March 2008

Volume XXXIV, Issue 3 ATLANTA AUDUBON SOCIETY

UPCOMING SPEAKER SERIES I N S I D E

The Natural World in Focus President’s Perch...............2
From the Exec Dir..............3
29th Annual Photo Contest Presentation
Ribbons, Prizes Awarded and Talk by Field Notes.........................4
Larry Winslett, nature photographer Field Trips...........................5
with Shade-Grown Coffee .........5
Special Bird Banding Presentation with Charlie Muise Spotlight Darlene Moore ...6
Sunday, March 16, 2008, 3 PM Time Well Spent ................6
Pike Family Nurseries Corporate Center Auditorium
4020 Steve Reynolds Boulevard, Norcross, GA 30093
A Million Thanks................6
2008 Birdathon...............7-8
This year we are delighted to welcome Larry Winslett, well-known nature photographer, as
our judge for this very special event. Winners will be announced and prizes will be awarded in Learning About Birds .........9
all of our photography contest categories. You will have the opportunity to see the many LAB Educators .................10
marvelous entries submitted for this year’s contest. Then we will welcome Charlie Muise,
who will give an amazing presentation on bird banding. Charlie has also invited any interested Education Committee ......10
AAS members to a special bird banding session at Panola Mountain the morning of March 16 Merritt Island Dreaming ..11
before our Speaker Series in the afternoon.
Classifieds.......................12
We encourage emerging photographers to come see what wonderful and insightful photographs
have been entered into this year’s competition and learn how to expand your photography GA’s Protected Birds........13
skills. Membership....................13
Prizes to be awarded on March 16 include ribbons plus: Zoo Atlanta.......................14
First Prize — Birds: 10x42 Vortex Diamondback Binoculars; retail value $209.99 (sponsored
by Eagle Optics)
First Prize — Animals: Day Hiking Package, including Shocklight Trekking Poles, Daypack
with Hydration System and Daypack First Aid Kit; retail value $275.00 (sponsored by REI)
First Prize — Habitat: Smith & Hawken’s life-size pair of cranes rendered in steel with hand-
hammered detail; retail value $189.00 (sponsored by Smith & Hawken) ATLANTA
Youth: iFlyer Birdsong Scanning Wand; retail value $99.95 (sponsored by Wild Bird Centers)
Humor: Backyard birdJam East CD; retail value $39.99 (sponsored by birdJam)
AUDUBON SOCIETY
Judge’s Choice: The Original Pajaro Field Bag Waist Pack with a copy of National Wildlife Box 29189
Federation’s Field Guide to Birds of North America; total retail value $55.00 (sponsored by
Pajaro) Atlanta, GA 30359
Grand Prize: Two-night stay at the Marriott Residence Inn Cape Canaveral in Cocoa Beach, www.atlantaaudubon.org
Florida, plus Space Coast Outdoor Adventure Package for two; over $600 in total retail value.
Also includes the opportunity to have your photograph printed on the Atlanta Audubon official
picture postcard for 2008! AAS OFFICE
Take I-85 north of Atlanta to Beaver Ruin Road, GA 378 (Exit 102). If you are traveling
northbound, turn right at the end of the ramp. If you are traveling southbound, turn left at the and Information Line
end of the ramp. Travel 1.1 miles to Steve Reynolds Boulevard and turn left at the traffic light.
Pike’s will be on your right. Park in front of the building, enter the main entrance and meet in
the auditorium.
770.913.0511
Special Bird Banding Opportunity ... continued on Page 10 GOS RARE BIRD ALERT
770.493.8862

