May 2010

Volume XXXVI, Issue 5 ATLANTA AUDUBON SOCIETY

Duck Box Yields Rare Find I N S I D E

By Dave Butler Speaker Series.....................2
As a great example of AAS’s collaboration with other local
organizations, the Friends of Constitution Lakes, (led by Atlanta President’s Perch.................3
Audubon board member Joy Carter), and DeKalb County Natural Secret Life of Birds ..............3
Resources Management, (represented by Conservation Chair, Dave
Butler), installed three duck boxes at Constitution Lakes, a 125-acre Field Notes - February.........4
park in southwest DeKalb County. The duck boxes were built and
donated by former AAS board member Art Hurt. Field Trips.............................5
Several of the “Friends” checked the boxes in late March and, lo and Bird Collision Brochure ........6
behold, a Hooded Merganser was settled on her eggs in one of the
boxes. According to the experts, this is a rare find so we are A Million Thanks..................6
extremely proud of providing this duck with a safe nesting space at Volunteer Opportunities.......6
the lakes. It looks like the other boxes may be occupied as well, most
likely by Wood Ducks. Wild in Roswell ...................7
A good home for a rare find, thanks to
AAS and friends Special thanks to Art for the boxes, Joy for pushing us to get them up Bartram Workshop ..............7
Photographer: Eddie Klest this year, and Eddie Klest for the boat; all soon to be proud
“grandparents.” Tree ID Workshop ................7
Coyotes, Cats, & Cardinals ..8
Long-range Planning for AAS Book Review .......................9
The Atlanta Audubon Board of Directors authorized the development of a long-range plan at its meeting
on Feb. 9. The decision was made after a ten-minute presentation by Workshop Registration ........9
Carl Tyler, a former board member. He pointed out that AAS reached
important benchmarks in the past five years. Under the leadership of Classifieds..........................10
three-time president Georgann Schmalz, the Society initiated the Destin Bound? ........................11
Master Birder program that continues to be an important source of
board members and officers. In 2005 AAS held an executive retreat at Membership........................11
the recently enhanced facilities of the Charlie Elliott Wildlife Area. A
single decision made that gathering important to Atlanta Audubon. We “Hmmm”............................12
decided to hire an Executive Director.
The following President, Kelly Hopkins, formed a search committee ATLANTA
that selected Catharine Kuchar as our first Executive Director. Shortly
thereafter a group of board members formulated AAS’s first Strategic AUDUBON SOCIETY
Plan, another milestone in the Society’s development. An updated plan
is ready for approval by the board that will carry us through 2012. 4055 Roswell Road
Now Atlanta Audubon’s offices are beyond anything we have ever
known. Additional staff administer the Society very effectively. More
Atlanta, GA 30342
recently they are developing an educational program that extends our
bounds. Atlanta Audubon is more fun than ever!
AAS is also poised to make more of a difference than it ever has. But AAS Education Center and pond
what will this difference be? Where is Atlanta Audubon headed? The 678.973.2437
board authorized a Task Force on Long-Range Planning to address
these questions. Given the recent revision of the AAS Mission Statement, the time is right! At the April
www.atlantaaudubon.org
board meeting Carl, who volunteered to serve as task force chair, presented a proposal on how to
proceed for board consideration, modification, and approval. Since the proposal calls for a group that
includes both board and general AAS members, let Carl know if you are interested in serving. He can be
reached at [email protected].
GOS RARE BIRD ALERT
770.493.8862
 Board of Directors SPEAKER SERIES EVENT
2010
OFFICERS
Conservation Planning for At-Risk Species
President Carol Hassell
770.945.3111 Thursday, May 20, 7:00 PM-9:00 PM
[email protected]
President-elect Vacant
Co-Treasurers
Location: AAS Conservation and Education Office
Ellen Miller
404.847.5260 4055 Roswell Road, Atlanta, GA 30342
[email protected]
Tom Painter During the last 20 years, we have seen the advent of conservation plans
404.524.8833
[email protected] for waterbirds, shorebirds, and of course landbirds, based on the North
Recording Secy Mark Jernigan
404.298.8825
American Waterfowl Management Plan, and some “early” successes since
[email protected] 1990. These successes have come largely from the collaboration between
DIRECTORS conservation planning and scientific research. There is no doubt that the
Conservation Dave Butler
404.580.3917
[email protected]
relationship between the two strategies is mutually beneficial. However,
Education Vacant at times the association can be a bit similar to the chicken or the egg
Field Trips Stanley Chapman scenario.
[email protected]
Communications Vacant The research component of conservation planning is used to identify the
Public Relations Beth Giddens resource that limits the imperiled species by gathering the pertinent
770.792.3712
[email protected] biological information. These results lead to recommendations for
JoAnn Jordan
678.488.8022 management practices, which are then evaluated by monitoring their
[email protected] effects. The two aspects are dynamic, adapting to the needs of the
Volunteers Vacant Chuck Hunter in Ecuador
Photographer: Peg Gallagher specific issue at hand. These three components of adaptive resource
AT LARGE
Joy Carter
management - research, management, and monitoring - keep the research
404.622.0605 and management finely tuned to the specific needs of the target species.
[email protected]
Jay Davis These processes are easily monitored within our borders, on U.S. soil. However, what happens to
404.624.4973
[email protected] the plan when the problem “migrates” outside of the U.S. and onto foreign land without the same
Pam Higginbotham conservation goals? Or, how do we respond when a species’ population size and range become
770.939.3592
[email protected] severely reduced? The Swallow-tailed Kite and Short-tailed Hawk are two species whose
Harriette Hoyt management scope has been expanded and then adapted, through a series of applied-research
770.650.8501
[email protected] projects designed to optimize management and inform conservation planning.
David Kuechenmeister
404.822.8089 Ken Meyer and Chuck Hunter have been working hand-in-hand to tackle conservation risks and
[email protected]
will help us understand the dynamic relationship between research and management of at-risk
Victor Williams
Earthshare Representative species.
770.423.1012
[email protected] Ken is the founder and director of the Avian Research and Conservation Institute of Florida and
STAFF
Executive Director Catharine Kuchar an associate professor at the University of Florida. He has dedicated his life to studying the
678.973.2437
[email protected] biology of vulnerable species such as Short-tailed Hawks,
Education Coordinator Emily Toriani-Moura Swallow-tailed Kites, Great White Herons, and White-crowned
678.973.2437
[email protected] Pigeons among others.
Administrative Coordinator Sally Davis
678.973.2437 Chuck serves as the Chief for Planning and Resource
[email protected]
Management for the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Refuges, National
Website
Jim Flynn Wildlife Refuge System, Southeast Region. For over 15 years, he
[email protected]
has been involved in the development of southeastern U.S.
Wingbars Manager
Diane Hawkins-Cox conservation plans. He presently works on implementing
404.909.9095
[email protected] recommendations across the Southeast on National Wildlife
Wingbars Editor
Susan Milne
Refuges, as well as assisting other State and Federal agency
404.502.5496 partners.
[email protected]
Proofreading Don’t miss this opportunity to hear from two truly dedicated
Steven Phenicie
770.849.0391 conservationists and the way in which their organizations have
[email protected]
Design & Layout
shared this vital mission.
Copy Preparation 770.939.2002
[email protected] The monthly meeting and speaker presentation will begin at 7:30
Newsletter deadline is the first of the month PM. Come early at 7:00 PM to meet the speakers and get to know Ken Meyer holding a Short-tailed Hawk in
for material to be published
the following month. other AAS members and bird enthusiasts. This meeting is open to Florida
Please submit articles as MS-Word to
[email protected]. the public.
Email attachments, if possible.
Wingbars is the official newsletter of Atlanta
Audubon Society and is published 11 times a
year. We feature news, upcoming events,
meetings, field trips and projects. We hope you Mission Statement:
will join us. Opinions expressed are those of the
authors and do not necessarily reflect policies
of the Atlanta Audubon Society.
Protecting Georgia’s birds and the habitats that sustain them
through education, conservation and advocacy.
2 Atlanta Audubon Society
 President’s Perch
by Carol Hassell

