A Mountain of Gems on Thanksgiving

Happy late Thanksgiving!  Thursday morning I reminisced about the things for which I am thankful.  I supposed that I am luckier than most in this world.  I looked at Kino's sweet adoring face, his cute cinnamon eyebrows and bright smile always there to cheer me up on the worst of days.   It's been a tough year for him, yet he carries on, stubbornly.  Through the years I think sometimes I carried him but mostly he carried me.   It was now my turn.

I carried him out to the car for an adventure up Mount Lemmon to see the remnants of the first snow, which had fallen last week.   Now that walking is such a struggle for him he loves these trips, even if he is inside the car most of the time.   He also loves the 70's and 80's rock which I play and sing to on the way up.  He is the only one who doesn't mind my singing in the car.  Mrs. S. concludes that it means his hearing is much worse than we thought.  Luckily you, the reader, were spared the video I took of us,  singing to "Wild Thing,"  on the radio as Kino smiled (then hid) in the back seat.   Thank Mrs. S for that save.  


They seemed to be playing rock songs relevant to the two of us the whole way up.  When James Taylor sang "You've got a Friend," it seemed to be a special dedication to our years together.  When we neared the top I parked and I carried Kino to a nice bed of pine needles to lay in, surrounded by snow.  Some dream of a sitting on thrones, but I would find it so uncomfortable.  Give me a seat cushion of sweet smelling pine needles in a conifer forest with the sounds of nuthatches, chickadees, and kinglets around me.  That's my heaven.  

On the way home Kino opted to lay down, his head leaning against my winter shirt.  He was exhausted from the day's excitement but very content.  I knew I would look back on this day as a special time for us, and time can be a luxury when in short supply.   These memories are wealth I seek, for they carry the most value over time.  They are the buried treasure hidden right before our eyes, if we can only open them to see it.    

Such loving eyes!

Here are some other gems collected on Thanksgiving Day for my jewelry box of treasured memories. 

I saw eyes of pure gold,

I beheld the brilliance of turquoise and saphire,

Rubies could be seen dazzling in the sunlight, 

and a table full of rich, delicious vegetarian dishes fit for kings and queens, 

Dishes shown sinclude stuffed pumpkin, mashed potatoes, sweet potatoes, broccoli casserole.  Not shown include croissants, world famous cheese ball and crackers, and delicious cranberry bread, and heavenly deviled eggs.

I feasted in the company of trusting family and friends of royal and colorful character.  We ate, and laughed, and shared our lives, triumphs and struggles in confidence with our trusted companions.  We left with satisfied stomachs and rekindled souls.  
I am thankful for the wealth I have been given in the form of family, friends and companion animals.  I am also thankful for the gift of sharing this beautiful world with so many other remarkably interesting and intelligent inhabitants, who peacefully share our space on this planet. Thank you for appreciating this life and all it inhabitants.

   

Sawbill Surprise and Mountain drive with "the guy."

Red-breasted Merganser females

Red-breasted Merganser females

Life has kept me busy these past few weeks so it was nice to get out for an hour or so this morning before Kino's vet appointment.  At the lake things seemed unexciting, so I turned toward the car for a jaunt to Woodland.  Two waterfowl flew just over my head and landed on the lake I had just turned from.   I did not recognize them in flight so fixated the scope on their lean figures.  The long, thin bill, light brown head with a shaggy crest, and lack of contrast between the light chin and fore-neck identified them as the rarest merganser to be found in our area, the Red-breasted Merganser.  This merganser is typically found wintering in the ocean, not desert lakes.   The serrated edges to its long thin bill help it to hold on to its prey which consists mostly of fish.  This rarity showed up when I least expected it, a common phenomenom. 



A buddy biscuit was enough incentive to get Kino up, which is surprising since usually by 11:00 he's sawing logs and immovable.  As I watched him in the car he seemed so happy to be out that I took some pics before we left the car.   It was then that I first thought we could take a drive afterwards up Mount Lemmon.

On the way up we made short stops, and, though Kino was interested in the smells of pine and Juniper, was also content to stay in the car.   It wasn't until we reached the very top that I was able to carry him around and show him some of the magnificent views.








