal spread, faster than Scot’s Broom and Zebra
Mussels, but far less ominous. Keep your eyes peeled!
They have already been recorded in Eastern Pierce County
by our own Charlie Wright, so they’re coming here!
I hate to even mention Bald Eagles, practically a junk
bird on this trip! They were everywhere! Singly, in pairs,
near nests, all ages, mostly looking well-fed and well-
pleased with themselves. Conversely, Great Blue Heron
numbers seemed a little low, a perhaps not unrelated obser-
vation.
The famous “West 90” bend in the road at the beginning
of Samish Island Road netted us not only a Meadowlark
glowing in the sunshine, but it also attempted a little song
with Song Sparrows chiming in. Dunlin lifted in ballet
here and there to provide some choreography to the music
around us.
The birds and the birders all enjoyed the pleasures of
this El Nino day, willing to play now and pay later when
La Nina completes the cycle with a vengeance in some
future winter.
Thanks, Bruce, Charlie, and Fred for an unforgettable
experience. Now we’ll always expect this from you!
Yes, the Edison Liquor store is a prime spot for Swan watching in winter!
Bald Eagles were everywhere!
A dark-morph Rough-Legged Hawk.
Ravens were seen harassing birds of prey.
Eurasian Collared Dove.
Green-Wing Teal of both genders glowing in the sunshine in Skagit County.
The field trip group (Intermed bird class instructor Fred Matthei 3rd from left, field trip
leaders Bruce and Charlie 4th & 5th, Samish Island Road
Dunlin take over a large puddle on the Samish flats.
Charlie Wright and Bruce LaBar, our leaders, at lunch-
time at the Breazeale Interpretive Center on Padilla Bay.
2010 www.tahomaaudubon.org Page 7
Photo/Dan Streiffert
The Merlin who methodically dissected and ate this Black-Capped
Chickadee just a few yards from the members of the morbidly fasci-
nated field trip members in the Kent Valley.
Hawks and falcons of
the Auburn/Kent Valley
By Roger Orness (leader) with participating birders
Eleven birders met on Sunday January 31, for a field trip down the
Green River Valley to look for wintering raptors. This time of year is a
good time to find them sharing the remaining habitat with the local red-
tails, harriers and accipiters. After seeing a couple of perched red-tails, we
spotted a Cooper’s Hawk by a trailing car in the caravan and it was later
seen closer on a freeway lamp arm; a nice adult. Shortly after the medium-
size flock of Dunlin displayed their evasion flight for us, an adult male
Peregrine flew in making a run to single one out, but gave up after a short
chase. We found it again on one of the light poles at Emerald Downs race
track and determined it was not the resident wintering adult female, “U/1,”
that has returned here every winter of her life since 1999.
Another adult Peregrine was perching on a metal power tower farther
down the valley. We checked and missed a regular Peregrine at the Smith
Brothers Dairy, settling for an adult female Northern Harrier landing in the
muddy field on a partial prey from an earlier kill by her, or perhaps from
one of two adult Bald Eagles on separate perches nearby. A Sharp-shinned
Hawk was seen by a trailing car before reaching GRNRA (also known as
the Kent Ponds or Green River Natural Resources Area). In the west
meadows there, a juvenile Peregrine was perched in a tree, then flew off
stooping something close by on the ground, which prompted an adult Bald
Eagle to investigate. We tried for the recently-seen Red-shouldered Hawk,
but missed. Coming back from the end of main dike road we walked
directly under a male-sized Merlin with a small bird prey perched in a tree
ten feet away. We all froze and watched while the entire bird was plucked
and consumed. It was still there as we walked away from observing this
once-in-a-lifetime spectacle, which none of us had ever seen so close. Faye
McAdams Hands identified the prey species as a Black-Capped
Chickadee, a member of her favorite avian family – so she watched in
fascinated horror, saying later, ““I never knew they would eat the legs too.
Nothing wasted except the tail and a few feathers.”
Next stop was the Boeing tower, where a second juvenile Peregrine
was observed and compared to the first one. This one was unmistakably
a different individual with the heavier markings of a Peale’s race com-
pared to the more common Anatum. We found a male American Kestrel
hunting the new manmade wetlands, just south of 212th St, where the
darker Peale’s Peregrine made a couple hunting runs passed us, then
perched in a far-off cottonwood. Back past the Kent Ponds the same or
possibly the second Merlin was perched in a tree top and made a fast
hunting flight toward a small flock of finches, but the result was unclear
as the falcon disappeared
behind a warehouse, and the remaining flock of birds quickly vacated
the area. With only two hours from the time we watched the Merlin
feeding and the Merlin hunting, and wondered if it was a second Merlin
or the still-hungry first. (The eaten prey was smallish.)
Although we tried to find the two Peregrines that were missed earlier,
as we made our way back to the starting point, we concluded our trip
with a total of 26 hawks, six falcons and four eagles. We were all a little
sharper skilled observers after seeing the remarkable observations that I
was so happy to share with a great group of birders.
The group included Dan Streiffert, Don and Ruth McCall, Faye
Hands, Gina Bradford, Rhonda and Rames Goodloe, Ruth Sullivan, and
Shelly and Doug Parker. Shelly said later, “Roger’s trip was great. He
knows his falcons and sure showed us a good time. I learned a lot.”
“Another great trip by Roger,” Faye chimed in, “as he took us around
to see his personal raptor friends.”
 Just the other day... Tahoma Audubon in March 1985
By Helen Engle
25
In February 1985, the Nisqually
National Wildlife Refute (NNWR)
completed its eleventh year. It con-
sisted of the Nisqually we know so
Years Ago
well, plus the Dungeness Spit, and
numerous rocks and small islands in
Puget Sound north almost to the Canadian bor-
der. Refuge Manager Bill Hesselbart was prepar-
ing for the addition of Protection Island to the
NNWR.
Hesselbart reports that the buyout of property
owners on Protection Island is going ahead with 142
of the 528 owners on the island accepting he gov-
ernment’s offer for their land. There are nine habit-
able structures on the island and no more will be
built. A management plan and new wildlife studies
are underway by the current nine and three-quar-
ters staff positions.
Having more to do than his small staff can handle,