Do No Harm
The birders whom I’ve had the privilege of meeting since I became interested in this fascinating activity strike me as being truly
fine people. Most of them share a passion for and excitement about birds, naturally, but they also are concerned and aware of
the importance of conservation that can positively affect birds (and, thereby, other animals and plants). They take steps to learn
about the seasonally changing needs and activities of birds.
Every once in a while, though, we should all step back and assess how WE may impact birds in the field. It’s up to each and
every birder, regardless of the reason for his or her interest in the activity, to be aware of this need. A quick scan of the
American Birding Association’s Code of Ethics could be summarized: “Do no harm.”
The Code states, “In any conflict of interest between birds and birders, the welfare of the birds and their environment comes
first.” With that in mind, the precepts relating directly to impact on birds are common sense, including:
• To avoid stressing birds or exposing them to danger, exercise restraint and caution during observation, photography, sound
recording or filming. Use artificial light sparingly. Limit use of recordings to attract birds; don’t use them at all if the species
is Threatened, Endangered, of Special Concern, or rare in your area.
• Stay well back from nests, nesting colonies, roosts, display area, and important feeding sites.
• Keep habitat disturbance to a minimum.
There is more to the Code, but these concepts seem to me to form the basis for any activity in the field. Perhaps a periodic
review of the entire code at www.aba.org/about/ethics.html should be something each of us does – similar to our habit of
reviewing our bank or investment account statements. For birders, such thoughtfulness could be considered a small investment
in the future – of birds and their habitats.

The Secret Life of Birds

Tens of thousands of web watchers have been keeping tabs day and night on a barn owl nest box in San Marcos, California.
Bird lovers Carlos and Donna Royal installed the box, complete with three webcams, and started streaming the video on the
Internet after a barn owl they dubbed Molly moved in. So many people tuned in that it attracted local and national news
coverage. Never have so many been so fascinated by watching baby birds hawk up owl pellets! If you want the inside story on
Molly, her mate McGee, and owlets Max, Pattison, Austin and Wesley (and an egg that didn’t hatch which some wags call
“Dudley”), go to www.ustream.tv/theowlbox.

Carlos in an online chat with schoolchildren Max, Molly and Pattison Waiting for Mommy

Molly strikes a pose Getting some brotherly advice Molly grabs a rodent for lunch

