M&O QL671 /

he San Francisco Board of ' I ' Supervisors is about to adopt a I plan for the City's parks which -1- contains no mention of wildlife, birds, habitat, flora & fauna, biodiversi- ty ecology or biolog)^. The only animal mentioned is the urban canine, in the context of how the parks can better serve its needs.

The "Community Parks Task Force Plan" is a product of the Community Parks Council and SPUR (San Francisco Urban Research Association). The attractively designed 32-page document offers valuable recommen- dations for improving managerial efficiency in the Recreation and Park Department and for seeking new fund- ing sources. That's the good part. The problem is that, while the document covers the need for greener lawns, more artwork, attractive recreation centers and restored

Xeaded:

New

Editer

It has been a great two years being editor of the Gull. Interesting, challenging,

educational, fun But, life

has bitten another huge chunk out of my free time and I'm afraid I won't have the time it takes to do the newsletter well. So unfortu- nately, I have to give it up.

And so, GGAS is looking for someone who is inter- ested in picking up were I will leave off as Editor of the Gull. It is produced on a monthly basis and comes equipped with many faith- ful contributors. It's a great and interesting way to be directly involved with your organization. If interested, please contact me, John Gibbons at (415) 621-3899 or the GGAS office at (510) 843- 2222. \

flower beds, it fails to acknowledge the need to preserve habitat for wildlife.

When the Parks Plan was released last May, many environmentalists were aghast, but decided to ignore it as one more policy document that would just gather dust. But the plan is being taken seriously, even without Board adoption. Its implementation has already begun, with the establishment of a new Parks Committee of the Board of Supervisors and with the creation of a Canine Committee to "address concerns from dog owners and public agencies in San Francisco about the need for better dog seredees." The committee composition includes no slot for a wildlife advocate.

The plan recommends the re-consti- tution of the Recreation and

Park Commission by increasing it to eleven members and specifying nine areas of expertise, not one of which is related to biolog)', ecolog)', natural his- tor)' or biodiversity.

The existing Significant Natural Areas Management Program is not mentioned once, and there are no policies calling for the expansion of the Cit)''s natural areas. The plan calls for the creation of a strategic plan which "should be in synch with the City's General Plan," but there is no ackno^vledgment an)mhere of the Cit)''s Sustainability Plan.

To find out how to obtain a copy of the Community Parks Council Plan, call

Conliuucd oil page W

The Gull / December 1998

Field Trips Calendar

GAS field trips are con- ducted by experienced birders who wish to share their knowledge and love of birds with others. All trips are free of charge (except for entrance fees that may be charged by regional, state, or national parks) and are open to ever)'one, regardless of member- ship in the National Audubon Society or Golden Gate chapter.

Saturday and Sunday^ December 5 & 6 Sacramento Wildlife Refuges.

See November Gull for details. Leaders: Steve and Renee Margolin. (916) 342-6905. $

Sunday, December 6, Strybing Arboretum.

See November Gull for details. Leaders: Allan Ridley and Helen McKenna (415) 566-3241.

Wednesday December 9, Mini-Trip To Lake Merritt, Oakland.

See November Gull for details. Leaders: Anna Wilcox (510) 551- 9301 and Jean-Marie Spoelman.

Saturday, December 12, Monterey Bay And Coastal Areas.

See November Gull for details. Leader: Don Starks (408) 266-2969 (eve.) (*)

Sunday, December 20, Oakland CBC.

Tuesday, December 29,

San Francisco CBC.

Saturday, January 2, Christmas Bird Count Wrap Up!

Meet at Merrie Way above the Cliff House at 8:00 a.m. We will look for highlights found, as well as species missed, on the San Francisco Christmas Bird Count. Bring lunch and liquids. We will bird until about 3:00 p.m. The itinerary will be determined at the last minute. Carpooling would be helpful. Leader: Alan Hopkins (415) 664-0983. (*)

Sunday, January 5, Strybing Arboretum.

Meet at 8:00 a.m. at the front gate of the Arboretum (9th Ave. and Lincoln Way) for this regular 1st Sunday of the month half-day trip. The Strybing Arboretum is a delightful section of Golden Gate Park, with several micro-habitats attracting a varied array of resi- dent, migrant and vagrant birds. Beginners and all others wel- come. Leaders: Allan Ridley and Helen McKenna (415) 566-3241.

Saturday, January 9, Sandhill Cranes!

We will go to the San Joaquin Delta to see our wintering sand- hill cranes. These are members of the Grus canadensis tabida sub- species, the Greater Sandhill Crane. There are only about 7,000 cranes in the Central Valley pop- ulation. They are among the largest of the sandhills, standing over one meter tall with a

wingspan of two meters. They will make their clacking sounds, and they will dance before our eyes. It will be a sight worthy of photography. We will also see ducks, swans and other wintering birds. Expect icy, damp and fogg}^ weather. Wind possible. Gloves reconamended. We'll buy lunch at some gourmet spot near Isleton; too cold to picnic. Due to limited parking, participation will be by reservation only. The number of cars will be limited. Call leader, Harr)^ Fuller, to reserve a spot and for meeting time and location. (415) 668-8229. (*)

Sunday, January 10,

Upper San Leandro Reservoir, Moraga.

Meet at 9:00 a.m. in the Valle Vista Staging Area for a one-half day trip. Take Hwy. 24 to Orinda and exit on Moraga Hw)^. Continue approximately four miles to Canyon Road. Turn right at the traffic signal and continue 1.2 miles to the Valle Vista Staging area on the left. Grassy hills, pines, oaks and open water pro- vide varied habitats for land birds and waterfowl. Beginners wel- come. Rain cancels. Leader: Bob Lewis (510) 845-5001. (*)

Wednesday January 14 Mini-Trip To Arrowhead Marsh.

Meet at 9:30 a.m. at the marsh. Take Hw)' 880 (Nimitz) to the Hegenberger Rd. exit. Drive west to Doolittle Drive and turn right. Go a short distance and turn right again onto Swan Way. Turn left

after a block and follow the sign to the marsh. Beginners and all welcome. Leaders: Ajina Wilcox (510)351-9501 and Jean-Marie- Spoelman.

Satirday, January 16,

Palo Alto Baylands.

Meet at 8:00 a.m. Take Hwy. 101 south to Palo Alto; exit at Embarcadero and drive east toward the airport and the Baylands Nature Center. Continue beyond the airport to the duck pond (on the left ) and park at the east end. Bring lunch, scope and clothes appropriate for rain and mud. We should see waterfowl, rails and shorebirds. Trip will end about mid-afternoon. Beginners welcome. Leader: Dan Murphy (415) 564-0074. (*)

Plan Ahead; Februar)^ 6, Panoche Valley, and February 7, Merced Wildlife Refuge and area. Participants will be able to attend either or both trips. Details will be in the Januar)' Gull.

