THE AND THE
A JOINT NEWSLETTER OFAUDUBON SHARON AND THE HOUSATONIC AUDUBON SOCIETY
Summer 2004
Audubon Summer Camp Programs for Children Ages 4-14
By Jeff Weiler
By Wendy Rineer Mark your calendars and save the date! The 37th Annual Sharon Audubon Festival is taking place August 14th and 15th at the Sharon Audubon Center. Both days offer information for adults, children and families on a variety of naturerelated topics. Learning your birds? Take a bird walk with one of our birding experts. Interested in pond life? Sign up for the canoeing program! Live raptors and reptiles are always a big hit as well. Music, food and fun are included in the festival, so check the newspapers closer to the date for the full festival supplement, or call the Center for more information. By Joyce Leiz More than 100 people participated in the successful First Annual Taste of Spring event at the Sharon Audubon Center on May 2, 2004. Jane Curtin and Dana Kraus chaired this event, which raised funds for the Center and its education and wildlife rehabilitation programs. Casa Bacchus Wine Shop, on the Green in Litchfield, presented a selection of fine wines from Duck Pond Cellars, an award winning winery located in Oregon and Washington states. Guests sampled foods from the Mayflower Inn, the White Hart Inn, Chaiwalla, Pappardelle, Louli Caterers and Stroble Baking Co., while listening to live jazz music. A wonderful silent auction was held and guests enjoyed a close-up view of a Red-tailed Hawk - one of Audubon Sharons avian ambassadors.
Sharon Audubon Festival August 14th and 15th
Photo by Brian Wilcox
Summer is here and that means the excitement and fun of the Sharon Audubon Centers Summer Day Camp is just around the corner. Send your child to spend a week or two out in the woods this summer, immersed in the natural bounty that is the Sharon Audubon Center and Miles Wildlife Sanctuary. Whether it be a hike up to Bog Meadow Pond to search for amphibians and unique wetland plants, or a streamwalk down Herrick Brook as it races through the Hemlock Glen, or maybe a ramble along the Deer Trail looking for ancient charcoal mounds, your child will gain multiple new perspectives on the natural world. At the Sharon Audubon Center, we believe that through hands-on, experiential, outdoor adventures, children will gain and retain knowledge and understanding of the natural world. Having that knowledge and understanding will enable that child, later in life as an adult, to make informed life choices. Sessions for younger children include introductory explorations in nature and arts and crafts. Older children embark upon more in-depth nature discoveries, conduct experiments and learn about the uniqueness of nature right here in the Northwest Corner. Dinner table conversation has never been so interesting as that with your child (or children) at the end of a full day at one of our Summer Nature Programs. To register your child(ren), please call office manager Patricia Creswell at (860) 364-0520.
First Annual Taste of Spring
From left to right: Joyce Leiz, Dana Kraus, Scott Heth, Jane Curtin, Aaron Virgin
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Managers Report Audubon Sharon
By Scott E. Heth, Manager, Audubon Sharon
A Joint Publication of the Housatonic Audubon Society and Audubon Sharon Purpose The Otter and the Hawk is published quarterly to provide information on Audubons work in the Tri-state area to the members of the Housatonic Audubon Society and Friends of Audubon Sharon. Written contributions from members are most welcome. Housatonic Audubon Society PO Box 211, Sharon, CT 06069 www.mohawk.net/~jcwilliams/hasmain.html The Housatonic Audubon Society is a chapter of the National Audubon Society. It is an all-volunteer organization whose goal is to promote environmental causes and activities in the Tri-state area and support the work of Audubon Sharon. Officers for 2003-2004 Jim Levy, President Jane Rossman, 1st Vice - President Hanna Grossman, 2nd Vice President Judy Becker, Secretary Corinne Levy, Treasurer Audubon Sharon 325 Cornwall Bridge Rd. (Route 4) Sharon, CT 06069 860-364-0520, 860-364-5792 fax www.audubon.org/local/sanctuary/sharon Audubon Sharon consists of the Audubon Center in Sharon on Route 4 and the Audubon Miles Wildlife Sanctuary on West Cornwall Road, both in Sharon, CT. The Audubon Center in Sharon is a nature center open to the public and includes 11 miles of trails, a nature store and live animal exhibits. The Audubon Miles Wildlife Sanctuary is a 1,500-acre wildlife sanctuary dedicated to research, land management and college training. Audubon Sharon Staff Scott E. Heth, Manager Patricia Creswell, Office Manager Jeff Weiler, Environmental Education Specialist Mike Dudek, Land Manager David Paton, Caretaker Wendy Rineer, Rehab/Outreach Coordinator Aaron M. Haber, Assistant Land Manager Joyce Leiz, Major Gifts Officer Cara Massameno, MAPS Intern Jonathan Fandozzi, MAPS Intern Kim Wentland, Summer Naturalist Tanya Fenstra, Summer Naturalist
Otter banner design by Jeff Zaslow, The Graphic Details Otter Art by Alderson Magee
The Otter and the Hawk
Continuing to communicate the important mission of the National Audubon Society, and indeed Audubon Sharon, is an important part of my job and talking about what we are doing at the Sharon Audubon Center and the Miles Wildlife Sanctuary is one of my favorite things to do. Lately I have been spending a lot of time out in the community talking about our programs, facilities and activities to garden clubs, rotary clubs, school administrators, donors and the like. Though most people know where we are and what we do, there are still many that dont really know the scope of our work and some who have never been to the Sharon Audubon Center or Miles Wildlife Sanctuary. This I would like to change! Accordingly, this Spring, we implemented a series of awareness events called Birds and Breakfast. These were simple events held at both facilities that included a bird walk through our beautiful grounds, information about what we do and a nice breakfast courtesy of the Wake Robin Inn, one of our Great Egret Sponsors. We also ran our First Annual Taste of Spring Event co-chaired by Dana Kraus and Jane Curtin. Approximately 100 people attended this event and were treated to delicious food, drink and music in addition to a surprise visit by one of our resident Red-tailed Hawks. You also may have seen us at HVAs River Appreciation Day or the Sharon Day Cares Sharon Road Race and we will once again have a large exhibit and will be presenting live raptor programs at the Goshen Fair this Fall. The purpose of all of Group at Birds and Breakfast May 7 these activities is to expand peoples awareness of what Audubon Sharon does in our communities and the importance of protecting our natural legacy. If you are part of an organization that is interested in learning more about what we do through a program or lecture, please feel free to give me a call.