May 2010 3
 February Field Notes by Terry Moorez

GEORGIA AREA reports included a BACHMAN’S SPARROW in

Burke Co. on 14 Feb. (JFl), a GRASSHOPPER
After such an exciting January, it GEESE THROUGH SPOONBILLS – A ROSS’S
SPARROW in Macon Co. on 4 Feb. (PR), two
was only to be expected that GOOSE was a good find in Carroll Co. on 1 Feb.
HENSLOW’S SPARROWS at Paulk’s Pasture on 5
February would turn out to be a (VS). The TUNDRA SWAN previously reported last
Feb. (CM) and three at the same location on 8
rather normal month. And that it month in Floyd Co. was last reported on 20 Feb.
Feb. (JMcN), a LE CONTE’S SPARROW in the
was! We had great reports of (PMcL). Two other TUNDRA SWANS were seen in
Albany area on 27 Feb. (AA), a LINCOLN’S
Sandhill Cranes moving through the the Augusta area on 20 Feb. (LS). Excellent
SPARROW in the Macon area on 13Feb. (TMc)
state and decent numbers of some of the less waterfowl counts included 65 REDHEADS at Bear
and 14 WHITE-CROWNED SPARROWS in Gordon
common waterfowl but that was about it. The Creek Reservoir on 28 Feb. (RH, JN) and 49
Co. on 28 Feb. (NF). GW had a rare combination of
Atlanta area recorded 100 species for the COMMON GOLDENEYES at West Point Dam on 7
two PAINTED BUNTINGS and a single PINE SISKIN
month (average = 103.6) to bring the year to Feb. (MMcS). Thirty-one AMERICAN WHITE
at his feeder in Glenville on 7 Feb. Good blackbird
date list to 123 (average = 118.7). The Georgia PELICANS were seen along the Jekyll Island
counts were 290 RUSTY BLACKBIRDS near
area did better with 197 species (average = Causeway on 3 Feb. (LT). A GREAT CORMORANT
Columbus on 14 Feb. (WC, BBi) and 34 BREWER’S
was discovered at the Walter F. George Dam on
190.7) to bring the year to date list to 215 BLACKBIRDS in Murray Co. on 3 Feb. (JSp). JFe
27 Feb. (WC). Four ROSEATE SPOONBILLS on 4
(average = 214.1). had a male BALTIMORE ORIOLE in the Macon
Feb. were an interesting winter record on Jekyll
area on 13 and 14 Feb. Two PINE SISKINS were
Island (LT et al.).
ATLANTA AREA seen in the Athens area on 20 Feb. (JMcN).
CRANES – There were at least 14 reports of
GEESE THROUGH EGRETS – Five GREATER CONTRIBUTORS – Alan Ashley, Brandon Best, Bill
SANDHILL CRANES totaling about 5500 birds. The
WHITE-FRONTED GEESE remained in Bartow Co. Birkhead, Ken Blankenship, Eric Bowles, Patrick
highest count was the 3000 – 3500 in Gordon Co.
at least through 20 Feb. (KB et al.). A ROSS’S Brisse, Renee Carleton, Ellen Carrie, Rachel Cass,
on 8 Feb. (JSp). The peak days of movement were
GOOSE was reported from the E.L. Huie Land Walt Chambers, Doris Cohrs, Leslie Curran,
from 19 Feb. through 22 Feb.
Application Facility (ELHLAF) in Clayton Co. on 24 Marion Dobbs, Mark Dodd, Nathan Farnau, Jim
Feb. (CL). JSe had an excellent count of 290 SHOREBIRDS THROUGH NUTHATCHES - GK Ferrari, Jim Flynn, Terry Forbes, Mark Freeman,
GADWALLS at the ELHLAF on 10 Feb. Some of reported a good count of 46 AMERICAN AVOCETS Hugh Garrett, Chris Geller, Clay George, Jim
the rarer ducks were seen this month with two on Jekyll Island on 6 Feb. A SOLITARY SANDPIPER Gilreath, Greg Green, Johnnie Greene, Richard
CANVASBACKS at Lake Acworth on 14 Feb. (JG), seen at the Altamaha Waterfowl Management Hall, Eddie Hatchett, Pam Higginbotham, Pierre
five CANVASBACKS at Lake Varner in Newton Co. Area (AWMA) near Darien on 5 Feb. (CM) was Howard, Alison Huff, Brock Hutchins, Lynda
on 19 Feb. (MMcS), 18 REDHEADS at Lake Varner either a rare wintering bird or a very early arrival. Jenkins, Gene Keferl, Tim Keyes, Gordon Knight,
on 21 Feb. (PMcL), five WHITE-WINGED SCOTERS Other interesting shorebird reports included a Rick and Sandy Krause, Carol Lambert, Hal
at Lake Varner on 19 Feb. (MMcS) and a LONG-BILLED CURLEW on Jekyll Island on 8 Feb. Massie, Trey Mccuen, Patty McLean, Joel McNeal,
COMMON GOLDENEYE at Lake Varner on 21 Feb. (JMcN) and 18 PURPLE SANDPIPERS on Tybee Mark McShane, Max Medley, Mary Meyer,
(PMcL) and was previously reported by HG. MF Island on 7 Feb. (JMcN). CG and MDod observed Darlene Moore, Peggy and Terry Moore, Charlie
had an impressive count of 1092 RING-NECKED 100 RAZORBILLS about 7 miles off Brunswick on Muise, James Neves, Karen Osborne, Sandy
DUCKS at Lake Varner on 17 Feb. A rather sizable 10 Feb. for a rare report of this species. A WHITE- Pangle, Pam Potter, Paul Raney, Chuck Saleeby,
count of 42 WILD TURKEYS was made in Paulding WINGED DOVE report came from Darien on 14 Jeff Sewell, Steve Slayton, Joshua Spence, Lois
Co. on 4 Feb. (MW). A GREAT EGRET was a good Feb. (DC). Two BARN OWLS were seen in Gordon Stacey, Vicky Stead, John and Kate Swiderski,
find at the ELHLAF on 19 Feb. (CL et al.). Co. on 13 Feb. by JSp. Single RUBY-THROATED Lydia Thompson, Marty Weems, Gene Wilkinson,
HUMMINGBIRDS were seen in the Macon area for Vicki Williams, Brad Winn, and Stacy Zarpentine.
CRANES – SANDHILL CRANES were very widely most of the month (JFe) and in Valdosta for the .
reported during the month with at least 28 entire month (JSw). A WESTERN KINGBIRD was a
separate sightings totaling approximately 11,000 Terry Moore, 13000 Bucksport Ct., Roswell, GA
good spot in the Brunswick area on 16 Feb. (BW).
birds although I’m sure there was some amount 30075 – [email protected]
A rather early PURPLE MARTIN was seen at the
of duplication in these numbers. The peak Eufaula NWR on 7 Feb. (NF). Two RED-BREASTED
movement appeared to be in the period of 22 – NUTHATCHES were seen in Fannin Co. on 4 Feb.
23 Feb. (JSp) and another had taken up residence at a
NUTHATCHES THROUGH ORIOLES – A RED- Bogart feeder for most of Jan. and Feb. (AH).
BREASTED NUTHATCH was seen at the Mercer WARBLERS THROUGH SISKINS – A NASHVILLE
Wetlands on 17 Feb. by PMcL. The two best WARBLER was first seen at the Phinizy Swamp
counts of RUSTY BLACKBIRDS were 100+ at the around 1 Feb. and then again on 14 Feb. (LS). The
Big Creek Greenway in Alpharetta on 2 Feb. (LC, previously reported VIRGINIA’S WARBLER
KO) and 200 in Lawrenceville on 11 Feb. (BBe). A remained at a Valdosta feeder the entire month
BALTIMORE ORIOLE was a good find in DeKalb (JSw). A rare wintering OVENBIRD was seen at
Co. on 12 Feb. (EB). the AWMA on 18 Feb. (TK). Interesting sparrow

4 Atlanta Audubon Society

 Field Trips Compiled by Stan Chapman

Field trips are open to the public and free (unless otherwise noted). We welcome
everyone from beginners to advanced birders! Please check the Atlanta Audubon
Website (www.atlantaaudubon.org) for May field trips
Sketch by Anne McCallum
that may be scheduled.

If you would like to lead a field trip, volunteer to help with the Field Trip Committee, contribute ideas for places to go,
or give feedback about leaders or trips, please e-mail Stan Chapman, Field Trips Coordinator, at [email protected].
Note: For up-to-date information about field trips, go to atlantaaudubon.org. It is wise to check this website to make sure no changes have occurred in the
schedule of trips. All trips are open to the public. No reservations are necessary. The only fees that apply are those charged for entrance to any venue.

