Re Bald Eagle in Madison - thanks for the pic - here it is!
Entered 12/30/2006 9:01:27 PM__________________________________________
We got great views of a snowy 12/30/06 4:15 pm from the 7th floor of the overturecenter parking lot (mifflin & Henry st downtown madison, near the main library. (take elevator from mifflin street entrance) if coming on foot. The bird was perched on top of a tower on the ATT building straight east ofthe parking ramp. A large beautiful snowy. We saw his back, lightly barred, he turned hisall white head our way in that amazing way they can turn their heads.
Entered 12/28/2006 4:48:45 PM__________________________________________
One or two Snowy Owls have been hanging around on the construction cranes at the University Square project, apparently for over a week. They especially like to perch on the crane closest to Lake St., between University Ave. and Johnson St. (this is at the east end of the UW campus, for those not familiar with downtown Madison.) Parking (and probably a view) is available at the Lake St. ramp (or park there and walk down Lake St. to the University ramp across from the construction site - the view from the top level in the latter ramp should be excellent.)
Entered 12/25/2006 7:56:15 PM__________________________________________
At least a couple hundred tundra swans remain on mendota in a long row just offshore from tenny and burrows park, continuously calling and feeding.
Entered 12/17/2006 8:00:40 PM__________________________________________
Devil's Lake Dec 16 saw a winter wren in the vicinity of the messenger creek beaver pond. Devil's Lake Dec 17 saw a tufted titmouse along S Shore road near the old quarry railroadloading area. That always seems to be a good birding area. Also in the Devil's lake area saw a couple bluebirds.
Entered 12/15/2006 2:27:44 PM__________________________________________
If you are looking for a Christmas gift for a birder; there is much to choose from at the UW Arboretum Bookstore on Seminole Hwy. I found some great used birding books for myself and picked up a couple new books for a friend on identifying owls and hawks. Good birding to all on the Christmas Bird count!!!
Entered 12/13/2006 11:52:40 PM__________________________________________
Pileated woodpeckers (and other woodpecker species) active in Cherokee Marsh. A Pileated is almost as big as the famous (and hopefully NOT exinct) Ivory Billed Woodpecker.
Entered 12/8/2006 5:04:52 PM__________________________________________
Afternoon, many tundra swans in the bay by Picnic point. Also numerous mergansers. But talk about cold and windy!
Entered 12/8/2006 1:25:21 AM__________________________________________
* *The Wisconsin Wildlife Federation* * Cordially Invites WWF Affiliates, Teaming with Wildlife Coalition Members,and guests to attend State Wildlife Action Plan Regional Information Sessions * State Wildlife Action Plans invest in the conservation of wildlife and vital natural areas for future generations * * We will share information about the Teaming with Wildlife Coalition and encourage participation from additional Wisconsin organizations * * * Learn about State Wildlife Action Plan work ongoing in your area; * * * * From 6 to 8 PM - Refreshments Provided * * * * * * Wednesday, December 13 Lussier Family Heritage Center 3101 Lake Farm Rd. Madison, Wi 53711
Entered 12/7/2006 2:32:48 PM__________________________________________
Did anyone show up for the Madison Lakes field trip last Saturday? (I couldn't haul my carcass out of bed in time on a cold morning.) If so, was anything of note seen? pf
Entered 12/7/2006 10:53:19 AM__________________________________________
Re BALD EAGLES, on last year's Madison Christmas Bird Count, 25 of them were recorded. From Birdsource.org This year's Madison CBC will be held December 16th.
Entered 12/5/2006 11:13:16 PM__________________________________________
Re Bald Eagle in Madison - thanks for the pic - here it is!
Entered 12/5/2006 3:38:16 PM__________________________________________
I was very surprised, having lived in Madison all my life of fifty years, to see a mature Bald Eagle flying over my neighborhood at 2:45 p.m. on Tuesday, 5 Dec 2006. I rushed home for my camera, and was pleased to find the bird still overhead, apparently gaining altitude in this VERY windy day. The bird was directly over a green field located in front of 755 Braxton Place, on The Triangle bounded by Regent and South Park Streets, and West Washington Avenue. It was facing into the wind, wings outstretched, seeming to be letting the wind lift it higher into the air. When I first saw it, the bird was no more than 80 feet in the air, I could compare its altitude to the height of an adjacent apartment building. Still hovering over that area when I returned, I was able to get my tripod up and snap one shot before it turned to the north, and flew in the direction of Lake Mendota. If I can figure out how to do it, I'll post the image of this magnificent, mature, Haliaeetus leucocephalus!
Entered 12/5/2006 12:35:20 AM__________________________________________
Calling all birders (from the novice to the expert)! The Rock River Coalition are looking for volunteers to participate in the Audubon Christmas Bird Count, which will be held on Tuesday, December 19 from sunrise to sunset (approximately 7:30 am – 4:00 pm). We will be birding within Zeloski Marsh and the immediate surrounding areas. Our efforts will be part of the Waterloo Christmas Bird Count, which is part of the larger Audubon Christmas Bird Count program. The Waterloo birding area consists of a 15-mile diameter circle, centered near the northeast end of Zeloski marsh. All birds heard or seen within this area will be recorded by several teams on December 19th. The Audubon Christmas Bird Count (CBC) is the oldest and largest citizen science event in the world. Citizens from all over the world participate in these annual counts, which provide valuable data for assessing the status and distribution of bird populations. This year marks the 107th year for the national count, and the 7th year for the Waterloo Count. If you would like to participate in this Christmas Bird Count (even if it’s only for an hour or two!), please contact me at 414-559-0926 or respond to this email. We hope you can join us for this event! Stefanie Nadeau, Wetland Volunteer Monitoring Coordinator, Rock River Coalition Phone: 414-559-0926Email: wetlands@rockrivercoalition.org Website: www.rockrivercoalition.org
Entered 12/2/2006 9:49:48 PM__________________________________________
Very enjoyable web link with a video (the website name sounds goofy but the video is amazing) - The Australian Lyrebird and David Attenbourough .http://www.devilducky.com/media/46386/
Entered 12/2/2006 5:06:42 PM__________________________________________
The Madison Christmas Bird Count will be held on Saturday, December 16th.
Entered 11/30/2006 1:45:32 PM__________________________________________
Nov. 30, 2006 at 1:45 pm. MMT from Beloit, WI saw 200-300 sandhill cranes circling into a flock (over Prairie Ave. and Shopiere Rd.)which then went south toward Rockford. Incredible racket, amazing sight. Cold front has come through quickly in last 24 hours and heavy snowfal in their path. At least they should have a strong albeit cold wind at their backs. MMT also says that a bald eagle landed on her neighbor's van to check out squirrels at nearby bird feeder. AMM has heard in the last year several reports of bald eagles in Rock County (Rock River at Newark Bridge, Evansville, and Town of Johnstown). Evansville and Johnstown are many miles from the Rock River and have only small water bodies; both areas mostly farm then forest, some marshland.
Entered 11/30/2006 2:44:01 AM__________________________________________
The Madison Audubon website was inaccessible from the internet for a while on Tuesday afternoon and Wednesday morning due to a failed router. It is now back online. Thank you for your patience.
Entered 11/28/2006 2:21:58 AM__________________________________________
See the home page 'Action Alerts' and help support plans for Cherokee Marsh
Entered 11/27/2006 1:06:59 PM__________________________________________
I have had a Carolina Wren at my feeders the last couple of days. I live on the north end of Lake Mendota.
Entered 11/26/2006 7:31:02 PM__________________________________________
bald eagle has been sighted by burrows park and by picnic point. if you go to picnic point and walkn up the 'old road' past the stone gates, there's a bird sightings list mounted on a post that you can check (and add your sightings).