Manager Hesselbart hopes that the Adopt-a-
Refuge Program will provide some relief. This pro-
gram would enlist volunteer support from the vari-
ous Audubon chapters around
Puget Sound to take on some
routine tasks. (A similar program
operates in 43 other refuges
across the U. S.)
Governor John Spellman
included the proposed West
Hylebos Wetland State Park in his
budget. Auduboners were hoping
the new Governor Booth John Spellman
the
quizzical
wl
By
5. To stir up food on the water'a surface, these species rotate and spin while dabbling their bills.
Thais Bock
BIRDSONGS by Phil Buly
Page 8 www.tahomaaudubon.org March 2010
Gardner would be sup-
portive when the
Legislature starts
deliberating on the
capital budget.
The March meeting
was at Pacific Lutheran
University’s Ingram Hall,
with speakers Marge and Cliff
Casebolt doing a slide show of Booth Gardner
the birds and animals of Kenya,
Zimbabwe, Tanzania, Botswana and South Africa.
And Tahoma Audubon presented the fourth pro-
gram in the Nature Images Series, “Underwater Life
in Puget Sound,” by Randy Hanna. His underwa-
ter photography showed a panorama of many vari-
eties of fish, fish-eating anemones, wolf eels and
some of the world’s largest octopus.
Mary Fries started her eight ses-
sions of “Flowering Plant
Identification” at the University
of Puget Sound. Mildred
Hoffman narrates “Close
Encounters, Surprise and
Otherwise,” for parents and
children at the Snake Lake
nature Center (now Tacoma
Nature Center).
Wally Wilkins led 26 Tahoma
Mary Fries
Audubon birders on a successful trip
to the Skagit River area beginning near Rockport
and working down the river to Barnaby Slough, and
on down to Fir Island. The birders saw 76 species,
including 83 Bald Eagles, 744 swans, thousands of
1. The Common Loon is the state bird of which midwestern state.
2. Among shorebirds which one is the longest-distance migrant?
3. The upper part of a bird's leg is called the _________.
4. Name the group of birds with the longest wing spans.
Answers: 1. Minnesota 2. Buff-breasted Sandpiper 3. tibia 4. albatross 5. phalaropes
Snow Geese, six Snowy Owls and one Peregrine
Falcon.
At the Kent ponds Donna and Dick LaCasse
realized an adult Goshawk was unable to lift off
from an adjoining field. They backtracked along the
bordering fence until able to cross the field to the
distressed bird. One of its legs was caught in a
small, old, rusty (muskrat?) trap. After careful
determination that the leg was not broken, they
released the bird into its own element and it flew to
a nearby tree for some necessary preening and
feather rearranging.
Evelyn Peaslee reported on a newspaper article
featuring Roger Tory Peterson. He wrote about his
“major birding types.” Briefly, these types are: the
window-watcher with a feeder; the print collector;
the armchair birder; the sportsman; the typical bird
watcher who usually goes out locally but only on
weekends; the bird photographer; the academic and
advanced amateur who belongs to professional orga-
nizations and writes about
bird behavior; and, finally,
the hard-core birdwatcher
who will go to any lengths to
get a life bird. Evelyn pro-
posed to add another type to
the list. She explains that we
do all this for fun, not for
status or recognition. We’re
just plain amateurs, or better, Helen Engle
soft-core birdwatchers. from days of yore.
Feedback, comments and reminiscences welcome,
253-564-3112, Hengle@iinet.com.
(Answers below cartoon.)
March 2010 www.tahomaaudubon.org Page 9
Birdathon 2010 is upon us!
Even though Birdathon doesn’t
“officially” start until late April,
which is when many birds begin
their annual migration to (and through) our area, we
are READY here at Tahoma Audubon Society!
We have about 50 birders signed up so far, which
is a nice start. However, we really need about 50
additional birders going on trips and gathering
pledges in order to make our budget this year.
For those of you already signed up to be a birder,
thank you! If you haven’t yet signed up, what are you
waiting for? Birdathon is a lot of fun and you don’t
have to be an expert birder either. Many new birders
don’t know a House Sparrow from a Junco. That’s
okay because on any given field trip there are expert
birders or even Master Birders along who are more
Birdathon field trips
Lakebay area near the town of Home
When: Thursday April 29th, 9:30a.m.to 1:00p.m.
Leaders: Homeowners Dee and Wayne Knight, and
Melissa Sherwood
You will visit acres of woods with songbirds, fields
with ravens and shores with eagles, osprey, sandpipers
and herons. Two baby eagles are nesting in one of the
trees. Bring a lunch. Hosts will serve coffee and dessert
by the fireplace.
Directions: 3715 165th KPN. Go across Narrows
Bridge, take Purdy exit. Go thru the Purdy stop light,
and through the Key Center blinking red light and 3.8
miles past that. You will see a huge billboard on the
right saying Dudley Top Apples. Pass the small green
38th street sign on the right and across from this there
will be signs and balloons on left at a tiny road. Take
a right past the Knight signs and balloons and wind
down a long wooded road with a steep hill. You will
see an old barn and turn left to their house. Bring good
beach shoes; we can walk quite a distance.
Foulweather Bluff
When: Saturday May 1st, 7:00a.m.to mid-afternoon
Leader: Rolan Nelson
We’ll visit Foulweather Bluff, Point-No-Point and the
Hansville Greenway. Join us for this Birdathon event
to check out the west sound migrants that should be
passing through. We’ll see wetlands, saltwater, forest
glades and meadows. We hope to identify over 65
species. Bring rain gear and lunch or you can buy sup-
plies at the Hansville Store.
Meet at Purdy Park and Ride off Hwy 16 at
7:00a.m. Take Hwy 16 across Narrows Bridge
from Tacoma. Exit at SR302/Purdy off ramp and
drive straight through Purdy (3 stoplights) to 144th.
Park & Ride is just past Chevron Station.
Titlow Park
When: Tuesday May 4th, 10:00a.m.to 12:00noon
Leaders: Rosanne Becker and Joann Sims
Enjoy both water and songbirds at this Tacoma Park.
A variety of bird habitats will be explored including
salt water, pond and forest.
Meet at the Lodge at Titlow Park which is at the
west end of 6th Avenue in Tacoma.
Pierce County Big Day “Purdy to Paradise” on
International Migratory Bird Day
When: Saturday May 8th, 5:15a.m.to dusk
Leader: Bruce LaBar
Starting at Purdy Spit, the trip visits Point Defiance,
McChord and other points of interest along the way to
the Mountain. We aim each year to show you that you
can find 100 species just by birding in Pierce County.