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Presidents Report Housatonic Audubon Society
By Jim Levy, Housatonic Audubon Society
Our annual meeting is behind us and over the next several months we will develop and finalize the plans to consolidate the chapter and the Center into one organization. The existing staff of Audubon Sharon will manage this consolidated organization. Chapter officers, board members, committee chairs and members will be welcomed to continue chapter functions and activities in anAudubon Sharon volunteer capacity. Some chapter officers may be named to the new Audubon Sharon Center Stewardship Board. It is important to note that the total functions and activities of our two existing organizations, Audubon Sharon and the Housatonic Audubon Society, will continue as one organization. It is expected that this will result in a stronger and more efficient Audubon presence.
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2004 Ted Mills Birdathon Results
by Bob Moeller, Compiler Saturday, May 15, 2004, was a good day to be out birding. The day was on the warm side, starting at about 61 degrees and getting up to 88, it was clear and the wind was gentle. Our teams birded Litchfield and Dutchess counties and although we did not approach the 1994 high count of 151 species, we had fun getting a very average number of 130 species. Highlights would include the first ever Acadian Flycatcher and the third ever Alder Flycatcher, as well as Double-crested Cormorant (9 years out of 36 years), Black Vulture (5), Semipalmated Plover (9) and Hooded Warbler (7). On the other hand, we missed Ring-necked Pheasant for the third year in a row, and Ruffed Grouse, first time missed. Other regulars that we failed to find include: Broad-winged Hawk (28), Sora (26), Brown Creeper (26), Golden-winged Warbler (26), Nashville Warbler (26), Canada Warbler (32), White-throated Sparrow (32) and White-crowned Sparrow (29). Weve been doing this, or something very like it, since 1969, as far as the records show. The average number of species for our 36 years is 132 species per year. Of the 130 species seen this year: 62 have been seen every year; 19 have been missed only 1 or 2 times; and 33 have been seen only one or two times.
note: (6) = bird was seen 6 years out of 36 Birdathons
Beyond the 130 species and the pledges they will bring to Audubon, the day provided some really nice birding and good company in some of the finest coun5:30 am at Ford Pond...the search is on! tryside that is available anywhere. The scenery is breathtaking! And the cause - Audubon, birds, our earth - is definitely a worthy one. And the birds were there to help the cause. Spearheaded years ago by Ted Mills, this annual chapter fun fund-raising event provides funds for some of our most important AUDUBON programs during the year. To all who helped find the birds, or who paid for those we found, THANKS! Remember, if you have not yet sent in your pledge or contribution, it is not too late! Your check can be sent to 2004 HAS Birdathon, PO Box 211, Sharon, CT 06069.
