Lake Region Audubon

EAGLE’S VIEW March 2010

Volume 20, Issue 3

Street Audubon Center

115 Lameraux Road
Winter Haven, FL 33884

Colorado, Summertime, 2009

by Paul Fellers
It was destination Denver, CO last July 4th for my niece, Mary Goodman, her 2 grown children, and myself for 3
weeks of trucking around the state to see what nature had in store for us. None of us had spent any serious time
there, but we were about to. Our first destination was Pike’s Peak SSW of Denver. It’s one of 54 or so peaks in
CO over 14,000’ and one of 2 of these that can be driven to the top. On route, we had had enough traveling for
one day, so quit early when we found a cabin near Cañon City for the night. I took a 2-hour hike before dark in the
wilds behind the cabins. Here I found the first nice rose quartz of the trip, and a family of 5 Blue-gray Gnatcatchers
was a surprise as I had no idea they would be that far west.
It turned out that we were very close to the famous Royal Gorge and the suspension bridge over the Arkansas
River. So next morning we played tourist at this spectacular place but didn’t pay to cross the bridge. We lucked
into taking an exceptionally scenic Phantom Canyon Road (dirt) which had been the old Cripple Creek and Victor
narrow gauge railroad used to haul gold ore from the fabulously rich ore fields at Cripple Creek. Huge mountains of
tailings are in evidence at the still working mine.
Nearby was Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument, which neither Mary nor I had ever heard of. This
remarkable area is home to fossils from the Eocene Era of about 34 million years ago. About 1,500 insects and
150 plants have been identified thus far. For us, though, it was the fossilized Redwood stumps, some over 12’ in
diameter, that were awesome. For comparison purposes,
dinosaurs died off about 65 million years ago, and Homo Sapiens
in CO left cave dwelling carvings and paintings from about 4,000
years ago.
From our campsite in Pike Forest, it was finally time to drive up
the 19 miles to 14,110’ Pike’s Peak. Our rental car did it just fine
on a beautiful clear day. Of course the vistas out to 4 different
states were spectacular. A tram also accesses the peak, and we
did see it at the top. How many folks know that Katherine Bates
Summit Lake Park on Mt Evans, 14, 264 feet
penned the words to “America the Beautiful” after visiting Pike’s
with mountain sheep at lake edge
Peak? A pair of White-throated Swifts and a Common Raven by Paul Fellers
soared above the mountain, while several Mountain Goats grazed
at the summit.
 March 2010 Eagle’s View

Heading north on scenic Route 67, we crossed the Platt River on the way to Mt. Evans (14,264’ high) west of
Denver. Stops were made on the drive up: Mt. Goliath Natural Area, home to several ancient Bristlecone Pines,
nesting Mountain Bluebirds, and a Rosy Finch species; Also Summit Lake Park above tree line with numerous
Bighorn Sheep ambling about, American Pipits, and spectacular scenery. At the summit we climbed up huge
boulders to achieve the real top with snow-capped peaks all around and spent some time admiring alpine flowers on
the summit before heading down. Then it was off to Greeley,
north of Denver, to pick up a new tent Mary had ordered and
had sent to friends there. We picked up the tent, visited a while,
and since we were near the Pawnee National Grassland, we
decided to drive out on the short grass prairie to Pawnee Buttes
to the northeast. We saw no Mountain Plovers, but did see lots
of Horned Larks and Lark Buntings (Colorado’s state bird), and
a pair of Chestnut-collared Longspurs. We took a nice hike to
the base of the two scenic buttes. On our return to the west, we
Paul at Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument lucked on to a small slough having a pair of Long-billed Curlews
in front of huge fossilized Redwood stump and 14 Marbled Godwits.
At Estes Park, a town at the base of Rocky Mountain National Park (RMNP), we stocked up with groceries, and
headed to the 12,183’ summit via the 11-mile Old Fall River Road with Chasm Falls along the way. The plan was
to take the more scenic 19-mile main Summit Road on our return trip later on (which we did). Near the top we
took a couple of short hikes to observe the scenery and alpine flowers, and try to find Rosy Finches and White-
tailed Ptarmigans (none of each). At the summit we hiked to the top and beyond with alpine flowers everywhere
and a few elk grazing nearby. Certainly this 360° view out to snow covered peaks is one to cherish forever! Back
down the mountain a bit on the western slope, we stopped for yet another hike, but unlike the other hikes, this one
resulted in coming upon a pair of what, up until that moment, had been extremely elusive for me—a pair of White-
tailed Ptarmigans! (No. 654 for US life birds). We heard them making faint clucking sounds before we saw them at
the edge of some short willows. There were also a few Brown-capped Rosy Finches in the same area (another lifer
for me!). Farther down the mountain we saw the terrible toll that the Mountain Pine Beetle is having on Lodgepole
Pines, leaving dead and dying trees in their wake—millions of
acres devastated! That night we were at Arapaho Bay
Campground on huge Lake Granby, but the ground was bare as
all the dead pines had been cut. Sad!
The next day at the Colorado River Trailhead we began a 7.3-
mile round-trip hike to a totally abandoned gold town called Lulu
City where over a hundred years earlier there were 200 gold
miners but now shows no evidence of habitation. The hike along
the river headwaters was very pleasant and green as there were
few Lodgepole Pines along the trail, and birding was good with 3 Paul along trail to American Lakes in CO
Northern 3-toed Woodpeckers; Yellow, Wilson’s and beautifully- State Forest at about 11,000 feet
plumaged Audubon’s Yellow-rumped Warblers; and several attractive Dark-eyed Juncos of the gray-headed race
(which has a rufous back). At the Lulu City site, we were streamside when all of a sudden we were spattered with
water—a American Dipper (Water Ouzel) passing? A half-hour later it happened again, but this time we figured it