Saturday, May 1, 7:30 AM Sunday, May 2, 7:30 AM curves west, through the intersection with Northside Drive,
Charlie Elliott Wildlife Management Area, Mansfield, Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park, Kennesaw, and then crosses the river. After crossing, the parking lot is an
Jasper and Newton Counties Cobb County immediate right. Going east on I-285, continue east at exit 22
Eddie Hatchett Mark McShane and Patty McLean to the second light, then turn left (north) onto New Northside
Meet at visitors center parking lot on Elliott Trail. Meet at the field adjacent to the visitors center parking lot. Drive and stay in the middle lane. Cross the bridge over I-285
Birding focus: Charlie Elliott Management Area includes The parking lot is at Kennesaw Mountain Road, immediately and continue through the traffic light on the other side onto
fields, ponds and woodlands. At this time of the year, raptors, off of Stilesboro Road. Interstate North Parkway, and then continue with instructions
herons, flycatchers, bluebirds, meadowlarks, vireos, warblers, Birding Focus: Kennesaw Mountain is Georgia’s first above.
and tanagers all may be seen. Directions: From Atlanta take Important Bird Area and is one of the premier spots for
I-20 east to Exit 98/GA11, turn right and follow for 9.5 mi. Turnfinding migrating birds anywhere along the east coast. There Thursday, May 6, 8 AM
left onto Marben Farm Road (spelled “Marbin” in some have more than 20 species of warblers seen on the best days, Henderson Park, Tucker, DeKalb County
and the mountain is excellent for vireos, flycatchers, tanagers,
locations) and follow the sign to the visitors center, which is at Jeff Sewell
the end of Elliott Trail (a right turn off of Marben Farm Road). thrushes, the Baltimore oriole, and many other birds. This Meet at the second parking lot from the entrance, which is on
walk should be near the peak of spring migration. the right just past the soccer field and adjacent to the tennis
Saturday, May 1, 8 AM Note and Directions: The group plans to bird the area around courts. (The first parking lot is on the left.)
Piedmont Park, midtown Atlanta the visitors center parking lot and nearby field, and then walk Birding Focus: Raptors and spring migrants, including
Matt Ward up the road to the top of the mountain and back down the warblers, vireos and thrushes. The park has a lake, some
Meet at the Piedmont Park Conservancy building, corner of road. The gate to the Visitor Center parking lot may not be marshy areas, and good woodland habitat.
Piedmont Ave. and 12th St. open until 7:30 AM. Directions from Atlanta are revised from Notes and directions: Bring waterproof and sturdy footwear
Birding Focus: Migrants and permanent residents. previously published ones, because Old Highway 41 between for walking on muddy, wet, and/or hilly terrain.
Notes and Directions: This trip is especially good for Ridenhour Road and Stilesboro Road has been closed because Directions: From downtown Atlanta, take I-75/85 north to I-
beginners, children and families, who are invited on all AAS of bridge construction. Directions: Take I-75 north from 85 north and follow I-85 just past I-285 to exit 96,
trips. A few extra pairs of binoculars will be available to Atlanta to exit 267B, and follow the exit ramp to the right in a Northcrest/Pleasantdale Road. After traveling straight a short
borrow. Directions: From south of Atlanta, take I-75-85 north circle back across I-75. Follow the signs to U.S. 41, and turn distance on the access road, turn right onto Pleasantdale
to Pine St. (exit 249B). Go straight on Pine, cross Peachtree right at the traffic light onto 41 north. After about 0.5 miles, Road, which becomes Tucker Norcross Road and then
St. and then turn left onto Piedmont Ave. Travel about one look for a Burger King on your left, at which point turn left at Chamblee Tucker Road (CTR), heading south. Keep going
mile to 12th St. From northwest of Atlanta, take I-75 south to the traffic light onto Bells Ferry Road and keep right. Make straight on CTR south and do not make a right turn onto CTR
Exit 250 and follow the signs to 10th Street. Turn left onto the first right onto Old U.S. 41. After 1.2 miles, turn left onto going west. Also, do not turn onto Livsey Drive, but rather turn
10th and follow it 1/2 mile to Piedmont Ave. Turn left onto Stilesboro Road and make an almost immediate left into the right onto Livsey Road, which is 2.9 miles from the
Piedmont, and follow it for 1/2 mile to 12th St. From visitors center parking lot. (Note that if you arrive before 7:30 intersection of I-85 access and Pleasantdale. (You will see a
northeast of Atlanta, take I-85 south to Exit 84, and follow the AM, park along Old US 41 just past Stilesboro Road.) The small brown sign for Henderson Park at the turn). Follow
signs to 10th Street. Turn left onto 10th, and then follow the latest Old Hwy 41 road closure information and detailed Livsey Road until it ends and turn left into the park. The
directions above. From MARTA, get off at the Arts Center directions to Kennesaw Mountain are available at the parking lot on the right where we meet is 0.3 miles from the
station, walk south to 14th St., turn left (east) and walk two following two websites: park entrance.
blocks to Piedmont Ave., and then turn right and walk two http://www.nps.gov/kemo/planyourvisit/directions.htm, and
blocks to 12th St. http://www.nps.gov/kemo/index.htm Saturday, May 8, 9 AM to Noon
Davidson-Arabia Mountain Nature Preserve,
Saturday, May 1, 2 PM and 4 PM Wednesday, May 5 and Wednesday, May 12, 8 AM DeKalb County
Blue Heron Nature Preserve, Atlanta, Fulton County Cochran Shoals Unit of Chattahoochee River NRA, Dave Butler (cell phone 404.580.3917).
Amy Leventhal Cobb County, 8 AM. Meet at the nature center, 3787 Klondike Road, Lithonia
Meet at parking lot of Blue Heron Nature Preserve, 4055 Hugh Garrett Birding Focus: Beginner’s field trip for spring migrants and
Roswell Road, N.W., Atlanta. Meet at the kiosk at the north end of the parking lot located resident birds.
Birding focus: Birds of woodlands and wetlands. The preserve at the Interstate North Parkway entrance to Cochran Shoals Notes and directions: This trip is specifically designed for
has woodland trails and a creek and wetlands formed by on the Cobb County side of the river. The address is 1615 beginners. It will start with an indoor class at the nature
Nancy Creek. Interstate North Parkway, Atlanta. There is a parking fee of $3 center (1 hour) that will include some tips on birding and a
Notes and directions: These two brief walks starting at 2 and (or annual pass) at this site. presentation by Michael Ellis with the Atlanta Wild Animal
4 PM are offered in conjunction with the Ecofair Celebration Birding focus: Cochran Shoals has a diverse habitat of river, Rescue Effort (AWARE) with a couple of birds. Then the group
at the Blue Heron Nature Preserve, which is the home of the fields and forest that is very attractive to many species of will go to the historic Lyon Farm for the actual birding.
Atlanta Audubon Society office. They are oriented specifically resident and migrant birds. It is one of the best places in Directions: From the west (Atlanta, Decatur): Take I-20 East
to beginners and extra pairs of binoculars can be borrowed. Atlanta to see the red-headed woodpecker, as well as several to Evans Mill Rd. Exit 74. Make no turn for over 1/2 mile, pass
Directions: From downtown Atlanta, take Piedmont Avenue species of raptors, swallows, and the Great Blue Heron. the Dairy Queen, then turn right onto Evans Mill Rd. at the
north until it intersects with Roswell Road. Turn right on to Philadelphia Vireo is found annually, and the Prothonotary second traffic light. Note that the road becomes Woodrow Dr.
Roswell Road and travel 0.8 miles to the preserve entrance on Warbler usually nests here. Many other species of warbler, when Evans Mill Rd. makes a right turn. Do not turn onto
your right. From the north side of I-285, take exit 25 on to several vireo and flycatcher species, and Summer and Scarlet Evans Mill, but stay straight on Woodrow until it ends at
Roswell Road, and travel south (inside the perimeter) 3.3 Tanagers, often can be found. Klondike Rd. Turn right. Drive 1.2 mile to the main (north)
miles from the exit. The entrance to the preserve will be on Notes and directions: Note that considerable walking is parking lot on your right (0.2 mile after the caution light).
your left. involved, some of which might be on wet grass. From the east (Conyers, Covington): Take I-20 West to Evans
Directions from Atlanta: Take I-285 to the Northside Dr./New Mill Rd. Exit 74. Turn left from the exit ramp onto Evans Mill
Northside Dr./Powers Ferry Rd. exit (exit 22). Going west on Rd., and proceed to Woodrow Dr. as above.
I-285, turn right at the first light onto Interstate North
Parkway. Get in the middle lane and stay on this road as it Continued on page 10