Black-capped Chickadee Tufted Titmouse White-breasted Nuthatch Carolina Wren House Wren Winter Wren Marsh Wren Blue-gray Gnatcatcher Eastern Bluebird Veery Swainsons Thrush Hermit Thrush Wood Thrush American Robin Gray Catbird Northern Mockingbird Brown Thrasher Cedar Waxwing European Starling Blue-headed Vireo Yellow-throated Vireo Warbling Vireo Red-eyed Vireo Blue-winged Warbler Northern Parula Yellow Warbler Chestnut-sided Warbler Magnolia Warbler Black-throated Blue Warbler Yellow-rumped Warbler Black-throated Green Warbler Blackburnian Warbler Pine Warbler
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Double-crested Cormorant American Bittern Great Blue Heron Green Heron Mute Swan Canada Goose Wood Duck Black Duck Mallard Hooded Merganser Common Merganser Black Vulture Turkey Vulture Osprey Red-tailed Hawk American Kestrel Wild Turkey Virginia Rail Semi-palmated Plover Killdeer Greater Yellowlegs Lesser Yellowlegs Solitary Sandpiper Spotted Sandpiper Semi-palmated Sandpiper Least Sandpiper American Woodcock Ring-billed Gull Herring Gull Greater Black-backed Gull Rock Dove Mourning Dove
Black-billed Cuckoo Yellow-billed Cuckoo Eastern Screech Owl Barred Owl Common Nighthawk Chimney Swift Ruby-throated Hummingbird Belted Kingfisher Red-bellied Woodpecker Yellow-bellied Sapsucker Downy Woodpecker Hairy Woodpecker Common Flicker Pileated Woodpecker Eastern Wood Pewee Acadian Flycatcher Alder Flycatcher Willow Flycatcher Least Flycatcher Eastern Phoebe Great-crested Flycatcher Eastern Kingbird Purple Martin Tree Swallow Rough-winged Swallow Bank Swallow Cliff Swallow Barn Swallow Blue Jay American Crow Common Raven Horned Lark
Prairie Warbler Blackpoll Warbler Cerulean Warbler Black-and-white Warbler American Redstart Worm-eating Warbler Ovenbird Northern Waterthrush Louisiana Waterthrush Common Yellowthroat Hooded Warbler Scarlet Tanager Northern Cardinal Rose-breasted Grosbeak Indigo Bunting Eastern Towhee Chipping Sparrow Field Sparrow Savannah Sparrow Song Sparrow Swamp Sparrow Bobolink Red-winged Blackbird Eastern Meadow Lark Common Grackle Brown-headed Cowbird Orchard Oriole Baltimore Oriole Purple Finch House Finch Pine Siskin American Goldfinch House Sparrow
Housatonic Audubon Society Annual Meeting
By Jim Levy, Housatonic Audubon Society Our annual meeting took place on Thursday, April 15, 2004 as scheduled at the Interlaken Inn. The Interlaken staff did a great job for us. Snacks and service were excellent. Our thanks to the management and staff of the Interlaken. Attendance, however, was down compared to last year. Perhaps some of our members were busy with last minute tax filings. In any event, it was a splendid evening. The first order of business was the election of officers and board members whose term was expiring in 2004. Secretary and past President Judy Becker conducted the election, and the slate recommended by the nominating committee was unanimously elected. Jim Levy than reviewed the background leading up to the decision to consider consolidating HAS with Audubon Sharon. He advised that member interest and participation had continued to decline and that the chapter Board of Directors had authorized the preparation of a plan to consolidate. The plan would require approval from the HAS Board of Directors, Audubon Sharon management, and National Audubon management. After consolidation, it is intended to dissolve the chapter. The question was asked if the Connecticut legal entity, Housatonic Audubon Society, had to be dissolved also, or could it be maintained for possible other purposes? It was agreed to evaluate that possibility. The next order of business was less serious and fun. Jim presented the Meritorious Service Award to Janet Williams. Janet, a long and devoted member of HAS, has served as a board member for many years. She has been treasurer, chair of the Birdathon committee, and very active with the newsletter and other mailings. Currently Janet is the HAS Webmaster. At that point Corinne Levy spoke of Janets role as cookie mother for HAS. Janet bakes chocolate chip cookies for all board and program meetings. Rumor has it that some board members attend only for the cookies. One by one every board member presented her with all the ingredients to bake a years supply. Corinne and Jim then presented Janet with the new Meritorious Cookie Award and dubbed her Dame Cookie. The last order of business was our program. Professional photographer Jonathan Doster presented two multi media programs. Moroccan Spirit, the viewing of landscapes, people and Islamic culture of Morocco, followed by Seasons, a tribute to the four seasons of the Berkshires. We are extremely fortunate to have Jonathan as a friend and volunteer. His use of his photographic skills combined with his love for the environment resulted in a very enjoyable experience for all. A big thank you to Jonathan.
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Thirty Years Later: The Designation of The Natural Area Of The Sharon Audubon Center
By Aaron Haber Thirty years ago (twelve years before my first experience with Audubon, and then as a student in the summer camp), Bob Moeller and Frank Egler had already been hard at work protecting and preserving the unique habitats found at the Center. In 1973 they were instrumental in designating what was then the southern part of the property as, The Natural Area of The Sharon Audubon Center. Three decades later, the land protected by the Center has grown to nearly double in size now totaling 1147 acres, and the 250-acre Natural Area has endured untouched by direct alterations. The quest to establish The Natural Area was actually started in the early 60s. On March 5, 1973, through diligent work by the staff of the Sharon Audubon Center, The National Audubon Society approved the natural area with the resolution
in keeping with its objective to provide ecological baseline areas at its several land holdings found suitable for such purpose, all that southern half of the Sharon Audubon Center
be dedicated to the permanent preservation of the totality of nature
In short, it is a Sanctuary in the fullest sense of the term. This unique area has been left virtually unaltered by Audubon; only nominal changes caused by the maintenance of existing trails has taken place over the span of thirty years. Natural succession (in this case the sequence of a wetland filling into a shrub land and forest maturing into dominate tree species) has been going on, untouched by direct human impact. Thanks to, The Vegetation of Connecticut Natural Areas: A Self-guided Trail Walk by Bob Moeller and Frank E. Egler, printed in March 1974, we have detailed descriptions of five sites along the trail. This not only gives us a great record of their work, which includes an historical background of the area, but also a report from which we can compare and contrast the floristic record of thirty years past to that of today. This summer, with the help of volunteers, we plan to re-evaluate these five sites (Lake, Wetland, Lower Slope, Mid Slope, and Upper Slope). People with a knowledge of plants who are interested in helping with these site descriptions can contact Aaron Haber at the Audubon Center.