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 Eagle’s View March 2010

out. Gusts of wind or mini-twisters coming down the canyon were picking up a bit of water from the creek and
spattering us for quite an amazing phenomenon.
Then it was westward to the small town of Clark near Steamboat Springs where Mary’s friends, John and Carol
Twitchell and their 7-year-old son resided. We were welcomed to stay at their beautiful home on a hillside while in
the area. The break from our camping was a nice change. It seems that there would be a big craft show the next
day in Steamboat Springs, so we all decided to go. It was great fun and interesting. Steamboat Springs is a neat
town with the fast-flowing Yampa River running through. The next day we were all off on a hike up nearby Sand
Mountain. The Twitchell’s son was particularly excited about the hike. I was confident that I could do it, and even
though I brought up the rear, all was fine, and eventually I joined the others on the 10,847’ snowy summit. Some
gorgeous purple Phacelia was in bloom along the trail near the top. Wyoming was only about 15 miles north and
visibility was great all around. Three Lincoln’s Sparrows were observed along the trail. At the Twitchell’s home I
saw Violet-green Swallows, Warbling Vireos feeding in the aspens, Hairy Woodpeckers, and Pine Siskins. A pair of
gorgeous Red-shafted Flickers lived in the neighborhood.
Then we were off for our planned 4-day backpacking trip to American Lakes (formerly Michigan Lakes) just to the
north of RMNP in the Colorado State Forest. John Twitchell, being a forest ranger, was very familiar with the area
and guaranteed that we would love it (and we did). Near Gould on the road to Cameron Pass at 10,276’ where
we would start our 6-mile hike was a State Forest ranger station where we spent some time enjoying the alpine
flowers (especially the Blue Columbine, the state flower of CO), birds and a Moose. Rufous and Broad-tailed
Hummingbirds, Cassin’s Finches (ID’d by Sue Riffe later and a life bird for me), Pine Siskins and Pine Grosbeaks
were at various feeders there.
We started our hike in the afternoon, the first 3 miles along a clear-water creek which was a chief water supply for
the city of Fort Collins. My pack was lighter than the others primarily because I didn’t carry any of the food, but it
was heavy enough. We watched a family of Moose feeding nearby. About ¾ the way up a small hailstorm came up
and forced us to settle beneath some big conifers. Jonathan retrieved a tarp from his pack which we were grateful
to have as a head cover—exciting times! It started getting dark with a mile or so to go, so we set up a temporary
camp in a meadow at the edge of a woods. Not 15 minutes after we were settled in, another storm came up, and
since my little tent had no fly, Mary invited me into their 3-person tent where we all spent the rest of a restless night
being just a little bit crowded. The next morning was fine and in no time, we reached our permanent site on a bluff
overlooking the two small American Lakes in an absolutely breath-taking setting with rugged snowy and non-snowy
mountains beyond. Thunder Pass was just a few hundred yards up the trail and the entrance to RMNP.
We spent 4 wonderful days exploring and just hanging out in this idyllic setting. Some of the meadows were alive
with bright alpine flowers, the Paintbrush being especially showy. Above the lakes sat a wall of huge boulders
perhaps a third of a mile away that we scaled to see Snow Lake lying in a bowl rimmed by the mountains. About a
third of the lake was still frozen with snow on the ice. One day Jonathan, an amazing rock climber, climbed up to
what are called the Crags, rugged peaks above Snow Lake. Another day we hiked up to Thunder Pass. I scared a
Coyote out of a small woods, while Mary and Caroline hiked down into RMNP a ways. The sun shone brightly
while we were there, but the wind never ceased, often changing direction very quickly. One day Mary had just
entered their tent when a huge gust of wind came out and lifted the tent AND Mary a good 10’ to the edge of our
little woods! Luckily no harm was done. Big stones were placed over the pegs after that. The hike out was
uneventful and certainly easier than the hike up.