Board of Directors
2008
Executive Director Catharine Kuchar
770.993.9579
Catharine.kuchar@atlantaaudubon.org
Officers
President Ellen Miller
404.355.8892
ellen.miller@eclipsys.com
President-elect Allyson Read
404.510.8281
read.allyson@gmail.com
Treasurer Deanna Helie
770.457.4403
aas_finance@yahoo.com
Recording Secy Mark Jernigan
404.298.8825
markajernigan@bellsouth.net
Corresponding Secy Barbara Tarpley
404.687.0079
atlpiaf@aol.com
Directors
Conservation Kelly Hopkins
404.622.1888
hopkins_kelly@bellsouth.net
Education Marge Igyarto
678.398.0569
igyar@earthlink.net
Field Trips Dave Butler
404.580.3917
dabutler@co.dekalb.ga.us
Membership Darlene Moore
404.633.9361
djmoore67@bellsouth.net
Communications
Barbara Tarpley
404.687.0079
atlpiaf@aol.com
Publicity Vacant
Volunteers Nancy Hamilton
404.874.2338
nlhamilton@bellsouth.net
At Large
Jay Davis
404.624.4973
webtoad@earthlink.net
Victor Williams
Earthshare Representative
770.423.1012
72064.1017@compuserve.com
---
Website
Jim Flynn
webmaster@atlantaaudubon.org
Wingbars Editor
Mary Ann Hindes 770.497.0664
mhindes@bellsouth.net
Design & Layout
Copy Preparation 770.939.2002
copyprep@mindspring.com
Proofreading
Steven Phenicie
770.849.0391
swlphenicie@bellsouth.net
Newsletter deadline is the first of
the month for material to be
published the following month.
Please submit articles as MS-Word to
mhindes@bellsouth.net.
Email attachments, if possible.
Wingbars is the official newsletter of Atlanta
Audubon Society and is published 11 times a
year. We feature news, upcoming events,
meetings, field trips and projects. We hope you
will join us. Opinions expressed are those of the
authors and do not necessarily reflect policies
of the Atlanta Audubon Society.
2 Atlanta Audubon Society
President’s Perch
by Ellen Miller
Election Year and the Birds
Every time I turn on the television I see
information on how the election of our next
President is going. Considering I recently voted
on Super Tuesday, I started thinking about birds,
politicians and how we, as birders, can influence
legislation, Presidential decrees, etc. Our
government(s) and the policies implemented
have a major impact on the future of bird habitat
that, in turn, impacts whether there are healthy
populations of the birds we love and enjoy.
Upon investigation I found that the National
Geographic Society estimates there are 15
million or more people of voting age who have a
serious interest in the welfare of birds. Wow! If
we vote together on bird-related issues and make
our views known, we can definitely have a voice
in the outcome of elections and ultimately the
laws and policies of our various governments.
Remember, in recent elections a few thousand
votes have made all the difference in who was
elected. With 15 million overall, every state must
have several thousand people of voting age
concerned about birds. So, as birders we could
have a huge impact and at times THE impact on
who gets elected.
The Royal Society for the Protection of Birds
(RSPB) in the United Kingdom sets the standard
in terms of birders having an impact on
government policies. The RSPB boasts the
strength of a million members to influence
political issues and outcomes. The RSPB has
been compared with the Teamsters in this
country in terms of influence and, from what I
read, members of parliament think twice before
voting against issues important to the RSPB.
One of the difficulties facing birders in this
country, it seems to me, is finding out the stances
Mission Statement:
To promote the enjoyment and understanding of birds and to
conserve and restore the ecosystems that support them.
taken by various politicians on environmental
concerns and issues that impact birds and need
attention. National Audubon Society has a public
policy office and a great deal of information on
its Web site related to legislation and public
policy. You can even sign up for an e-mail
newsletter called Audubon Advisory that
provides updates on various issues and how you
can help. For more information, check out:
http://www.audubon.org/campaign/policyoffice.ht
ml. Another group helping provide information
and encouraging birders to vote as a block on
bird issues is called Birders United. See:
http://www.birdersunited.com/. This group also
has an e-mail newsletter you can sign up for that
keeps you updated on issues and provides
information on where various candidates stand
on issues that impact birds. Birders United even
has a free bumper sticker you can order that
says: BirdersUnited.com: Building a New
American Political Force to Protect Birds and
Their Habitats.
So in this election year, whether you consider
yourself a Republican, a Democrat, an
Independent or whatever, find out where your
candidate stands on bird-related issues and
please be a voice for birds.
Thank you. Make 2008 great for the birds!
Matching Contributions
Another Important Way to Support
Atlanta Audubon Society
Your contributions to Atlanta Audubon Society make a
significant statement about how you value what we do in
the community.
Hundreds of companies in and around Atlanta also
realize the importance of giving back to the community
and are getting involved by matching their employees’
donations to our organization.
By asking your employer to back your commitment, you
are making your contribution even more meaningful!
Participating in your employer’s matching gifts program
is a simple process. Ask your human resources office for
a matching gift form, complete your part,
and send it to: Matching Gifts Coordina-
tor, Atlanta Audubon Society, Box 29189,
Atlanta, Georgia 30359. We’ll do the rest.
Your support ensures that our work in
the community continues today and
flourishes tomorrow.
 From the Executive
by Catharine Brockman Kuchar
Great Expectations – A Future Home for
Atlanta Audubon Society
Beech Building (named in honor of a tree)
Photo by THW Design
The Board of Directors and staff of Atlanta
Audubon Society have been doing a lot of
work over the past couple of years
developing a strategic plan for the
organization and thinking about our future.
Where will we be in 10 years? What role do
we want to play in the metro Atlanta area
and throughout the region?
Our efforts over the years have included a
variety of important programs and activities
always focused on the organization’s mission
to promote the enjoyment and
understanding of birds and to conserve and
restore the ecosystems that support them.
Now that we have set our sights on making
Atlanta Audubon Society the leader of
Creating, Promoting and Preserving Bird-
Friendly Habitat, this means we are
committed to bird-friendly habitat by:
1) creating and enhancing green space and
the role individuals can play in this
process;
2) promoting the importance of habitat
protection and educating the public that
birds matter; and
3) preserving and protecting bird-friendly
habitat from uncontrolled growth and
over-development.
It is a tough and uphill battle. Each day we
lose about 50 acres of green space to
development in the 16 counties that make up
metro Atlanta, and birds that rely on
Georgia’s precious habitat are struggling to
survive.
To grow and expand our work, we need more
space. To carefully look at this issue, the
Board of Directors created a committee to
explore this idea. Through much work, the
committee has moved forward and is
focusing on the Blue Heron Nature Preserve
for several reasons: It includes 1) critically-
needed office space; 2) outdoor areas for
March 2008
Director
walks, classroom work, etc., and 3) a large
presentation area. More important, it fits into
our goal of Creating, Promoting and
Preserving Bird-Friendly Habitat and our
continued desire to protect Atlanta’s
greenspace areas.
The Blue Heron Nature Preserve is centrally Jekyll Island
located in north Buckhead and includes a 25-
acre site including a 5-acre community
Master Plan
garden area along Roswell Road, 9-acre
wetland, 1-acre lake, and the Nancy Creek Did you miss Art Hurt’s
corridor with upland areas and trails on both February 5 article in the AJC
sides. It also includes a 1-acre building site regarding Jekyll Island’s
with a 10,000 square foot office building. The master plan? If so, go to
plan would be to share the space with other
http://www.ajc.com/opinion/
environmentally-oriented groups. The goals
content/opinion/stories/2008
of the Preserve are to restore much of the
/02/05/hurted_0205.html.
area around the site.
If Atlanta Audubon Society is to grow into
Senator Jeff Chapman has
the 21st Century, expansion is critical to help
us serve the community and fulfill our proposed three senate bills
mission. A new site will also help us as we in response to Linger
work to meet the strategic planning goals of Longer Communities’
the organization as outlined by our Board of proposed village. See
Directors which include: strengthen our
conservation efforts relating to birds and http://www.legis.state.ga.us/.
Contact him at
their habitats; increase public awareness and
http://www.jeffchapman.us/
relevance of Atlanta Audubon in our
community; increase, energize and diversify or 404.656.0045 with your
the membership and volunteer participation; support, as well as your
provide metro Atlantans of all ages with
state senator.
opportunities to learn about and enjoy birds,
and develop Atlanta Audubon Society into a
professionally-run, sustainable organization. For help, go to
http://www.votesmart.org/.
You’ll read more about this issue in the
coming months as we continue to explore
this issue. We are excited about our future
and look forward to sharing it with you.
Landscape schematic former TWH Design headquarters
Photo by THW Design
3
 December Field Notes
Wow – what a month of birding in
Georgia! Not only were there a
number of holdovers from the
previous month, such as Green-
breasted Mango and tons of Red-
breasted Nuthatches, but new
exciting finds came in one after another. Can
you imagine chasing in one month a Smith’s