Trip.s marked with a ($) go to parks or other sites which require an entrance fee. Carpooling arrangements will be attempt- ed by leader for trips marked with a (*). Problems, etc.: If you need a ride or can take a passenger (even if a trip is not marked with an (*), if you need informa- tion and have difficulty reaching a field trip leader, if you have suggestions for trips, or if you are interested in leading a trip, call Lillian Fujii (510) 236-4167, Field Trips Committee Chair. »

Improve Your Vision

cike the mystery out of choosing and caring for the right pair of binoculars and clarify the misunderstand- ings that seem to cloud the judg- ment of so many binocular buy- ers and owners. Binoculars are used for one purpose: to improve your view of a distant object, how you plan to use your binocu- lars, and when and where you use them are critical in selecting the right model and maintaining them.

Bring your binoculars to class and learn basic maintenance, repair techniques, and enhance wildlife viewing for years to come. Binoculars are available for loan to those who do not own a pair.

Edgar Lehmann Januar)^ 21 (Thursday)

California Acadamy of Science

415/750-7100

7:00 - 9:00pm |

Audubon Calendars Return to GGAS

Once again we are offer- ing the beautiful Audubon Calendars for the Christmas season and New Years. The 1999 Calendars will be as beautiful as ever. This year we are offering two kinds of wall calendars and the ever- popular Audubon Engagement Calendar. The "Bluebirds and Other Back Yard Songbirds" calendar features birds from across the countr)'. The Wildflower calendar speaks for itself The Audubon

Engagement Diar)' Calendar offers 128 beautiful color photos. We hav^e priced our Calendars to be ver\' afford- able. The wall Calendars are $7.50 each and the eiigage- ment calendars are $8.50 each.

We have onlv a limited

number of these calendars so get them soon. You can get them by coming to the office at 2530 San Pablo Avenue in Berkeley (at Dwight St) or through the mail. We have to charge $2 for postage and handling if you wish us to mail them to you.

Come L)y or give us a call

at 510-843-2222

The Gull / December I99H

The Gull / December 1998

Christmas Bird Counts

^ I i he holiday season is upon I us which means friendly I gathering, good tidings, and, of course, the Christmas Bird Counts!! Let's hope for good weather, lots of birds, and fun fellow birders. Golden Gate Audubon's two counts, Oakland and San Francisco, are well along in preparation.

The Oahland count is on Sunday^ December 20.

Extending from Point Isabel in the north to south of the Oakland Airport and from the Bay to Lafayette Reservoir, the Oakland count circle encompasses a vari- ety of habitats that always pro- duce a good number of species. Bird for the clay with a group or be a feeder watcher in the com- fort of your own home.

The San Francisco count is on Tuesday, December 29.

The circle covers the northern San Francisco Peninsula from San Bruno to the Golden Gate. Join

one of the teams for a full day of birding; help for a few hours by covering your neighborhood park, be a mid-day birder for a few hours in downtown San Francisco, or watch in your back- yard for as little as 30 minutes.

Both counts welcome more par- ticipants, so if you are interested but haven't signed up, phone the appropriate contacts listed below. Folks who let us know early are very much appreciated by the compilers! Neither count will be able to place counters at the last minute. If you call after mid- December, some areas may be filled. If you have sent in a form but haven't received an assign- ment yet, you can expect to hear from us soon. We look forward to seeing you in the field and at the count day dinner.

Oakland CBC; Joelle Buffa & Clyde Morris (510) 494-1098

San Francisco CBC; Alan Hopkins (415) 664-0983 1

Docents

Needed

Friends of the Alameda Wildlife Refuge is pleased to announce that it is expanding its Docent Outreach Program The goal of the program is to work collaboratively with the local Alameda commu- nity in establishing an edu- cational opportunity for ele- mentary school students to learn about the Alameda National Wildlife Refuge.

The program's activities will center on classroom, experi- ential and in-the-field edu- cation and volunteerism.

FAWR is currently recruit- ing classroom docents and will begin offering the pro- gram to classrooms within the next two months. An exciting component of the program is FAWR's new relationship with two Healthy Start Collaboratives in Alameda. These partner- ships will help further the Program's outreach into the schools and community. For information on the Docent Outreach Program, includ- ing docent recruitment, please call Lani Alo, Docent Outreach Coordinator, at (510) 748-2376. ,Tt

Backyard Birder

hy Ahy l^mlclicli

reeding your fealhered Iriends has some side effects we sometimes don't anticipate. When night faffs all sorts of critters gather to har- vest the leftovers: raccoons steal my suet feeder, attempting to pry it open for a calorie-filled snack; skunks poke their sharp noses into the ground or my planters, digging for scrumptious grubs and worms; and those creepy roof rats scavenge everything. Daytime brings those pesky rodents with the furry tails: the dreaded eaters of birdseed, squirrels.

A friend loaned me a copy of a book 1 can recommend for tips to discourage, even to thwart, these clever creatures. "Outwitting Squirrels (101 clever strategems to reduce dramatically the egregious misappropriation of seed from your birdfeeder by squirrels)" by Bill Adler, Jr. It is hilarious and I'm sure you will be able to relate to his tales.

In our household, my husband has taken a veiq^ strong dislike to "our" squirrels. He takes very personally their methods of out- witting a more intelligent being. First he used wire hangers to sus- pend feeders from tree branches. His first mistake was hanging a feeder from a tree. Squirrels love trees, play in trees, sleep in trees, make nests in trees, mate and give birth in trees, even eat trees. The long wires holding the feeder were the equivalent of fire poles to slide down to their snacks. So he greased the wire, making the trip faster for them. Then he decided clear fishing line would foil them. In a day or so, they simply bit the line and the feeder dropped, spilling their meals for

them. We hung the feeders on long rods from the deck railing.

It was just like Disneyland for them as they jumped from railing to feeder, swinging back and forth while munching. The human then erected a "barrier" of plastic bird netting-which they went around but used as a trampoline when escaping the yelling of the human. Our one "squirrel-proof" feeder is nicely constructed so that he can hang upside down on the cage while he eats, reaching in with his paw to select a morsel. The metal baffle on our pole- mounted feeder serves as a per- fect springboard to get to the mesh cylinder holding his favorite delicacy, sunflower seeds. He has even pushed so hard with his nose that the mesh is dented and has a hole in it.

As you can see, it is WAR. The two squirrels in the back yard are much more athletic and wily than the less talented pair in the front.

I have a small wire "squirrel proof" feeder in front and I actu- ally trapped one of the intellectu- ally challenged group for a half an hour. I went out yelling at it, expecting it to escape quickly.

But the metal surrounding the tube was too narrow for his head except in one spot and it took him awhile to find that space. 1 actually felt sorr)^ for the poor thing as it screamed with terror of me.