Education Report
By Jeff Weiler Outside the window of my office, the Herrick Brook flows quickly and noisily over glacial and biological debris, swollen with the rainfall of the last twenty-four hours. At the forest edge, up toward Bog Meadow Pond, the Red Maples are in full flower, their dark red color an invitation to take a closer look. In the butterfly garden, next to the old Ice House at the base of the Ford Pond dam, tiny, green, leafy promises are pushing up against and through the tan layer of rotting leaves that colored the fall of 2003 so beautifully. Through the gray sky above me, the wings of a flock of Canada Geese whoosh in a cacophony of feathers and muscle; their honking calls to one another reassure me that once again, we in the northern climes have escaped the icy darkness of winter to emerge into the ever increasing light of spring. Here at the Sharon Audubon Center, Spring brings many tidings. During the month of March, the Center staff devoted themselves to the production of maple syrup. Collecting the newly flowing sap of our Sugar Maple trees, from almost 300 taps, we produced over 50 gallons of syrup, some of which has been sold, with the rest lying in wait on the shelves of the Centers gift store, ready to satisfy someones sweet tooth. That same staff managed to present many maple syruping programs to elementary and middle school students and the public. Programming peaked during our Maplefest celebration, as twelve intrepid Audubon volunteers and Marnie, our intern, led 116 adults and children up the maple trail to the Sugar House where Wendy demonstrated modern techniques of maple syrup production and then onward to the historical site around the campfire. As March moved into April, and sugaring ended, the staff turned its attention to teaching year-end programs for area schools, getting ready for the busy wildlife rehabilitation season and preparing for summer camp. In addition, Marnie Rackmill, our environmental education intern, constructed a new display for the Exhibit Room about feathers. Look for it in the terrarium that formerly housed Wendys Skull School. Marnie also continued updating our lesson plans, and running the gift store, as needed. By the time you read this the chaos of early spring weather should be behind us and the solstice only weeks away. It has been a good spring--have a great summer!
Farewell to Marnie
By Jeff Weiler It was a cold, February day, when Marnie Rackmill first came to the Sharon Center to begin her Environmental Education Internship. Over the time she spent with us here at the Center, she became a valued member of the Audubon Sharon staff. She taught creatively, always keeping the students attention, but also exhibited other talents. She kept our bird feeders full, without fail; she worked hard boiling and bottling much of our maple syrup production; she helped Wendy with the rehabilitation program, bagging mice and feeding the raptors; she was on call in the store filling in for Pat, as needed. Marnie always asked what needed to be done, and then went ahead and did it. Hopefully, everyone had a chance to meet Marnie before she left to further her experience in the educational field.
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Volunteer Spotlight: Lynn Meehan to Lead Saturday Summer Programs for Children
This summer the Sharon Audubon Center is pleased to offer a series of four two-hour nature programs for children, aged 7-10 (or thereabouts) on Saturdays during June and July, prepared and presented by volunteer and retired teacher Lynn Meehan. After teaching for the past 35 years (the last 17 of which were at Cornwall Consolidated School in West Cornwall, Connecticut), Lynn decided it was time to take more time for herself and her varied interests. Teaching is in her blood though, so she approached the Center with an idea for doing a natural science series where each program relates to the others but also stands on its own. That way, participants could register for all four programs, or any combination thereof. Lynn also has five years of teacher/ naturalist experience at Pratt Environmental Education Center giving her an appreciation of the outdoors and an understanding of how to effectively bring the outdoor experience to children. Lynn firmly believes that hands-on, experiential learning; immersing children in the physical environment, is one of the most successful ways of getting children to retain the knowledge that they need. Please consult our Calendar for complete information. Programs are limited to 12 children. Call Patricia Creswell, (860) 364-0520, to register.
Photo by Brian Wilcox
Audubon Calendar of Field Trips and Programs
Programs are free unless otherwise indicated, and are sponsored by Audubon Sharon and the Housatonic Audubon Society
JUNE - JULY 2004
JUNE 12, SATURDAY, 10-12 Custom Made Body Parts
Leader: Lynn Meehan (NM: $5 A, $3 C)(M: $3 A, $1.50 C) Location: Sharon Audubon Center Age: 7-10 years old Ever wonder why some animals and plants do well in one habitat and not another? Why do amphibians and fish depend so closely on bodies of water, while most reptiles, mammals, and birds dont? Why do frogs have eyes on top of their heads, hawks have hooked beaks, and pine trees have thin, slippery, needles? Join retired science teacher Lynn Meehan as she answers those questions and many more, using the natural resources of the Sharon Audubon Center and activities she has developed. We will be outdoors most of the time, so dress according to the weather.