Entered 11/25/2006 5:09:55 PM__________________________________________
Highlight birds seen on Lakes Monona & Mendota and out at Goose Pond...Lake Monona Olin Turville Boat Launch NO Pacific Loon 1 Red-necked Grebe 6-10 Common LoonsLake Mendota Tenney to Burrows Park 2 White-winged Scoters 4 Tundra Swans about 16 Mute Swans good numbers of Bufflehead and C. Goldeneye Gov. Island a few Common Loons No Scoters Gov. Nelson SP 2 Carolina Wrens near the parking lot just above the boat launch Small park off of Borcher's Beach Rd (just west of Gov. Nelson SP) 1 SURF SCOTER with a small group of Bufflehead--all these birds flushed when one of the area residents powered up their leaf blower-- they all flew east and landed in front of Gov Nelson SP.Goose Pond 1 Dark Juvenile Snow Goose 1 possibly 2 juvenile Ross's x Snow Geese--I saw one bird well and it looked just about perfect for Ross's except it was a little to big and had a small grinning patch. The other bird was on the far side of the Pond and may have just been a pure Snow--it just seemed a little small and the bill looked petite. 600+ Tundra Swans around 1000 Geese (about 20-25% Cackling) 6 Pintails 7-8 fly-over Lapland LongspursAaron StutzMadison, WIDane CountyE-mail: agstutz@sbcglobal.netPhotos: http://community.webshots.com/user/agstutz
Entered 11/25/2006 12:56:26 AM__________________________________________
correction re swans - the group of swans that's been hanging out by tenny park are mutes; the tundra swans have been up toward the north end of Mendota
Entered 11/20/2006 11:06:20 PM__________________________________________
re Aaron's list below - just super info, thanks! i thought one i saw might be a pacific loon too but didn't get a good enuf look. for anyone who wants to see the tundra swans (very impressive) they are staying just off tenny park locks pretty regularly (morning and evening) these days
Entered 11/18/2006 6:18:43 PM__________________________________________
The following species were found on Lakes Monona and Mendota today:***PACIFIC LOON-------------1 (see text below)COMMON LOON--------------45RED-NECKED GREBE----------4 (see text below)HORNED GREBE----------------3 (Monona Bay and Warner Beach Area)TUNDRA SWAN----------------11 (see text below)**WHITE-WINGED SCOTERS--2 (see text below)**SURF SCOTER-----------------1 (see text below)**BLACK SCOTER---------------1 (see text below)GADWALL----------------------210AMER. WIGEON----------------15NORTHERN SHOVELER-------25CANVASBACK-----------------60REDHEAD-----------------------12 (University Bay)RING-NECKED DUCK----------2 (Gov. Island)LESSER SCAUP-----------------15 (Gov. Nelson SP)BUFFLEHEAD------------------180COMMON GOLDENEYE------165 (Mostly Burrows Park)HOODED MERGANSER--------50 (Mostly Monona Bay)COMMON MERGANSER--------1 (Capt. Bill's)RED-BREASTED MERGANSER--2 (Gov. Nelson SP)I have spent a lot of time scoping the Madison Lakes and today was probably the most productive day I have ever had.I started around 9AM on Lake Monona. From the Olin-Turville Boat Launch I had 2 RED-NECKED GREBES and distant looks at a bird I thought was the Pacific Loon. Hoping for a better look at the putative Pacific Loon I went over to the park by Machinery Row. Scoping from the park right next to Monona Terrace revealed that my mystery loon had moved all the way across the lake while I negotiated Badger Game traffic. The mystery loon looked like it was close to a beach in Monona near Squaw Bay so I drove over there and scoped the lake. All I found were 2 Common Loons and no sign of my mystery loon. Discouraged I figured I would go back and start from the beginning--scoping from Olin-Turville.My second scan of Lake Monona from this location showed that the 2 Red-necked Grebes were still present, there were several Common Loons on the north side of the lake and a very interesting looking, but distant 2nd Basic Gull was loafing straight out from the boat launch. This gull was quite large and I was struck by its very white head (most 2B Herrings are overwhelming brown) and its checkered back. I was never able to positively id this bird--it was simply too far away, but it feel it MAY have been a GREAT BLACK-BACKED GULL, so keep yours eyes open for this bird.My study of the possible Great Black-Backed Gull was interrupted when a silver/light-gray-naped loon swam through my field of view. Zooming in slightly with my scope provided me with very good looks at the PACIFIC LOON. I followed it with my scope for some time--it spent a good deal of time in the company of 2 Common Loons. Notable field marks included:1) the most striking feature was the nape coloration--silver to light gray--very different from the dark gray/black nape coloration found on all Common Loons on the Lake--the fact that this feature was so noticeable makes me suspect the bird is a juvenile (I was not able to see any barring on the Loon's back which would have verified my suspicion). 2) very small bill--not the "dagger" bill you see on C. Loons3) faint necklace4) straight neck markings--no indentation of white like you see on Commons5) dark back6) eye enclosed by dark markings on the bird's head--you couldn't see the Pacific Loon's eyes, but I could make out the eyes of neighboring Common Loons7) bulbous, NOT snake-like neck which is more typical of both C. Loon and Red-throated Loon8) smaller than C. Loons9) No upturned billHeading over to Lake Mendota I found another Red-necked Grebe near Warner Beach (see link to pic below) and 6 Tundra Swans near Burrows Park.Two WHITE-WINGED SCOTERS were found in the bay just east of Governor's Island (see links below to pics). Other birds at Governor's Island included 40-50 Bonaparte's Gulls and 2 more Tundra Swans.Governor Nelson State Park had a number of birds off the boat launch. The best were single SURF and BLACK SCOTERS.The last highlight bird of the day was another RED-NECKED GREBE off of Captain Bill's in Middleton.Photos:Red-necked Grebehttp://image56.webshots.com/156/4/74/89/2965474890043062929jmmUVW_ph.jpgWhite-winged Scotershttp://image55.webshots.com/155/7/13/64/2138713640043062929crviqH_ph.jpgandhttp://image53.webshots.com/553/4/74/38/2412474380043062929JzHtzJ_ph.jpgAaron StutzMadison, WIDane CountyE-mail: agstutz@sbcglobal.netPhotos: http://community.webshots.com/user/agstutz
Entered 11/17/2006 10:42:17 PM__________________________________________
Just saw them when going by, didn't get a good look.
Entered 11/16/2006 12:10:16 AM__________________________________________
Did you look them in up in a field guide to birds? such as Sibley's
Entered 11/16/2006 12:08:41 AM__________________________________________
The swans are still on Mendota, they were by Tenny Park beach this morning. Anyone know what kind these are?
Entered 11/14/2006 8:37:49 AM__________________________________________
Red-necked Grebe photo (taken last week in Indiana):http://outdoors.webshots.com/photo/2018652350053722576ptfXWw
Entered 11/13/2006 5:56:19 PM__________________________________________
re grebes on Mendota - here are links to Cornell Labs birdguide, calls and pictures -- http://www.birds.cornell.edu/AllAboutBirds/BirdGuide/Red-necked_Grebe.html- http://www.birds.cornell.edu/AllAboutBirds/BirdGuide/Western_Grebe.htmlnote the western grebe's dramatic black and white neck
Entered 11/13/2006 5:50:30 PM__________________________________________
Learn about the Wisconsin State Wildlife Action Plan - The Wisconsin Wildlife Federation cordially invites WWF affiliates, Teaming with Wildlife coalition members, and guests to attend regional information sessions throughout December (see below for specific dates and locations) on the Wisconsin State Wildlife Action Plan. Come and learn about work ongoing in your area. The State Wildlife Action Plan (formerly known as the "Comprehensive Wildlife Conservation Plan" or the "Strategy for Species of Greatest Conservation Need") invests in the conservation of wildlife and vital natural areas for future generations. Information about how Wisconsin will begin implementing the plan and about the Teaming with Wildlife coalition will be presented. Participation from additional Wisconsin organizations is encouraged. All meetings will be from 6 to 8 p.m. with refreshments provided.- Monday, December 4, US Geological Survey, Upper Midwest Environmental Science Center2630 Fanta Reed Road, La Crosse, WI 54630- Thursday, December 7, Gov. Tommy Thompson Fish Hatchery, 951 W. Maple Street, Spooner, WI 54801- Monday, December 11, Wi State Fair Park, Tommy Thompson Youth Cntr., 640 S. 84th Street, West Allis, WI 53214- Wednesday, December 13, Lussier Family Heritage Center, 3101 Lake Farm Rd., Madison, Wi 53711- Thursday, December 14, Brown County Library, 515 Pine Street, Green Bay, WI 54301
Entered 11/13/2006 5:46:28 PM__________________________________________
Job Opportunity: Wildlife Biologist - Advanced (Wisconsin Bird Conservation Initiative Specialist) - The Department of Natural Resources is seeking a dedicated and passionate individual to serve as our Wisconsin Bird Conservation Initiative (WBCI) specialist; to shape and administer our bird survey and management policy, which will involve collaboration with a wide variety of individual and groups. Use your skills and abilities to help protect Wisconsin’s birds. This position serves as the Department's statewide specialist for the development, management and evaluation of Wisconsin's Bird Conservation Initiative (WBCI), and is responsible for the formulation and administration of the Department's collaborative bird survey policy and bird management policy. Qualified applicants will have approximately 3-5 years of experience in wildlife management with an emphasis on bird conservation. This position requires expert knowledge of wildlife conservation principles and methodologies, the life history of birds common to Wisconsin, as well as habitat management practices, and research and monitoring methodologies for birds. The deadline to apply is Friday, December 1, 2006. If you have questions, please contact Stephen Janisch, Human Resources Specialist at Stephen.Janisch@wisconsin.gov; (608) 266-7318. For the full job notice, go directly to the website http://dnr.wi.gov/employment/fte/wildbio.asp. Be sure to pass along this notice to anyone you know who would love to have this great job of helping to conserve Wisconsin's birds!