Longspur, a Snowy Plover, a Say’s Phoebe,
several Lapland Longspurs plus many others?
Needless to say Georgia birders were kept very
busy between participating in Christmas Bird
Counts and also chasing some of these
rarities.
The Atlanta area recorded 119 species in the
month (average = 114.7) to bring the year list
to 244 which is right on the average of
244.7.The Georgia area came in with 205, very
close to the average of 206.9 that brings the
year list to 338, which compares well to the
average of 333.1.
ATLANTA AREA
GEESE THROUGH DUCKS – There were several reports of
SNOW GEESE with the most unusual one being a blue morph
at the Perimeter Mall area on 21 Dec. (DM). Interesting duck
sightings included four AMERICAN BLACK DUCKS at Lake
Acworth on 7 Dec. (CS) and two CANVASBACKS and 11
REDHEADS at Lake Horton on 1 Dec. (fide JSe). There were
more than the normal number of COMMON GOLDENEYES
seen with single birds at the E.L. Huie Land Application
Facility (ELHLAF) in Clayton Co. on 12 Dec. (CL), one in
Cherokee Co. starting on 14 Dec. (VD) and another one at
Lake Horton on 16 Dec. (EB, TK).
ANHINGA THROUGH CRANE – An ANHINGA spent the entire
month at Shamrock Lake of the ELHLAF (CL). GREAT EGRETS
were noted during the month with two at Lake Horton on 2
Dec. (PMc), 12 at Lake Horton on 16 Dec. (EB, TK), and a late
bird at Blalock Lake of the ELHLAF on 28 Dec. (CL). Also at
Lake Horton were two WHITE IBIS on 16 Dec. (EB, TK). A
sighting of a PEREGRINE FALCON over downtown Atlanta
was a good spot by LH on 14 Dec. SORAS and COMMON
MOORHENS were noted several times during the month at
the ELHLAF Site G (CL). There were 12 separate reports of
SANDHILL CRANES during the month totaling approximately
1,650 birds. The peak movement appeared to be early in the
month from 1 to 3 Dec., but sightings were scattered
throughout the entire month.
DOVES THROUGH NUTHATCHES – On 16 Dec., EB and TK
found four COMMON GROUND-DOVES in Spalding Co. and
one in Fayette Co. Hummingbird sightings during the month
included several RUFOUS HUMMINGBIRDS plus a BLACK-
CHINNED HUMMINGBIRD in Henry Co. starting on 1 Dec.
(SB), a CALLIOPE HUMMINGBIRD in Lilburn starting on 28
Dec. (R&SK), and the BROAD-TAILED HUMMINGBIRD that
returned to the Mableton feeder early in the month (RT). A
large flock of 91 FISH CROWS was reported from Cobb Co.
on 17 Dec. by CS. This year has to go down as one of the
largest invasions of RED-BREASTED NUTHATCHES ever.
4 Atlanta Audubon Society
by Terry Moorez
Enjoy them now because it’s difficult to tell when we’ll get
another chance to see this many.
SPARROWS THROUGH SISKINS – Good Sparrow reports
included two VESPER SPARROWS at ELHLAF on 1 Dec. (SB)
and a LINCOLN’S SPARROW on the Marietta CBC on 16 Dec.
(fide BZ). A few rarely seen LAPLAND LONGSPURS were
reported from Spalding Co. on 16 Dec. (EB, TK). A belated
report of a SNOW BUNTING was received by JSe from a FL
birder who saw the bird and took photos of it at St. Mountain
Park on 24 Nov. CS had a couple of good blackbird reports
with 60-70 RUSTY BLACKBIRDS in Paulding Co. on 21 Dec.
and a BREWER’S BLACKBIRD in Bartow Co. on 7 Dec. A rare
wintering BALTIMORE ORIOLE was reported from the
Buckhead area on 22 Dec. by FH. There were scattered
sightings of PURPLE FINCHES during the month, but no large
numbers. One of the few reports of PINE SISKINS was a bird
in Roswell on 7 Dec. (SZ).
GEORGIA AREA
WHISTLING-DUCKS THROUGH DUCKS – Interesting sightings
from the Altamaha Waterfowl Management Area (AWMA)
near Darien included five BLACK-BELLIED WHISTLING-
DUCKS on 27 Dec. (TB) and 13 on 30 Dec. plus a GREATER
WHITE-FRONTED GOOSE also seen on 30 Dec. (BZ, EH).
There were a number of reports of SNOW GEESE along with
a ROSS’S GOOSE in Whitfield Co. from 4 Dec. (DH) to at least
9 Dec. (SP). Another ROSS’S GOOSE was seen in Floyd Co.
on 24 Dec. (fide AS). A CACKLING GOOSE made a brief
appearance in Gordon Co. from 29 to 30 Dec. (JSp, MMc,
DM). The Garden Lakes area of Rome played host to a rather
amazing number of waterfowl with as many as 192
GADWALLS and 217 AMERICAN WIGEON on 22 Dec. (MD).
On Lake Hartwell, JF and EH found the following on 1 Dec.:
NORTHERN PINTAIL – 29, REDHEAD – 400, GREATER SCAUP
– 3, and BLACK SCOTER – 1. At the West Point Dam on 2
Dec., B&DZ and K&LT saw five CANVASBACKS, 18
REDHEADS, two SURF SCOTERS, one WHITE-WINGED
SCOTER and two COMMON GOLDENEYES. At Clark Hill, GZ
found nine CANVASBACKS on 9 Dec. On 6 Dec., a COMMON
GOLDENEYE appeared on Skidaway Island for the seventh
straight year (RW). Two other COMMON GOLDENEYES were
seen at the Eufaula NWR on 7 Dec. (CM, BR).
LOONS THROUGH CRANES – JF and EH had some excellent
counts at Lake Hartwell on 1 Dec. with 54 COMMON LOONS
and 145 HORNED GREBES. On a pelagic trip out from Tybee
Island on 9 Dec., BZ, et al. recorded 10 MANX
SHEARWATERS and 500+ NORTHERN GANNETS. A very
unusual observation was that of a MAGNIFICENT
FRIGATEBIRD seen on the Cumberland Island CBC on 15
Dec. by PK and SJ. Single adult GOLDEN EAGLES were
reported from Piedmont NWR on 17 Dec. (PS) and from the
Okefenokee Swamp on 29 Dec. (SW). A LIMPKIN was quite
an interesting find at the GA Veterans Memorial State Park in
Crisp Co. on 20 Dec. (TJ). There were seven reports of
SANDHILL CRANES, totaling approximately 3,100 birds. The
largest number was the 2,000 seen in the Marshallville area
on 24 Dec. (WC). A single WHOOPING CRANE was reported
from the Eufaula NWR on 5 Dec. (fide JF).
PLOVERS THROUGH OWLS – A SNOWY PLOVER was
discovered by WC at Jekyll Island on 29 Dec. This would be
the second record for this species in GA if accepted by the
Georgia Checklist and Records Committee (GCRC). Luckily
the bird remained in the same general area through the end
of the month. PURPLE SANDPIPERS were reported from
Tybee Island by a number of observers, topped by the count
of 15 there on 28 Dec. (BBe). On the 9 Dec. pelagic trip out
from Tybee Island, BZ et al., reported 500+ RED
PHALAROPES plus one POMARINE JAEGER and three
PARASITIC JAEGERS. JF and EH had some good gull counts
on Lake Hartwell on 1 Dec. with 150 BONAPARTE’S GULLS,
350 RING-BILLED GULLS and four HERRING GULLS. A
WHITE-WINGED DOVE was seen several times on Tybee
Island during the month (CK, BZ, DV). Very unusual was a
COMMON GROUND-DOVE seen at Carter’s Lake on 7 Dec. by
TH and YB. Several observers reported seeing SHORT-EARED
OWLS at the “owl fields” near Cobb in Sumter Co., and WC
had one to two birds at Eufaula NWR on 16 Dec. A
NORTHERN SAW-WHET OWL was captured and banded in
Lamar Co. on 2 Dec. (CM). This species is very secretive, but
is undoubtedly much more common than our records
indicate.
HUMMINGBIRDS THROUGH WARBLERS – The GREEN-
BREASTED MANGO, first reported in late Oct., remains at a
Dublin feeder. By now it has been seen by hundreds of
birders, thousands of photos have been taken, but somehow
we haven’t managed to anger the residents in the area.
Congratulations to all who went to see the bird and were on
their best behavior. A RUBY-THROATED HUMMINGBIRD was
still on Skidaway Island on 18 Dec. (RW). A very rare SAY’S
PHOEBE was found in Sumter Co. on 22 Dec. by BZ and DV.
Luckily the bird remained in the area through the end of the
month and was seen by many observers. The female
VERMILION FLYCATCHER at Eufaula NWR continued to stay
around the silos as it was observed on 7 Dec. by CM and
BR. Four WESTERN KINGBIRDS were reported on the 15 Dec.
Cumberland Island CBC (PK, SJ). Two late BARN SWALLOWS
were seen at Harris Neck on 15 Dec. (JF, EH). Lots of RED-
BREASTED NUTHATCHES were reported with the peak count
of 39 on the Amicalola Falls CBC on 29 Dec. (GS). A possible
SPRAGUE’S PIPIT was reported from the Marshallville sod
farms area on 30 Dec. (DB). Interesting warblers included a
PRAIRIE WARBLER on Tybee Island on 14 Dec. (JF, EH), and a
NORTHERN WATERTHRUSH and male WILSON’S WARBLER at
the AWMA on 30 Dec. (BZ, EH),
SPARROWS THROUGH SISKINS – As many as four CLAY-
COLORED SPARROWS were seen at the AWMA on 30 Dec. by
BZ and EH. A LARK SPARROW was seen off and on at Tybee
Island at least through 14 Dec. (CK). A SMITH’S LONGSPUR,
a GA first if accepted by the GCRC, was discovered by WC at
the Marshallville sod farms on 24 Dec. Many observers went
to the area and most were successful, but this bird was not
easy to see. Photos and videos were taken of the bird so we
should have a good chance of correctly identifying this
species as it is not a trivial identification problem. On 31
Dec., JF and EH found, in addition to the SMITH’S
LONGSPUR, at least three LAPLAND LONGSPURS. Can you
believe a two Longspur day in GA? At least six BALTIMORE
ORIOLES were seen in the Statesboro area on 22 Dec. by
BBr. An immature BULLOCK’S ORIOLE was seen in Bulloch
Co. on 9 Dec. (JP). GS had 12 RED CROSSBILLS on the
Amicalola Falls CBC on 29 Dec. and BZ had 20 in the
Dawson Forest WMA on 31 Dec. The highest count of PINE
SISKINS was 23 in Blue Ridge on 10 Dec. (TS).
OBSERVERS – Jerry Amerson, Steve Barlow, Tom Beal, Eric
Beohm, Brandon Best, Yvonne Bombardier, Devin Bosler,
Brenda Brannen, James Brooks, Walt Chambers, Diana
Churchill, Vickie DeLoach, Marion Dobbs, Jim Flynn, Cliff
Gibbons, Jim Gilreath, Johnnie Green, Theresa Hartz, Ralph
and Ilze Henderson, David Hendrix, Earl Horn, Liz Horsey,
Florida Huff, Stephen Johnson, Terry Johnson, Panos and
Cheryl Kanes, Tracy Kirkpatrick, Rick and Sandy Krause,
Carol Lambert, Chris McClure, Patty McLean, Mark McShane,
Max Medley, DeeAnne Meliopoulos, Mary Meyer, Darlene
Moore, Peggy and Terry Moore, Charlie Muise, Sandy Pangle,
John Parrish, Brian Rolek, Chuck Saleeby, Georgann
Schmalz, Jeff Sewell, Joshua Spence, Ann Stewart, Tom
Striker, Paul Sykes, Karen and Luke Theodorou, Andrew
Theus, Dennis Tolsma, Rusty Trump, Dan Vickers, Steve
Wagner, Jarrod Ward, Russ Wigh, Sheila Willis, Bob and Deb
Zaremba, Stacy Zarpentine and Gene Zielinski.
Terry Moore, 13000 Bucksport Court, Roswell, GA 30075
tsmoore@bellsouth.net