The search is on for a fur foil- ing feeder. Since we are SUP- POSED to be smarter. I'm sure we will figure it out. In the mean- time, I'm concentrating on feed- ing more of the 'little" birds. Squirrels don't like thistle unless they are virtually stai-ving. And 1 can suspend the suet and finch

wire cages from skinny branches to foil the little devils. J'hey have chewed my plastic tube feeder and my satellite globe feeder, so those are gone now. Only metal feeders from now on! I'm tempt- ed to try the feeder that gives squirrels electric shocks when they land on it. And I'm sprin- kling red pepper flakes in my planters to foil the diggers (rac- coons, skunks and squirrels). Ah! Nature in all its finery! Bill Adler, Jr. suggests a poster of Clint Eastwood in the yard. ("Go ahead. Make my day!") Haven't tried that yet. Nor have we tried any kind of weapon, trap, or poi- son. Darned nature lovers!

Speaking of feeders, I would like to remind you that with win- ter on the way, it's time to clean your feeders well, drx' completely, then re-fill. Watch during rainy periods that the seed doesn't get wet and mildew. Toss it out and clean feeders again. Then ma)'be re-position your feeder to a place less open to the elements. To protect the feeding birds from predator)' birds, find a less open area for )'our feeders. Ifs nice to have feeders with large capacities, but in wintertime don't fill them completely so seed isn't wasted. Between bird poop, communica- ble bird diseases, mildew and wet seed, your birdies can get ven' sick. AND be sure you wash )'our own hands thorough!)' after han- dling bird feeders. Then sit doAvn and enjoy the show. You may decide to give up and build a playground for squirrels. Then you could enjoy the antics of those squirrels along with the bird parade. i

The GliII / Di’ermbcr

The Gull / December 1998

Action Alert

Continued from page 1

the Neighborhood Parks Council at (415) 621-3260.

The resolution to adopt the Parks Plan is tentatively sched- uled for a hearing at the Supervisors' Parks and Recreation Committee on December 1st. Write, fax or e-mail to the Committee members;

Amos Brown- fax: 554-7604 e-mail: Amos_Brown@ci.sfca. us Gavin Newsom- fax: 554-5163 e-mail: Gavin_Newsom@ci.sfca.us Sue Bierman- fax: 554-6685 e-mail: Sue_Bierman@ci.sfca. us

And please write to:

Honorable Amos Brown, Chair Parks and Recreation Committee San Francisco Board of Supervisors 401 Van Ness Avenue San Francisco, CA 94102

If you cannot write by december 1st, please write to the full board Before its meeting on december 7th. Address your letter to Gloria L. Young, clerk of the board, and ask her to distribute copies to the board Members.

Refer to File Number 98-0816.

Fell the Supervisors that while the Parks Plan includes many valu- able recommendations, it is glar- ingly deficient in its failure to call for the preservation and enhancement of wildlife habitat in our parks. Before the Supervisors adopt it, the plan

should be amended to include the incorporation, at least by ref- erence, the Biodiversity Goals in the City's Sustainability Plan. The Parks Plan should acknowledge the fact that wildlife watching is a major recreational activity for many San Franciscans as well as visitors, and wildlife observation is an activity proven throughout the world to attract tourists and boost local economies.

The plan should include recom- mendations for:

• Policies and staff training that will result in a cessation of practices harmful to wildlife

• Acquisition and restoration of our remnant natural ecosys- tems

• Biodiversity education for staff

• Interpretive programs for the public

• Wildlife-friendly landscaping and management practices in developed parks as well as natural and naturalistic open spaces

• Natural science to be included in the areas of expertise sought for the Recreation & Park Commission

• Creation of wildlife corridors as well as greenways, and the addition of the Audubon Society and other wildlife advocacy groups to the list of organizations to be included in planning them. |

Gifts and Bequests

James Avila, Franklin & Elizabeth Silver

Birdbox:

Ruth Doty, William & Harriet Fraser, Courtenay Peddle

Memorium:

Winifred Nelson in memory of George Dubail Harriett Bamford Peabody in memor)' of Kathy Plamondon William & Carol Stockbridge in memor)' of Kathy Plamondon Signe Vik in memor)' of Evelyn Litrell

The Society welcomes gifts in general or gifts in honor of or tn memor)' of relatives and friends. Such gifts will be used as specified by the donor or, if unspecified, at the discretion of the GGAS Board of Directors. This includes their use of general GGAS activities or lor special programs of the Society. Please send your gift in the form of a check made out to Golden Gale Audubon Society, 2530 San Pablo Avenue, Suite G, Berkeley, CA 94702.

All gifts are tax deductible. The Society is also appreciative of any bequests. Such oequests should ' specify as recipient the Golden Gate Audubon Society, Inc. All gifts, donations and bequests will be acknowledged in The Gull, as well as personally on behalf of the Society by the Set retary.

the Scenes at Alameda

If}' Daiui Kokiihnn

he ^roup gcUhered oulsido the cleclrified (enec sur- rouiiding the erumbling patch of macadam. To the west, the high-rises of San I'raneiseo, to the east, empty hangers squatted in a row at the edge of the old airfield. It was not the setting one would expect on an Audubon trip, but the Alameda National Wildlife Refuge is situated in an unusually urban place.

Inside the fence, bright bits of oyster shell were scattered about, trucked in over five winters from Point Reyes by Laura Collins. Laura's mission as dedicated pro- tector and biological monitor for the endangered California Least Tern colony at Alameda Point began in 1981. She is not here on this sunny Saturday, but evidence of her devotion to the tiny terns is ever)ovhere. Besides the oyster shells, short lengths of clay pipe, just the right size for a least tern chick to hide in, dot the triangu- lar-shaped parcel. Hiding places become important if you are a tern chick and share your habitat with various raptors, like Northern Harriers and Red-Tailed I lawks.

Alamedan Leora Feeney is also a biologist, and chairperson of the Friends of the Alameda Wildlife Refuge Committee of GGAS. Today, Leora is one of two experts leading an afternoon visit to the temporarily vacant tern colony. Her experience with the colony is as long as Laura's. She and John Luther, another found- ing member of FAWR and a biol-

ogy instructor at the nearby College of Alameda have just spent several morning hours with this eager group of students, mostly residents of Alameda or Oakland. They shared with the class the importance of the national wildlife refuge, and what the establishment of a refuge at Alameda Point means to efforts to improve the status of the endan- gered California Least Tern.

Now they stand on the land that will be the Alameda National Wildlife Refuge. They talk about tent management, wliich mostly involves monitoring the colony for losses from predators, both native and introduced. Leora shares the disturbing report of a recent sighting of an introduced red fox outside the Posey Tube, the arterial into Alameda closest to the refuge. She says one red fox could destroy the entire nest- ing season in one night.