One year we identified 124!
Meet at the far end of Purdy Spit at 5:15a.m.
Nisqually NWR and/or Ocean Shores
When: Saturday May 8th, 7:30a.m.to Evening
Leaders: Ken & Nell Batker
than willing to share their knowledge with you. They
are a fun group of individuals and you are guaranteed
to have a few laughs and a fantastic time on your trip!
So, call our office to get signed up today!
We also are lucky this year to have an excep-
tional list of Birdathon Field Trips scheduled during
the event (see Birdathon Field Trips below). The
Field Trip Leaders, who have agreed to participate
this year, dedicate and volunteer their own personal
time to lead these trips for us. We need to show our
appreciation by getting the trips filled. If you see
one or two (or more) trips you think might be inter-
esting, call our office and get on the list right away!
If you are unsure about how Birdathon works, or
if you have questions and just want to learn more,
come to our Birdathon Training Night on
The trip will begin by walking the Nisqually trail on
the refuge followed by a sack lunch (bring your own).
The Nisqually portion is usually done by around
11:00a.m. Following the Nisqually walk, we will car-
pool to Gray’s Harbor National Wildlife Refuge and
from there to Ocean Shores. The day ends with dinner
in Aberdeen to recap the day’s counts and activities.
Participants are welcome to come for the entire day, or
just Nisqually, or just Ocean Shores. If you choose to
do just Ocean Shores, you should plan on meeting at
Nisqually at 11:00a.m.so we can carpool down to
Gray’s Harbor. Meet at the Flagpole by the visitor’s
center at Nisqually NWR.
Crescent Valley, Gig Harbor
See separate listing for this trip
Adriana Hess, University Place
When: Monday May 10th, 12:00noon to 2:00p.m.
Leader: Ruth Sullivan
Join Ruth as she leads her monthly walks at Adriana
Hess Wetland Park in University Place. This small
park is home to dozens and dozens of bird species!
2917 Morrison Rd. W. in University Place
Morse Wildlife Preserve, Graham
When: Friday May 14th, 9:00am to 11:00a.m.
Leader: Betty Jones
Walk the trails and check out the marsh, dry Douglas
fir forest, moist lowland forest, prairie and meadows.
Take a look at the pond in the marsh and the forested
wetland from the bird tower.
Ask for directions when you sign up.
McCormick Forest, Gig Harbor
When: Saturday May 15th, 8:00a.m to 12:00noon
Leader: Melissa Sherwood
Explore McCormick Forest, the old growth preserve
off Bujacich Drive near Gig Harbor. Melissa Sherwood
will help you identify birds by their songs and calls.
We’ll walk through forest and up some steep hills so
wear comfortable clothes and walking shoes, and be
prepared for all weather.
Meet at Swede Hill Fire Station just off Hwy 16 at
Burnham Drive Exit.
Tacoma to Moses Lake Overnight
When: Saturday and Sunday May 16 and 17th, 5:30am
Saturday until Sunday afternoon
Leaders Marcus Roening and Heather Ballash
Marcus and Heather lead an exciting trip from Tacoma
to the Potholes in Moses Lake. The trip will cover 15
habitat zones, with special emphasis on migratory
birds in the Columbia Basin sage, pinelands and wet-
lands. Expect to see at least 120 species in one fast-
paced day. Meet at 5:30am and arrive in Moses Lake
at 8:30pm, where we will stay overnight. We’ll take a
leisurely return through favorite bird areas on Sunday.
Please provide email address and phone number
when you sign up in order to coordinate lodging
Tuesday March 30th at
6:00pm, at the Tahoma
Audubon office at 2917 Morrison
Road West in University Place. This will be a brief
overview of the event and a chance to meet other
participants, sign up for a field trip and pick up your
Birdathon packet.
Speaking of packets, they are ready! We will be
contacting all birders to find out if you want your
packet mailed, or if you wish to pick it up at our
office.
This is going to be a great Birdathon year! Let’s
have some fun!
Cami Kesinger
Development Coordinator
253-565-9129
Birdathon Field Trips 2010
Call to sign-up 253-565-9278
Thank you to our Field Trip Leaders!
We could not do this without you!
details and meeting place.
Email Marcus.d.roening@gsk.com for details.
Pt Defiance Park
When: Sunday May 16th, 8:00a.m.to 10:00 a.m.
Leaders: Rob and Natalie McNair-Huff
Join Rob and Natalie for the Birdathon version of their
monthly nature walk at Point Defiance on May 16th.
They will set out on the walk at 8:00a.m.from the Zoo
parking lot and walk through the forested trails along
Five Mile Drive. The walk will be a little over four
miles. Trip will end with birding along the ponds near
the entrance and with a drive down to Owen’s Beach.
Meet at Pt. Defiance Zoo Parking Lot at 8:00a.m.
Ft. Lewis
When: Wednesday May 19th, 8:00a.m.to noon
Note: Date may change depending on Ft. Lewis clear-
ance permission
Leader: Charles Griffin
Join Tahoma Audubon Society Board Member Charles
Griffin as he leads the group to see an open oak wood-
land area and riparian habitats found among the prai-
ries of the Fort Lewis Training Grounds. Expect to
identify 55-60 species. Meet at the Roy Y Park and
Ride at 8:00a.m. to carpool to location
Green River Watershed
When: Saturday May 22nd, 8:00a.m.to 3:00p.m.
Leader: Greg Volkhardt and a Master Birder
This is a rare opportunity to see the protected water-
shed managed by Tacoma Water. We’ll bird in forests
and fields around Howard Hanson Lake (elevation
1200 feet) then visit Eagle Lake (elevation 2200 feet).
Space is limited to the first 12 people. Bring picture
Identification as this is a restricted access area. Bring a
lunch and appropriate clothing. Be prepared to do
some walking on uneven ground.
Meet at Tacoma Public Utilities, 3628 South 35th Street
lot A1, on the Westside of the Administration Building
at 8:00a.m. We will travel in one or two vans & be
returned to parking lot around 3:00pm.
Waughop Lake, Ft. Steilacoom
When: Sunday May 23rd, 8:30a.m.to 11:00a.m.
Leader: Betty Jones
Identify birds in the oak woodlands, grasslands and
Waughop Lake. This is a very fun trip where you
may see up to 50 bird species. Meet at the barn at Ft.
Steilacoom Park, in Lakewood. Note: If anyone is
interested, Betty will start her morning at the mouth of
Chamber's Creek by the little dam on Chambers Creek
Road. Meet her by the dam at 7:00am to get started
early, then we'll head to Ft. Steilacoom to join the other
group at 8:30am.
 Annual Membership Banquet was a festive celebration!
announcements
The Patrick Sullivan Young
Birders Fund Seeks Applicants
ATTENTION AUDUBON MEMBERS On February 6th, members “Legacy of Lloyd Morse”, both long-