Field trips are open to the public and free (unless otherwise noted).
We welcome everyone from beginners to advanced birders!
Please check the Atlanta Audubon Website (www.atlantaaudubon.org)
for the additional March 2008 field trips that may be scheduled.
Saturday, March 1,
Marcia Klenbort, Marilyn Harris
Piedmont Park (City of Atlanta)
Meet at 8 AM at the Piedmont Park Conservancy
Community Room
Birding focus: Winter residents, migrants
Directions: The Piedmont Park Conservancy
Community Room is located at the corner of
Piedmont Ave. and 12th St. From south of the city,
take the I-75/85 connector north to the Pine St.
Exit (Exit 249B). Go straight on Pine, crossing
Peachtree St. Turn left on Piedmont Ave. Travel
about one mile to 12th St. From northwest of
downtown, take I-75 south to the 16th St. Exit
(Exit 250). Go straight, crossing 14th St. Follow
the signs to 10th St. Turn left on 10th. Travel about
a half mile to Piedmont. Turn left on Piedmont to
12th St. Due to street closings, including Exits
to 10th and 14th Streets from I-75 S.,
consider exiting at Northside Drive. From
northeast of downtown, take I-85 south to the 17th
St. Exit (Exit 84). Continue straight, crossing 14th
St. Follow directions above.
Sunday, March 2, Georgann Schmalz
Saturday, March 8, Georgann Schmalz
Dawson Forest WMA,
Atlanta Tract (Dawson County)
Meet at 8 AM inside the gate at the wetlands
Birding focus: Migrants, residents
Directions: Drive approximately 35 miles from
the I-285/GA 400 interchange to Dawson Forest
Rd. Turn left (west) on Dawson Forest Rd. Drive 4
miles, crossing over GA Hwy. 9 and continuing two
miles into the WMA.
Saturday, March 8, Dave Decker
Gwinnett Environmental &
Heritage Center
2200 Clean Water Drive, Buford, GA
(near Mall of Georgia)
Meet at 8 AM
Birding Focus: Migrants, residents
Directions: From I-85, take Exit 115 (Buford Dr./
GA Hwy 20) and travel west toward Buford to
Plunketts Rd. Turn left and continue straight to
Clean Water Dr. Turn left on Clean Water Dr. and
continue straight to the Center. From I-985, take
Exit 4 (Buford Dr./ GA Hwy 20) and travel East
toward Lawrenceville to Plunketts Rd. Turn right
and continue straight to Clean Water Dr. Turn left
on Clean Water Drive and continue straight to the
Center. From Lawrenceville-Suwanee Road, turn
March 2008
Field Trips
Compiled by Dave Butler
north onto Satellite Boulevard to Woodward Mill
Road. Turn right, cross over I-985, and stay straight
to Plunketts Rd. Turn left and stay straight to
Shade-Grown
Clean Water Dr. Turn right and continue straight
until you get to the Center. Coffee
The Atlanta Audubon
Saturday, March 22, Chris Showalter
Saturday, March 29, Chris Showalter Society’s Shade-Grown
Fernbank Forest (DeKalb County) Coffee Committee has
Meet at 8 AM at the Fernbank Science Center in been working since 1996
the side parking lot near the observatory to increase public
Birding focus: Migrants, residents awareness of the
Directions: Fernbank Science Center is located
at 156 Heaton Park Dr., Atlanta, GA 30307.
connection between
From I-285, take Stone Mountain Expressway (US neotropical migratory birds
78) toward Decatur. It becomes Scott Blvd.; turn and traditional coffee
right at Coventry Rd., then left at first light farms. As a volunteer
(Heaton Park Dr). From downtown, take Ponce de effort, our campaign aims
Leon east toward Decatur and turn left on to educate consumers
Artwood before the overpass RR bridge, then right
on Heaton Park Dr. The Science Center is on the
about the positive role that
left. shade coffee plays in the
conservation of songbird
Sunday, March 23, Lisa Hurt habitat in the Latin
Sunday, March 30, Lisa Hurt American coffee-
Clyde Shepherd Nature Preserve producing countries.
(DeKalb County)
Meet at 8 AM at the Nature Preserve entrance
Birding focus: Migratory songbirds For more information and
Directions: From I-285 N or S: Take Highway 78, coffee sources, visit
Stone Mt. Freeway exit, west toward Decatur. www.atlantaaudubon.org.
Highway 78 passes North DeKalb Mall and To volunteer for committee
continues up hill past Banner Ford. At intersection
activities, contact Jane
of Highway 78, North Decatur Rd. and Medlock
Rd., take right on Medlock Rd. Follow Medlock Brann at
Rd. 1/4 mile to Medlock Elementary School; go jtbrann1@bellsouth.net or
right on Wood Trail Lane. Go through one stop 404.237.3542.
sign; travel another 200 yards to Preserve
entrance. From I-85 N or S: Take North Druid Hills
exit, east toward Decatur. After approx. 3 miles, go
right on Hwy. 78 (at North DeKalb Mall). Follow
directions as above.
Birders participating in AAS-sponsored Field Trip
Photo by Art Hurt
5
 Volunteer Corner • Volunteer Corner • Volunteer
Corner • Volunteer Corner • Volunteer Corner • Volunteer