Although the fox couldn't eat all the chicks, the tern parents are so sensitive to predators they would abandon their nests. Small won- der the terns have chosen a site as flat as a plate; it is so they can see

predators ap[)roa(h from a distance.

fhis natural history course in mid-October is the first step for peo- ple interested in becom- ing classroom volun- teers for FAWRi's presen- tations in elementary schools, or natural his- tory guides to lead walks on the refuge. The land designated for the refuge has not yet tran,s- ferred from the Department of the Nav)' to the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service so the public does not yet have open access to the refuge. Regular field trips, led by trained volunteers will have to wait a bit longer. GGAS staff is working hard to gain access for FAWR programs even before the land transfer takes place. Nav\' permission for this visit was received on a case-by-case basis only.

Leora and John look out on the colony grounds, where weeds are beginning to obscure the day pipe and oyster shells in spots. November marks FAWRis 2nd year anniversar)'. To celebrate, Leora, Laura, John, and the FAWR faithful will be back at the colony removing those weeds, sprucing up the grounds in anticipation of the terns' spring homecoming. Getting things just the way the terns like it - bare and beautiful.

Another natural history' course is scheduled for Januan^ 1999.

Call the FAWR office at (510) 748- 2576 to recei\'e the class announcement, i

The Gull / Dcccmhcr \99H

The Gull / December 1998

Observations

by Collin G. Mwphy, Ph.D.

September 26 - October 26, 1998

The outstanding parade of rari- ties across Northern California continued unabated during the past month, with no fewer than 16 CBRC review species (8 non- passerine, 8 passerine) coming through or lingering in our area. The pelagic trips were particularly rewarding for observers. As in the previous report, unusual Wood Warbler species were also very abun- dant.

AAbbrcviations for Observers: SA, Steve Abbott; GB, Grant Ballard; FB, Florence Bennett; IB, Jim Booker; LCh, I.es Chibana; JC, Josiah Clark; 1,C, Luke Cole; CC, Chris Corben; 1 1C, Hugh Cotter; AC, Al Curts; AD, Al De Martini; GD, Gary Deghi; ME, Mark Eaton; LE, Leo Edson; AE, Al Eisner; TE, Todd Esierla; GE, Graham Etherington; GEvv, Gil Ewing; ME, Mike Feighner; GF, George Finger; BF, Brian Fitch; IG, Jim Gain; SG, Steve Glover; SGo, Sarah Gooch; PG, Phil Gordon; TG, Tom Grey; KG, Kevin Guse; AG, Andy Guthrie;

Sll, Steve Hampton; KH, Keith Hansen; EH, Ed Harper; RH, Roger Harshaw; DH, Don Henry; DHo, David Hoffman; JH, Jim Holmes; SHo, Steve Howell; LH, Lisa Hug; IHu, Joan Humphrey; AK, Alan Kaplan; NL, Nick Lethaby; RL, Randy Little; DL, Douglas Long; CL. Calvin Lou; IL, John Luther; DM, David Macintyre; MM, Mike Mammoser; MOB, Many Observ'ersMMa, Matthew Matiessen; MMc, Mack McCormick;

BM, Bert McKee; KM, Kevin McKereghan; GM, Gray Methrington; PM, Peter Metropulos; CM, Carol Miller; MMi, Mark Miller; JM, Joe Morlan; DMu, Dan Murphy; CN, Christy Nelson; DN, Dan Nelson; BN, Bill Noble; NP, Noel Perkins; RR, Richard Redmond; MR, Mike Rogers; JR, loost Romeu; SR, Steve Rottenborn; PS, Paul Saraceni;

DS, Don Schmoldt; DSh, Doug Shaw; DLSh,

Debra Love Shearwater; LS, Larry' Silver; DSi, Dan Singer; BS, Bo Soderstrom; BSp, Bob Spark; RS, Rich Stallcup; GS, Cary Strachen; RT, Ron Thorn;

DT, Dorothy Tohkin; NVV, Nick Whelan; AW, Alan While; JW, jerr)' White; DW, Dan Williams; AWi, Adam W'iner

Abbrevidtion.s for Counties and Others;

ALA, Alameda; ALP, Alpine; AVISP Andrew Molera State Park; BSOL, Big Sur Ornithology Lab; CBRC, California Bird Records Committee; CC, Contra Costa; CCRS, Coyote Creek Riparian Station; GGP, Golden Gate Park; HLIM,

Humboldt; KIN, King; MRN, Marin; MEN, Mendocino; MOD, Modoc; MTY, Monterey; MPRBA, Monterey Peninsula Rare Bird Alert;

PLA, Placer; PRBO, Point Reyes Bird fJbservator)'; PRNS, Point Reyes National Seashore; SBl, San Benito; SF, San Franci.sco; SM, San Mateo; SCL, Santa Clara; SCZ, Santa Cruz; SON, Sonoma; STA, Stanislaus; YOL, Yolo

Albatross to Ducks

Only one Laysan Albatross was reported during the month, on an Oct. 11 trip to the Cordell Banks (Dan Nelson). Also recorded on that day were 60 Black-footed Albatross, a high count for the period (DN, DLSh), with at least 15 more found on other pelagic excursions. The best Phoehasiria sighting was that of a Short-tailed Albatross (Phoebastria albnlnis) found Oct. 26 at the Cordell Banks (AD). This Japanese species, once nearly extirpated by plume hunters, has few post-1 90() CA records (Small, 1994). A most exciting find was a Great-winged Petrel iPkrodroma macroplera), well-seen and photographed 9.5 mi. W. of Pt. Pinos on an Oct. 18 MTY Bay pelagic trip (SHo, DLSh). (Photograph by Stephen J. Davies on Joe Morlan's website). This sighting represents a second or third North American and first Monterey County record for this species, whose range is normally lim- ited to a nearly circumpolar distribu- tion in Southern Hemisphere oceans (Seabirds, Harrison). A rare bayside Northern Fulmar was near Coyote Pt., SM, Oct. 18 (RT). The high count for Pink-footed Shearwater was 500 on an Oct. 18 Monterey Bay pelagic trip (DLSh). Over the period, Monterey pelagic trips yielded 16-18 Flesh- footed Shearwaters (DlSh, AD), 5 were seen at the Cordell Banks (DN, AD), and another was at the Farallones (PRBO fide KH).

A Monterey pelagic trip Oct. 10 viewed a dark-phase Wedge-tailed Shearwater (Puffimis padficus) in Santa Cruz County waters for an hour, and it was seen again the next day, that time in Monterey County waters (DLSh). (Photo by Mike Rogers on Joe Morlan's website). What appeared to be the same dark-morph individual was found again on Oct.

25 (DLSh). California records are extremely few for this tropical species, and it probably represents a

3rd or 4th North American record.