Entered 11/13/2006 3:33:03 PM__________________________________________
Just saw the messages about grebes - there have been Red-necked Grebes reported on Lake Mendota for most of the last week. I saw one off the Warner Park beach on Woodward Dr. both Saturday and Sunday. From a distance, the proportions do look very similar to a loon. I would expect a Western Grebe to look, um, "snakier", for lack of a better word; still, it's certainly not out of the question to get one here!
Entered 11/11/2006 10:40:18 AM__________________________________________
I forgot to add that there were two of the large grebes at each location.
Entered 11/11/2006 10:38:40 AM__________________________________________
I saw the large grebes off the peir at the locks at Tenney park along with a medium sized grebe (possibly the red-necked) and the obvious pied-bills. They were notably large and appeared black and white. I also saw them at the boat launch behind Captain Bills restaurant on Allen near Century. They were almost as big as the loons that were feeding nearby, and taller.
Entered 11/11/2006 9:21:37 AM__________________________________________
RED-NECKED? Where, when, how many?
Entered 11/10/2006 7:49:06 PM__________________________________________
Does anyone know what the large grebes are on Mendota? They look like Western's, but I really do not know and would like to. Thanks in advance for any comments.
Entered 11/9/2006 8:59:35 PM__________________________________________
The West Waubesa Preservation Coalition presents a one-day conference on The End of Cheap Oil and the Future of Food, Sat., Nov. 11, 10 - 5Promega BTC Auditorium, 5445 E. Cheryl Pkwy., Fitchburg, 53711. Great documentary videos. Lots of Q&A, brainstorming and discussion about how to meet the challenge in Dane County. Cool door prizes and displays from our co-sponsors! See http://www.westwaubesa.org/ for more info or call (608) 223-9571
Entered 11/9/2006 7:19:40 PM__________________________________________
Subject: Butler's Garter Snake Symposium - On Wednesday, November 15, Riveredge will be hosting a symposium on the Butler’s Garter Snake. The potential de-listing of the Butler’s garter snake is currently the most pressing conservation issue in our region. The Joint Committee for Review of Administrative Rules is considering delisting the Butler’s Garter Snake as a threatened species in Wisconsin by the end of the month. Hear from land developers, land trusts, scientists and politicians and where they stand on this issue. For background information you can read a Sept. 28 Journal Sentinel article, a July 27 Journal Sentinel article, or a September 29 Washington Post article. I have attached the symposium proceedings and registration. Please Call 1-800-287-8098 to register ASAP, and forward this document to your contacts and lists. I hope you can make it! Marc C. White, Director of Research, Stewardship and Adult Education, Riveredge Nature Center Inc., 4458 West Hawthorne Drive P.O. Box 26, Newburg, WI 53060-0026, Email: mwhite@riveredge.us
Entered 11/9/2006 7:12:29 PM__________________________________________
Several loons off Picnic Point area, some calling around sunset.
Entered 11/6/2006 2:24:44 PM__________________________________________
About 9 swans off the east end of James Madison Park at 2 this pm
Entered 11/5/2006 1:13:13 PM__________________________________________
A long awaited book "Prairie Plants of the University of Wisconsin-Madison Arboretum" is now available at the Arboretum bookstore. Authors are Theodore S. Cochrane, Kandis Elliot and Claudia Lipke. The bookstore is open weekdays 9:30 to 4pm and weekends 12:30 to 4pm.
Entered 11/2/2006 10:49:44 PM__________________________________________
The Birds of Alaska's Arctic Are Coming to Wisconsin Next Week! Thursday, November 9, 2006 at 7pmPlease join us next week for a fun and informative evening with conservation leaders, students, birders, and others interested in America’s wildlife, and the presentation of an Arctic National Wildlife Refuge. The evening will feature slides from world-renowned photographers, stories from those who have traveled to the Arctic, and information about how you can get involved in the campaign to protect America's Arctic Refuge. Speakers include ornithologist and photographer Paul Konrad, and Great Lakes Regional Director Sean Babington. All attendees will have the opportunity to win a copy of Arctic Wings: Birds of the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge, published by Mountaineers Books and Patagonia apparrel.
Location: Madison Christian Community, Covenant Room, 7118 Old Sauk Road, Madison, WI 53717
Directions: http://maps.google.com/maps?oi=map&q=7118+Old+Sauk+Road,+Madison,+WI
For More Information or Questions, contact Sean Babington, Great Lakes Regional Director, at 312-251-1680 ext 124 or sean@alaskacoalition.org
Entered 10/29/2006 6:56:40 PM__________________________________________
I spent most of the day in the field visiting a variety of bodies of water in Dane and Sauk Counties.Highlights:KP and 14 Pond near Mazomanie:1 ROSS'S GOOSE--adult bird, smaller than Richardson's Cackling Geese, small bill--shaped like a right triangle, no grinning patch120 Cackling Geese480 Canada Geese--mostly Lessers with 20-30 GiantsBakken's Pond:1 Rough-legged Hawk2 Harriers4 Bald Eagles10+ Red-tailed HawksFish & Crystal Lakes:5 Bonaparte's Gulls--First of the fall for me100 Cackling Geese400 Canada Geese2 Common Loons1 Double-Crested CormorantHyslop Road Pond:8 Sandhill Cranes25 Killdeer1 Pectoral SandpiperGovernor Nelson State Park: 4:30-5PM35 Common Loons1000's of gulls flying in and landing on the middle of the lake--almost all were Ring-bills with a few Herrings mixed in. Noticeably absent were Bonaparte's Gulls. No Surf Scoters--they were present on Thursday5 Common Goldeneye--first of the fall for meRedheads, Ruddy Ducks, Ring-necked Ducks, Bufflehead, and a few hundred cootsOn the way home with minimal light...Lake Wingrabat species--(3-5 individuals) catching insects above the lake and occasionally dropping to the surface (for a drink I am assuming). Aaron StutzMadison, WIDane County E-mail: agstutz@sbcglobal.netPhotos: http://community.webshots.com/user/agstutz
Entered 10/24/2006 9:00:08 AM__________________________________________
It's not too early for Snow Buntings here, however did you rule out (by voice, for instance) other possibilities such as partial albino House Sparrow?
Entered 10/23/2006 3:50:45 PM__________________________________________
October 22, walking by the Biocore prairie near Muir woods I saw a small predominantly white bird with some black on wings-without question a snow bunting. Seems unusual to see one here this early. Am I wrong?
Entered 10/21/2006 9:14:09 AM__________________________________________
If you're interested in helping to support the nonprofit Wisconsin Bluebird restoration effort (BRAW), check out www.cafepress.com/braw.
Entered 10/13/2006 2:49:06 PM__________________________________________
http://www.audubon.org/bird/at_home/SafeWindows.html
Entered 10/13/2006 2:40:55 PM__________________________________________
Just a quick report from the Midwest Regional Audubon Conf in the Dells - one of the topics is dangers to birds from windows and tall structures. It's a good idea to leave those window screens on your windows all year round. Also, if you have a feeder near your house, closer to a window (eg 1 meter) is better than further away.
Entered 10/10/2006 9:30:26 PM__________________________________________
Hello Wetland Monitors and Interested Citizens! Please join us on Wednesday, October 11 from 5-7 pm for a tour of Zeloski Marsh and potluck dinner. We will meet at 5 pm at the Glacial Drumlin State Trail office, located at 1213 South Main St. in Lake Mills (located in the old train depot on the south side of town). We will tour the marsh from 5-6 pm, and then head in from the cold for a potluck dinner. Please call or email me if you have any questions or would like directions. Hope to see you there!
Stefanie Nadeau, Wetland Volunteer Monitoring Coordinator, Rock River Coalition, Phone: 414-559-0926
Entered 10/9/2006 10:07:02 AM__________________________________________
I was reading an old copy (1961) of Wisconsin's Favorite Bird Haunts by Samuel D. Robbins Jr. and came across an amusing entry by Frederick and Frances Hamerstrom regarding travel to the Buena Vista Marsh in Portage County. "In winter and early spring the roads may be hard to travel. The melting snows in spring sometimes form excellent habitat for migrating waterfowl and for some of the spring shorebirds. But the waters sometimes come over the roads and make driving a bit treacherous. As a rule of thumb, if the ducks swimming in waters that cross the road are dabblers, one at least has a sporting chance of getting through; but if divers, turn back.
Entered 10/1/2006 10:56:50 AM__________________________________________
Nolan Pope did a wonderful job of shepherding us around Necedah yesterday, and we got excellent views of the cranes flying behind the ultralights. I would like to warn others that there is no sign for a Copps at the corner of Allen Blvd and Century Ave in Middleton because it has closed. When I arrived at 4:45 a.m. and couldn't find a Copps -- I was rather concerned. Nolan guided me via cell phone to the parking lot immediately west of the Anchor Bank at that corner. I suggest that for future trips from that parking lot it be noted in CAWS and on the website that the parking lot is immediately west of the Anchor Bank on that corner, at the sight of the former Copps.