New volunteer
and friends of Tahoma Audubon time supporters who recently
Since 2005, the Patrick Sullivan Young Society gathered for the 41st passed away. New Board Member,
Annual Membership Banquet at Dan Sherman was elected, and

Birders Fund has worked to encourage
and support young birders as they culti-
vate their birding interests and skills.
Pre-teens through college-aged youth
who are serious about
receptionists needed
Clover Park Technical College in current Board Members John
the McGavick Student Center. Garner, Margie Shea, Jane Brosius
The event started with a cocktail and Dick Carkner were re-elected.
What do the Tahoma Audubon Receptionists do? hour and silent auction. Guests Bryan Flint announced the
Audubon receptionists are often the face of our mingled and enjoyed appetizers Feathered Nest Circle and its

pursuing their inter- organization, greeting park visitors and assisting
est in birding are
Tahoma Audubon’s staff by answering phones,
checking office messages and sorting mail. They
encouraged to
are essential members of Audubon’s team, serving
apply for funding
our staff and membership on a daily basis to
to support their
answer bird inquiries. Receptionists direct
birding activities.
individuals who find sick, dead, or injured birds,
These activities
and move the cause of environmentalism
include, but are not
forward.
limited to, participation in birding classes,
When and where do your receptionists volunteer?
enrollment in birding-themed summer
Our receptionists normally volunteer one day a
camps, or supporting undergraduate
month, from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Monday
ornithological research. Please visit the
through Saturday at the Adriana Hess Wetland
Washington Ornithological Society’s web-
Park Office, located at 2917 Morrison Road,
site to learn more and to apply go to:
University Place, Washington.
http://www.wos.org/psybfapp.htm
Why are new receptionists needed so badly?
Volunteers Joann Simms and Mary Siegenthaler helping
out in the office in 2008.
Recently our long time front desk leader, Sally
Sloat has had to step down for health reasons. Her
service and dedication to Audubon’s receptionists
has been unmatched. Additionally, Audubon has
had some other volunteers suffer health problems,
leaving them temporarily unable to participate. We
have always relied on the passionate support of
our volunteers, so if you are interested please don’t
hesitate to give us a call!
Please call Graham Taylor at (253) 565-1884
or email gtaylor@tahomaaudubon.org
while listening to a live jazz trio in
the background. This was an
enjoyable to time to wander around and chat with
fellow Audubon supporters while deciding what
items to bid on. One special table was reserved for
the Bird Ornaments. Local artists and children hand
painted, decorated and added “bling” to cut-out
wooden bird ornaments which were then displayed
beautifully on live spring tree branches.
The evening continued with dinner and
Membership Program. Some highlights of the pro-
gram were a slideshow “Tribute to Mary Fries” and
Thanks to all our volunteers,
vendors & auction donors who
made the Banquet a success:
Melissa Paulson - Auction Chair, Debby Hyde,
Andrea Hennings, June Coloff, Helen Engle, Gary
Geddes, Marcus Roening, Michele Cardineaux, Ione
Clagett, Bill Smith, Jane Brosius, Kathleen & Rolan
Nelson, Margie Shea, Dolly Monahan, Tanja Scott,
members, and awards were given
to some special members and sup-
porters: The Distinguished Service Award was
given to Art & Mary Sue Gee, Cascade Land Roxy, Bill and Winfield Giddings on the awards stage.
Conservancy was awarded the external Distinguished
Service Award, and finally, Bill, Roxy and Winfield
Giddings were presented the Legacy Award.
Guest Speaker Lyanda Lynn Haupt took the stage
next where she spoke about her book “Crow
Planet: Essential Wisdom from the Urban Wilderness”
and she stayed and signed copies of her book after
the event.
Board members;
Faye Hands checks things out. Above: Thelma
Gilmur. Below:
Tanja Scott.