The first 5 Short-tailed Shearwaters of the winter were recorded on an Oct. 21 Monterey Bay pelagic trip (MPRBA). On Oct. 5, a Manx Shearwater (Puffimis puffimis) was seen off the south-east Farallones (PRBO fide KH), and another was sighted Oct. 24-25 on Monterey Bay (AD). One Wilson's Storm-Petrel was found on a Sept. 26 Monterey pelagic trip (MPRBA), and there were 7 at the Cordell Banks Oct. 11 (DLSh), along with 14 Fork-tailed Storm-Petrels (DLSh). High count for Least Storm- Petrels was 12 on Sept. 26 Monterey pelagic trip (MPRBA). On Sept. 26, a Booby sp. flew past Batter)^ East, SF (Mark Eaton). A sub-adult male of the "brewsteri" or Western Pacific race of the Brown Booby (Siila leucogaster) was viewed on the south-east Farallones on an Oct. 12 pelagic trip (BF fide KH) and remained through at least Oct. 24. This tropical species has made several recent visits to Northern California waters, the last being in June.

A Least Bittern at Olema Marsh, MRN, Oct. 11-15 was probably the same bird seen there most of September (RS, KH). A wounded Least Bittern was rescued in San Francisco Oct. 26 (Rich Stallcup). A White-faced Ibis made a rare mountain appear- ance at S. L. Tahoe, ALP, Oct. 3 (TE). A Eurasian Wigeon seen at the Farallones -Sept. 30 held the honor of representing the 400th species recorded there (PRBO fide KH). In other w'ords, almost two-thirds of all species ever documented in California have now been seen at the Farallones. Thank you, plucky observers! Four other Eurasian Wigeons were reported from Marin and Santa Clara counties during the period. The second county record for a Tufted Duck was at the Modesto Sewage Ponds, STA, Oct. 17 (ME). A Harlequin Duck was at Brooks Island, CC, Sept. 27 (SG), another at the Eish

Docks, PRNS, MRN, Sept.25 (RL), and there were 5 at Cilass Reach, MEN,

Oet. 24 (D ll t he only Oldsc^uaw reported was at Brooks Island, CC, Sept. 27 (SG).

Raptors to Murrelets

Sept. 26 was the clay of the Broad- winged Hawk, with one sighted over Angel Island, MRN, Sept. 26 (JC), another on the Earthquake Trail, PRNS, MRN, (MMa), 5 seen from Battery East and West, SF (HC, ME, DMu) and 15 reported from the Marin Headlands Hawkwatch, MRN (]M). A single Swainson's Hawk was found on the Sept. 26 Marin Headlands Hawkwatch (JM). The first fall Ferruginous Hawk for AMSP,

MTY, was recorded Oct. 16 (MPRBA), one was at the Marin Headlands, MRN, Oct. 20 (RS) and there were 2 at AMSP, MTY, Oct. 25 (MPRBA).

Cliamdrius species were much in evidence. Single American Golden- Plovers were at the Modesto Sewage Ponds, STA, Sept. 26 and Oct. 17 (JG, ME) at Spaletta Plateau, PRNS, MRN, Oct. 4 (DS), at the Farallones -Oct. 16 (PRBO fide KH), at Abbott's Lagoon, PRNS, MTY, Oct. 18 (RS) and two were at the Woodland Wastewater Treatment Plant, YOL, Oct. 23 (SH). Twenty Pacific Golden-Plovers were reported over Marin, San Mateo, Sonoma, Stanislaus, and Yolo coun- ties and the Farallones. A Mongolian Plover (Chnradrius nwn- goliis) was discovered in Areata, HUM, Oct. 2-3 (CN). This species is an extremely rare fall transient with only a few Northern California records (Small, 1994). A single Mountain Plover, unusual on the coast, and a 3rd county record, was at Coyote Pt. Co. Pk., SM, Oct 8 (RT).

The Bar-tailed Godwit (I iniosa lapponica) first reported Sept. 12 was still at Ravenswood Preserve, SM, Sept. 27 (RT). A juvenile of this species was at the confluence of Coyote & Alviso Sloughs, SCL, and then crossed

over into Alameda County Oct. 2 (SR). I he first San Benito County record of a Red Knot was at Hollister Sewage Ponds Sc'|)t. 26 (JL). Single Baird's Sandpipers were at New Mendoza Guano Ponds, PRNS, MRN, Sept. 26 (RS), at Carmoday Rd., SON, Sept. 27 (AW), and at Pescadero Marsh, SM, Oct. 4 and 7 (PM), where two were seen Oct. 1 1 (PS). Pectoral Sandpipers were present in good numbers, with at least 72 reports cov'ering Marin, Monterey, Santa Cruz, San Mateo and Sonoma counties. Again this fall, a single Rock Sandpiper was reported from Glass Beach, MEN, Oct. 24 (DT). The first San Benito County record of a Stilt Sandpiper came from the Hollister Sewage Ponds Sept. 26 (JL), there were 3 at the New Chicago Marsh, SCL, Oct. 5 (MM), and another was seen at Rush Creek Wetlands, Novato, MRN, Oct. RS). A Ruff was found at Limatour Lagoon, PRNS, MRN, Oct. 18 (RS fide KH).

The first Alpine County record of a Long-tailed Jaeger was at Indian Creek Reservoir Oct. 3 (TE). An adult basic-plumaged Laughing Gull was at the Sausalito Yacht Club, MRN, Oct.

25 (SA), a 4th or 5th county record. A Franklin's Gull was found at Davis Sewage Ponds, YOL, Sept. 26 (JHu), another at CCRS, SCL Sept. 28 (SR), and a third at Kettleman City, KIN, Oct. 17 (SG). A second-summer-third- winter Lesser Black-backed Gull (Lams Jiisais) was at Seaside, MTY, Oct. 17 (MPRBA). An adult of the same species seen in Alviso, SCL, beginning (5ct. 2, was likely the same bird that has wintered here over the past cou- ple of years (SR). Three inland Sabine's Gulls were at North Lake Tahoe, PLA, Oct. 3 (TE), and a Sabine's flyby over Pt. Isabel Oct. 19 was a third record for Contra Costa County (SG). The first Black-legged Kittiwake of the season was recorded on a Monterey Bay pelagic trip Oct. 18 (DLSh) and another was sighted on an Oct. 25 Monterey Bay trip (AD).

Individual Arctic lerns were in San Francisco Bay, SE, Sept. 26 (JC) and at Rodeo Lagoon, MRN, Sept. 27 (JM).

I hrc'e Craveri's Murrelets were seen at the Farallones -Oct. 12 (PRBO fide KH).