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 March 2010 Eagle’s View

Then it was a drive back to RMNP and up the west side, but this time down scenic 19-mile Trail Ridge Road to
Estes Park. Good looks at Elk were rewarding. That night we camped at Moraine Park ($10 with Golden Age
Passport). The next day was spent in the Bear Lake area. One neat hike that we took went from Bear Lake Road
(where we parked) straight up a mountain via switchbacks to Bierstadt Lake with great views back to Sprague
Lake that we had hiked around earlier. From Bierstadt Lake we continued through forest to Bear Lake
encountering some huge boulders near the end of the trail. From there we took the Bear Lake Shuttle bus back to
our car. All-in-all a very nice hike.
That evening we met up with good friends from Florida who moved to CO, Sue Riffe and Mary Huffman, in Lyons
located NNW of Denver. The plan was for me to go with Sue,
an excellent birder, for 2 days of intensive birding, while the rest
of my gang would hike up 14,433’ Mt. Elbert, the highest peak in
CO, located just south of Leadville; so we split up. Sue, Mary
and I enjoyed Mexican food that evening in Lyons.
Next morning on July 18th, Sue and I were off to spend the day
birding Pawnee National Grassland (established in 1960) and
surrounding areas. We had a great day logging 79 species
including (in no particular order) 4 Prairie Falcons (fantastic), 4
Our wilderness campsite view at American Lakes
Swainson’s Hawks, 2 Bullock’s Orioles, 4 Lark Sparrows, 25
just north of Rocky Mountain National Park
Brewer’s Sparrows, 75 Horned Larks, a whopping 300
McCown’s Longspurs (life bird, and almost all in a huge flock), 22 Burrowing Owls with several young, 8 American
Avocets, 3 White-rumped Sandpipers, 5 Bairds Sandpipers, 40 Wilson’s Phalaropes, 2 Western Wood Peewees,
75 Western Grebes, 5 Clark’s Grebes (lifer), and 2 White-faced Ibis. What a day it was.
We spent our second day of serious birding primarily northwest and west of Rocky Mountain National Park
especially in a lake/pothole/prairie area. But we did bird up Rist Canyon where we found a Cordilleran
Flycatcher—another lifer for me. Other good flycatchers were Willow, Hammond’s and Dusky. A few other birds
of note among the 85 species seen were 2 Cinnamon Teal, 3 Golden Eagles (6 total for the trip), Piping Plover, 4
Black-chinned Hummingbirds, 6 Cassins’ Finches, Mountain Chickadee, Sage Thrasher, 3 Black-headed
Grosbeaks, male Lazuli Bunting, and 3 Lesser Goldfinches. Once again it was a fine day. Thanks Sue!
On our last day in CO, Mary, Jonathan, and Caroline joined Sue and me for a final mountain hike that was just west
of Boulder allowing superb views of the city and surroundings below. By the way, Mary and her children all had
made the climb successfully to the summit of Mt. Elbert. Then we said our goodbyes to Sue and were off to the
airport and home. Birding had been good for me with 164 total species and 7 lifers, flowers at times were
spectacular, and the scenery was world-class. Mary, Jonathan, Caroline, and I all agreed it had been another great
adventure.