On the way back he sat up and watched the scenery, including a few turkeys crossing the road.  We logged another sunset and enjoyed another day together in this beautiful place.   Thank you for appreciating our wild and not so wild companion animals.  

A Lewis's expedition Saturday Nov 19 2013

When I got up a Great Horned Owl was hooting outside the window.   Owls in mythology supposedly were symbols for impending death, but for myself they always foretell an awakening of the spirit within, as my senses suddenly become sharp with keen interest.  Today I also took it to be a sign of good birds to be seen this day, in which my friend Paul and myself had planned on canvassing our neighborhood for any new migrating specialties.   As mentioned earlier Paul is a sharp birder who seems find incredible birds on his wanderings in mostly under-birded habitats.

We met at woodland road and decided to bird that area first.   A Lewis's Woodpecker had been seen only five miles from here and I wanted to see if any were around the pecan groves along this stretch.  We drove until we came upon a large group of blackbirds, and decided to stop and look for any cowbirds in the flock, or other surprise.   I noticed a semi-large dark bird with fat wings pass by, and thought I caught a glimpse of gray on the nape before it disappeared.  Luckily it flew back and we saw the deep reddish coloration on the belly as well, distinguishing the first Lewis's Woodpecker for the season (and year) in the neighborhood, and apparently only the second one reported for the season in southeast Arizona.  

Red-shafted Flickers, Ladder-backed Woodpeckers, and a Red-naped Sapsucker were also seen on our walk along the road.  A woodpecker flew overhead which had much red on the upper chest and had us scratching our heads as to whether it could be the rare Red-breasted Sapsucker.  We did also find 2 Brown-headed Cowbirds and a Yellow-Headed Blackbird in with the flock of Brewer's Blackbirds, European Starlings, Great-tailed Grackles, and Red-winged Blackbirds.  
Paul also spotted a late or overwintering White-winged Dove.   In a couple hours we had seen 33 species in the rural habitat.  Our last addition was a beautiful Prairie Falcon on top of a Eucalyptus.  

After a break we went to the cattail pond.   At first it wasn't too birdy, but we did see Green-winged Teal, a belted Kingfisher, and 2 Red-naped Sapsuckers on a well-drilled Eucalyptus tree (sapsuckers drill horizontal rows of holes in trees, feeding on the sap and insects attracted to the sugary feast).   As we circled back along the back edge of the pond a Ruby-crowned Kinglet sang out, and was joined by another and a Plumbeous Vireo.  

As we entered a field area bordering the pond it seemed we broke through to another dimension, the "birding zone."  Lincoln's Sparrows flew from underfoot, Orange-crowned Warblers and one Black-throated Gray Warbler foraged in the mesquites, a House Wren scolded from the understory, and Green-tailed and Abert's Towhees called.   A Harris's Hawk looked down from a high snag.  I told Paul that some ten years back I would sometimes find Grasshopper Sparrows in this grassy cienega-like stretch of habitat.  

It flew up from the grass in front of us just like the Lincoln's Sparrows, but something was different about this bird.   It landed too far for our binoculars to register so I quickly focused the scope on this flat-headed Sparrow.  I was elated as I watched the buffy colored sparrow with the bold eye-ring.  It's back was intricately textured with sharp black and rich brown highlights, and light-tipped accents to the wing covers.  The yellowish spot before the eye also confirmed we were watching a Grasshopper Sparrow, a rarity around the city.  We managed

to get closer looks at the bird, and I finally managed a halfway decent photo of this beautiful unexpected surprise!  

Our last bird was another beauty, an Osprey surveying the lake for a fishy feast!   Thank you for your appreciation of our incredible wildlife marvels right in our own neighborhood!

Superatural Laws of birding/naturewatching

In my limited experience with birding and nature watching I've come to understand that there are certain seemingly supernatural yet unexplained coincidences with regard to many exciting finds.  I will try to list some of these I've discovered along the way.  Perhaps you can identify with some of these in your own wanderings.  

Observations from an amateur, yet lucky, nature enthusiast.  