Entered 9/28/2006 12:03:39 PM__________________________________________
Two conferences on birds, people, and their future together: Oct. 13 - "NO BIRD LEFT BEHIND"- Bird interactions with tall structures and how to reduce the risk. NOEL CUTRIGHT, Wisconsin Society for Ornithology, will keynote the conference. Experts on bird collisions and tall structures will present information and participants will have an opportunity to discuss and propose solutions. Speakers include: DANIEL KLEM, Professor, Muhlenberg College, PA, expert on bird collisions with glass, JOHN LAABS, president, Wisconsin Broadcasters Assn., and AL MANVILLE, Senior Wildlife Biologist, US Fish & Wildlife Service, Washington, DC, an expert on just about anything that stands in the way of migrating birds. Oct. 14-15 - UPPER MIDWEST AUDUBON CONFERENCE - Making Time for Birds and Nature. Open to all, the conference is organized by Wisconsin Audubon Council for Audubon chapters and members in Illinois, Iowa, Minnesota and Wisconsin. Featured speakers include: JOHN FLICKER, President, National Audubon Society, New York, NY, JIM FITZPATRICK, Executive Director, St. Croix Valley Nature Center, Hastings, MN – dinner speaker on his experiences seeking the Ivory-billed Woodpecker, and GREG BUTCHER, Director of Bird Conservation, National Audubon Society, Washington, DC. Field trips and more than 20 breakout sessions are planned. Visit the conference website for additional information, including registration form and a complete list of workshops. http://www.madisonaudubon.org/audubon/umac/
Entered 9/27/2006 5:11:51 PM__________________________________________
The main migration of Ospreys through Wisconsin is in September. You could be seeing those or they could be birds that have nested in southern Wisconsin in recent years. This year, there were active nests in Madison (on the cell tower off Fish Hatchery Rd), Stoughton (on the Yahara River on the north side of town), Portage, with two more in the Milwaukee area. Nesting platforms have been erected at several additional sites in the hope Osprey will find and use them in future years. More information can be found in the summer issue of the Audubon Caws (about halfway down the webpage for that issue).
Entered 9/25/2006 8:17:48 PM__________________________________________
according to cornell's site (and other sources as well), this part of WI is the southern most end (in the midwest) of the osprey's summer territory. i just don't recall having seen them around before. it sure would be wonderful if more were to make dane county home.
Entered 9/22/2006 11:20:15 PM__________________________________________
New direct links to the Cornell Birding Guide and eBird have been added to the madisonaudubon.org Home Page for convenient lookups - including pictures, sound, and videos, thanks to Audubon partner Cornell Labs and their sponsors! Please check out the eBird reporting and information resources for 'citizen scientists'. Even occasional reports of sightings by many amateurs can add up significantly, along with the observations of experienced pro's, to greatly enhance our overall knowledge of what's happing out there. Enjoy, and contribute your observations!
Entered 9/22/2006 7:42:22 AM__________________________________________
I also recently saw an Osprey. It was fishing on Lake Mendota then landed in a tree on the West shore of Governors Island.
Entered 9/21/2006 11:49:48 PM__________________________________________
http://www.orionrising.net/CBM/index.php - Just another reminder that the registration deadline is fast approaching for this year's Citizen-based Monitoring Conference. The theme this year is monitoring on specific properties to generate information for conservation efforts. The conference is located in beautiful Rowley's Bay WI at the Wagon Trail Resort at peak Fall color. Reserve your hotel room soon! Please contact me if you have any questions or need more information. Andy Paulios, Citizen Monitoring Network Liaison, Bureau of Endangered Resources Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, Phone: 608-267-0813 eMail: Andy.Paulios@wisconsin.gov
Entered 9/21/2006 11:40:11 PM__________________________________________
This is from a wetlands alert from the Wisconsin Wetlands Association: The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources' (DNR) Bureau of Law Enforcement has posted an online questionnaire to solicit public input on priorities for the conservation warden force's 5-7 year strategic plan. http://www.wiscwetlands.org/alerts/alert_20060908.htm The deadline for responses is Sept. 30.
Entered 9/21/2006 11:25:17 PM__________________________________________
re osprey sighting - they are actually starting to nest in the area
Entered 9/21/2006 6:43:25 PM__________________________________________
around 4:45pm yesterday while i was driving east on s broadway past south towne mall, i think i spied an osprey heading south. do they migrate thru here?
Entered 9/21/2006 11:45:28 AM__________________________________________
The Birds of North America is indeed an excellent and very thorough resource for all the birds of North America; however, there is a subscription fee. An alternative resource, which is also on the Cornell website and also excellent (plus it's free) is "All About Birds", which may meet most people's needs. Here's the link to the Red-tailed Hawk page: http://www.birds.cornell.edu/AllAboutBirds/BirdGuide/Red-tailed_Hawk.html
Entered 9/20/2006 11:11:30 AM__________________________________________
Others have voiced the same problem. We will be happy to have someone accompany participants back to their cars after meetings on request. Pete Cannon, Program Chair, 251-1276, apcannon@gmail.com.
Entered 9/20/2006 9:39:31 AM__________________________________________
I would love to attend the Madison Audubon meetings. The speakers are always interesting and informative. However, the locations seem to change quite often, and seem to be in buildings without nearby parking. I would not attend a meeting alone in the evening and then walk to my car alone, especially in the State Street or University area. It must be difficult to find the right spot for these meetings, and perhaps we need to put out the call to businesses to help us with this problem.
Entered 9/20/2006 9:05:07 AM__________________________________________
I assume you're seeing a Red-tailed hawk (as opposed to a Red-shouldered, which are fairly common but not as conspicuous as the former.) An excellent resource for bird info and photos is the Cornell Lab's Birds of North America Online (bna.birds.cornell.edu/BNA), which is easily searchable even if you're not sure of the exact name of the bird in question. Each species has photos in various plumages, as well as extensive sections about range and behavior. - pf
Entered 9/19/2006 10:31:37 PM__________________________________________
Any interesting sightings in the Dane County area? I had a great close-up look at a Yellowthroat at Token Creek a few weeks ago. I was parked by the bridge at the West entrance and it climbed up a cattail a few feet in front of my truck, sat a minute, then flew.
Entered 9/19/2006 10:04:24 PM__________________________________________
Do we have any red hawk experts out there? I really like watching them and would like to know more about their habits. I live in a suburb of Madison and see at least one on my route to/from work almost every day. Let me know if you are or know of a hawk expert. Thanks!Kerry Cartier
Entered 9/18/2006 6:21:11 PM__________________________________________
The Wisconsin Humane Society has a nice page on preventing bird collisions with windows at www.wihumane.org/wildlife/wings/homecollisions.aspx
Entered 9/18/2006 6:05:12 PM__________________________________________
Thanks for the info about my hummingbirds.
Entered 9/18/2006 6:00:25 PM__________________________________________
I have a large patio door and many windows along one side of my home. Birds often fly into the windows. What can I use to deter them?
Entered 9/18/2006 4:57:11 PM__________________________________________
Please continue to feed hummingbirds until you don't see any anymore, which should be by the end of September/early October. They will not be deterred from migrating; on the contrary, if there are some stragglers due to accident or illness or other factors, those birds may need the extra boost to send them on their way.
Entered 9/18/2006 4:34:48 PM__________________________________________
If I have hummingbirds still around, should I stop feeding them to encourage them to be getting on?
Entered 9/18/2006 2:59:20 PM__________________________________________
Every night I see a pair of sandhill crane fly over my house.
Entered 9/15/2006 10:44:27 AM__________________________________________
The Whooping Crane Festival is being held this Saturday, Sept 16 in Necedah, WI. Many lectures, tours and activities. More information on their website www.whooping-crane-festival.com I visited the observation tower yesterday and saw 3 Whooping Cranes in the field. Also a Gray Cheeked Thrush in the parking lot area and Canada Warblers...many egrets and herons on the big ponds at the refuge.
Entered 9/10/2006 10:53:45 PM__________________________________________
Saw yellow-rumped warblers at Governors Island on Friday. It is thick with catbirds in a weird way, too. At one point they might attack!
Entered 9/10/2006 3:15:46 PM__________________________________________
Check out Token Creek Park, near the water, for warblers and vireos. They were abundant this week. Also, Gallistel Woods in the Arboretum will give you good looks at thrushes and warblers. 8am to 11 am seems to be the best time of day now. A light rain doesn't seem to keep the birds away, in fact I have better luck birding in the rain. Also, the warbler guide by Chris Earley has great photos of fall warblers to help you I.D. them. It's available at the Arboretum bookstore. Laurie
Entered 9/7/2006 12:47:10 PM__________________________________________
Any bird sightings, anyone?