Spotlighting... Darlene Moore

By Wendy Weathers
Darlene Moore began volunteering with AAS from Sweden see his first Blue Jay.

TIME in the fall of 2004, stuffing envelopes and

making photocopies. She and Art Hurt are
co-chairing membership this year.
Her favorite place to bird in Georgia depends
on the season. Spring is Warbler watching in
the North Georgia Mountains. Jekyll Island

Well Spent Darlene’s father is a birder and dragged her

along as a child to see some rarities like a
Great Gray Owl and a Red-necked
and the barrier islands (Little Saint Simons,
Cumberland and Saint Catherines) all have
great birds like the Snowy Plover and the
Phalarope. It wasn’t until she moved to Common Elder. In the summer Upland
Compiled by Pam Higginbotham Georgia four years ago, however, that she Sandpipers, Buff-breasted Sandpipers and
became serious about birding when her Longspurs can be seen migrating through the
December husband suggested she get a hobby. She took sod farms in Perry and Marshallville. Fall is
Name Hours Task/Event the Master Birder course and has been Warbler watching at Henderson Park.
Kathleen Bancroft 3 LAB training
birding ever since. This is where she met her Carter’s Lake has beautiful fall vistas and
Jane Blaisdell 1.5 Peel and Stick
Tom Blaisdell & 1.5 Peel and Stick
best birding girlfriends, the “Babe-breasted provides wonderful birding any time—like
Tom’s Niece 1.5 Peel and Stick Warblers” (their team’s name for the All this year’s South Polar Skuas. Finally, winter
Tom’s Sister 1.5 Peel and Stick Women’s Birding Bust that also includes reservoir birding at Walter F. George Dam
Jane Brann 4 Holiday Banquet Cheryl Kanes, Becky Valentine, Lynda can be a wonderful or miserable experience,
Dave Butler 8 Managing field trips Wiggins and Nita Wynn). Working together in depending on the weather.
Mim Eisenberg 3 WB Proofreading 2006 enabled each of these ladies to see 300
Jim Flynn 12 Web site admin
Darlene and her family live in Decatur. She is
species of Georgia birds. a wife, the mother
Kathryn Fouts 1.5 Peel and Stick
Nancy Hamilton 16 Holiday Banquet Darlene has met many expert birder friends of three children,
Cathy Harman 3 Holiday Banquet throughout the state and invites visiting and a part-time
Larry Harman 3 Holiday Banquet birders frequenting the area to accompany Neonatal Nurse
Marilyn Harris 3 Teaching LAB her on field trips that she hosts with Cheryl Practitioner at
Pam Higginbotham 10 Vol. Hour tracking
Kanes. She has learned not only about birds, Emory University
Mary Ann Hindes 15 Wingbars Editing
Marge Igyarto 20 Education
but butterflies, plants and trees. She is also a Hospital, but she
Marcia Klenbort 2 Teaching LAB member of birdingpal.com -- an Internet site considers herself
Sally Hodges 50 Holiday Banquet that travelers can access to find a local a full-time birder
Kelly Hopkins 13 Administration person to take them birding. She exclaimed, or “bird chaser.”
Lisa Hurt 4 Merritt Island Class “It’s a wonderful experience.” She watched
Art Hurt 14 Membership
She says she just
Bruno from Belgium see his first Red- can’t stop! Darlene Moore searching for
Mark Jernigan 5 Recording secretary
cockaded Woodpecker in the birds
Ellen Miller 38 President Duties, etc.
Kathy Morrison 1.5 Peel and Stick
Piedmont NWR and Fredrik Photo by Cheryl Kanes
Mary Nevil 3 LAB Training
Steve Phenicie 3 WB Proofreading
Georgann Schmalz 9 Field trips & WB
Rosalyn Smith
Pat Sully
Barbara Tarpley
5
25
20
Holiday Banquet
Answering phones
Corr. Secretary, etc.
A Million Thanks!
Atlanta Audubon Society is an amazing organization because of
Barbara Tarpley 25 Communications
Larinda Trevelt 4 Holiday Banquet
its volunteers. As always, we extend our gratitude to ALL of our
Grace Trimble 7 Wingbars Editing volunteers, but would like to send a special thank you to the
Cecelia Turbyville 4 Holiday Banquet following individuals this month:
Matt Ward 3 Field trip Many thanks to Denese Van Dyne for her service on the Board
Victor Williams 4 Speaker Series Mgmt.
of Directors. Denese recently stepped down from her position on
David Yon 20 Financial Mgmt
the board, and we are extremely grateful for everything she has
Total: 357 Volunteer Hours
done for Atlanta Audubon Society. She was invaluable in overseeing
publicity and helping us move to the next level in managing the
organization.
We want to thank our leaders who will be conducting our 2008 Warbler Weekend Workshop.
The classroom session of the workshop is being led by Giff Beaton and will be held in April.
This will be followed by a weekend field trip in May led by Theresa Hartz and Lisa Hurt
in the north Georgia mountains. Many thanks to these terrific leaders!
Each month, Terry Moore pulls together our Wingbars field notes. It’s tedious work, but
greatly appreciated by our readers who ranked the Field Notes page as one of the most
important areas of the newsletter. We thank Terry for doing such an amazing job!

6 Atlanta Audubon Society

 Get Ready for a
“New” Birdathon 2008
Check out this year’s exciting program with new ways for everyone
to get involved to support Atlanta Audubon’s education efforts
As we look forward to enjoying this year’s spring migration, Birdathon is the perfect opportunity
to get involved and help support Atlanta Audubon. This year you’ll find that we’ve made a few
changes, providing opportunities for everyone to get involved on some level.
Birdathon will take place April 19 to May 10, 2008. Your support helps us fund our educational
efforts including:
• increasing the number of schools participating in Audubon Adventures;
• providing scholarships;
• giving underprivileged children the chance to participate in Junior Birder Camp;
• expanding our Learning About Birds program;
• supporting Georgia’s Youth Birding Competition;
• offering numerous birding workshops throughout the year;
• making more field trips available to the public;
• providing important education programs through our Speaker Series programs;
• funding the second annual Birds in the Park celebration in Piedmont Park;
• and so much more.
If you are unfamiliar with the concept of a Birdathon, here’s what it is all about. Team members
solicit pledges and donations, either on a per species basis or for a fixed dollar amount, from
individuals or organizations. The teams count how many different species they see (or hear) in a
limited period of time. Funds raised from the donations and pledges are used to sustain and
expand Atlanta Audubon Society’s education efforts.
Birdathon is one of only two annual appeals our chapter makes for your financial support. Our
goal this year is to raise $10,000. This year you can participate in our Birdathon fundraiser in
these ways:
Organize a Birdathon Team.
Invite a friend or two (or more) to share in a fun “big day” of birding. You don’t need to be an
expert or even have previous experience to participate. It’s all about having fun and raising needed
funds for Atlanta Audubon Society. If you’d like to learn more about organizing a team, contact
our 2008 Birdathon Coordinator, Allyson Read, at read.allyson@gmail.com. All Birdathon teams
should contact Allyson Read with your information so we can add your information to the Web
site and members can contact you about sponsoring your team.
Sponsor a Birdathon Team.
You can sponsor a Birdathon Team, either by pledging an amount per species or donating a fixed
amount. Our Birdathon Teams appreciate your financial support of a very worthy cause. You can
find a list of our Birdathon teams and contact information on how you can pledge to that team on
our Web site at www.atlantaaudubon.org. This information should be available online in late
March.
Participate on an Individual Level.
You can also participate in this year’s Birdathon through your own “bird count tally.” Record what
birds you see in a 24-hour period during the Birdathon period (April 19 to May 10) on the
Birdathon insert (or go on-line for a copy at www.atlantaaudubon.org). You can do your birding by
watching your feeders, taking a walk in the woods—wherever you would like to go birding. Send
in your forms to be counted in our Birdathon 2008 Bird Checklist.
Participate in a new program for Atlanta Audubon: Guided Birdathon Teams.
Our new Guided Birdathon Teams might be just what you’re looking for if you’d like to actively
participate in Birdathon, but don’t have the time to organize your own team effort. See the
following article for details on how to “go guided” for Birdathon 2008.
Atlanta Audubon Society needs you.
We hope you will join us in this fun and exciting fundraising event.