Capture the voices of nature at recording workshop
Have you ever
wondered how the
spectacular wildlife
sounds that appear
in everything from natural history
films to museums exhibits to television
commercials are recorded? The annu-
al Sound Recording Workshop offered
by the Cornell Lab of Ornithology im-
merses students in field recording and
shows them techniques used by the
pros to capture bird sounds. The next
session takes place June 12-19 at San
Francisco State Forest.
The Sound Recording Workshop is
taught by skilled recordists on the Cor-
nell Lab’s Macaulay Library staff. “This
workshop is appropriate for all who
have an interest in recording wild-
life sounds,” says audio curator Greg
Budney. “Whether you are a seasoned
researcher or someone who’s never
recorded a bird be-
fore, we give you the
knowledge and skills
to make superb wild-
life recordings for education, research,
and conservation.”
Through daily field recording ses-
sions, lectures, and demonstrations,
participants learn how to get the most
out of their field recording equipment
and take advantage of every recording
opportunity. They also receive an intro-
duction to sound analysis software that
converts sound waves into visual im-
ages so they can “see” a bird’s song.
Alumni of the program have gone
on to record natural sounds around
the world and contribute recordings
to the Macaulay Library archive—the
largest archive of bird and animal
sounds in the world. The recordings
are used for scientific study, conserva-
Roxy Giddings, Robert Kelton, Roseanne Becker,
Rylla Goldberg, Cami Kesinger, Sally Sloat, Vera
tion, education, and have appeared in Cragin & the office volunteers, the Board, our fabu-
Terry Conner and Jerry Broadus
lous staff – Bryan, Cami, Stephanie, Krystal, Graham,
popular media from CDs to movies. enjoy the evening.
& Ken, all of our teen volunteers, Jonz Catering,
The Sound Recording Workshop fee
American Party Rental, Clover Park Technical
of $945 covers tuition, class materi-
College, Peggy Kopf &Pat Mail, Thelma Gilmur,
als, local transportation, food, lodging,
Kathleen Best, Kathy Admire, Mark & Susan Merrill,
and the loan of a recording system for
Ed Begley Jr., Bob Furman & Mary Hart Furman, Above: Ione Clagett presents Art and Mary Sue
the course to the first six registrants
Clarice Clark & Jerry Broadus, Ken & Judy Austin, Gee with an award. Below: Art Wang checks out
who request it. A deposit is requested the bird ornaments.
Doris & Burt Johnson, Dick & Terry Carkner,
to reserve a space in the workshop,
Broadway Center for Performing Arts, Janet Bent,
which is limited to 20 students. Regis-
The Humane Society for Tacoma & Pierce County,
tration and a $100 down-payment are Primo Grill, Joe McGuire, Jim Kenney, Lee Anne
due by May 10. Visit the Sound Re- Campos, Dale Thompson, Jamie Paulson, Val
cording Workshop web page; http:// Paulson, Mauricio Robalino, Valerie Vance, Manitou Above: Rolan and Kathleen Nelson. Below: Silent Auc-
macaulaylibrary.org/inside/record/ Art Center, Nine Lives Studio, OSPREY Club, tion bidders browse the offerings.
workshops/index.do to learn more Brittany Bonning, Joshua Newell, Monica Weidman,
and have a look at some of the images Ursula Scott, Debbie McLaughlin, Acupuncture
from the 2008 workshop. Northwest, Nancy Pearson, Lynn Arthur & Galen
Registration contact: Stark, Laura Giddings, REI, Daniel Heath, Greater
Nancy Schrempf, Tacoma Community Foundation, Pt. Defiance Zoo
Macaulay Library and Aquarium, NW Trek, Jennie Hannah-Evergreen
(607) 254-2153 Pinecones, Jennifer Lauer, Ken & Nell Batker, Law
ns29@cornell.edu offices of Caroline R. Suissa-Edmiston, LLM, Old
Town Bicycle, Starbucks, Dorothy Monahagn, Bob
Mead, Alex Scott, Miriam Barnett, Roseanne Becker,