Birds, People & their Future Together . . . plan now to attend!* No Bird Left Behind: Oct. 13, 2006* Upper Midwest Audubon Conference: Oct. 14-15, 2006Ho-Chunk Conference Center, Wisconsin Dells/Baraboo, WI For more information visit: http://www.madisonaudubon.org/audubon/umac/index.htm
Note: Some recent messages were apparently lost due to inappropriate use of the message board, we will try to recover them. Thank you for your patience. Older messages follow.
Entered 6/26/2006 5:36:18 PM__________________________________________
Att: Re Cherokee Park - There will be a special meeting of the Plan Commission on the Cherokee Park Special Area Plan on Tuesday, June 27, from 5:30 - 7:30 p.m. at the Alliant Energy Center in the Exhibition Hall, Mendota Room 5. Help demonstrate to the City of Madison Plan Commission that many concerned citizens are watching the development plans in the Cherokee Marsh area and want to be heard on their concerns as the plans go forward. The city planning staff will be meeting with the Plan Commission on June 27 from 5:30 - 7:30 to present their "Special Area Plan" for this development area. The developer, Cherokee Park Inc., will also be presenting their plan for developing in this area. We want to get as many people as possible to attend and listen to these plans. There may be an opportunity for limited public comments of 3 minutes apiece. Several groups are preparing questions and concerns to present if given the opportunity. We are asking you to attend part or all of this meeting, to show the City & the Plan Commission the strength of concern and potential opposition regarding aspects of this development plan. The room can hold 120 people - let's fill it up! If you wish to speak, please contact Ellen Barnard at cherokeemarsh@gmail.com to discuss the strategy for getting all the concerns heard in a way that respects the city's parameters on this meeting.
Entered 6/26/2006 5:34:18 PM__________________________________________
Re qustion below - possibly white pelicans, very beautiful when soaring. Here's a link to a picture: http://www.mbr-pwrc.usgs.gov/id/framlst/i1250id.html
Entered 6/26/2006 1:36:48 PM__________________________________________
Hi - my family and I were out boating on Lake Kegonsa yesterday and saw a flock of medium-sized birds with white heads, solid white on the top of their wings and solid black on the bottom. They had about 50 in their flock and we've been trying to figure out what they might be. Don't think the coloring is right for the cranes....any ideas?
Entered 6/23/2006 3:01:17 PM__________________________________________
I saw a red-headed woodpecker North of Goose Pond, off of Hwy 22, near Mishlers Grocery today (6-23-2006). - Nancy
Entered 6/20/2006 11:22:28 PM__________________________________________ Entered 6/12/2006 3:26:05 PM__________________________________________ Entered 6/12/2006 2:13:12 PM__________________________________________ Entered 6/10/2006 1:39:27 PM__________________________________________ Entered 6/5/2006 9:35:58 AM__________________________________________ Entered 6/5/2006 9:04:01 AM__________________________________________ Entered 6/4/2006 7:24:32 PM__________________________________________ Entered 6/2/2006 11:58:42 AM__________________________________________ Entered 5/31/2006 8:50:07 PM__________________________________________ Entered 5/31/2006 10:12:36 AM__________________________________________ Entered 5/26/2006 4:49:19 PM__________________________________________ Entered 5/25/2006 3:38:04 AM__________________________________________ Entered 5/24/2006 6:38:04 PM__________________________________________ Entered 5/22/2006 4:06:57 PM__________________________________________ Entered 5/22/2006 11:28:26 AM__________________________________________ Entered 5/22/2006 8:58:51 AM__________________________________________ Entered 5/21/2006 3:12:34 PM__________________________________________ Entered 5/18/2006 12:13:16 PM__________________________________________ Entered 5/18/2006 7:06:48 AM__________________________________________ Entered 5/16/2006 11:40:07 PM__________________________________________ Entered 5/14/2006 2:25:23 PM__________________________________________ Entered 5/11/2006 12:38:29 PM__________________________________________ Entered 5/9/2006 5:39:40 PM__________________________________________ Entered 5/9/2006 4:49:34 PM__________________________________________ Entered 5/9/2006 9:05:38 AM__________________________________________ Entered 5/8/2006 7:16:36 PM__________________________________________ Entered 5/8/2006 7:16:23 PM__________________________________________ Entered 5/5/2006 2:57:41 PM__________________________________________ Entered 5/5/2006 2:39:34 PM__________________________________________ Entered 5/4/2006 3:16:37 PM__________________________________________ Entered 5/4/2006 12:07:19 AM__________________________________________ Entered 5/1/2006 11:24:44 AM__________________________________________ Entered 4/28/2006 11:26:07 AM__________________________________________ Entered 4/28/2006 6:27:25 AM__________________________________________ Entered 4/25/2006 8:20:02 PM__________________________________________ Entered 4/22/2006 10:57:00 PM__________________________________________ Entered 4/22/2006 11:55:50 AM__________________________________________ Entered 4/21/2006 10:47:44 PM__________________________________________ Entered 4/21/2006 10:15:25 PM__________________________________________ Entered 4/21/2006 10:10:09 PM__________________________________________ Entered 4/21/2006 9:40:31 AM__________________________________________ Entered 4/20/2006 5:57:06 PM__________________________________________ Entered 4/19/2006 11:41:24 AM__________________________________________ Entered 4/17/2006 12:47:50 PM__________________________________________ Entered 4/16/2006 8:09:03 PM__________________________________________ Entered 4/16/2006 8:08:47 PM__________________________________________ Entered 4/15/2006 10:35:55 PM__________________________________________ Entered 4/13/2006 12:58:13 PM__________________________________________ Entered 4/11/2006 5:26:58 PM__________________________________________ Entered 4/9/2006 11:59:11 AM__________________________________________ Entered 4/6/2006 11:12:41 AM__________________________________________ Entered 4/3/2006 7:49:54 AM__________________________________________ Entered 3/28/2006 9:55:35 PM__________________________________________ Entered 3/28/2006 2:27:29 AM__________________________________________ Entered 3/22/2006 6:16:33 PM__________________________________________ Entered 3/22/2006 10:26:27 AM__________________________________________ Entered 3/21/2006 9:44:04 AM__________________________________________ Entered 3/20/2006 9:22:43 AM__________________________________________ Entered 3/17/2006 3:26:55 PM__________________________________________ Entered 3/15/2006 9:55:21 PM__________________________________________ Entered 3/15/2006 9:45:18 PM__________________________________________ Entered 3/13/2006 11:40:51 AM__________________________________________ Entered 3/11/2006 7:39:37 PM__________________________________________ Entered 3/10/2006 3:41:33 PM__________________________________________ Entered 3/9/2006 11:12:03 AM__________________________________________ Entered 3/8/2006 12:36:39 PM__________________________________________ Entered 3/6/2006 2:25:27 PM__________________________________________ Entered 3/4/2006 5:12:23 PM__________________________________________ Entered 3/2/2006 3:16:46 PM__________________________________________ Entered 3/2/2006 2:40:16 PM__________________________________________ Entered 2/28/2006 6:38:32 PM__________________________________________ Entered 2/28/2006 12:43:28 AM__________________________________________ Entered 2/27/2006 9:07:24 PM__________________________________________ Entered 2/24/2006 9:35:04 AM__________________________________________ Entered 2/23/2006 10:26:25 AM__________________________________________ Entered 2/20/2006 1:39:47 PM__________________________________________ Entered 2/19/2006 12:06:19 PM__________________________________________ Entered 2/13/2006 11:30:50 AM__________________________________________ Entered 2/12/2006 11:32:53 AM__________________________________________ Entered 2/6/2006 9:44:03 AM__________________________________________ Entered 2/5/2006 3:08:09 PM__________________________________________ Entered 2/1/2006 10:28:44 PM__________________________________________ Entered 2/1/2006 10:24:17 PM__________________________________________ Entered 1/30/2006 4:44:56 PM__________________________________________ Entered 1/21/2006 10:45:22 AM__________________________________________ Entered 1/19/2006 3:08:13 PM__________________________________________ Entered 1/18/2006 7:21:14 PM__________________________________________ Entered 1/16/2006 12:25:51 PM__________________________________________ Entered 1/8/2006 1:42:23 PM__________________________________________ Entered 1/1/2006 3:11:24 PM__________________________________________
Reminder - Friends of Cherokee Marsh & Upper Yahara Meeting 6/21 Date: Tue, 20 Jun 2006 06:41:59 -0500 From: Ellen Barnard
We were birding in Steinke Basin near Devil's Lake this morning and watched a Lawrence's Warbler for quite some time. It was a beautiful example of this hybrid of the Blue Winged and Golden Winged Warblers....Yellow cap, black throat and eye patch, yellow belly, 2 white wing bars. It was down the path from the parking lot, first left, past 3rd bench. Also blue winged and yellow warblers in the area. Laurie
The groups Canada geese that are flying north this time of the year are either non-breeders or unproductive nesters. They are doing a molt migration, which can lead them to the tundra or almost any place in between. Often they congregate on larger bodies of water to molt together.