JUNE 26, SATURDAY, 10-12 Camouflage: Playing Hide and Seek in the Natural World
Leader: Lynn Meehan (NM: $5 A, $3 C)(M: $3 A, $1.50 C) Location: Sharon Audubon Center Age: 7-10 years old Lynn Meehan is back! Join Lynn this time, as she delves into one of the major adaptations found in the natural world, that of camouflage. Why do animals camouflage themselves? It is not all about not being seen; sometimes its about being seen in an entirely different way. Once again, Lynn will be utilizing her collection of entertaining and engaging activities as well as the diverse environment of the Sharon Center. We will be outdoors most of the time, so dress according to the weather.
JUNE 19, SATURDAY, 10-12 The Green World of Ron Aakjar
JULY 10, SATURDAY, 10-12 Predator and Prey; OR Whats for Dinner?
Leader: Lynn Meehan (NM: $5 A, $3 C)(M: $3 A, $1.50 C) Location: Sharon Audubon Center Age: 7-10 years old Its not all about teeth and claws......or is it?? Join science teacher Lynn Meehan for her third foray into the natural world. This time out, she will be exploring whom eats whom, and why. As with all of Lynns programs this one will be activity based and will utilize the wild acreage surrounding the Center. Discover the adaptations needed to chase, grab, kill, and eat other animals. Plant eaters have their own set of adaptations, as do the creatures that eat both plants and animals. Lynn will also be looking at food webs and food chains. We will be outdoors most of the time, so dress according to the weather.
Leader: Ron Aakjar (NM: $5 A, $3 C)(M: $3 A, $1.50 C) Location: Sharon Audubon Center Age: Adults, and children 10 and older Join botanist/naturalist Ron Aakjar for a ramble around the 1100+ acres of the Sharon Audubon Center. Ron, an experienced plantsman, will delve into the not so often talked about, but none the less exciting mysteries surrounding the trees, shrubs, and non-woody plants found in forest, field, and along watercourses here at the Center. Every plant has a story, and Ron will do his best to let you in on as many stories as possible. We will be outdoors most of the time, so dress according to the weather.
JUNE 19, SATURDAY, 8:30am-3:30pm Field Trip to Dinosaur State Park
Leader: Joseph Markow(NM: $8, M: $5, incl. park admission) Location: Meet at the Sharon Audubon Center 9:00 am Join the Housatonic Audubon Society for this trip to Rocky Hills Dinosaur State Park. We will look back at 250 million years of history in Connecticut to a time when dinosaurs roamed our landscape. The park features Eubrontes dinosaur footprints exposed on bedrock in the exhibit building. We will also hike one of the trails and the exhibit center has hourly programs and movies on fossils and dinosaurs. Bring a picnic lunch. Please call Joe at 860672-4875 to register.
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JULY 17, SATURDAY, 10-12 Butterfly Gardening; Tricks and Techniques
Leaders: Pat and Robert Goldberg (NM: $5 A, $3 C) (M: $3 A, $1.50 C) Location: Sharon Audubon Center Age: Adults and children older than 12 During the high summer, plants put on a beautiful display with their flowers in an attempt to attract pollinators such as butterflies and moths. Join Master Gardener Interns Pat and Robert Goldberg as they explore the biology and ecology of these gorgeous insects. Through the use of a slide show and direct experience in Sharon Audubons butterfly garden, participants will gain an understanding of how to construct a butterfly and moth friendly garden. We will be outdoors some of the time, so dress according to the weather.
Audubon Calendar of Field Trips and Programs
Programs are free unless otherwise indicated, and are sponsored by Audubon Sharon and the Housatonic Audubon Society
JULY - AUGUST 2004
JULY 21, WEDNESDAY, 1-3 Amphibians of Connecticut
Leader: Joseph Markow (NM: $5)(M: free) Location: Miles Wildlife Sanctuary Adults and children (14 and up) will be introduced to Connecticuts amphibians, learn their behavior, calls and conservation issues. The program includes slides, live animals and a visit to a wetland and vernal pool to search for amphibians. Please call Joe at 860672-4875 for more information and to register.