A rare bird is more likely to show up after you've studied them intensely.   In other words,the more prepared you are to identify a bird the better your chance of seeing that particular specie.  Our neighborhood sparrow list is pretty diverse, partly due to my desire to figure out identification tips on this group of birds.  I highly recommend the book "Sparrows of the United States and Canada," By David Beadle and James Rising.  

Thinking about a species increases the chance you will see it in the near future.   Talking about it to a friend increases the chances even more.   One of the practices which helped me build my neighborhood list (over 240 species) is to go through the species accounts in the back of the latest edition of "Finding Birds in Southeast Arizona."   The accounts show that anything is possible when it comes to vagrants in unexpected areas.  For example, who would believe a Snow Bunting from the Arctic would show up in Arizona!  I remember talking to my friend Mark about the possibility of a Sage Sparrow in our neighborhood, which seemed unlikely since there were no records in Tucson.   A couple years later on my bike commute home I was stunned to  find a Sage Sparrow in our field by the woodland road!  Now that this species has recently split I'll have to revisit my video to verify it is the a Sagebrush Sage Sparrow or the even rarer Bell's Sparrow. (video on July 2012 post) 

Be curious-study everything including the seemingly ordinary.  Some of the best finds were almost passed over as ordinary birds.   But once they were in the bins my eyes would widen with discovery!  Like the probable mockingbird which was a Yellow-billed Cuckoo!

The best way to find a rare species is to be still.   This is my most difficult reality.  It goes against my thinking to stay still for ten minutes and just watch and listen.   Yet whenever I do the birds respond, revealing themselves in a spectacular display.   Of course it helps to be in good habitat, but it could happen anywhere!

A rare bird is always a surprise.   I am always astonished by each new bird I see since it just happens so unexpectedly.   Like the Sage Thrasher that popped up on a fence while walking the wash.     

A genuine appreciation for everything you see increases your chances to see something magical!  I make a point to stop and appreciate the Arizona Sycamore in our neighborhood, and, although I don't expect anything, I almost always come across something interesting afterward. 

Even an hour of birding can turn up a rarity.   I remember twice in 2009 going to the cattail pond for just a half hour with Mrs S.  On one short visit a Prothonotary Warbler made an appearance in the cattails.   On the other a Mexican Jay called out from the cove's shoreline.  

Being thankful for what you've seen already can create a positive energy which brings in more exciting finds.   Again, this is tied to appreciation of everything, especially everything natural.   But I must say that the gratitude must be genuine and selfless.  

Visiting other types of habitats will tend to bring birds from that ecosystem to your neighborhood.  I can't explain this effect except to say that, for one reason or another, when I visit another area, such as Mount Lemmon, it seems one or more of its birds "follows," me home to be seen within weeks of the excursion.   

The worst weather brings the best birds.    Any weather change should be noteworthy for birds, but the worst storms bring the best birds.   I find this particularly true in winter, when snow in the mountains can drive species down to the valley.  

Always foster the attitude, "Anything is possible!"  Because when it comes right down to it, anything is possible, any time.   A Red-footed Falcon can show up in the Northeastern US, and a Rufous-necked Wood Rail can show up in New Mexico!  Or a Sabine's Gull, which tends to migrate over oceans, can show up at our lakes!

Rare birds tend to show up with similar species.   For example, our habitat is conducive to Cassin's and Western Kingbirds in great numbers, so it makes sense to see Tropical Kingbird as well.   If an area is popular with buntings, watch for Painted Bunting!   

The Rare Bird Effect.   One rare bird found in an area can spring more unusual sightings just based on the increase of birders to the area.   My earlier post on "2009, a Good Year," explains this more completely.   More recently, my friend Paul discovered a Rufous-backed Robin at a local park, which led to a discovery of a Magnolia Warbler, which led to the discovery of a Red-shouldered Hawk!

Do you have a natural or supernatural, law you would like to share.  Thank you for your appreciation of our local, uncommon and common,  wildlife.

Nightly Kino walks Oct 16 2013

Kino and I did our nightly routine again, and the Lesser Nighthawk graced us with its presence again.   The insects were not as numerous around the lights though, so we will have to appreciate its nightly flights while we can.  Last night the flight pattern was reminiscent of a ladle being dipped repeatedly into a bowl of soup as it scooped up insects crowded about the artificial light.  Tonight the pattern was more of a wide circular arc.   