welcome to New and Returning Members Larra Herrmann, Priscilla Huber, Andrea Norman,
and Tacoma Nature Volunteers & staff.

January 16, 2010 to February 15, 2010
Chapter New and Renewing:
Cristina Amburgey, Mr & Mrs Ray Belden, Sally
Boyle, Loretta Chivers, Ione & John Clagett, June
Davison, Susan Goering, Dr Barbara Guller, William
& Mary Haire, Rhonda Hansen, Robert & Rosemary
For a slideshow of more photos, visit our website: www.tahomaaudubon.org and click on "Events".
Introductory, Recruited through
Tahoma Audubon Society:
Laura & Jeff Barber, Karen Claypool, Lorinda Cox,
Dick Dorsett, Michael Downs, Carla Gramlich.

Checks payable to: Tahoma Audubon 2917 Morrison

Lenigan, Doreen Ligrano, Roger & Rosalyn Lueck-
Mammen, E Lu Lyle, William Mitchell, Lori Peter-
son, Gregory Pluth, Mr & Mrs Dale Powell, Heather
Introductory, Recruited through
National Audubon Society:
Brett Landrud, Marilyn Denney, Stephanie Adolph,
Rd. W. University Place, 98466 Tahoma Audubon
Society, established in 1969, is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit
Membership Fee:
George Riecan, Jan Saxton, S Sinclair, Kay Starkey,
___ Introductory (first year) $20
Karin Steinwender, Dean Swanson, Maureen Vanek, A
Vivit, Brad Willcockson, Sue Willett. ___ Joint National/Tahoma Audubon $50

organization. Donations are tax deductible.

Roskelley, Robyn Ryan, Bonnie Taylor, Colleen Wa- Gloria Bodell, Sheryl Boyd, Raymond Brauner, Judith
terhouse, Helen Whitney, Marsha Williams, Sevy Wil- Buckner, Marie Butler, Linda Clark, Kathryn Cregan, When renewal time comes: A month before your Membership

___
___
Chapter member renewal
Other Contributions _____________
$30

liams & Trina Frager.
Chapter Joint Renewals with National,
Recruited through Tahoma Audubon Society:
Wolfram Abicht, Mignonette Anderson, Greg & Re-
becca Anglemyer, Thomas Barocan, Mary Backous,
Elaine Brown, Dorothy Burkhart, Margery Carlson, Al
& Donna Clark, Joyce Greenfield, William Holt, Mar-
Sonya Crouch, Ashley Daviel, W W Dean, Carol El-
dred, Robert Friese, Prabhakar Ghosh, Lucille Jessop,
Charles Johnson, Jayne Johnson, Robert Johnston,
Charles & Constance Lassiter, Fred Lowrey, James
McDermott, Willow McKean, Paul Nelson, Gerrit
Nyland, Patraicia Oneill, Tanya Pemberton, Caro-
lyn Rothwell, Lorraine Saylor, Carol Scott, Sharon
Squires, Alain Steenbeeke, Barry Uhde, N Wissing,
membership is expiring, we will send you a reminder to
renew. Please renew through us, not through National
Audubon. They do not give us a share of renewal dues,
hence we are unable to support a membership with the
Towhee for you. You will not get a towhee newsletter
if you renew through national. National will send you
packs of renewal notices---ignore them! We ask you to
renew here through us for a Chapter Only membership
C9ZY020Z
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

iam Lauren, C G Marthaler, June Mosby, Neil Mullen, Enid Artis-Arredondo, Rodney Beckendorf, Barbara or a Joint membership which includes a Chapter Mem- membership, annual Audubon Magazine subscription, and support of
Herman Nickel, Bonnie Stiff, Allen Warner, Joel & Lu- De Freece, Kathleen Dommer, Darla Gonzales, Jewel bership and a National one. If you have questions, call Member #: _______________________________ (office use only)
Important Bird Areas (IBA) and state and national conservation agendas.
cinda Wingard. Holt, Margaret Kraft, Howard & Suzanne Leichman, Thelma Gilmur, Membership Chair, 253-564-8210.