On March 10, 2010 the Annual Meeting and election of Officers and Board Members took place at Lake Region
Audubon’s Street Nature Center. The following individuals were elected as officers of LRAS:

President: Susan D.Schenk Vice President (in charge of) Field Trips: Paul
Vice President (in charge of) Programs: Reinier Fellers
Munguia Recording Secretary: Paul Anderson
Vice President (in charge of) Conservation: Corresponding Secretary: Liz Purnell
Charles Geanangel Treasurer: William Karnofsky
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 Eagle’s View March 2010

Bird Club Trip to Viera Wetlands and Sebastian Inlet State Park
Marvel Loftus, Bird Club Chairman

We had a perfect day of birding on Thursday, Feb 4, 2010. It was really unbelievable that we found four
wonderful birds - birds that show up on Rare Bird Hotlines but we had to do some traveling to do it!. The trip
started at Brinson Park with a fly-by of a Snail Kite spotted by eagle-eye, Randie Denham and seen by several
people. Then onto Viera Wetlands. When we arrived, they did not let the cars drive around the pools, so all of us
walked to the end of Cell 4. Thanks to Bill Haddad we knew where to look for the Masked Duck. It was hidden
just inside the reeds but we still got very good looks at this small little duck. We watched it for a long time but it
would not come out of the reeds. Randie stayed later than the rest of us and as soon as we left the Masked Duck
came out of the reeds. When we got back to our cars, they had removed the chain across the gate and we were
able to drive around Viera and found several other duck species to add to our list. Then it was off to Sebastian Inlet
State Park. We ate lunch as soon as we arrived at the north section of the park but several people gobbled down
their food and were off to find the Purple Sandpiper and the Harlequin Duck. They found the Purple Sandpiper
almost immediately. We all rushed to the viewing walk over the inlet and happily saw the Purple Sandpiper. There
it was amongst the Ruddy Turnstones, checking out all the rocks for morsels of food. I started to look for the
Harlequin Duck with my scope. I spotted 3 ducks across the inlet. One was smaller than the other two. I thought
it must be the Harlequin and it was affirmed that it was by a couple of birders who were just on the south side of the
inlet. So into our cars we went and drove over to the South side. We received excellent close looks of the
Harlequin Duck swimming with 2 Red-breasted Mergansers. While looking at the Harlequin Duck, a loon
appeared in the bay. This loon had a lot of white on its face and it’s bill was slightly upturned. Right away I knew it
wasn’t a Common Loon. So off to the guide books to double check. There it was, a Red-throated Loon, just
like the one in the bay. What a wonderful way to end the trip. It’s unbelievable but we saw the Masked Duck,
Purple Sandpiper, Harlequin Duck and a Red-throated Loon. Besides these we had additional 65 species for
the day.

New Board of Directors Members

2010 - 2011
On March 10, 2010 the Annual Meeting and election of Officers and Board Members took place at Lake Region
Audubon’s Street Nature Center. The following individuals were elected to the Board for the following year:

Janet Anderson
Paul Anderson
Martha Sue Brantley
Gloria Brooke
Paul Fellers
Charles Geanangel
William Karnofsky
Reinier Munguia
Liz Purnell
Susan Schenk
Lee Shoe
Louis Wright

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 March 2010 Eagle’s View

Nature’s Real Value

Nyleen Rodriguez

In the past few years, I have noticed the lack of education in respect to nature that we currently offer in our schools.
Teachers are so worried about the state tests (FCAT), that many science classes are suffering. It is so important that
we, as parents, help our children learn to love and respect the nature that surrounds them. We cannot wait for the
school to give them this information.

First of all, we don’t have to go too far to appreciate nature. In our own homes, we can do things that will create
curiosity about the environment. For example, if you have a large backyard, why not build a bird feeder so that the
birds can come to your backyard when they are hungry? At home, we have various bird feeders, and it is so
pleasant to wake up in the morning to watch the different bird species that come to feed. It is a free show that nature
gives us every day, and that will help your children understand how these little animals can depend on us for their
food, particularly during winter.

Another thing that you can do from the comfort of your own home is to watch TV. Believe it or not, there are
television channels specifically oriented towards nature and animals. Channels like National Geographic, Animal
Planet, and Discovery Channel provide a variety of programs that can interest kids of all ages. These shows not only
provide information about nature and animals, but also about technology and other things that might interest your
children.