May 2010 5
4
Volunteer Corner • Volunteer Corner • Volunteer
Corner • Volunteer Corner • Volunteer Corner • Volunteer

olunteer New Online Brochure:

Opportunities How to Prevent Birds from Colliding
with Home Windows/Doors
Writers American Bird Conservancy (ABC) has just published a new,
downloadable brochure

Wanted
(www.abcbirds.org/abcprograms/policy/collisions_flyer.pdf) that
offers a variety of tips on how to reduce the chances of birds flying
into home windows and glass doors. Scientists estimate that 300
million to one billion birds die each year from collisions with glass,
the majority of which is on homes.
Calling all would-be “A bird may survive flying thousands of miles on migration, only to
Photograph by
Hunter S. Thompsons American Bird Conservancy die when it tries to fly to a tree or sky reflected in your window.
That’s tragic. It’s also preventable. This publication emphasizes
(but no mind-bending quick, cost effective ways to reduce the chances of that happening, while minimizing obstruction
of your view,” says Dr. Christine Sheppard, Manager of ABC’s Collisions Program.
substances, please)!
“Every year, people bump into glass doors. This happens enough that you’ll often see frosted areas
Become a Wingbars at eye level, especially in public buildings.” she said. “The same thing happens to birds, only most
collisions are lethal.”
correspondent and feel The publication describes techniques homeowners can use to help birds see windows, and
the thrill of seeing your includes links to suppliers of suggested materials.
ABC is the only national organization with a program dedicated to reducing bird deaths from
name in a byline. If you collisions. ABC promotes bird-friendly construction and has helped develop legislation recently
introduced by Congressman Mike Quigley, (D-Ill.) that would require bird-safe construction for
have time to write the
new federal buildings. ABC is also conducting research to identify the most effective ways to deter
occasional article for bird collisions and how to rate effectiveness of different materials. Dr. Sheppard says much of the
work in the collisions program is made possible through a generous grant by the Leon Levy
the flagship publication Foundation.
of the Atlanta Audubon

Society, please contact A Million Thanks!

Diane Hawkins-Cox at Atlanta Audubon Society is an amazing organization because of its volunteers!
As always, we extend our unending gratitude to ALL of our volunteers, but
[email protected]. we would like to send a special thank you to the following individuals this
month.
We want to send a big thank you to Michael Clifford and Joy Carter for
everything they did to make this year’s photo contest a big success. Thank
Question: you, Michael and Joy!
We are also grateful to Ethan Hatchett, son of Eddie, for creating artwork for
Which bird
our new journal curriculum for grade school and middle school students. We
had the
longest
really appreciate your help, Ethan!

continually
A big thank you to Stuart Arey, Carole Manley and Donna Wensink for helping to prepare Learning
used tree
About Birds activity bin materials.
nest? Also, a million thanks to Marilyn Harris, Marcia Klenbort and Mary Nevil for co-leading the March 6
Learning About Birds Teacher Training. Your continued support and enthusiasm is what keeps our
See page 9 for answer education programs thriving. Good luck to Mary’s Youth Birding Competition team, the Brown Thrashers!

6 Atlanta Audubon Society

 Wild in Roswell Celebration
SPECIAL BIRD WALKS WORKSHOPS/CLASSES FOR
Not an Early Bird? “Peeps and Pancakes AAS AND CNC MEMBERS
Chattahoochee Nature Center
Evening Bird and Wildlife Walk Bird Walk”
Tuesday, May 25 Saturday, May 22
Gardening for Birds and
Meet at 6:30 PM Meet at 7:30 AM
Other Wildlife
Atlanta Audubon Society and the Chattahoochee Atlanta Audubon Society and the Chattahoochee Saturday, June 5, 10 AM to 11 AM
Nature Center invite you to our evening bird and Nature Center invite you to our “Peeps and Learn fun ways to create a wildlife habitat in your
wildlife walk. We’ll meet at the awesome Big Creek Pancakes Bird Walk” in Roswell. We’ll meet at the backyard that attracts birds, pollinators and other
Wetlands Park in Roswell and enjoy an evening of Vickery Creek entrance of the National Park interesting wildlife with an Atlanta Audubon
bird watching, wildlife viewing and just a great (located on Riverside Drive, almost across from Society instructor. After the class, you can walk
casual walk. This event is free and open to everyone Riverside Park in Roswell). Our leader will guide around the grounds to see some of the plants
who hates to get up early in the morning and all participants on a walk in this very special section mentioned in class and enjoy the CNC’s butterfly
those early birds too. Event will not be held if it is of the park. We’ll walk over the covered bridge, garden.
raining. Directions: Traveling north on 400, get off take a peek at the Mill ruins and walk up the hill to
at the Holcomb Bridge Road exit and travel east J. Christopher’s Restaurant for breakfast. Introduction to Bird Identification
towards Norcross. Go through one light and then Afterwards, we’ll wander back through the park to Thursday, June 3 from 8:30AM to 10AM
turn left onto Old Alabama Road. About a _ mile our original meeting place. These events are free, Open to everyone in the family. Learn the basics of
down the road, on the left, you’ll see the entrance (food will be on your own), and open to everyone, how to identify birds by sight and sound so your
to the Big Creek Park for Roswell. Turn into the lot. (moderate hiking level). Parking at the site is $3. family can enjoy moments in nature together.
The immediate lot you enter is where the mountain Events will not be held if it is raining. Taught by an Atlanta Audubon Society instructor,
bikers park. Go past this lot and down the dirt road this will include a 45-minute class session and a 45-
for a bit. The road runs along utility lines. At the minute walk around the grounds of the CNC.
end of the path, it will take a right turn into the big
Big Creek Wetlands Park
parking lot. Park here. We will meet right by the
Photographer: Bobby Daniels
restroom area at the start of the paved trail. This is
a different meeting location than our other AAS
evening walks.