By Ralph D. Derbyshire 04 & Tom Patterson 04 Advanced Field Studies The Marvelwood School, Kent, CT The day was rainy, cold and damp, and only the most dedicated of science teachers (Ms. Doss) and students Gerard Kay 06, Lindsay Schaefer 05, and Ralph and Tom looking at one of the Dusky the authors were Salamanders captured in Herrick Brook willing to brave the elements to partake in a stream workshop held at the Audubon Center on Sunday, April 4th. Our activities were delayed when, on the way to the Center, we thought we had to rescue an immature Red-tailed Hawk. After ten minutes trying to figure out how we were going to capture the hawk to bring to Audubon, we discovered that its limp was not due to an injury, but rather a heavy prey item in its talon. After this brief detour, we refocused and set out to accomplish our goal for the day: determining the water quality of Herrick Brook, based on its riffle-dwelling benthic macroinvertebrate community and following the protocol of the CT DEPs Project Search program. During our sample period that afternoon, we discovered organisms from eleven different families, totaling 95 riffle-dwelling benthic macroinvertebates collected. Not too shabby for a rain-soaked afternoon! The highlight was the discovery of the giant stonefly larvae, a Project SEARCH Most Wanted Riffle-Dwelling Benthic Macroinvertebrate because it has a pollution tolerance value of zero! It is important to keep in mind that while organisms with high pollution tolerance values can live in any type of stream, organisms with little to no tolerance for pollution can only live in high water quality streams. In addition to the giant stonefly, we also found two other Project SEARCH Most Wanted organisms. The discovery of these three organisms alone suggests exceptional water quality in Herrick Brook.
Through Rain, Sleet or Snow: The Quest for Benthic Life at Audubon Must Go On!
JULY 22, THURSDAY, 1-3 Pond Ecology Program
Leader: Peter Warney Location: Sharon Audubon Center This program will survey and sample the aquatic food chain from plankton and algae to insects, fish, turtles and birds to people. We will dip net minnows and crayfish as well as tow a plankton net. Issues affecting wetlands such as succession, sedimentation, runoff and shade trees will be discussed along with a Show and Tell of wetland animals and plants. Bring boots, cameras, note pads and prepare to get wet and have fun!!!
JULY 24, SATURDAY, 10-12 Rocks and Minerals
Leader: Lynn Meehan (NM: $5 A, $3 C)(M: $3 A, $1.50 C) Location: Sharon Audubon Center Age: 7-10 years old Come out and join our in-house science teacher, Lynn Meehan, as she delves into the non-living aspects of the environment. What is a rock? What is a mineral? How are they the same? How are they different? How are they both like cookie dough? During a hike Lynn will also be looking at various geologic processes. We will be outdoors most of the time, so dress according to the weather.
37th Annual Sharon Audubon Festival!
Adults $6, Children 12 & under $4 Come out on a fine summers weekend and take in one of the premier festivals of the season. Bring the whole family out to enjoy the varied talents of myriad naturalists, performers, and exhibitors as they offer a close-up view of nature. It is a true celebration of the wildlife and habitats of Connecticuts Northwest Corner.
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AUGUST 14-15, 8:30-5:30
Oppenheimer Environmental Education Award Given to David Moran
by Wendy Rineer Each year, the Oppenheimer Environmental Fund of the Berkshire Taconic Community Foundation presents the Environmental Education Award to a teacher in the local area schools who demonstrates commitment and innovation in environmental education, uses a multidisciplinary and hands-on approach and/or encourages self discovery through outdoor and laboratory activities. This years recipient, nominated by Audubon Sharon staff, is David Moran, an Agriculture Science teacher at Housatonic Valley Regional High School in Falls Village, Connecticut for the past 6 years. This year, Dave headed the schools first Envirothon team who competed against various other high school teams in the state on five different environmental topics including forestry, wildlife, soils, aquatics and environmental conservation. Dave, along with a few of his students, also planned a day-long environment/science student symposium for the entire school population in March of this year. Dave not only teaches important information on the environment and its wildlife, but he encourages his students to be involved and enjoy what they are doing so they can gain respect for themselves and the environment around them. Dave pushes his students to work hard and carry out tasks that leave them with a sense of accomplishment and satisfaction. This award is in honor of Armand M. Oppenheimer, past President of the Housatonic Audubon Society and Professor at Columbia University. Audubon Sharon congratulates David Moran on his achievements. Past recipients of this award include Letitia Garcia-Tripp, also of Housatonic Valley Regional High School, John Conklin of Salisbury Central School, Laurie Doss of the Marvelwood School in Kent and Jane Rossman of Webutuck Elementary School in Amenia, New York.
Dave Moran (third from left) with some of his students
Volunteer Opportunities Available! Baby Bird Feeders Raptor Curators Trail Maintainers Shop Keepers Office Workers
Help us make a difference! Call Laurie for more information- 860-364-5836
Special thanks to Dr. Lee Dinwiddie and the staff of Park Lane Animal Hospital for kindly donating their services and helping us with the care and treatment of our male Ball Python, Hiss, who had recently become sick. After a few checkups, Hiss is on his way to recovery, eating well and gaining weight. We are optimistic he will make a full recovery and rejoin his partner, Monty, in the exhibit room. Thanks also to Peter Brazaitis, retired zoo curator for making the initial diagnosis.
Audubon Sharon Improves Grassland Habitat
By Scott Heth In conjunction with the USDAs Wildlife Habitat Improvement Program (WHIP), Audubon Sharon has completed the first phase of two land management projects to benefit grassland birds. This work includes expanding the size of existing meadows by removing vegetation along hedgerows separating two smaller fields. By increasing the size of these fields, it is hoped that they will be more enticing to grassland birds such as Bobolink, Savannah Sparrows and other species.