On the previous two nights I also heard a strange owl's screech which made me think "Barn Owl," yet could not rule out a juvenile Great Horned Owl.   I scanned the skies intently both nights for a ghostly white figure.   

This morning I discovered a scorpion in our shower.  Much as I disagree with animal relocation I took the exception, and, after trapping it in one of Mrs. S's Chai cans, relocated it, to our back yard.  

Tonight on my bike commute home I birded the woodland road, then the field and pond just before dark.   To give an idea of the birds here this time of year here is the list.  

The woodland Road (15 min)

1 Verdin

4 House Finch

3 Gila Woodpecker

1 Red-tailed Hawk

5 Vermilion Flycatchers

60 Mourning Doves

1 Yellow-Rumped Warbler

5 Turkey Vultures

2 Lesser Goldfinch

1 Abert's Towhee

1 American Kestrel

1 Eurasian Collared Dove

Field and Lake  (25 min)

1 Phainopepla

7 Gambel's Quail

6 House Finch

2 Lesser Goldfinch

2 Red-tailed Hawks

1 Pyrrhuloxia or Northern Cardinal female

5 Brewer's Sparrow

2 Lincoln's Sparrow

2 Green-tailed Towhee

5 White-crowned Sparrow-Gambeli (Gambel's race)

2 White-crowned Sparrow-Orianthi  (Mountain race)

2 Mourning Doves

1 Gila Woodpecker

1 House Wren

2 Northern Shoveler 

68 Mallard Duck

1 Mexican Mallard Duck 

22 American Wigeon

1 Great Blue Heron

3 possible Green-winged Teal (teal-like with apparent tail stripe but not distinct)-too dark outside.

Thank you for appreciating our wintering neighborhood wildlife!

It's a long, long road

This weekend was spent mostly in the yard getting brush out to the curb for the biyearly bulk pickup in our neighborhood.   By the end of Saturday my shoulders were bruised from carrying logs and arms were sore from all the heavy sawing with the pruning saw.    One of the items brought out was a heavy, yet broken cement bird bath base.  This was soon returned when Mrs. S informed me it was an antique.  She is an expert on thrifting, arts and crafts, and I do remember carrying that a good half mile through the desert when first found.  It seems the heaviest items are always the most valued, at least when I'm there to carry it.   I remember once birding a wash with a friend and coming across a solid cement bench support with a design in it.   I told him I'd better carry it out since "It's cumbersome and heavy, so she'll love it.   She did and it now adorns our back yard.  At least in exchange she agreed not to accidentally put any of my personal belongings in the garbage or bulk pickup (such moose antlers, found only after hiking up a swampy trail for over 3 miles in Baxter State Park).

Mrs S. had to work this weekend but it was just as well since it is difficult to navigate the yard without inadvertently stepping on a planting.    I missed having Kino out there "supervising," from the porch like previous years, but at least he was in good spirits and alert.  On Sunday morning just as we headed to the lake an Osprey came into view, and I thought how lucky I was to be able to see this majestic animal from my driveway.   Despite Kino's apparent aversion to bird watching, he allows me to slow down and see more.   Once I even counted 41 species of birds during our 3/4 mile walk.

After an intense afternoon of work I carried Kino over to the lake again.   It was a windy evening and he loves windy days like I love watching wildlife.   When we got there he contently lay down, the breeze bristling his beautiful white mane.   I lay back next to him, immersed in the sereneness of the moment, watching the stars, and a satellite which slowly crossed over the sky.  I wondered if I would be able to appreciate these moments without Kino.   I gathered it just wouldn't be the same without him there to share the experience.   

Kino (Pic from another post)

I was happy to see the Lesser Nighthawk again despite the lateness of the season.  It's flight was different tonight, as it glided swiftly for long distances on the seemingly icy surface.  Even its flaps were hurried.   I wondered if it was a sign that his time here was short despite the thousands of bugs at the lights.  All it takes is one day of frost to put a damper on the food supply.  That could happen any day-time was short.  I silently wished him good luck on his impending journey.  