If you like hiking or visiting recreational parks or even rowing down a river in a canoe or kayak, there are so many
opportunities in Florida for your enjoyment. For example, my family and I love camping in state parks. It’s an
adventure that takes us out of the routine and puts us in contact with so many things that we tend to ignore on a daily
basis because of our busy schedules. One of my favorite things to do is to stare at the stars that we normally cannot
get to see in the city. Sometimes my husband drives the park at night in search of nocturnal animals. Or, we can also
rent a canoe or a bike to explore the surroundings. One of our greatest achievements as parents is to know that our
daughter has a deep appreciation of nature and animals because of all the time that we have spent throughout her life
exploring this amazing world.

Another opportunity where your family can learn to appreciate nature is going to the beach, definitely not a problem
in Florida. There, not only can you play in the water, but you can walk along the shore picking up shells, and you
can observe the birds that use the beach as their temporary homes. If you like fishing , you can also spend some
time doing this with your kids.

There are many ways in which you can enjoy valuable time with your family and, at the same time, learn to value the
nature that surrounds us. This is extremely important because without it, we wouldn’t have any future. Our kids need
to learn not to litter the beaches and other bodies of water. They need to learn not to scare away the wildlife that live
around our beautiful lakes. They need to learn to live in harmony with the world that surrounds them, because if they
don’t, their future will be full of cement and no nature for the enjoyment of all.

Digital Photography Class

by Tony Catalano

The next Digital Photography Class will be four Saturdays beginning May 1 ,8, 15 and 22, 2010. Each session will
be held from 9 a.m. to noon at Street Audubon Society, 115 Lameraux Rd. Winter Haven
The fee is $50 for the series, with a $25 deposit due at registration
For more information please call Tony Catalano at 863-294-3556 or e mail pegtony515@verizon.net

The next class will be in September 4 , 11, 18 and 25, 2010.( same as above).
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 Eagle’s View March 2010

Raptors: predators of the sky

Reinier Munguia

Television has its way of presenting big predators such as panthers, bears and crocodiles as the ultimate killing
machines. As a result, many of these animals have acquired a bad reputation over the years. While everything said
about their killing skills is true, they rarely attack humans. What about predatory birds? They seem to have the
same instincts and skills and perhaps a little more finesse and ingenuity. In this article, I’ll show you some of the
features that make raptors such unique killing machines while discussing some of the most interesting species around
the world.

With at least 500 species around the world, this group of birds consist of eagles, hawks, falcons, kestrels, kites and
owls. A series of evolutionary adaptations set the raptors apart from any other bird species. These adaptations are
found primarily in their eyes, bills and talons. Other adaptations include specialized flight feathers, as in the case of
owls, that provide them with silent flight or pneumatic bones connected to the breeding system to allow cooling of
the muscles, as in the case of large eagles. All of these adaptations are necessary for these birds to be able to catch
their prey. Raptors vary in sizes from tiny birds such as the elf owl of the western United States which measures
about 5 in. tall and a wingspan of only 9 inches, to the California condor which has a wingspan of over 9 feet. Yes,
condors, vultures and caracaras are also considered to be raptors because their preferred food source is meat. The
difference is these birds are mostly scavengers and do not
hunt as the other raptors do.

Raptors have developed different techniques to capture

their prey. The Golden Eagle that inhabits the northern
hemisphere is known for throwing mountain goats off the
cliffs to make the kill. The goats are too big for the eagle
to kill, so instead the eagle grab one of the legs and drags
the goat over the edge and straight to its death below.
Other eagles have come out with ingenious ways to get to
the flesh inside the hard carapace of turtles. They pick
them up and take them high in the air before dropping
them to their death on the rocks below. Falcons are most
dependent on their speed and the element of surprise.
No falcon is more famous for this technique than the
Peregrine Falcon. This bird can lock on its prey from a
distance and make its way at an astonishing speed of
more than 200 miles per hour. The impact of the talons
alone is more than enough to kill the prey, which is usually
another bird in flight. The American Kestrel is the smallest
Red-shouldered Hawk
by Herman falcon in the US, and one that employs a hovering
technique. This bird can be seen hovering over fields in
search of small reptiles or birds; once locked on the prey, it drops extremely fast for the catch. One thing all raptors

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 March 2010 Eagle’s View

have in common is their hooked bills, which are used for tearing the flesh of their prey. Owls have hooked beaks
too, but most of them swallow their prey whole. Instead, the sharp bill is used to carry the prey back to their
favorite perch or to break apart the prey to feed their babies.