The UW Arboretum Bookstore (Seminole Hwy) has the new book by Laura Erickson, 101 Ways to Help Birds; paperback. I enjoyed reading it, as it is very thorough and informative. Also, I noticed many used books on birds of other countries.
Over the last week I have seen two large (50+) v,s of canada geese heading in a north direction. A little late for migrants, locals should be with broods, what gives?
If anyone wants to see dickcissels, take a slow drive down County J (or any side roads off of it) in Green County, SW of New Glarus. There are males singing everywhere, right along the road in many cases. Marbleseed Prairie, also in that general area, has Henslow's, clay-colored, grasshopper, field, and most other common grassland sparrows, as well as a Bell's vireo in the shrubby area to the north. All were singing in the midafternoon on Sunday. pf
Green heron seen at Olbrich Gardens this afternoon (6-4-06) around 5pm or so. (Am downloading picture taken from the bridge by the rock garden). There were actually 2 in the area but the pictured one allowed an approach of about 7-10 feet while hunting without exhibiting any stress but the other wouldn't allow me to come within a hundred feet or so.
I went to the Brooklyn W.A. last evening in search of chats, but spaced out and went to the parking area off of Hwy DD and wandered along on some of the trails instead. Two notable things: I saw NO garlic mustard in the woods (yet - it's probably a question of when, not if;) and in a bush by the parking lot, I saw what may have been a female/imm. male dickcissel. It looked very similar to a female house sparrow, as noted in all my field guides, but had very definite short, yellow malar stripes. But there was no other apparent yellow anywhere on it, so I'm just not certain. pf
5/31/2006 - On Sunday afternoon, 5/28/2006 on Yahara River going into Lake Kegonsa near RV park before Fish Camp, believe I saw three Egyptian geese. Two remained on water while one took off and circled back. Got within 20 ft in my kayak. Not afraid of all the other boat traffic either. Escaped from zoo? Could not find list of birds at zoo.
I was interested in the Audubon Costa Rica trip and wondered if anyone has taken this trip in the past and could give a report and suggestions.
I was birding at the Brooklyn Wildlife Area this morning; the trail off the Hughes St parking lot, and saw the Yellow Breasted Chat down the trail, just before the woods on the left. I heard the one note call and heard the sound like a puppy barking, then saw it perched in a tree. This is the largest warbler, with a bright yellow throat and breast, white mustache stripe, dark olive head and back. Enjoy! Laurie
Rose-breasted grosbeaks nest in WI, (among other north eastern states), and can be expected throughout the summer. The ones which frequent our feeder returned in mid-May and I expect to see them through August into September, if my failing memory serves me correctly.
I have just an ordinary birdfeeder that I put in a tree last week. This morning, as I was looking out my window, a beautiful bird was eating. I found out that it was a Rose-breasted Grossbeak. My question is, how common are they? I live in Southeastern Wisconsin. Will they be around for long? Any info on this bird would be greatly appreciated.
The other large white bird with black wing tips that could be in the area is the White Pelican. These are much more common in Wisconsin than Whooping Cranes (300+ pairs are nesting at Green Bay; 500+ pairs at Horicon, with others being seen in several counties). The two species could be confused with a quick look, so pay close attention to the head and neck, and how long the legs are! -Karen Etter Hale, Madison Audubon office
Huge flock of cedar waxwings on campus today--I saw them in several spots between observatory drive and university avenue, walking around the van vleck building.
A male hooded merganser has been feeding at Olbrich Gardens in the small slough near the rock garden during the late afternoon / early evening hours. In the morning, he can either be seen at this location or from the bridge crossing to the Thai Pavillion, (look south towards the lake on the west bank). Was seen Friday around 6:30 pm or so, Saturday and Sunday around 8 am, and Sunday evening around 6 pm.John
Whooping Crane at Dane County airport?A large mostly white crane with black wingtips seen near the general aviation area of the Dane County airport. Sun May 21 about 12:20p near Hwy 51. I am familiar with sandhill cranesand this definitely was not a sandhill. Flying alone in a northeasterly direction. Was it possibly a whooping crane or something else? Are there any other reports of this bird in thearea?
Almost any large raptor would be capable of killing an adult duck (in older Peterson field guides, peregrine falcons are called "duck hawks.") Most likely candidate would be a red-tailed hawk, though. (If you didn't see a red tail, it could have been a subadult bird.) In winter, snowy owls will take ducks, also. pf
NEW DATE! Friends of Cherokee Marsh/Upper Yahara River formation meeting has been changed from May 24, to May 31. Please join us for a waalk through the Marsh Conservation area at 6 p.m. with naturalist Pat Woicek, and then a meeting from 7-9 p.m. to discuss the formation of a group to steward this important natural area. Meeting will take place at the Sherman United Methodist Church, 3705 N. Sherman Avenue. Questions? Email cherokeemarsh@gmail.com. - Ellen Barnard is the contact.
Can anyone tell me what "bird of prey" would kill a male duck? On Friday evening I saw a duck killed right outside my apartment at Eagle Heights. The predator was not much bigger than the duck but definitely heavier. I only saw its chest and under its wings but it was white with brown speckles and I swear that its eyes looked like they were completely dilated! (Its coloring was very similar to a female duck.) And, of course, it had a hooked beak. Later, when I saw the duck's body, it's head was nearly severed but the body looked intact. It seemed so unusual to me that a predator bird would attack a duck! Any ideas?
Saw a glossy ibis at Horicon on May 13. A life bird for us and one for the guide, as well.
Orioles and catbirds are back. Appear to have blown in with the storm.
Thanks. As it turns out it is a red-winged blackbird. Unlike pics in my books, the variations in color on her back are barely visible.AGK
Seven to eight inches seems much too large for a waterthrush (also, like most warblers, they are insectivores, as far as I know.) Are you sure it isn't a female redwing (or even yellow-headed) blackbird? Redwings, especially, will come to feeders, and I've heard of YHs doing it, too. pf
Like previous poster, white crowned sparrow spotted in my backyard (east side of Madison) May 7 & May 8. I have a bit of a puzzler though...7-8" bird at my feeder that looks for all the world like a Northern Waterthrush. I live 2 blocks from Lake Monona, so there is water close. Do they come to feeders??? If not, do you have any suggestions of what this may be? The following are the specs:* Overall, bird is very dark brown. No wing bars; small white mark between wings on back. Creamy to pale yellow throat and chest with dense dark markings on chest and underbelly. Creamy/pale yellow line directly over eye to nape of neck. While at feeder, seems more restless and watchful than other backyard birds. Any help is much appreciated!AGK
You are invited to join a group of us who are meeting to start a "Friends of Cherokee Marsh" (or something like that) group to try work together with the city and county to make sure that developments that may affect the marsh and watershed are not putting those delicate areas at risk. We are being joined by Jay Krienitz of the River Alliance, who will help us begin to form a group and make plans for actions that will have a positive outcome for our marsh and watershed.There is interest on the part of the city in finding ways to preserve the most important areas - now it's up to us to offer the city feasible plans that will achieve those goals.So join us on Wednesday May 24. You can take a guided walk with us at Cherokee Conservancy at 6:00 p.m., with naturalist Pat Woicek telling us about the unique properties of this wetland area. Or just join us at 7:00 p.m. at the Sherman United Methodist Church, 3705 N. Sherman Ave.. We will meet until 9:00 p.m. (no later) and talk about what our first steps will be. Healthy snacks will be provided, in case you don't have time for dinner.In the meantime, if you have not already written letters to the city planning project manager, Rick Roll (rroll@cityofmadison.com), and to the Planning Council and Alderman Van Rooy, please do so. It's important that your opinions be heard.So I hope we see you on May 24 at either 6:00 p.m. at the shelter at Cherokee Marsh Conservancy Park, or 7:00 p.m. at the Sherman United Methodist Church. If you have questions, please email me at this address. And please, pass this announcement on to your friends and neighbors who might be interested in being involved in this project. This is definitely a time when there is strength in numbers!Ellen Barnard
You are invited to join a group of us who are meeting to start a "Friends of Cherokee Marsh" (or something like that) group to try work together with the city and county to make sure that developments that may affect the marsh and watershed are not putting those delicate areas at risk. We are being joined by Jay Krienitz of the River Alliance, who will help us begin to form a group and make plans for actions that will have a positive outcome for our marsh and watershed.There is interest on the part of the city in finding ways to preserve the most important areas - now it's up to us to offer the city feasible plans that will achieve those goals.So join us on Wednesday May 24. You can take a guided walk with us at Cherokee Conservancy at 6:00 p.m., with naturalist Pat Woicek telling us about the unique properties of this wetland area. Or just join us at 7:00 p.m. at the Sherman United Methodist Church, 3705 N. Sherman Ave.. We will meet until 9:00 p.m. (no later) and talk about what our first steps will be. Healthy snacks will be provided, in case you don't have time for dinner.In the meantime, if you have not already written letters to the city planning project manager, Rick Roll (rroll@cityofmadison.com), and to the Planning Council and Alderman Van Rooy, please do so. It's important that your opinions be heard.So I hope we see you on May 24 at either 6:00 p.m. at the shelter at Cherokee Marsh Conservancy Park, or 7:00 p.m. at the Sherman United Methodist Church. If you have questions, please email me at this address. And please, pass this announcement on to your friends and neighbors who might be interested in being involved in this project. This is definitely a time when there is strength in numbers!