Page 10 www.tahomaaudubon.org March 2010 March 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
march 2010
TGIF Restoration Activity
Fri Mar 5 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM
Location: Adriana Hess Wetland Park
 
Nisqually Wildlife Refuge
Sat Mar 6 8:00am to about noon.
Leader: Shep Thorp. Meet at the Visitor
Center Pond Overlook at 8am. Walk is
approx. 2 miles, dress warm & be prepared
for rain.  It can be breezy and cold on the
dike. Bring drinks & snacks.  Scopes
encouraged. Directions: http://www.fws.
gov/nisqually/  Sign up:  Shep Thorp,
sthorp@theaec.com, 253-370-3742.
Snake Lake Science Fair
Sat Mar 6, from 1:30 PM to 2:30 PM
 
Bird Walk at Adriana Hess Park
Mon Mar 8 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM.  child's knowledge and abilities. Contact
 
Birding Basics with Rolan Nelson
Mon Mar 8 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM
Location: Tacoma Nature Center. $45
TAS member, $55 non-member. Learn
about some of the best places to see birds
and practice your newfound birding skills.
There is one local field trip to Steilacoom
Park on Sat, Mar 27 at 8am. For information
and to register call (253) 591-6439.  Location: Hawthorn Hotel in Kent, WA
 
Conservation Committee
Tue Mar 9 4:00 PM to 5:30 PM
Location: Pacific Lutheran University,
Rieke 112, Parkland WA.
 
Volunteer Naturalists:
Wetlands and Water Sleuths
Tue Mar 9 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM
 
Budding Scientists
«Marshes, Bogs & Swamps, Oh My!»
Weds Mar 10 10:30 AM to 12:00 PM and
3:15 PM to 4:45 PM
Location: Adriana Hess Audubon Center.
Ages 5-7, $9.00 per student
Register at least two days prior to the
session by calling 253-591-6439.
 
Beginning Homeschool Science
«Wet & Wild»
Thu Mar 11 9:30 AM to 11:30 AM and
1:00 PM to 3:00 PM
Location: Tacoma Nature Center. Register
Early - these classes fill quickly! Note -
topics are repeated during the month, so
select class appropriate for your child's
knowledge and abilities. Beginning
science students should be able to add and
subtract numbers. Contact Margie with
questions or for more information at 591-
6439 or marjories@tacomaparks.com.
 
TAS Board Meeting
Thu Mar 11 6:30 PM to 8:30 PM
Location: Adriana Hess Audubon Center
Monthly Meeting of the Tahoma Audubon
Board.  Guests Welcome, please call
ahead at (253) 565-9278.
 
TGIF Restoration Activity
Every Friday 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!
 
Nature Alphabet «W is for Windy Days»
Fri Mar 12 1:30 PM to 2:30 PM
Location: Tacoma Nature Center
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
  Adult participation is recommended,
children under four require an adult
present. Note alternating times. Register
by Saturday before class. 253-591-6439.
Membership Meeting
Fri Mar 12, from 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.  in Graham, the preserve has the following
Call (253) 565-9278
 
Volunteer Naturalists:
Wetlands and Water Sleuths
Sat Mar 13, from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM
 
Plant Walk at Adriana Hess Park
Mon Mar 15 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM
Location: Adriana Hess Wetland Park
 
Snake Lake Science Club
Tue Mar 16, from 3:30 PM to 5:00 PM
 
Intermediate Homeschool Science
«Wet & Wild»
Thu Mar 18  9:30 AM to 11:30 AM and
1:00 PM to 3:00 PM
Location: Tacoma Nature Center
Register Early - these classes fill quickly!
Note - topics are repeated during the
month, so select class appropriate for your
Margie with questions or for more
information at 591-6439 or marjories@
tacomaparks.com. Ages 10-12, $12 per
student. Intermediate Science Students
should be able to multiply and divide
numbers, add and subtract fractions.
 
Spring ACOW
Fri Mar 19, to Sun Mar 21, 2010
More details on page 3.
Circumnavigate Bainbridge
Island Boat Trip
Sun March 21 10:00 AM to 1:30 PM
Winslow City Docks, Cost:  $65.
Leader:  George Gerdts
The trip leaves the Winslow City Dock at
10:00 AM and returns at 1:30 PM.  Call or
e-mail George for a brochure and sign-up
form.  You will need to send a check for
$65. to reserve your spot.  Call or e-mail
SOON! Signup:  Call or e-mail George
Gerdts for the brochure and more details:
206-842-8138, geopandion@aol.com
 
Tidepools and Titlow Beach
Tue Mar 23 4:30 PM to 7:30 PM
Location: Titlow Beach
 
Nature Storytime
«Wet, Weedy, and Wonderful»
Thu Mar 25 10:30 AM to 11:30 AM
Location: Adriana Hess Center, U.P.
Ages 2-6, $6 per child, $3 Audubon
member, free to adults and U.P residents.
Adults welcome with children. Space
limited to first 20 registered guests (adults
& children). Register at 253-591-6439 to
register.
 