February 2008 7
 Submit
Your
Birdathon
2008
Bird Checklist
This year, we are excited to
announce that we will be
collecting and tallying Atlanta
Audubon’s first ever “Birdathon
2008 Bird Checklist.” Don’t
miss out on the opportunity to
add your personal checklist to
our final tally. Our big tally will
come from our Birdathon
teams, guided trip leaders and
YOU. All you have to do is record
what birds you see (or hear!)
during any 24-hour period
during the Birdathon period
(April 19 to May 10) and fill out
the tally sheet found in this
issue of Wingbars (you can also
download a copy from
www.atlantaaudubon.org). Send
in your tally sheet to Atlanta
Audubon, P.O. Box 29189,
Atlanta, GA 30359, and we’ll do
the rest. Results will be posted
online, in Wingbars, and will
also go to Cornell University’s
bird lab and National Audubon
Society. Don’t miss out on this
chance to submit YOUR bird
checklist this year and help
make this program
a big success.
8 Atlanta Audubon Society
“Go Guided” with new Guided Birdathon Teams
Are you just too busy to plan your own Birdathon team? Then check out our new Guided
Birdathon Teams. All trip preparations are made for you and each trip is meant for birders of all
levels—beginning birders are especially welcome. You do not have to be a member to
participate. Join the team on your own or bring a friend. We will offer five trips from
experienced trip leaders for a focused half-day to day of birding.
To participate, contact our office at 770.913.0511. We’ll sign you up for the trip of your
choice. The cost per person, per trip, is a minimum $25 donation/registration. We’ll also send
you a Birdathon packet, including directions to the meeting location, a bird checklist, etc. All of
the monies go to Birdathon and our education efforts. Each team is limited in size, so if you’re
interested in joining a team don’t delay.
Warbler Wranglers
with Giff Beaton
April 2008*, 7 AM to 11 AM
*(This April trip will be announced in the April Wingbars)
Join Giff Beaton, the guru of Kennesaw Mountain birding and author of Birds of Kennesaw
Mountain, and enjoy this special Birdathon trip to one of the country’s most important bird
areas. You’re sure to spot many species of warblers and other migrant passerines. This trip is
limited to eight participants.
*Due to Giff’s varied work schedule, we will not know his date until late March.
If you are interested in the trip, let us know and we’ll also contact you directly to give you the
date as soon as we know it.
Ridge and Ravine Raptors
with Jay Davis
Saturday, May 10, 8:30 AM - 4:00 PM
Jay Davis will provide a terrific all-day trip to northeast Georgia, including Lake Hartwell,
Chattooga River, Rabun Bald and Black Rock Mountain (some moderate hiking). Expect to
spend a fun day exploring some birding hot spots. Participants will carpool from Atlanta or
meet at Lake Hartwell. This trip is limited to 15 participants.
Birdathon Buntings
with Lisa Hurt
Sunday, April 20, 8 AM to 12:30 PM
Lisa Hurt welcomes you to a special morning of birding at Clyde Shepherd Nature Preserve and
Henderson Park (time will divided between these two places). You can expect to see many great
species on this special trip. Lisa is one of our most popular field trip leaders and always
provides a great time for all. This trip is limited to eight participants.
Wing Riders
with Darlene Moore
Saturday, May 10, 7 AM to noon
Darlene Moore invites you to join her for a fun morning of birding at Conyers International
Horse Park. Expect to see many great species as you explore the area. The trip will also include
a stop at the end for lunch. This trip is limited to 12 participants.
The Birding Adventures Club
with Georgann Schmalz
Saturday, May 10, 8 AM to 11 AM
Georgann Schmalz, one of Atlanta Audubon’s favorite trip leaders and producer of the Bird
Songs of Georgia CDs, will take you on a special trip through Dawson Forest Wildlife
Management Area where you are bound to see many species and beautiful sites. This trip
promises to be a lot of fun for everyone. This trip is limited to eight participants.
 LEARNING ABOUT BIRDS
By Marcia Klenbort
It’s a cold Thursday afternoon in January, part of a group attending an AAS training
and these 15 1st-5th graders have been in class for LEARNING ABOUT BIRDS (LAB)
school for a long day already. Now they are last June at the Adamsville Recreation
filling tiny chairs in Ms. Marsha Francis’ Center. After doing the ecology web activity
Kindergarten room on the ground floor of a and identifying Atlanta’s common birds in an
bright new school building in southwest identification game, she announced to the
Atlanta. The Adamsville neighborhood isn’t group: “I want this for my school!”
well known. It’s west of I-285 and south of I-
This January afternoon is the third meeting
20 on the very southwest edge of Atlanta.
of the Science Club. Having learned bird
The school sits amid small houses and big
parts and having spent a day with the AAS
trees on a hilly lot with woods at the edges.
stuffed Barred Owls, today is Owl Pellet
The students are members of
Dissection Day. “Can’t wait for Bird banding will take
the Margaret Fain Elementary
owl pellets!” was the subject place at Ft. Morgan State
School Science Club. Mr. Marcus Stallworth, line of Ms. Francis’ e-mail to
Historical Park, Gulf
Science Club begins with a Principal at Margaret the Master Birder volunteers. Shores, Alabama, from
snack period. AAS Master Fain Elementary, an For an hour, students leaned
dawn until mid-
Birder, Kit Robey, makes the Atlanta Public School, is over their pellets, using afternoon March 29 to
rounds of the tables. “Do you
pleased with the Atlanta toothpicks, straight pins, and April 10 The bird
know who we saw on our way an ice cream stick to scrape
out to your school this
Audubon Society away the fur and feathers and banding is free once you
afternoon?” She opens the Jim connection. “Thanks to the get at the bones buried inside. get in the park, but there
Wilson book1 to the Great Blue AAS volunteers for giving They assemble the bones on is a charge to get onto
Heron page. A student grabs a time and talents to their bone charts: Is it a hip the State Park property.
Sibley Eastern Birds2 and looks inspire our students to get bone of a shrew; the femur of a Bring a chair for each
in the index to find out more member of your party,
connected to science. I am vole; the rib of a songbird? Kit
about this bird. Now a boy is noted after the lesson: “Even water, bug spray, your
excited about our science
standing with arms spread to kindergarten children camera and lunch, if
approximate the wingspan. club, and I thank you for understood the concept that needed. For more
helping to turn our they were sifting through to information, contact
“I wanted to start a science
students’ dreams into find the bones left over from Martha or Bob Sargent
club,” says Ms. Francis. “I want
our students to be aware of the realities!” the owl’s meal of a small at 205.681.2888 or
rodent.” Students enriched their rubythroat@aol.com.
nature around them, and I want
vocabularies, too. Dissect,
them to exercise their curiosity
regurgitate, pellet, sterilize are concepts they
doing experiments that they won’t
now understand; and they have met some
necessarily experience during the school day.
new animals, too: shrew and vole.
So LEARNING ABOUT BIRDS came along at
just the right time for me!” SCIENCE CLUB PHOTOS
Ms. Francis joined other
teachers in the metro area
for the November 3 LAB
training, and by December
she was calling the Science
Club into being on Thursday
afternoons from 2:30 to 4 PM.
It was the school secretary,
Ms. Margaret McWhorter,
Students and Kit Robey dissecting owl Activities and materials were assembled by
who first made the pellets at Margaret Fain Elementary AAS volunteers from the Education
connection to the Atlanta Photo by Marcia Klenbort Committee. Costs of the materials were
Audubon Society. She was borne by the Georgia Department of Natural
Resources, Watchable Wildlife Division.
(Kit Robey and Marilyn Harris also volunteer at Margaret Fain Elementary School) Photo by Marcia Klenbort
1
Common Birds of Atlanta by Jim Wilson
2
The Sibley Field Guide to Birds of Eastern North America by David Allen Sibley