In the last entry I meant to say white crowned sparrow. Sorry!
Among the flocks of white throated sparrows passing through Fitchburg this week, we have seen one white crested sparrow and at least one Harris's sparrow.
I saw a Rose Breasted Grossbeak, a Roufus Sided Towhee and a Coopers Hawk in the last few days in my backyard off Hamersly Rd. on the westside of Madison.Larry
While the Madison Audubon Society's Art Fair on Saturday, May 13 is on many of our minds, the exotic weeds aren't offering us any relief in the meantime. Help is needed locating and removing (spraying and pulling) garlic mustard in the oak woods at Otsego Marsh on Saturday May 6th. We will meet at Goose Pond at 9:00 a.m. and arrive at Otsego Marsh at 9:30 a.m. We need a lot of lookers to locate and mark scattered patches of garlic mustard. This should be the ideal weekend to locate garlic mustard. We will work to about noon. You may want to end the morning by bringing a picnic lunch. Otsego Marsh can be reached by going on Hwy. 22 north of the Junction of Hwy. 51, 60 and 22 at North Leeds. Go 4.5 miles north on Hwy. 22, then turn (right) east on King Road for 5 miles then (left) north on Old F for .25 miles.
For the second weekend in a row, an impromptu trip to Goose Pond produced a pleasant surprise. After last week's flock of avocets, this past Saturday I saw a flock of Lapland longspurs in breeding plumage. What a treat! Not much else there, besides a lone snipe on the east pond, and a quick glimpse at what I think was a spotted sandpiper. pf
Checked Goose Pond for shorebirds just before 5pm yesterday Thur 04/27/06. From the pull-off area on east pond I found Killdeer, a Lesser Yellowlegs, a Semipalmated Plover, and one feeding Long-billed Dowitcher. Dowitcher and Plover were on the mud immediately east of gravel pull-off. Dowitcher very cooperative, at times too close for use of scope! Jim
Come to the Cafe Montmartre on May 2nd to celebrate the passage of the Clean Energy Bill in Wisconsin and hear what it means for you from Rep. Spencer Black and Don Wichert from Focus on Energy.When: Tuesday, May 2 @ 6:30 - 8:00Where: Cafe Montmartre 127 E. Mifflin St.Sponsored by WISPIRG.Please join us!Caleb PourchotWISPIRG
Have you heard that there is a proposal to turn part of Stricker's Park into a dog park right next to the conservancy. What do you think that will do to the bird watching there?
The Cardinal, in your case, or any other that is being territorial, is attacking its own reflection in the window thinking it is another bird. If it is coming off of a bird feeder you can try moving the feeder either close to the window or very far away.
Cardinals and other birds attack windows because they are being territorial. In most cases this happens during breeding season, and the birds will stop soon after that. Some birds, however, particularly cardinals, can keep at it year-round, as you've found. It's very difficult to get them to stop, with the only real solution being to cover windows with screening, netting, or other material, but they may simply switch to other glass surfaces.Laura Erickson has an excellent website with loads of interesting information (www.birderblog.com/bird/Conservation/PartII/32-BirdProblems.html). Here's a piece she wrote about robins hitting windows (try substituting cardinal): www.learner.org/jnorth/tm/robin/WindowBonk.htmlThe Wisconsin Humane Society - Wildlife Rehabilitation Center has an excellent website on preventing collisions with windows. It's more focused on collisions than on birds attacking windows, but still has useful information. See: www.wihumane.org/wildlife/wings/homecollisions.aspxGood luck!
For the last 2 weeks starting April 8,2006 ,every morning, we have had a female Cardinal hitting our windows. When I pull down a shade, he finds a different window to hit. Does anybody know why he's hitting windows amd how long will this go on????????? We live in Washington County in the country.
The bird singing and flying over Cherokee Marsh. Maybe a Bobolink?
Saw about 200 White Pelicans flying in a group near Northport and Water Rd.
I was thinking yesterday that I should probably get the wren houses out promptly - sure enough, I heard a house wren singing in the neighborhood this morning, and then at least one more as I walked to the bus stop! pf
Goose Pond this evening has a flock of Bonaparte's Gulls, Blue Winged Teal, Coots and Shovelers. There are reports of White Pelicans there in the morning. If you care to drive north to the Buena Vista Grasslands, we saw Eastern Phoebes, Meadowlarks, Savannah Sparrows, Red Winged Blackbirds, Killdeer, Bluebirds and Kestrals. Laurie
Have the Red Winged BlackBirds migrated from North Georgia?
Correction: That "Peregrine Falcon" of the 04/11/06 posting is a Cooper's Hawk. She is now sitting on the nest full-time.
11:00 a.m. April 13, 2006 I photographed a scissor tailed flycatcher feeding from a power line a few miles north of Plain in Sauk County!F.M. fourstamp@powercom.net
11:00 a.m. April 13, 2006 I photographed a scissor tailed flycatcher feeding from a power line a few miles north of Plain in Sauk County!F.M. fourtsmp@powercom.net
Mass of cedar waxwings at Rowan Creek Saturday morning around 8am. Counted 11 in one frame, at least 50 within a 20 yard area.
The Osprey's are back in the phone tower. They arrived about 2 weeks ago.The tower is located in the Dean parking lot behind the SBC building on Plaenert Dr.
Peregrine falcon nest and bird sitings in top of tree on terrace in front of 145 West Wilson Street, Madison. Seems an unlikely location to me, but there it is hanging high over the busy street. Great views from inside the new Courthouse, if you know a friend who knows a friend . . .
Need help identifying a bird: There was a bird circling overhead at Cherokee Marsh, over the grassland area, mid-morning 4/9. It was singing as it flew, about a half-dozen ascending notes in a sort of fluty tone. Couldn't see it very well, but it appeared about robin-sized, dark, with maybe some white on its front. It was pretty high overhead, just going round and round singing. Any idea what this is?
On Wed. of this week, I was driving past Dorn Creek ( hwy Q, waunakee) and I might have seen a immature whooping crane, I saw a fawn redish crane, when it landed I saw a flash of white, then it was lost in the cattails. Please post another message if you get a confirmation.
A pair of Egrets were spotted fishing on Strickers Pond in Middleton April 2 & 3.
Today, March 28, 2006, while at the Horicon Marsh Visitor's Center, I spotted a Male Bufflehead in the pond outside their deck. It was all alone. The time of the sighting was appoximately 2:20 p.m. Central Time. I am Jennifer Morrill and live in Milwaukee. This will be my 10th year as a bird watcher. I have never seen a Bufflehead so I can check this off my list of birds/ducks I haven't seen yet.
WANTED: Wildlife Enthusiasts! Many volunteer opportunities await you involving wildlife rehabilitation with the Dane County Humane Society "Four Lakes Wildlife Center" including:• raising/rehabilitating ill, orphaned or injured wildlife • marketing• construction • fundraising• transportation• and many moreInterested? Please attend either orientation: March 19th from 1pm-3pm March 27th from 6pm-8pm at the Dane County Humane Society. Questions: email wildlife@giveshelter.org or call 608-838-0413 ext. 153
this is a link to national audubon
I'm not 100% certain, but I believe I saw a peregrine sitting on top of Grainger Hall (corner of Universtiy & Park) just before 5:00 p.m. yesterday. Unfortunately, it took off and sailed over the roof just as I finally got my mini-binoculars out of the bottom of my pack. Size, shape and color all seemed right, though. pf
Tundras were on Squaw Bay in Monona earlier this winter. In a large flock that consisted of Tundra and Mute. There were several juveniles. At one point I counted 26 swan.
We were on Lake Mendota on Sunday, March 19, 2006 and saw what we believed to be a pair of Tundra Swans flying. Has anyone else seen them? They did not appear to be as large in size as Trumpeter Swans . Heddy & David
A pair of Sandhill Cranes, a mature Bald Eagle and a Phoebe at Picnic Point on Friday, March 17th.