Workshops • Workshops • Workshops • Workshops • Workshops

Discover Your Inner Michelangelo How to ID a Tree
Saturday, June 19, 10 AM to 2 PM Thursday, May 27
Would you like to learn more about the travels of the great 6 PM to 8:30 PM
naturalist and explorer, William Bartram?
How well do you know your trees? Tree ID skills will aid
Would you like to learn how to sculpt a bird out of clay? you not only with finding birds in their natural habitat, but
Then this workshop is for you! Chris Wilson, a wildlife also with describing birds’ locations to others you are
sculptor, will not only talk about his meditations on and guiding. Understanding the relationship between a bird
inspiration from his ancestor, William Bartram, he will also species and its preferred tree (i.e. Cedar Waxwing and
lead you through the process of creating your own original berry-producing trees or Nuthatches and pine trees) helps
piece of art. Chris has won over 100 first place awards and 82 us to understand their behaviors and habitats more
Best in Show awards for his sculptures. He has taught art intimately, giving us a greater
classes at Kennesaw State University (KSU), created over 100 sense of appreciation.
sculptures in public and private collections, and recently Join us on Thursday, May 27
finished a commission for “Midnight Watch,” a monumental from 6 PM to 8:30 PM as Chris
size bronze owl statue on the KSU campus. Don’t miss this Showalter teaches about
one-of-a-kind opportunity to sculpt a clay bird with such a identifying trees by leaf, bark,
talented instructor! shape and habitat, as well as
Charge: $85 Friends of AAS/ $105 Non members bird/plant associations.
Location: AAS Education Office at the Blue Heron Nature Cost: $35 Friends of AAS/$45
William Bartram and “Midnight non-members.
Watch” Preserve, 4055 Roswell Rd., Atlanta, GA 30342
Space is limited and registration is required. Complete and Location: AAS Education Office
send in the Workshop Registration form on our homepage, www.atlantaaudubon.org, to at the Blue Heron Nature
register. Contact Emily Toriani-Moura at 678.973.2437 for questions Preserve, 4055 Roswell Rd., Chris Showalter
Atlanta, GA 30342 Photographer: Tony Madden,
Chris Wilson’s Wilson Wildlife Sculpture web site:
Fernbank Science Center
http://wilsonwildlifesculpture.com/index.html

May 2010 7
 COYOTES, CATS, AND CARDINALS
By Dave Butler
How are coyotes, domestic like dogs, are extremely important to their owners and are great
cats, and Cardinals (and other companions. Yet many people let their cats roam free to catch
birds) connected? Coyotes kill disease, fight with other cats, or get caught by Wile E. Coyote.
pet cats, and coyotes and cats As for the birds, the rate of decline of our most common species
both attack wild birds. People is startling. Over the last 40 years, the average populations of
lose their beloved pets and common birds have fallen by 68 percent. According to the
nature loses millions of birds National Audubon Society’s Common Birds in Decline List:
annually. • Rusty Blackbird – 98% decline over the last 40 years
Although Atlanta Audubon’s • Field Sparrow – 69% decline
main purpose is bird • Eastern Meadowlark – 66% decline
conservation, the protection • Wood Thrush (the most beautiful bird song in the woods) –
of our environment for all 50% decline
wildlife, as well as for people, • Red-headed Woodpecker – 50% decline
is our overarching goal. To The combination of habitat loss, building collisions, invasive
that end, we want to provide species competition, climate change, and predation by cats is
our members with devastating to our bird populations. Cats that are let outside by
Coyotes kill a lot of pet cats and wild birds. information that covers this their owners kill hundreds of millions of birds (and billions of
issue from a broader small mammals) each year. Cats are not “natural predators” as
perspective, taking into consideration birds, first and foremost, some people would argue; they are well fed and have the
but also through the eyes of the coyote and the millions of cat advantage of superior care and health. The birds are losing and
owners in Georgia. our ecosystem is suffering.
First, some coyote biology: Please consider the following:
• Coyotes are most active at night and in the early morning (but • Keep pet cats indoors or in enclosed pens in the back yard
may be seen any time of day) • Neuter your cats (and dogs)
• They are omnivorous -- eating plants, fish, garbage, small • Don’t leave pet food outside (may attract coyotes)
mammals, and (darn it) BIRDS • Keep garbage in tight containers
• They give birth once per year to an average of six pups • Support the efforts of Atlanta Audubon Society and other
• Coyotes may carry rabies but the incidence is extremely rare conservation organizations
(foxes and raccoons more often contract rabies)
For the conservation of our remaining birds and the protection of
Coyotes fill an ecological niche in the Southeast once held by the your pet, please take care of your cat and keep her indoors.
Red Wolf, (Red wolves disappeared from the Southeast in the
1800s). Coyotes help control rodents and fit the role of the top For more information:
predator in our ecosystem. They are not a protected species and American Bird Conservancy – www.abcbirds.org
may be removed subject to local laws. However, the species will National Audubon Society – www.audubon.org
continue to breed to fill the available habitat, an important point Cornell Lab of Ornithology – www.birds.cornell.edu
to remember when trying to “control” coyotes. The factors Georgia DNR _ www.georgiawildlife.org
limiting coyote populations are space and food sources. The Atlanta Wild Animal Rescue Effort (AWARE) –
successful return of the coyote throughout the U.S., despite www.awareone.org
centuries of poisoning, shooting, trapping, and other methods of
eradication, shows that coyotes are here to stay.
The Georgia Department of Natural Resources policy on coyotes
is “learn to live with them.” This policy is echoed by local
governments that do not have the resources to trap or otherwise
remove coyotes. Homeowners are free to hire a trapper to catch
coyotes but they cannot be released elsewhere once caught; they
must be euthanized (state law)..
Now to the felines. There are over 100 million domestic cats in
the U.S.; some estimates say over 150 million including those
abandoned, escaped, and living in the wild. Millions die every
year from disease, starvation, accidents, and yes, coyotes. Cats, Cats that are allowed outside kill millions of birds every year.
Photographer: Ishpuz