Owls have adaptations found in no other bird species. Their hearing is the most accurate of all senses, they use it to
find their prey even in total darkness when their eyes barely receive any light. They also have the ability to switch
their toe arrangement thanks to a unique flexible joint. During flight, three of the toes face forward and only one
backwards, but when ready to seize their prey the outer front toe swivels backward allowing for a better grip of the
prey.

Raptor’s eyes are well equipped to

capture light. The sheer size of the eyes is
more than enough, when compared to
other birds and even when compared to
birds of a similar size.This light gathering
ability gives them an advantage when
catching prey. They are able to focus on
the prey from father away than any other
bird. For example, a Golden Eagle can
see a rabbit from a mile away and can
even see the rabbit wink an eye from a
quarter mile away. Some raptors, such as
vultures and condors, have a keen sense
Ospreys on Nest
of smell that helps them find carrion. by Herman
Caracaras are not so well equipped, so
instead they follow the vultures to their next meal. They can also capture live prey including small mammals and
lizards.

Some raptors specialize in fish such as the osprey and bald eagle in the US and the Steller’s Sea-Eagle of
northeastern Asia. To capture the slippery meal the Osprey has a similar adaptation to that of the owls in which the
outer toe can swing back for a better grip. Additionally, the lower surface of their toe pads are covered with spicules
which help to get a better grip on the fish. Hawks such as the Red-shouldered Hawk have a varied diet that may
include amphibians, fish and even snakes. Without a doubt, raptors have evolved in many ways, but all with the
same purpose, survival.

Unfortunately, raptors fall prey to human impact. From the use of pesticides, unjustified shooting, power lines and
the loss of habitat, raptors worldwide are affected by our actions. Recovery programs are in place to ensure that the
affected species will recover and avoid extinction but many of the North American raptors migrate to South America
where they may not get the same protection. Scientist are working on migration patterns and the preferred wintering
areas of these raptors to increase their protection in this area.

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 Eagle’s View March 2010

FIGHTING THE ELEMENTS II: FLORIDA WINTER EAST COAST BIRDING

BILL HADDAD

In the Sept. 2009 Eagle’s View I wrote about a Spring 2009 Blue Ridge birding trip, successful despite the constant
rainy weather. I expected better weather in Florida when the same trio (Betty Butcher, Fay and Gary McCoy)
joined me for a few days of birding in the week of Jan. 11, 2010. Florida residents will remember that period as
part of the longest recorded cold spell in Florida history. Ironically, this time we were fighting off cold weather in
Florida instead of rain in the mountains! However, this trip was equally as successful in terms of birds seen, over
100 species. Birding highlights included:

1. Finding two Tundra Swans in a remote pond inland of St. Augustine thanks to

internet reports. They were life birds for all of us.

2. Close-up looks at a well-fed Peregrine Falcon at Canaveral National Seashore,

which obviously had it’s choice of abundant waterfowl in many adjacent ponds.

3. About four Fish Crows sitting on the ground just under a Osprey tearing apart a

large fish. The crows were eating fish morsels that dropped to the ground. Was that

their favorite Osprey?

4. The closest view of a Henslow’s Sparrow I have ever had, in a patch of tall

weeds, surrounded by open areas.

5. A good view of a Masked Duck at Viera Wetlands, where it was seen by many

(including myself) in the prior week. A week late to be a life bird!

6. A large flock of Pine Warblers in various plumages at Turkey Creek, seen at

very close range where I had seen even a larger flock the day before.

7. Large flocks of beautiful American Wigeon and Northern Pintails as well as other ducks at

Blackpoint Drive.

I also want to take this opportunity to say a fond farewell to all my friends in Lake Region Audubon. As most of you
know, I moved to Palm Bay last year. Turkey Creek Sanctuary, three miles from my new house, has taken the place
of Saddle Creek and I found my new Circle B Ranch in Viera Wetlands over here, but one can never replace old
friends. I hope to see you in the field from time to time.

Lake Region Web Site

The printed version of the Eagle’s View is in black and white.
For a full color version, check it out on the Lake Region web
site at www.lakeregion.net. The photographs are much nicer
in full color.