1000 Friends is co-sponsoring Nolan to Now - Neighborhood Design for a Sustainable Region - May 18-20, 2006, Edgewood College, Madison, WI. Please consider joining us for this great lineup of speakers, workshops and tours! Register at www.nolenconference.org
re bluebird houses and discouraging sparrows, the main factors are proper box design, wide spacing, location away from buildings, and box maintenance. a good local resource is wisconsin's bluebird restoration society http://www.braw.org/articles/2004_braw_box_spacing_study.htm
In Arena, I've had a carolina wren all winter & now it's singing its territory. How common is it for them to be here all winter? Also sandhills, red winged blackbirds & a turkey vulture yesterday. Does anyone have plans for sparrow discouraging bluebird nesting box?
3/11/06 We saw two immature bald eagles on the ice near some open water on Lake Kegonsa near the Fish Camp Boat Launch and we saw three immature/almost mature bald eagles on the ice near some open water in lower mud lake just south of McFarland. This was around 3-4 PM. Paul & Nancy
3/10 saw a pileated woodpecker on Waunona Way in the city. First one I've seen in many years.
At about 12:30pm on March 8th I saw and heard a Carolina Wren on the South-West commuter bike trail between Commonweath and Glenway.
Interesting to read the CBC totals, and especially the comments about the increased number of blue jays seen this year. I saw a remarkable number groups of several jays while poking around on backroads in Green Lake/Marquette Counties this past Sunday, and have noticed more than usual this spring, in general. Same with crows. Now we apparently need to start paying as much attention to bird flu, based on recent news from Europe, as we do to West Nile virus. pf
Spotted a Killdeer at Cherokee Marsh around 1 in the afternoon today, black and white bands around the neck made it easy to identify. Also, went to Goose Pond this morning just to see the Horned Larks... thanks very much to the person that left that information. luvneaner@yahoo.com
Also at the Arboretum on Friday were white throated sparrows, fox sparrows, coopers hawk, barred owl and cedar waxwings.
Sandhill cranes and redwing blackbirds have been seen in the Arboretum this week.
For those of you who have added butterfly watching to your nature treks, the WI DNR has published a nice little booklet "Butterflies of Pheasant Branch Conservancy". It is available at the Arboretum Bookstore on Seminole Highway and from the DNR office or website. The DNR's new book on grasshoppers is also a great guide for nature lovers.
To my suprise Sandhill cranes are back at Gov. Nelson state park along Dorn Creek. The big suprise is that they have returned on the exact same day as I have them recorded for last year 02/28. Spring must be around the corner.
Plans continue to move forward for the Comprehensive Development Plan for the area between Cherokee Marsh to the north and Cherokee Golf Course and Whitetail Ridge subdivision to the south that is owned by Cherokee Park Inc. If you wish to have input on this plan, there will be a second neighborhood meeting on Tuesday, Feb 28 at 7 p.m. at the Warner Park Community Recreation Center. This is a followup meeting to the one held December 14 when the initial plans were discussed. More details are now available, which will be presented at the meeting. The City of Madison and Cherokee Park Incorporated, working with Schreiber Anderson & Associates and Attorney William White, are preparing the Comprehensive Development Plan for the property. The meeting is being called by Alderperson Paul Van Rooy, District 18.Madison Audubon would like to see adequate park land dedicated, as well as buffers along the boundaries. If you are interested in Cherokee Marsh, please plan to attend this meeting to discuss this significant proposal for the northside neighborhood. For more information, contact Alderperson Paul Van Rooy at 663-9500 or district18@cityofmadison.com
Over the weekend my wife Barb was were filling a wooden bird feeder and spotted some tail feathers sticking out from a hole that a squirrel had chewed. Assuming it was a dead bird, she tugged the feathers, but to her surprise it withdrew further into the hole! Looking through the slot in the top of the feeder she discovered a mourning dove. It had gotten inside, perhaps to escape from a recent snowstorm or to feed, and then could not turn around to get back out. Barb was able to remove the front of the bird feeder and lift it out and went to bring it some water. After a few minutes resting on the ground nearby, the dove flew away apparently unharmed.
For those of you who love to see Horned Larks as I do, they have been at Goose Pond this past month. They can be seen on the shoulder of the road in the gravel and on the road. These birds congregate in flocks on open country such as farm fields. The male is small with black "horns", a black line under the eye and light yellow face. It has a black breast band, brown upperparts and dark tail. I love to see this little bird trotting around the roads searching for seeds. The Horned Lark sings a tinkling little song while in flight. Enjoy!
Thanks for the info on the cardinal!
Cardinals and other birds attack windows because they are being territorial. In most cases this happens during breeding season, and the birds will stop soon after that. Some birds, however, particularly cardinals, can keep at it year-round, as you've found. It's very difficult to get them to stop, with the only real solution being to cover windows with screening, netting, or other material, but they may simply switch to other glass surfaces. Laura Erickson has an excellent website with loads of interesting information (www.birderblog.com/bird/Conservation/PartII/32-BirdProblems.html). Here's a piece she wrote about robins hitting windows (try substituting cardinal): www.learner.org/jnorth/tm/robin/WindowBonk.htmlThe Wisconsin Humane Society - Wildlife Rehabilitation Center has an excellent website on preventing collisions with windows. It's more focused on collisions than on birds attacking windows, but still has useful information. See: www.wihumane.org/wildlife/wings/homecollisions.aspxGood luck!
We have a cardinal that has been flying into one of our upstairs windows for about 2 years now. I think it is the same bird and he does this for hours at a time. I have watched this same bird fly into windows on our neighbors' garages near by, then come back to hit ours. Now we have another cardinal that flies under our back porch and repeatedly flies into a basement window. The birds are bloody at times and yet continue to hurt themselves. Any suggestions as to how I can get them to stop?
Re: Pheasant Branch dead bird. The bird your describing sounds like an european starling, an exotic species.
dozens of robins in a flock over Pheasant branch marsh Feb.9. Discovered a blackish colored dead bird in the adjoining park a bit larger than a robin, feathers difinitely baby feathers. Had a yellow baby bird beak. Did not look like a baby owl or hawk=beak or color. Am wondering what it could have been?(went back to photograph it, and an animal had not left enough to recognize .
Is there a possibility of bald eagles at Bong State Park this time of year? Thanks,
I've been seeing bluebirds at Cherokee Marsh for the past 3 or 4 years in Winter. Always in the trees over by the little pond. I haven't been out there yet this year though. I was very surprised the first time I saw them -- there I was slogging through more than a foot of snow, and then to see a pair of bluebirds up in the tree!
Townsends Solitaires. Yesterday 3 birder friends went to Devil's Lk State Prk to find the wintering Solitaires. They reported seeing 9 total! They hang around the area at the top of Balanced Rock trail and Devil's Doorway. Several trails (EZ & diff.) lead to the area. Get a park map and ask at the ranger station. I was up a few weeks ago and spotted one eating wild grapes. Awesomw birds!PR-Stoughton
RE: Bluebirds. According to BRAW over 18,000 were fledged in WI last summer. An abundant supply of berries and the mild temps have kept them here this winter. Recent CBC results report over 500 bluebirds statewide. Only the 2nd winter record for Door Co. in over 35 years. PR WB ed.
Re: bluebirds. Last Thursday (1/26), I saw a male Eastern bluebird at the junction of Ski Hi Rd. and South Shore Rd. just outside Devil's Lake SP. (Unfortunately, I did NOT see the Townsend's solitaires in the park itself - drat!) - pf
re: bluebirds. There have been some at feeders on the west side of Madison.
I have a quick question that I hope someone can answer. I have seen a Bluebird at one of my boxes in Sauk County. Is this most likely a bird that is over-wintering because of the mild weather? Has anyone else noticed Bluebirds in the area?Thank you.Linda lreichert@waunakee.k12.wi.us
Has anyone been watching the mixed group of geese, swan, and ducks on Squaw Bay near the mouth of the Yahara? I'm not good at swan I.D. There are Tundra and Mute, but thought I may have seen two or three Trumpet in the group. Would like to know what someone with more swan knowledge than I have, thinks. Also three snow geese showed up today along with all the Canada.
With all of the recent interest in owls, I thought some birders might enjoy this websitewww.owlpages.com
I'm having trouble identifying some geese, I'm embarassed to ask but if you feel you can help me I'll email you the pictures. Please contact me at luvneaner@yahoo.com It's probably something so very simple.
Save the Date!Wednesday, January 25, marks the second annual Conservation Lobby Day. Please seriously consider joining us and more than 200 others in Madison that day to share your conservation values one-on-one with your state Representative and state Senator. More details to come. For more information, e-mail me or take a look at http://conservationvoters.org/lobbyday/. Merry Solstice and good birding to you all!