THANK YOU!
Connecting Fields
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Nature Notes.....
Seeking Out Snakes
by WendyRineer Snakes are quite common throughout this area over the summer. You may find them basking in the sunshine on a rock, going for a swim in a lake or pond, or slithering around in search of small critters in your garden. Snakes are extremely beneficial to humans. All snakes can bite, but usually only strike to catch their food or to defend themselves. If you leave a snake alone, it will leave you alone. Below are some common snakes you can find in Northwest Connecticut. Next time you see one of these snakes, keep your distance, but admire their beauty!
24-36 inches long. This light colored snake has many large dark reddish-brown blotches on the body with smaller blotches in between. It often has a light colored Y or V-shape on the top of the head. This harmless snake is commonly confused with copperheads, and is often senselessly killed.
Milk Snake
10-15 inches long. This small slender harmless snake is very secretive and often unseen. It is often dark brown, gray or black in color with a yellow or orange necklace around the neck and yellow or orange belly. They can usually be found hiding in woodpiles and under logs or rocks.
Northern Ringneck Snake
18-26 inches long. This medium-sized, dark snake is extremely variable in color and pattern. It usually has 3 yellowish stripes running down the body from head to tail. Some have rows of dark spots between the stripes, and some are practically stripeless. This snake is commonly found in gardens, and is harmless.
Eastern Garter Snake
24-42 inches long. This dark snake has dark markings that are larger than the spaces between them. This snake is harmless, but frequently surprises unsuspecting humans when they slide quickly from the edge into the water.
Northern Water Snake
36-54 inches long. One of the two venomous snakes in this area! The rattlesnake has an unmarked, triangular shaped head and slitted, vertical pupils. The body is relatively dark in color, sometimes with a tinge of yellow, with dark crossbands. The rattle at the end of the tail is a warning signal that the snake feels threatened. These snakes are often found in rocky, mountainous areas and come down to lower land in search for water during hot dry spells. Rattlesnakes are protected and it is against the law to kill one of these snakes!
Timber Rattlesnake
24-36 inches long. This venomous snake has a distinct triangular copper-red head. Like other poisonous snakes, the eyes have pupils which are vertical slits. The dark cross bands on the body are wide on the sides and narrow on the back of the snake, forming hourglass patterns. Frequently, there are also small dark patches in between the bands. These beautiful snakes are often feared by humans and therefore senselessly killed.
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Northern Copperhead
Surviving the Summer Heat
by Wendy Rineer Ahh, the hot muggy days of summer. How you keep cool is totally up to you... sit in an air conditioned room and not go outside, jump into the refreshing pool or lake for a swim, relax in front of a blowing fan or just eat ice cream and drink nice cold lemonade all day! Ever wonder how birds keep cool in the sweltering heat? Here are some ways a few birds do it. Because birds do not have sweat glands like humans do, they pant (similar to a dog) in order to cool off. The air rushes through the open mouth, passing over the tongue and into the internal air sacs that fill the chest and extend into the hollow bones. The bird version of panting is known as gular fluttering. Some birds prefer to take cool baths to escape the heat, whether it be in a mud puddle, a lake or stream, or in a patch of soft dirt on the ground. Vultures have a rather strange way of cooling off. They will allow their waste to run down their legs and feet. They go to the bathroom on their legs on purpose! This not only works to cool them off, but also helps to clean their legs and feet after stepping in rotting carcasses. All birds can also use their many feathers to help regulate their temperature. So, dont worry about the birds surviving the heat of the summer. Their adaptations for survival are incredible! Happy Heatwave!
If you care, leave them there!
By Wendy Rineer Wildlife babies abound throughout the summer. If you find a baby, please leave it alone unless it is injured! It is instinct for many wildlife babies to lie still as their parents leave them to find food. This lessens the chance of a predator finding the baby. In most cases, the parent is somewhere nearby. If you discover a young fawn lying in the grass, do not touch it! If it is still and it is quiet, it is perfect! If you touch it or move it to another location, you may be doing more harm than good. Leave it there! If it is crying repeatedly or you know for sure the mother is dead, contact a wildlife rehabilitator. If you find a baby bird on the ground and it does not have feathers, carefully pick it up and return it to the nest. Birds do not have a sense of smell and will not detect the human scent on the baby. If you cannot find or reach the nest, make a fake nest out of a small butter dish or berry basket and tie it to a nearby bush or tree so the parent can continue to care for it. Keep in mind, baby birds need to practice flying...most do not just fly off one day never to be seen again. Fledglings on the ground will remain on the ground for a few days as they practice hunting and flying. Mom and dad continue to provide supplemental feedings until the bird is capable of doing it on its own. If you find a feathered fledgling bird on the ground and it is not in immediate danger, leave it there! If you are unsure if an animal is orphaned, contact the Center before touching or moving the animal! If you have an injured bird or have a question about a possible orphaned bird, contact the Center. If you have an injured or orphaned mammal, please call the Center for names of a mammal rehabilitator near you, or contact the CT DEP at (860)424-3333 to find a local wildlife rehabilitator who treats mammals.