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 March 2010 Eagle’s View
Street Audubon Center
Great Deal!!
Work Day
Have we got a deal for You!! A new membership with Lake
Region, Florida Audubon and National Audubon is available The first Saturday of each month is Work Day at Street Audubon
for only $20 for the first year (renewals will be $35 … still a great Center. There is much work to be done to keep the center opera-
deal!). In addition to all membership privileges, you also get the tional. This work spans the range of very light to very heavy
Audubon magazine and the Florida Audubon magazineand Lake ; trail clearing, tree cutting, trash hauling, dusting, sweeping,
Region newsletters. window cleaning or providing a cool drink for those doing the
heavy work. We need you!
The $20 initial membership would make a great gift for a niece or
nephew graduating from school, a new retiree or a friend who What do you have to do? Just show up at 9:00 am on the first
enjoys nature. Just fill out the membership application in this Saturday of each month and plan to stay til noon or one. Pizza
newsletter, enclose a check made out to National Audubon and soft drinks will be served to all volunteers at 11:30.
Society for $20 and send it to Membership Chairman, Lake Region
Audubon Society, 1439 Grand Cayman Cir., Winter Haven, FL Volunteers Needed
33884 Hours are 9 am to noon or noon to 3 pm.
Duties are to be present at the Street Audubon Center, open
An alternative form of membership is local membership in Lake the center and close it.
Region Audubon Society only. You will receive the local, “Eagles
View” newsletter and all of your $20 fee will be used locally.
Make the check out to Lake Region Audubon Society and mail “Since 1971”
to the same address.
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2009 Jim Stevenson Resource Manager of the Year

We are pleased to announce that Park Manager Charlie Brown of Kissimmee Prairie Preserve State Park has been
named the 2009 Jim Stevenson Resource Manager of the Year. Charlie was chosen by a committee of environmental
professionals, including representatives from The Nature Conservancy, Audubon of Florida, and the Sierra Club.
Along with the prestige and honor comes the more tangible benefit of a cash award. Kissimmee Prairie State Park will
receive funds to be used for resource management.

Charlie has many accomplishments of which to be proud but certainly the park’s burn program is a standout. The
park is the 3rd largest in the system but contains more fire-dependant habitat than any other park. To accomplish the
formidable task of getting those acres burned, Charlie has had to be creative. He utilized the District 3 burn team not
occasionally but many times, and even helped to secure free lodging to keep their costs down. Charlie also augmented
his fire management program with assistance from The Nature Conservancy, neighboring parks, volunteers, and even
from the District 4 Burn Team. Foresight in planning and prep enabled Charlie and his staff to work with the Division
of Forestry to turn a very large wildfire into a burnout operation that contributed to, rather than detracted from, the
success of his burn program and prevented plow lines from damaging the sensitive dry prairie habitat. This type of
inter-agency cooperation is an achievement to which everyone should aspire. Charlie also recognized the need to
connect the park’s burn program with management of the park’s population of Florida grasshopper sparrows. As a
result of his insight, the park has a unique method by which to measure the effects of fire on this federally endangered
species’ habitat. Perhaps above all, Charlie insures that his staff has the tools they need and that they are empowered
and encouraged to achieve the park’s resource management goals.

This email from Mike Bullock, Director Florida Park Service, was provided by Linda Cooper

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 Eagle’s View March 2010

Lake Region Audubon’s Upcoming Events

April 2010

Pizza and Movie Night – April 5*

7:00 p.m. at Street Audubon Center

Movie title to be announced

Pizza - $1/slice, Salad - $1/serving

Florida Reptiles and Amphibians Program – April 10*

10-11 a.m. at Street Audubon Nature Center

Presented by Reinier Munguia

Learn about the reptiles and amphibians that thrive in Florida and their behaviors and habitats.

Live animals will be present

Fort DeSoto County Park Birding Trip – April 17

7:00 a.m. Meet at Lake Mirror Center, Lakeland to carpool

Bring lunch, drinks, and have a full tank of gas

Dinner at Spaghetti Warehouse in Ybor City

For details, contact Paul Fellers: (863) 293-0486

Wild Utah: America’s Redrock Wilderness Program – April 20*

7:00 p.m. at Circle B Bar Reserve

Presented by Jackie Feinberg, Southern Utah Wilderness Alliance

Refreshments will be served.

May 2010

Butterflies Program – May 8*

10-11:00 a.m. at Street Audubon Center

Presented by Reinier Munguia

Learn about the importance of butterflies, their anatomy and life stages, and how to identify the most
common Florida butterflies, as well as how to attract them to your garden.