February 2008 9

Bird Banding
continued from page 1.
Special Bird
Banding
Opportunity
with Charlie
Muise
Atlanta Audubon Society
members and guests are
invited to join Charlie
Muise at Panola Mountain
State Park the morning of
March 16 to experience
the fun of bird banding.
Participants should meet
at 9 AM at the main
entrance on SR 155 north
of McDonough. You will
be led to the banding site
on a section of the park
that is restricted. If
interested, please contact
Charlie at
cmmbirds@yahoo.com to
let him know. If it rains or
is too windy, he will
contact you to cancel.
Catharine Kuchar’s bird banding
experience @ Jekyll Island
Banding Station
Photo by Kuchar Admirer
10
2007-2008
LEARNING ABOUT BIRDS Teachers and Leaders
Who are they?
Where in the metro Atlanta area do they teach?
Sheila Appling is Science Lab teacher at Centennial Place Richard Hatcher’s science class at Campbell Academy
Elementary School (Atlanta Public Schools). (APS) is focused on flight this year.
Kathleen Bancroft, an AAS member, assists Melody Claire Hayes and her staff teach birds at the Dunwoody
Swierski, 5th grade teacher at Tritt Elementary School Nature Center (DeKalb Co.).
(Cobb Co.).
Stephanie Gwinn, Librarian, and Roy Jackson, Science
Brittany Camp is an environmental educator who leads Lab leader, continue with LAB this year in their
field trips and summer camp experiences at Arabia environmental projects at Parkside Elementary School
Mountain Nature Center (DeKalb Co.). (APS).
Anna Conrad is Science Lab teacher at Trinity School, a Christina Marr teaches birds to adults and children at Mill
private school in Atlanta; she and AAS member and nurse Creek Nature Center (Gwinnett Co.).
Scottie Johnson will bring birds to 429 students. Mary Nevil, an AAS member, coaches her Brown
Marsha Francis is a Kindergarten teacher at Margaret Fain Thrashers Bird Club at Knollwood Elementary, where she is
Elementary School (APS); she and Margaret McWhorter librarian (DeKalb Co.).
have a vision for school-wide science and birds. Mary Nevins and Rick McCarthy are environmental
Buddy Goodloe runs a 4th-5th grade bird club after school educators at Cochran Mill Nature Center (Fulton Co.).
at Glenwood Academy (Decatur), where AAS members, Sheri Pisaturo teaches 13-year olds in her Contenders
Becky Valentine and Cheryl Kanes, help him. Home School group (Gwinnett Co).
Mrs. R. R. Harris and Barbara Leath started their first Ellen Powell, a longtime bird teacher and AAS member,
year of teaching birds at Collier Heights Park and teaches Challenge classes at Bolton Academy (APS).
Adamsville Center (Atlanta).
Camilla Warren, a parent, coaches three classes this year
at Medlock Elementary (DeKalb Co).
Education Committee Report
By Marge Igyarto
As I start my term as education chair, I am excited and also grateful for the support and enthusiasm
evident in this committee. The education folks continue to be very busy with some projects that are doing
very well.
LEARNING ABOUT BIRDS: This program continues to thrive in area schools under the leadership of
Marcia Klenbort and Marilyn Harris. There are many enthusiastic teachers and volunteers involved. They
are also starting to get requests for assistance at science nights at the schools. The owl presentations in
particular are very popular.
IMBD: We will be coordinating our efforts with Piedmont Park again. Sue Sturgess is in the process of
meeting and planning this event.
Field Trips: Lisa and Art Hurt took a group to Merritt Island in January. This has proven to be a very
worthwhile, rewarding and popular event.
Scholarships: Interviews for the Barnsley and Echols scholarships will be taking place March 1. More
information will appear in later issues of Wingbars.
Chattahoochee Nature Center: I will be meeting with Amy Bram, the director of Camp Kingfisher, on
Wednesday, February 6. We will be discussing how Atlanta Audubon might be involved in their summer
camp program.
As you can see, education is a vital and busy committee with several ongoing projects as well as special
events. We can always use more volunteers. Whether you can spare a couple of hours or would like to be
more involved, we would love to hear from you. Let me, Marge Igyarto, (igyar@earthlink.net) or Nancy
Hamilton (nlhamilotn@bellsouth.net),Volunteer Coordinator, know that you are interested.
Atlanta Audubon Society
 Merritt Island Dreaming
By Amy Leventhal
An exceptionally wonderful experience was had
by all the birders attending Atlanta Audubon’s
Merritt Island Shorebird Workshop over Martin
Luther King weekend in January, which was very
capably led by Lisa Hurt and Theresa Hartz. We
saw 95 species of birds, and I learned so much.
A group of about 15 of us drove down to
Titusville, Florida, where we stayed at the Best
Western near the waterfowl impoundments of
the Merritt Island Wildlife Refuge. Scouting a day
early with Lisa and Art Hurt, birders Sylvia
Chandler, David Criner and I were treated to
Lesser Scaups, Black-bellied Plovers, Short-billed
Dowitchers, Lesser Yellowlegs, Greater
Yellowlegs, Dunlins, Ruddy Turnstones, and an
immature Great Black-backed Gull while we
were crossing the Indian River Intracoastal
Waterway. Once we were near the Mangrove
ponds, which are beautiful in and of themselves,
we saw hundreds of American Pintails, Northern
Shovelers, some American Widgeons, a few
Eurasian Widgeons, Blue-winged Teal and
several dozen Green-winged Teal. Along the
pump house road we saw 60 or more American
Avocets feeding in long lines that were criss-
crossing each other. Their black and white
feathers made patterns similar to the June Taylor
Dancers. Intermittently flying near them was a
pair of Black Skimmers dipping into the water
with their longer lower mandibles eating
delicious food. Hundreds of other standing Black
Skimmers were snoozing in long lines on the
water. The next day with the rest of the group,
we saw a Sora and a Clapper Rail up close. We People
had a very good look at two Bald Eagles in their who photograph,
nest feeding their two youngsters. The third day feed or simply
we went to the Viera Water Reclamation Project watch wildlife in
and saw a Crested Caracara, an American Georgia spent an
Bittern, some Ruddy Ducks and had a lovely eye-popping $1.6
view of three River Otters. Theresa Hartz and billion in 2006,
other members of the group went on to Ponce according to a
Inlet and New Smyrna Beach and saw a Great trends-tracking
Cormorant, which was a life bird for them. U.S. Fish and
The one “uneggceptional” thing was the eggs at Wildlife survey.
the Best Western. David Criner said they were The estimate tops
worse than the Navy’s. Not a huge the state's
recommendation, though I would certainly previous high in
reserve a place for this trip when you see it on that category
the AAS Web site for next January. among
comparable
surveys: $994
million spent in
1996 on what is
commonly called
wildlife watching.