8 Atlanta Audubon Society

 Book Review by Grant McCreary
Birds Out West and Across the Pond
Birds of Europe: Birding in the CORRECTION
In the April Wingbars,
Second Edition American West:
the lead page story
by Lars Svensson, A Handbook
Dan Zetterström, and contained an error. The
by Kevin J. Zimmer
Killian Mullarney number of bird species
Cornell University Press,
Princeton University Press, 2000 in Colombia is almost
2010 20% of the world’s total,
not 10% as shown. The
author apologizes, saying
These two books seem like they couldn’t be more different. One is a field guide, while the other is more of a his aging mental
handbook. They deal with regions on opposite sides of the globe. One has just been published; the other is capabilities led to this
out of print. So why review them together? They have this in common: both are surprisingly useful for
mistake.
Georgia birders.
Birds of Europe is a revised edition of what is arguably the best field guide in the world. I love my Sibley,
but if there is a better field guide out there, this is it. The plates are on the right-hand page, and include
annotated arrows pointing out field marks, just as in Sibley. The facing page contains range maps and
extensive text. Even if you never plan on birding in Europe, this guide is still worth having. There are many
species that our two regions have in common, especially among waterfowl, gulls, and shorebirds. This
guide’s treatment of those difficult groups is outstanding. And of course, there is always the possibility of
vagrants.
Birding in the American West is essentially three books in one. It combines general birding tips and
techniques, help with difficult identifications, and a birdfinding guide. The first section about birding in
general is applicable for any birder, while the birdfinding portion is helpful only if you will be birding out
west. But it is the identification part that is most useful for birders throughout the continent. Here specific
identification problems are addressed, such as “Empidonax Flycatchers” and “Basic-plumaged Longspurs.”
These are very similar in format to Kenn Kaufman’s Advanced Birding and are quite detailed – the
discussion of jaegers, for example, spans nine pages. Since the focus is on western birds, not every ID

Answer:
conundrum we face in the East is addressed, but many are. And even though the illustrations are black-and-

A huge Bald Eagle nest

white and relatively sparse, this is a fantastic reference for difficult identifications.
at Vermilion, Ohio
was occupied for
35 consecutive seasons.
Had the tree not
New Method of Registering ultimately collapsed because
of the weight, the nest
Only:

undoubtedly would have been

Use
Audubon
Atlanta
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to the ground during a storm,

refund and ________ ________ ________
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Birth date (under 18)

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exactly match ay Phone (
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years, and some Peregrine
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nests).
*Your

higher level and we thank you ahead of time for your support.
To sign-up for a workshop, please visit our homepage, www.atlantaaudubon.org, and download
the Registration for all Workshops Form. After you print the form, fill it out and send it, with your
form of payment, to 4055 Roswell Rd., Atlanta, GA 30342. Thank you again for your support – AAS
would not be where it is without you!

May 2010 9
 CLASSIFIEDS
Rates for 2.5” x 2.5” ads are $20/month or $45/quarter. Ads must be consistent with the conservation and birding mission
of Atlanta Audubon Society. Ads may be accepted via email, preferably in .pdf format. Call 678.973.2437 if you have questions.
Send payment to Wingbars Ads, Atlanta Audubon Society, 4055 Roswell Road, Atlanta, GA 30342.
Send ads via email to Catharine Kuchar at [email protected].

Affordable Housing When You Come

and Feeders for To The Mountains -
Birds, Bats and
Ask about the new Birder’s Guide to Fannin County!
We feature Cole’s seed,
Butterflies squirrel-proof feeders
that truly are, houses,
hummingbird stuff,
great books, Audubon
Basic, functional and long-lasting optics, & hard to find
hardware. Plus – 100’s
cedar products of Ravensburger Puzzles,
Music of the Spheres
Chimes & a huge
Workshop Creations, Inc. selection of educational
toys and
games for kids!
Order on our website:
Website: www.workshopcreations.com Downtown Blue Ridge & Inside Mercier Orchards
E-Mail: [email protected]
Tel: 770-448-5363 Fax: 770-448-5363 611 E. Main St. • Blue Ridge, GA 30513
(706) 258-BIRD (2473) • blueridgebirdseed.com
P.O. Box 921455, Norcross, GA 30010