Homeschool Advanced Science
«Wetland Ecosystems»
Thu Mar 25, from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM
Location: Tacoma Nature Center
 Register Early - classes fill quickly! Note
- topics are repeated during the month, so
select class appropriate for your child's
knowledge and abilities. Contact Margie
with questions or for more information at
591-6439 or marjories@tacomaparks.
com. Ages 12-15, $15 per student. Older
homeschool students will continue their
science studies with challenging and
engaging experiments and activities. To
participate in this class, students should be
able to calculate averages, percentages,
and solve simple equations.
Othello Sandhill Crane Festival
Fri Mar 26  to Sun Mar 28
The Othello Sandhill Crane Festival is a
wonderful birding festival in Eastern
Washington.  The field trips and lectures
are excellent; quite a few participants and
speakers come from out-of-state.  The
field trips leave in school buses, vans, and
cars from the high school.  The banquet is
exciting and fun and the food is good.
Registration and tour info is available at
www.othellosandhillcranefestival.org or
call 1-866-726-3445 toll free (after 4pm). 
The popular trips and accommodations fill
early, so register ASAP. For more info, call
or e-mail Carol Schulz, carol.schulz50@
gmail.com, 206-824-7618.
 
Volunteer Naturalists:
Salmon Ecology elective
Sat Mar 27 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM
Family Walk at Adriana Hess Park
Sun Mar 28 4:00 PM to 5:00 PM
Location: Adriana Hess Park
A family program to encourage families to
appreciate the park by providing
information and opportunities with a
guided walking tour.
Call Dixie Harris for details 564-6373
Birdathon Training Session
March 30, 6:00 PM at Adriana Hess.
april 2010
TGIF Restoration Activity
Every Friday 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!
Adriana Hess Park Photography class
Mon Apr 5 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM
Location: Adriana Hess Park
An adult program encouraging people to
appreciate nature and how they can
incorporate it into their photography. Call
Dixie Harris for details 564-6373.
 
Weekly Bird Walks at Nisqually
Every Wednesday 7:30 AM to 11:00 AM
Location: Nisqually National Wildlife
Refuge. Leader: Phil Kelley.
Evening Birdwalk Homestead Park
April 7, May 19, June 9, July 21. 6p-
8pm. Join Melissa Sherwood as she
leads an evening monthly birdwalk
through the new Homestead Park in
Gig Harbor. See more details on page
5, or call Melissa; 851-7230. Call Ta-
homa Audubon for more details and to
sign up, 565-9278.
 
TAS Board Meeting
Thu Apr 8 6:30 PM to 8:30 PM
Location: Adriana Hess Audubon Center
Monthly Meeting of the Tahoma Audubon
Board.  Guest Welcome, please call ahead
at (253) 565-9278.
Membership Meeting
Fri Apr 9 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.  AM and 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM
Call (253) 565-9278
Birds & Brunch
Sat Apr 10, from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM
Location: Adriana Hess. Special Event
for major donors and donor prospects.
 
Morse Wildlife Preserve Open Trails
Apr 11 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
March program
Regular membership meeting on
Friday, March 12, from 7:30 PM to 9
PM at Tacoma Nature Center, 1919 S.
Tyler St. Check web site for program:
www.TahomaAudubon.org and click
on the Calendar tab.
five habitat zones in the preserve. Located
special open dates. Call 253-591-6439 for
more information.
Bird Walk at Adriana Hess Park
Mon Apr 12 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM. 
Enjoy a guided bird walk through the
park!
Conservation Committee
Tue Apr 13 4:00 PM to 5:30 PM
Location: Pacific Lutheran University,
Rieke 112, Parkland WA
 
Budding Scientists
«The Marine Scene»
Wed Apr 14  10:30 AM to 12:00 PM and
3:15 PM to 4:45 PM
Location: Adriana Hess Audubon Center
Ages 5-7, $9.00 per student. Register at
least two days prior to the session by
calling 253-591-6439.
 
Beginning Homeschool Science
«It's a Salty Life»
Thu Apr 15 9:30 AM to 11:30 AM and
1:00 PM to 3:00 PM
Location: Tacoma Nature Center
Register Early - classes fill quickly! Note
- topics are repeated during the month, so
select class appropriate for your child's
knowledge and abilities. Contact Margie
at 591-6439 or marjories@tacomaparks.
com. Beginning science students should
be able to add and subtract numbers.
Nature Alphabet «Y is for You»
Fri Apr 16 1:30 PM to 2:30 PM
Location: Tacoma Nature Center
Adult participation is recommended,
children under four require an adult
present. Please note alternating times.
Register by the Saturday before class.
253-591-6439.
 
Ohop Creek Field Trip
Sun Apr 18 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM
Location: Ohop Creek
Join volunteers on a field trip to a site
undergoing major habitat restoration on
Ohop Creek, near Eatonville, WA. 
Volunteers share their species identification
skillsandcollectdatausingNatureMapping. 
No training required, but helpful. To
register, call 360-832-7166 or email
reserve@nwtrek.org
Plant Walk at Adriana Hess Park
Mon Apr 19 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM
Enjoy a guided plant walk thru the park!
 
Advanced Birder's Class
Tue Apr 20 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM
Location: Tacoma Nature Center. Ken
Brown, Instructor
Intermediate Homeschool Science
«Tidepools to Deep Waters»
Thu Apr 22, 2010 from 9:30 AM to 11:30
Location: Tacoma Nature Center. Register
Early - these classes fill quickly! Note -
topics are repeated during the month, so
select class appropriate for your child's
knowledge and abilities. Contact Margie
for more information at 591-6439 or
marjories@tacomaparks.com.
Ages 10-12, $12 per student. Intermediate
Science Students should be able to
multiply and divide numbers, add and
subtract fractions.