Dovc'.s lo Pipits

fhere w'ere two White-winged Doves at AMSP, MTY, Sept. 30 MPRBA), and single birds were reportc'd from Big Sur, MTY Oct. 8 (MPRBA), the Farallones -Oct. 7 (PRBO fide KH), and PRNS, MRN, Oct.

15, 24 and 25 (GF, KM, DM). A Yellow'- billed Cuckoo was found at Big Sur Ornithology Lab (BSOL) at the end of Sept., MTY (JB). A first Stanislaus County record for the Spotted Owl was at Frank Raines Pk. Oct. 17 (ME) and a Black-chinned Hummingbird w'as at BSOL, MTY, Oct. 16 (MPRBA).

Two Yellow'-bellied Sapsuckers, the Eastern U.S. cousins of our Red-bel- lied Sapsucker, were reported; one at Upton and Kobbe Sts., SF, Sept. 27 (JC) and the other at the UC Botanical Gardens, ALA, Sept. 50 (BS). A Red- naped Sapsucker, unusual on the coast, was at Briones Regional Park,

CC, Cct. 8 (AK). A Cordilleran Flycatcher and a Dusky Flycatcher were at the Nunes Ranch, PRNS,

MRN, Sept. 26 (RS), and another Dusky was on the Farallones -Oct. 7 (PRBO fide KH). At least 15 Single Least Flycatchers were reported over Marin, Monterey, San Mateo, San Francisco counties and the Farallones.

A Vermilion Flycatcher, an extremely rare fall visitant to Northern California, was at AMSP, MTY, Oct. 16 (MPRBA). An Eastern Phoebe was at the Half Moon Bay Airport, SM, Oct.

I I (BM).

Pt. Sur, MTY, hosted a Plumbeous Y'ireo Sept. 50 (MPRBA), and other single birds were at at Crespi Pond,

PacVic Grove, MTY, Oct. 7 (MPRBA),

AMSP, MTY, Oct. 10 (MPRBA), and Ano Nuevo State Reserx e, SM, Oct. 24

Continued on page 10

The C'lull / December 1998

The Gull / December 1 998

Observation6

Continued from page 9

(PM). A Blue-headed Vireo (Vireo soli- lariiis) was banded at BSOL, MTY,

Sept. 28 (MPRBA), one was at the Farallones ~ Sept. 30. and another -Oct. 11. Another report came from Pine Gulch creeek, Bolinas, MRN, Oct. 26 (KH). A Philadelphia Vireo (Vireo philadelphiciis) was reported Sept. 30 at the Mendoza Ranch, PRNS, MRN (RH), and another individual was at Pine Gulch Creek, Bolinas, MRN, Oct.

1 (GB fide KH). Another of this species was seen at Areata, HUM, Oct. 2-3 (CN), and still one other at Princeton, SiVl, Oct. RT). This very rare but regular fall transient from the Eastern U.S. was also reported in Sonoma County early in Sept, (details in Nov. Gull). Single Red-eyed Vireos were seen at Princeton, SM, Oct. 3 (RT), at Ft. Funston, SF, Oct. 4 (DSh), and at Tunitas Creek Rd., SM, Oct. 14 (GD). The Fighthouse trees at PRNS, MRN, hosted a Yellow-green Vireo (Vireo flavoviridis) Sept. 28 (RS). A sec- ond of this species was seen Sept. 30- Oct. 4 at Fort Funston, SF, (BF, FC and MOB), a third was at Moss Beach, SM, Oct. 4 (PM). This tropical vireo is a very rare post-breeding fall visitor, with only 2-3 records per year in the state (Small, 1994).

The Gray Cathird (Duiuelella caroli- nensis) reported earlier in Sept, still remained at Campbell Cove, SON, up until at least Oct. 2 (DN), and another was at Upper Bidwell Park, BUT, Oct.

8 (RR). In addition, a first SM county record for the species was at Tunitas Creek Rd. Oct. 23 (AVVi). A Sage Thrasher was at MacKerricher State Park, MEN, Sept. 26 (DT) and other individuals were seen at the Farallones -Sept. 30, Oct. 7 and 12 (PRBO fide KH) and at the Fish Docks, PRNS, MRN, Oct. 11 (RS). Single Brown Thrashers, rare but regular fall visitants, were at the Lighthouse trees, PRNS, MRN, Oct. 6 (FB) and on Gazos Creek Rd., SM, Oct. 23 (CO.

A White Wagtail (Motacilla Iiajeiis) was at Big Sur, AMSP, MTY (MPRBA).

This species is found in Western Alaska and Siberia and is extremely rare here, with only one previous Northern California record. Possibly even more exciting was the first state and possibly the first lower-48 record of an Olive Backed-Pipit (Aiillnis hodgsoiii), a Siberian species, banded at the Farallones Sept. 26, where it remained until Sept. 27 (PRBO fide KlD.Single Red-throated Pipits were at Limatour Lagoon, PRNS, Oct. 18 (RS fide KH) and at the Hall Ranch, PRNS, MRN, Oct. 23 (JH).

Wood Warblers to Orioles

Again this period, the warbler sightings were extensive (see chart), including three CRBC review species: the Golden-winged Warbler (Vermivora chrysoptera), which is a ver)' rare spring and fall transient from the Northeastern U.S. with about 2-3 annual records, the Mourning Warbler (Oporornis Philadelphia), a bird of the Eastern U.S. and Canada and is a rare fall transient, and the Painted Redstart (Myioboriis picliis), a bird of Mexico, Southern Arizona and Southern New Mexico, a rare but somewhat regular California visitor with - 5 records per year, but very rarely found in Northern California (Small, 94). Three of the warbler species were too numerous to report in detail: There were 20 Tennessee Warblers seen over MRN, MTY, SF,

SM, and SCL counties and the Farallones, 25 Chestnut-sided Warblers in ALA, MRN, MTY, SM, SF, SCL, and SON counties and the Farallones, and approximately 100 Palm Warblers in MRN, MTY, SF, SM, SCL, and SON counties and the Farallones!

A Summer Tanager was in a rare inland location in Cedarville, MOD, Oct. 6-1 KSGo). For the second time this year, a Scarlet Tanager (Piramja olivacea), a rare coastal transient, was reported from Pt. Reyes, MRN, Sept. 30, at the Fish Docks (RS). Single

American Tree Sparrows were found in three locations: at AMSP, MTY, Oct. 16 (MPRBA), the Farallones -Oct. 6 (PRBO fide KH), and at Keith's Gallery, Bolinas, MRN, Oct. 18 (KH). Large numbers of Clay-colored Sparrows were seen, with at least 64 reports over CC, MRN, MEN, MTY, SM, SF, SCL, and SON counties and the Farallones. Single Brewer's Sparrows were at the Farallones -Sept. 28 and 30 (PRBO fide KH), at New Willows, PRNS, MRN, Sept. 30 (SH), and at AMSP Oct. 14 and 17 (MPRBA). Two Vesper Sparrows were recorded in the Presidio, SF, Sept. 30 (JC) and single birds were at AMSP, MTY, Oct. 3 (MPRBA), at the Farallones -Oct. 12 (PRBO fide KH), at Tomales Bay, MRN, Oct. 16 (BN). Additional small numbers were reported on their normal wintering grounds in the Panoche Valley, SBT, Oct. 15 (DLSh).