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Book Review by Janet Nickson The Very Quiet Cricket by Eric Carle
Its summertime, summertime, sum, sum summertime! The days are long and full of time for gardens to flourish and children to explore their backyard jungles . . . Pack up a picnic, some sunscreen, a few eager children, and Eric Carles hard covered, easy-to-wipe-clean companion book with a surprise at the end! Published in 1990, its not a new book. However, to many of our young eager story listeners it will be. The Very Quiet Cricket is a great way to introduce them to nature at their doorstep. The sights and sounds of summer are special and abundant. One warm day, from a tiny egg, a little cricket was born. We meet our silent friend and move along the day with him as he meets his neighbors of the tall grass. Alas, he cannot reply to their greetings. Try as he may he gets no voice as he rubs his wings together. Thus, we move along with him as Mr. Carle introduces us to the praying mantis, a worm crunching its way out of an apple, a spittle bug slurping in a sea of froth, cicada, dragonfly, a humming bumblebee, and as the day draws to a close the buzzing mosquitoes bid the cricket good night. Our tired friend is finally relieved at the quiet grace of a Luna Moth sailing by the luminous moon. Its bright enough for him to notice another cricket of about his size. He gives one last try and rubs his wings together! Of course, you know what happens and at that happy conclusion you and your young listener can hear the crickets song too. It is provided, just gently pull the tab. Then plop the book away and go out and listen for yourself before turning in for the night. Eric Carle has been writing and illustrating childrens nature books for over 30 years. The one I used over and over, both in my classroom and at home, is The Very Hungry Caterpillar. Other memorable ones are Pancakes Pancakes and The Tiny Seed. They never lose their appeal! Visit the Sharon Audubon Gift Shop where you can find Mr. Carles books and an abundance of gift ideas for encouraging the love of learning.
Audubon Sharon Welcomes New Summer Staff
By Scott Heth, Audubon Sharon This summer we have two Connecticut Natives running our bird banding stations, Jonathan Fandozzi of Bristol and Cara Massameno of Harwinton. Jonathan graduated this past January with a Bachelors degree in Environmental Studies from Eckerd College in St. Petersburg, Florida. Since then he has been in Hawaii mist-netting and banding forest birds to help study avian diseases. Cara graduated from the University of Vermont where she received a Bachelor of Science Degree in Environmental Science. She spent last summer working at the Green Mountain Audubon Center in Huntington, Vermont helping to band birds at one of their MAPS stations. Under Supervisor Laurie Fortin, they will both be running seven different bird banding research stations throughout Northwest Connecticut and eastern Dutchess County. The data will help us track trends in the local populations of songbirds and will be sent to the Institute for Bird Populations to contribute to their long-term, nationwide project. We also would like to welcome our Summer Naturalists who will be running our summer camp for children. Hailing from Wisconsin, Kim Wentland, graduated from the University of Wisconsin with a Bachelors of Science degree in Family and Consumer Education. After graduation, Kim worked at the University of Wisconsin Arboretum designing and implementing environmental and science based lessons and activities for the Earth Focus Day Camp, coincidentally doing the same thing that will occupy much of her time here at the Sharon Audubon Center. Another mid-westerner, Tanya Fenstra comes to us from the northerly state of North Dakota. She is currently a junior in Recreation and Leisure Services program at the University of North Dakota, specializing in Outdoor Recreation. Tanya, an experienced educator, has worked as Senior Counselor for a YMCA Day Camp, and as Site Coordinator for a YMCA After School Program. In addition to their education responsibilities, and as time allows, Kim and Tanya will be helping with our wildlife rehabilitation program, greeting visitors in the Nature Store and generally helping us connect our community to nature!
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Audubon Sharons Nature Store
Specializing in Books & Field Guides Bird Seed, Feeders and Birding Accessories Childrens Books and Educational Toys
Now Featuring Audubon Binoculars!
Your
Beneficiaries
There are more of them than you realize.
t Audubon, we have always understood the vital connection between people and nature. By including a bequest to Audubon in your will, you can help ensure a brighter future for both. Make your bequest by asking your lawyer to use the following language in your will: I bequeath to the National Audubon Society, Inc., a not-forprofit organization, with its principal offices located at 700 Broadway, New York, NY 10003, ___% of my residuary estate for the exclusive use by its Audubon Sharon program. (Alternatively, you may name a specific dollar amount).
Great Quality Binoculars at very affordable prices!
To learn more, please call for a free brochure and annual report: Jan Hesbon, Planned Giving Officer for Audubon CT, VT and NY, 845-369-1496.
SUMMER 2004
THE
Audubon Sharon 325 Cornwall Bridge Road Sharon, CT 06069
THE OTTER AND HAWK
US POSTAGE PAID NON-PROFIT SHARON, CT PERMIT 44 ZIP CODE 06069
Now Taking Reservations for Summer Camp!
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