Field Trips Continued from page 5

Saturday, May 8, 8 AM after which it changes name to Scott Blvd. Shortly, you will
Red Top Mountain State Park, Cartersville, pass the QT station on your right. Just past this station,
Bartow County turn right at the next street, Harrington Road. Follow it for
Victor Williams 0.6 miles and turn right on to Wood Trail Lane. Follow
Meet at the Red Top Mountain Lodge and Restaurant, 50 Wood Trail a short distance until it makes a 90 degree turn Bird Songs of Georgia
Lodge Road, SE, Cartersville, GA. to the left and becomes Pine Bluff. The entrance to the CD now available.
Birding Focus: Spring migrants and resident birds of refuge, where the group will meet, is at this corner. From
woodlands, fields and lake. I-75-I-85 N or S: From I-85 north or south, take North Druid Email Georgann Schmalz at
Notes and directions: A state park fee applies ($5.00 per Hills Rd. exit, east toward Decatur. After approx. 3 miles, [email protected]
vehicle). This trip will start on the Lakeside Trail which you will see North DeKalb Mall on your right. At that point, or visit www.birdingadventuresinc.com
makes a 3/4 mile loop around a restored 1869 log cabin turn right on to Lawrenceville Highway, which is also
with field and woodlands habitat and a view of Allatoona Highway 29. After 0.6 miles, right past the QT station, turn
Lake. It is ADA accessible for the full length. Other areas right on to Harrington Drive and follow directions as above.
of the park also will be explored. Directions: Take I-75
north from Atlanta to exit 285, which is Red Top Mountain Saturday, May 22, 8 AM
Rd. Exit to the right and go approximately 2 miles. Turn Sweetwater Creek State Park, 1750 Mount Vernon
left at the visitors center cabin then follow the signs to the Road, Lithia Springs, Douglas County
Lodge. Phil Deleztrez (cell phone 404.218.4425)
Meet at the Office/Interpretive Center inside the park.
Sunday, May 9 and Thursday, May 20 Birding Focus: Late migrants and summer and permanent Would You Like to
Clyde Shepherd Nature Preserve, DeKalb County, 8 AM residents of wetlands and forest, including herons, wood
Lisa Hurt ducks, herons, warblers, thrushes, vireos, tanagers and Save Trees?
Meet at the entrance to the preserve at the corner of Pine flycatchers.
Bluff and Wood Trail Roads in Decatur. Notes and directions: With its falls, overlooks, and lake,
And save AAS time
Birding Focus: Clyde Shepherd has a boardwalk over a Sweetwater Creek State Park is Georgia’s most-visited state and monies in the
pond and wetland, and woodland trails. Spring migrants, park and is the closest state park to the city of Atlanta. It
including warblers, vireos, and tanagers may be seen. offers a diverse birding habitat of woodlands, streams, process?
Raptors are commonly found, and the pond may have wetlands, grasslands and a large lake. There is a $5.00 If so, you can “opt
herons and wood ducks. state park fee per vehicle. Directions: Take I-20 west from
Note and Directions: Bring waterproof footwear, as trails Atlanta, to exit #44 at Thornton Road, which is the third out” of receiving your
can be wet. If it has rained recently, rubber boots are exit west of I-285. Turn left onto Thornton Road and go 1/4 monthly newsletter by
advisable. Directions: From I-285 N or S on the east side mile. Turn right on Blair’s Bridge Road, and after 2.1 miles
of Atlanta: Take Highway 78, Stone Mt. Freeway exit, west at a 4-way stop, turn left on Mount Vernon Road and mail and instead read
toward Decatur. Highway 78 merges with Lawrenceville proceed to park.
Highway (also called US 29) and passes North DeKalb Mall,
Wingbars
online.
Field Trips Sponsored by Just send us a message at
Oconee Rivers Audubon Society
Atlanta Audubon Society has a cooperative relationship with Oconee Rivers Audubon Society centered in Athens. As [email protected].,
a service to our members, both publicize the walks of the other so as to increase the opportunities for all. Please see and we’ll do the rest. The
the Oconee Rivers Audubon website, http://www.oconeeriversaudubon.org/upcoming.html#walks for their scheduled
walks. Directions are available from the “Hotspots” tab on their website. Their May schedule includes two walks: current issue is posted at
May 1: Georgia State Botanical Garden, Athens, 8 AM. www.atlantaaudubon.org at the
May 8: Kennesaw Mountain, meeting in Athens to carpool at 7 AM. The group will arrive later at the mountain.
beginning of the month.

10 Atlanta Audubon Society

 Atlanta Audubon Members –
Support Atlanta Audubon Society
by spending some vacation time in Destin this year.
Atlanta Audubon members can receive a 10% discount on the published rates of this
gulf-front Destin condo (www.emeraldtowers1203.com) by contacting Jim Wensink
770.926.4313. For each one-week reservation made by members
between now and Nov. 1, a donation of $50 will be made to
Atlanta Audubon Society.

Vacation here, save money and

help AAS all at the same time!

Join Atlanta Audubon Society

Wingbars is mailed only to Friends of Atlanta Audubon. All new National Audubon Society members receive an
introductory copy and can continue to receive this newsletter by becoming a Friends of Atlanta Audubon member.
Enrollment as a Friend of Atlanta Audubon does not include membership in the National Audubon Society. Thus, Renew Online!
you will not receive Audubon magazine. You can renew your membership
Simply go to
online by visiting our website at
If you are not a Friend of AAS, please take this opportunity to fill out and return the form below. www.atlantaaudubon.org
www.atlantaaudubon.org and
linking to the membership page.
Atlanta Audubon Society Membership Director, 4055 Roswell Road, Atlanta, GA 30342. and click on
You can also join online: www.atlantaaudubon.org. Join/Renew AAS
We are excited to Online!
be able to offer
this service to you!
(located under the logo)
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o Make check payable to: o Basic Membership
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email _____________________________________ Receive above plus autographed copy
and special events
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May 2010 11
 NON-PROFIT
ORGANIZATION
ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED U.S. POSTAGE
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Atlanta Audubon Society is an independent, non-profit
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Wingbars is printed on recycled paper

Things that make you go, “Hmmm”

By Steve Phenicie
Many Audubon members pride themselves on their ability to spot a Purple-breasted Who-ze-whats-it in a bush 300 yards away. They seem to
know just about everything there is to know about birds. Not me. In fact, I’m barely a birder at all.
There are many things I still wonder.
For example, who gave the franchise on Christmas cards to the Northern Cardinal? Did this bird have to pay off Santa Claus or what?
Would your yuletide greetings be any less sincere if you sent a card adorned with a Turkey Vulture or a Brown-headed Cowbird?
Why is the Yellow-rumped Warbler so reluctant to display its yellow rump? Isn’t this sort of like a beauty contestant not wanting to show
her curvature? It would be a lot easier to identify if it wasn’t shy about its most prominent feature.
And why do Song Sparrows seem to have more outfits than a Delta flight attendant? Again, it
would make identification easier if everyone wore standard-issue feathers – complete with
prominent spot – instead of this dress-as-you-wish stuff.
How’d the Tufted Titmouse get its name? Couldn’t its stature be enhanced a bit if its name didn’t
bring to mind Orkin or Terminix?
Do the White-breasted Nuthatch and the Brown Creeper have some kind of sneaky agreement?
(You work up the tree and I’ll go down.) Could the government rule this an anti-competitive labor
practice?
Tufted Titmouse: image problem? Why does my neighborhood call its swim team the Mallards? True, we have quite a few Mallards
Photographer: Ken Thomas
in our neighborhood, which backs up to the Chattahoochee River, but we also have Yellow-bellied
Sapsuckers, and no one seems to name a team after them.
On the professional level, why do we root for the Atlanta Falcons, Hawks and Thrashers and not, for example, the Atlanta Common
Grackles?
And has anyone ever considered replacing our national symbol, the Bald Eagle, with the European Starling? After all, “Birds of
Georgia” says that the starling’s prime habitat is fast-food parking lots. What better symbol of America than a bird associated with a Big
Mac and fries?