Individual Lark Buntings were reported from Gazos Creek, SM, Sept. 29 (GS fide BM), Ft. Bragg, MEN, Sept. 50 (JW), at the Farallones -Sept. 30 (PRBO fide KH), near Chimney Rock, PRNS, MRN, Oct. 1 (MMi), near Silver Creek Ranch, SBT, Oct. 15 (DLSh). A Nelson's Sharp-tailed Sparrow was at the Carmel R. mouth, MTY, Oct. 1 (MPRBA) and another was sighted at the Farallones Oct. 5 (PRBO fide KH).

A total of 28 Swamp Sparrows were seen over MRN, MTY, and SM coun- ties and the Farallones, whereas there were at least 69 reports of White- throated Sparrows over ALA, MRN, MTY, SF, SM, and SON counties and the Farallones. Calcarius species were also well-represented, with as many as 15 Lapland Longspurs concentrat- ed near a plowed field near the North Beach turnoff, PRNS, MRN, Oct. 18-26 (RS, JM, MOB) and one sighting at Ano Nuevo State Reserve, SM Oct. 8 (BM). Chestnut-collared Longspurs also fiivored the PRNS location with 1-5 birds at the North Beach turnoff Oct. 18-25 (JM, MOB) and one report

from Ihc Fardlloiu's ~ Od. I6(PRB() fide KID.

One Rose-breasled Gro.sbeak came U) the Nunes Ranch, PRNS, MRN,

Sept. 27 (DVV), and one was at the Carmel R„ MTY, Sept. 30 (MPRBA). Others were at the Farallones ~ Sept. 50 and Oct. 7 (PRBO fide KID, at Pine Gulch Creek, MRN (Kll DATE, at Stewens Creek, SM, Oct. 8-10 (MR, TG, SR), and at AMSP, MTY, Oct. 12 (BM). Single Blue Grosbeaks were at Campbell Cove, SON, Sept. 30 (DN), at AMSP, MTY, Oct. 2 (MPRBA), and at Crespi Pond, Pacific Grove, MTY, Oct. 18 (MPRBA). An immature Painted Bunting (Passcriiia dris) was reported from the Fish Docks, PRNS, MRN, Sept. 29 (GEw). As usual, the possibili- ty of escapee status for this species cannot be ruled out.

Two Bobolinks were reported from Wilder Ranch State Park, SCZ, Sept. 26 (iVlPRBA), and another two were seen -Sept. 28 at the Farallones; one was at the Farallones -Sept. 30 (PRBO fide KH). Individual birds were also at Big Sur, MTY, Oct. 2 (MPRBA), at Pacific Grove Oct. 7 (MPRBA), at Redwood City, SM, Oct. 11 (RT) and at AA4SP, iVITY, Oct. 16 (MPRBA). Single Orchard Orioles were reported from Middle L., GGP, SF, Sept. 26 (PG,) at the Fish Docks, PRNS, MRN, Sept. 29 (KH), Big Sur, AITY, Sept. 30 (MPRBA), the Presidio, SF, Oct. 2 (JR), Drake's Beach, PRNS, MRN, Oct. 3 (FCh), at AMSP, MTY, Oct. 9-12 and 14 (MPRBA). Baltimore Orioles, representing the common Eastern U.S. [Icterus] species, were seen in several locations; AMSP, MTY, Sept. 28 and Oct. 17 (MPRBA), Pine Gulch Creek, MRN, Sept. 27 (KH) and Portola & Rodiguez, SF, Sept. 26, 28 (JC, SG), the PRNS Fighthouse, MRN, Oct. 1 (RS), the Farallones -Sept. 28 and -Oct. 7 (PRBO fide KH), and the Carmel R., MTY, Oct. 12,13 (BM). 1

Wiirblt'r Si^htin^.s

(•oltlen-ii'iiuji’tl lUirbli-r (\'miiiivi(i (iirisoplmi)

-Sept. 2H i.ir.illoiK S I’KIiO li(l<- Kll

VifY;iiii(i'.v H'tirhU-r

Srpl. 26-27 ( ,imu-l K., Ml Y Ml’KBA

Sc'pt.iH (2)AMSI'MIY JB

0(1. S I’riiucton, SM CiD

l.iiif's yVnrhIi'r

Sept. 26 Big Sur, MTY JB

IS'orlheni IViriild

0( t. 10 Big Sur, MTY MPKBA

/Uaijiiolia H'nrbler

S('|)t. 26 Tt. l unston, ST CL

Sc'pt. 27,30 Owl Ccinyon, SON DN

ScpI. 29 Gazos Ck., SM BM

-Sept. 50 Farallones PRBO fide Kll

Oct, I Big Sur, MTY MPRBA

Ocl. I Rancho tie Osu, SCZ MPRBA

Oi l. 2,5 Owl Canyon, SON DN, KG

0(1.4 Muir Beach, MRN Rich Slallcup

Ciipe May Warbler

Sept. 20-27 Middle Lake, GGP, SF 1 1C

(lirsl SF city record) Sept. 27-28 Pacifi( (.rove, MTY JB

Sept. 28 Farallones PRBO (Ide KI I

llbuk-aiul-n'bile Warbler

Sepl. 26	Moon (ilow Dairy, Ml Y	MPRBA
Sepl. 26	banded <il BSOI., MFY	MPRBA
Sepl. 27-28 Mendoza Ram h, PRNS,	MRN DW
Sc\|)l. 28	Billinas, MRN	KH
Sepl. 29	Presidio, SF	IK fitlejf
Sepl. 30	Pi Sur, Ml Y	MPKBA
Sc()l. 30	Sdioolhse fiaysla(ks, PRNS, MRN SH
0(1. t	1 1. Mason, SI'	K
0(1. 2	Banded al BSOI., MTY	MPKBA
0(t. 2,5,7	Print cion, SM	NL, MOB
Ocl. 5,6,8	AMSP, MTY	.MPRBA
0(1. 7	Owl Canyon, SON	III
Ocl. 7	Nal. Bridges St. Pk.,SCZ	B.M
0(1. 9	Carmel R., MTY	.MPKBA
0(t. 10	Pine Gult h Creek, MRN	RS
0(t. 14-22 Print elon, SM	GD, ,MOB