See page 12

Page 11
 March 2010 Eagle’s View
Lake Region Audubon’s Upcoming Events

Life of Birds Program – May 22*

10-11:30 a.m. at Street Audubon Center

Presented by Reinier Munguia

Learn about adaptations, behaviors, and fun facts about birds from around the world.

Avon Park Air Force Range Nature Field Trip – May 29

8:00 a.m. Meet at Street Audubon Center or

8:15 Meet at McDonald’s off Route 27 and Highway 60 in Lake Wales

for carpooling

Small Entrance Fee

For details, contact Paul Fellers: (863) 293-0486

*For details, contact Marvel Loftus: (863) 324-9657

**LRAS reserves the right to alter schedule due to unforeseen circumstances**

Chuck Geanangel recognizes Marvel Loftus at her “Going Away Party” at the Street
Audubon Center in Winter Haven

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 Eagle’s View March 2010

2009 - 2010 OFFICERS

Board Members:

President: Susan D.Schenk Janet Anderson

Vice President (in charge of) Programs: Reinier Paul Anderson
Munguia Martha Sue Brantley
Vice President (in charge of) Conservation: Charles Gloria Brooke
Geanangel Paul Fellers
Vice President (in charge of) Field Trips: Paul Fellers Charles Geanangel
Recording Secretary: Paul Anderson William Karnofsky
Corresponding Secretary: Liz Purnell Reinier Munguia
Treasurer: William Karnofsky Liz Purnell
Susan Schenk
Street Audubon Center Advisory Committee: Lee Shoe
Chuck Geanangel, Bill Karnofsky and Paul Anderson Louis Wright

If you would like to receive email notification that Director Emeritus:

the newsletter has been posted on the Lake
Region web site (www.lakeregion.com), visit the Mae Hartsaw
site and click on the link to receive the newslet-
ter via email.

AUDUBON MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION

NATIONAL AUDUBON SOCIETY [make check payable to National Audubon Society]
This membership automatically enrolls you in the National Audubon Society,
Audubon of Florida, and Lake Region Audubon Society.

You will receive the publications from each organization: Lake Region Audubon
O National Audubon Society - Audubon Magazine
O Audubon of Florida - Florida Naturalist Chapter
O Lake Region Audubon Society - The Eagle’s View C07 E25 07

Cost: 1st year - $20.00* Yearly Renewal: $35.00

*Lake Region will receive all of the first year’s dues. Thereafter it receives no direct portion of your annual dues.

LOCAL MEMBERSHIP ONLY [make check payable to Lake Region Audubon Society]
O This membership enrolls you in Lake Region Audubon Society.
O You will receive the local newsletter, The Eagle’s View.
O Cost: 1st year - $20.00 Yearly Renewal: $20.00*
* your first year’s dues and each renewal dues goes 100% to support all Lake Region Audubon’s programs and the
publication of the newsletter, The Eagle’s View.

MBR NAME: PHONE #:

ADDRESS: E-MAIL:

Save costs, send newsletter by e-mail

Please mail your check and this completed application to: If this is a gift membership for the person named
Lake Region Audubon Society above, please show your name here:
Membership Chrm
1439 Grand Cayman Cir
Winter Haven, FL 33884.

Page 13
Lake Region Audubon Society Non-Profit Org.
Street Audubon Center U. S. POSTAGE
115 Lameraux Road PAID
Winter Haven, FL 33884 Lakeland, FL
863.324.7304 Permit No. 119
www.lakeregion.net

Street Audubon Center

Is Staffed By Volunteers
Monday - Saturday, 9 - 3:00.

“Eagle’s View” Newsletter,

Volume 20, Issue 3
March 2010
Published four times yearly by
Lake Region Audubon Society,
115 Lameraux Rd.,
Winter Haven, FL 33884.

Mission Statement: Lake Region Audubon

Injured Birds and Animals
Call Joan Waters, 863.967.3298 anytime for bird and
animal rescue. Leave a message and she will return your
call.
Visit Joan’s website: www.woodlandwonders.org.
Society, a Chapter of National and Florida
Audubon Societies, is dedicated to youth
education, conservation, clean air and clean
water, preservation of our native flora and
fauna, and the promotion of public awareness of
the remaining natural beauty of our Florida and
our world.

Feature Photo

This young Sandhill Crane

prepares to take a bug from it’s
parent’s beak at Circle B Bar
Reserve.