Roseate Spoonbill in flight Crested Caracaraa

Photo Cathy Harman Photo Cathy Harman

Q:seSpending winter
considerably further
iceps ta hW :Q
dnorth
enorthan
htedother
yltnecer
warblers,
sa nreTwhat
citcrisAaeht
Yellow-rumped
eht htiw dWarbler's
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rib eht
during
?noitawinter?
rgim tsegnol
Merritt Island Wildlife Refuge “Dreamers”
Photo Larry Harman rewsnSee
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March 2008 11
 CLASSIFIEDS
Rates for 2.5” x 2.5” ads are $20/month or $45/quarter. Ads must be consistent with the conservation and birding
mission of Atlanta Audubon Society. Ads may be accepted via e-mail, preferably in .pdf format. Call 770.913.0511 if
you have questions. Send payment to Wingbars Ads, Atlanta Audubon Society, P.O. Box 29189, Atlanta, GA 30359.
Send ads via e-mail to Catharine Kuchar at Catharine.Kuchar@atlantaaudubon.org.

When You Come

To The Mountains -
Ask about the new Birder’s Guide to Fannin County!
We feature Cole’s seed,
squirrel-proof feeders
that truly are, houses,
hummingbird stuff,
great books, Audubon
Bird Songs of Georgia
optics, & hard to find
hardware. Plus – 100’s
CD now available.
of Ravensburger Puzzles,
Music of the Spheres
Email Georgann Schmalz at
Chimes & a huge
selection of educational
georgannschmalz@alltel.net or visit
toys and
games for kids!
www.birdingadventuresinc.com

Downtown Blue Ridge & Inside Mercier Orchards

611 E. Main St. • Blue Ridge, GA 30513
(706) 258-BIRD (2473) • blueridgebirdseed.com

Privileged Connection
By Barbara Tarpley
Many of our newer AAS members who have joined since mid-2000 will likely remember our membership brochure, which was designed
when our Atlanta Chapter of the National Audubon Society began a locally-based membership, Friends of Atlanta Audubon (FOAA). In case
you are interested in the brochure’s history, our own renowned Georgann Schmalz was instrumental in getting permission for the artwork
from Charley Harper, who died last June at the age of 84. I was privileged to be Membership Chair at the time and worked with Georgann at
this exciting time in Atlanta Audubon Society’s history, so I thought the following excerpt from the January 31 posting of Audubon in the
News would be of interest in case you missed it. Even if it is a repeat, we can never say thanks often enough to Charley for the contribution
his art added to our handsome brochure.

Artwork of Charley Harper, Renowned Contemporary Bird Artist,

Featured in Audubon Magazine Online Photo Essay
NewQ:York,
What
NY - species
You might know him by the numerous posters he did for ecological parks, nature centers, and wilderness reserves. Or,
perhaps you’re dethroned
recently familiar with his illustrations appearing in Betty Crocker cookbooks or Morton Salts advertisements. But Charley Harper,
theartistic
whose Arctic Tern
career as more than six decades, was also admired for his unique repertoire of bird illustrations and paintings. Through
spanned
thethe bird
use of with
bright the
colors and simple shapes, Harper perfected a style that enlivens the essence of his feathered subjects and reveals his deep
longest
respect migration?
for nature. Now, a new book celebrates Harper’s work. To read more about the artist and his singular style, view bonus shots not
available in the magazine, and test your powers of observation in a Charley Harper bird quiz, go to
http://www.audubonmagazine.org/features0801/photoessay.html.
See page ___ for the answer

Answer:
Berries
Answer: Sooty
Shearwater

12 Atlanta Audubon Society

 Getting to Know Georgia’s Protected Birds:
Kirtland’s Warbler
Kirtland’s Warbler (Dendroica kirtlandii) is
a small songbird, 15 cm (6 in) in length,
with a bluish gray back with dark streaks.
Females have a slight brownish tint to the
feathers on their backs and shoulders. The
throat, chest and abdomen of both sexes
are yellow with black streaking or
spotting on the flanks. While it might look
similar to the Canada Warbler or Magnolia
Warbler, one behavioral clue that sets the
Kirtland’s Warbler apart from the other
gray-backed warblers is a tendency to bob
or wag its tail.
Kirtland’s Warblers nest in northern lower
Michigan in large stands. It winters in the
Bahamas and may travel through Georgia
during migration. Only a few seasonal
occurrences of this species have been
recorded for Georgia, although very few
records exist for any state along its
migratory pathway.
This warbler’s diet consist of centipedes,
caterpillars, sawfly adults and larvae,
grasshopper nymphs, flying moths,
deerflies, horseflies, crickets, blueberries,
and pine sap in the summer with berries
and insects in the winter.
Kirtland’s Warblers are considered
“endangered” according to the State of
Georgia listing and “endangered” at the
federal level. An “endangered” bird is a
species which is in danger of extinction
throughout all or part of its range. Habitat
loss on the breeding and wintering
grounds and Brown-headed Cowbird
parasitism are the greatest threats to
Kirtland’s Warblers. Surveys of singing
males showed significant declines in
numbers from 1961 (when there were 502)
to 1974 (when only 167 were recorded).
Numbers have sporadically increased after
large fire breakouts in jack pine habitat, a
critical area for breeding.
Source: Georgia Department of Natural
Resources, Protected Animals of Georgia

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March 2008 13
 Zoo Atlanta’s Celebrate
Think Green Day 2008
Saturday, March 8, 2008 – 10 AM to 2 PM

Volunteers are needed to help staff

the Shade-Grown Coffee

Mim Eisenberg’s exhibit at

Committee's table at Zoo Atlanta's

the Phoenix and Dragon

Celebrate Think Green Day. Answer

Bookstore gallery during

questions and hand out information

April. Reception
to Zoo visitors about the connection
between traditional coffee

April 4 at 7 PM,
plantations and migratory bird

5531 Roswell Road,

habitat. No experience needed!

Atlanta, GA.
Contact Jane Brann at 404.237.3542
or email jtbrann1@bellsouth.net

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