Aiiieritaa Redilarl

Sept. 27,29 Drake's Monument, PRNS,

MRN AWi, FB

Sept. 27 Ft. l unston, SF DMu

-Se()t, 28 (5) Farallones PRBO fide Kll

-Sept. 50 Farallones PRBO fide Kll

Sept, 50 Drake's Beach, PRNS, MRN

Jlf fide SI I

Sept. 50 Camphell Cove, Bodega, SON DN

Hlaek-lliroaled Blue Warbler

Sept. 27 Nunes Ranch, PRNS, MRN AWi Sept. 27-29 Ft. Funston, SF JR

-Sept. 28 Farallones PRBO fide KH

Sept. 29 Fish Docks, I’RNS, MRN GEw

Sept. 29 (2) Fish Docks, PRNS, MRN FB

Sept. 50 Road Forks Pook PRNS, MRNRH Sept. 30 New Willows, PRNS, MRN

JFI fide SH

Sept. 50,Oct.l Ft. Funston, SF

JC, LC -Sept. 30 Oct. 2 Oct. 2 Oct. 2 Oct. 2,3

Oct. 4

Farallones PRBO fide KH

(2) Fish Docks, PRNS, MRN LE Princeton, SM NL

Campbell Cove, SON DN

Owl Canyon, Bodega, SON

DN, KG

Mendoza Ranch, PRNS, MRN

Ott, 2	Francisco a Larkin above	Ba\-, SF
		JC
Oct. 2	Owl Canyon, SON	DN
Oct. 2	Hole-in-the-llead, SON	DH
Oct. 2,5	Princelt)!!, SM	NL, AWi
Oct. 6	(5) Wright's Beach, SON	DH
Oct. 6	Gazos Ck. Rd., SM	BM

Prolbonolary Warbler

Sept. 26-Oct.3 North Lake, GGPSF

PG, MOB

Sept, 26 Nunes Ranch, PRNS, MRN RS Sept.28-Oc1.I Keith's Gallers, MRN KH

Oct. I -3 Princeton, SM CM, NL, RF

Oct. 5 GGP, SF DL

Oct. 7,8,12,13 Carmel R.,i\HT MPRBA, BM OcT. 710 Princeton, SM AWi

Oct. 18 Olema Marsh, MRN EH

Oct. 20,25 Drake's Monument, PRNS, MR

FB, DM

Oct. 21 Carmel R., MTT' MPRBA

Black-Ihraaled Green Warbler

Sept. 30 Ft. Funston, SF BF

Sept. 30 Pescadero Ck., SM BM

Oct. 7 L. Merced, SF DMu

Oct. 9,13,14 Princeton, SM AE, GD

Blackburnian W'arbler

-Sepl. 28 Farallones PRBO fide KH

Sept. 28,29 Mendoza Ranch, PRNS, MRN

RS, FB

Sepl. 28-30 Ft. Funston, SF JM, MOB

-Sept. 30 Farallones PRBO fide KH

Oct. 2-4 Ft. Funston, SF NL, AG, CL Ocl, 15 Tunitas Cr('‘ek R(L, SM GD

Prairie Warbler

Sepl. 27 Pacific Grove, MIA’ MPRBA

Oct. 6 Fish Docks, PRNS, MRN FB

Oct. 9,12 AMSP, MTY MPRBA

Ovenbird

Sept. 30 Schoolhse. haystacks, PRNS, MRN

Ocl. 1 PRNS Lighthouse, MRN RS

-Sept. 30 Farallones PRBO fide KH

Oct. 14 Banded at BSOL, MTY MPRBA

.Northern Walertlirnsb

Sept. 26 Carmel R., MTY MPRBA

Sept. 26 BigSur, MTA' MPRBA

Sept, 30 Carmel R., MIT MPRBA

Sept. 30 Banded at BSOL, MTY MPRBA

Oct. I (2) Carmel R., MTY MPRBA

Ocl. 20,21 Environ. Educ. Center, SCL

MPRBA

.Mourning Warbler (Opowriiu: pliilaMpliiiil Sept. 28 ' AMSP, MTV JB

Painted Redstart i.tlyiohoni.'i piclus)

Sept. 30 Lighthouse, JH, SH fide RS

Nunes Ranch PRNS, MRN Sept. 28,30 Hawk Hill, MRN BSp fide DH,

Oct. 2 Fish Docks, PRNS, MRN JC, RS

Bay-breasted U’nrbler

Sept, 28 PRNS Lighthou.se, MRN RS

Oct. 16 Feather R., Oroville, BL'T RS

The Gull / December 1998

Jefferson Elementary Chickadees

ROSTER

he Chickadee Club at Jefferson Elementary School in Berkeley needs volunteers to take small groups of children and their par- ents on short weekend walks in Berkeley to look at and learn about birds.

Last year about 300 children and parents from this K - 5 school participated in winter and spring walks. They saw winter residents and spring migrants in

Tilden Park at jewel Lake and Lake Anza and at Aquatic Park and the Berkeley Marina. Some children also joined Audubon members for the Christmas Bird Count in December.

As the science teacher here at Jefferson, 1 know that the chil- dren are tremendously excited about the Chickadee Club and eager to get back in the field.

As a group leader you will not only be having a good time, but also encouraging children who are interested and motivated to learn.

Each club member and a responsible adult will be able to participate in both a winter and a spring walk of about 2 hours.

Please volunteer by calling me, John Poole at (510) 549-0784 or at school at (510) 644-6299. 1

Exploring an Owl Pellel al Jewel Lake.

Welcome

New

Members

As a member of Nalional Audubon Society, you are automatically enrolled in the local chapter, Golden Gate Audubon Society. Chapter benefits include receipt of The Gull, access to field trips and programs, and the opportunity to volunteer. Call the office if you have any questions.

Golden Gale Audubon Society

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Rirri RN ScRVic iL Ri qi’i sti d

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President Alan Hopkins, '00

First Vice President

Recording Secretar)' Leslie Lethridge, '99 Corresponding Secretary

Pat Gannon, '99

Treasurer

West Bay Directors Hugh Cotter, '98 East Bay Directors Leora Feeney, '99 Carolyn Kolka, '98 Michael Larkin, '99

D i recto r-a t-La rge Standing Committee Chairs Education: Jean Lucken

(510) 530-4184

Field Trips: Lillian Fujii

(510) 256-4167

Finance: Mary Foley

Conserc'ation: (510) 843-2222

Development:

Hospitality: Ann Howard

Membership:

Panama Committe Chair: Miles McKey (5)0) 652-5854 Program: Terr)' Schmitt

(415) 282-0261 Publicity: Becca Freed (510) 549-3235 Gull Editor: John Gibbons

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Observations: Collin G. Murphy, Ph.D.

(510)845-2565

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Executive Director: Arthur Feinslein (510)845-2222

Northern California Bird Box:

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The Gull -- ISSN 0164-971X

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