After a half hour or so Kino indicated he wanted to get up so I pushed against his hind quarters as he struggled.  He did walk about twenty yards with breaks in between, where he would lean against my leg for stability.   I get the feeling Kino is ready for his journey but I am still not ready for him to go just yet.   I'm the one pushing him to stay for another day, another week, another month.   He obliges because he knows how important it is to me, his friend, his brother.   

It was getting late and I knew the kitties would be waiting at the door for him to return, as they always do.   I knelt down and picked him up, then set off toward home.  He gave me a dog's hug, pushing his neck against mine, his chin resting on the back of my shoulders as he looked behind me into the darkness.  In a well of emotion I was suddenly reminded of an old yet enduring favorite tune by The Hollies,  "He ain't Heavy...."
The Hollies "He Ain't Heavy, He's My Brother."

   

It was Late one Winter Night-flashback

It was 1990, towards the beginning of my wildlife awakenings.   Looking back I wonder if I knew more then than now, at least regarding nature.   It was a time when coyotes were still scarce in many parts of the northeast, and sometimes not welcome.  I would make special trips to the Pound Ridge Reservation, scanning the fields for a glimpse of these amazing hunters, looking very wolf-like in their heavy winter coats.   I was also shaking off layers of teachings from my youth which did not fit with my new understanding of wildlife.   I was mostly alone in my quest for natural teachings, yet it also made each lesson more memorable and distinct.   Hope your enjoy this poem in the style of "Twas the Night before Christmas," in a time when childhood myths were being broken down in my mind, revealing a course of thought based on experience, not hearsay or fairy tale.

                                     A COYOTE COMES ON A WINTER NIGHT

It was late one winter night,
and all through the  woods,
only a few Deer were stirring
from the field where I stood.

As I walked into the Darkness
they vanished like Ghosts.
But it wasn't the deer
I wanted to see most.

It's the mysterious Owl,
as silent as the wind.
I would imitate mouse squeaks
to lure that hunter in. 

I crouched in tall grass, 
my calls were so nice, 
though there's another predator
who's attracted to mice.

He came like a flash

Appreciating natural firework displays

It was a Monday night  (9-23) and I was hanging out with Kino on the lawn by the lake.  Most of the time I carry him over now due to his mobility constraints, but he seems to like the ride, and one block is not far for his 60 pounds.  He does walk in the grass a little once we're there, but mostly wants to lie down and enjoy the scenery.   Tonight I had arrived home late so it was already dark when we left.  He lay down sideways and lay his head on my lap, and we enjoyed the cool night breeze of early Autumn in the desert. 

The low night lights of the recreation center were already attracting moths.  As I watched a Lesser Nighthawk came into view, and I was thankful for seeing this bird after many had already left for the winter.   After a time I lay back and stared at the stars.  Every once in a while it seemed a fine short streak of gray would pass so quickly it made me wonder if I had seen anything at all.  After a few instances I was sure these streaks were in fact meteors, however brief their stay.   I had sat up again when the sky seemed to light up as a meteor streaked on a long burning course to the Catalina Mountains.   It was the longest lasting meteor I had ever seen, and the lowest against the horizon.   It's flame split and sputtered like a firework toward the end of its path, and I felt sure a piece could have made it to the ground somewhere in the city.  

It was Saturday the 28th just around dusk.   I am conversing with my neighbor when a bright light shoots across the sky.  It was amazing since it was still light out, yet this meteor was still bright enough to be seen clearly.  Afterward I carried Kino to the lake.  The tennis court lights are on, and I see our the underwings of our lone nighthawk illuminated as it circles about like a figure skater on an invisible surface of ice.  It was the first I'd seen him since our other meteor experience.   It felt like a case of deja vu, in reverse.   I watched, thankful for the chance to see and appreciated the natural gifts provided every day for those willing to stop, watch, and listen.  Thank you for your appreciation of our wildlife. 

Leavings of Summer and early Fall arrivals

Last Tuesday seemed to mark the first day of Autumn.  Although it was only the 10th of September, it was the first time I did not hear Purple Martins calling at the lake.  The normally boisterous Tropical Kingbirds were noticeably absent as well and haven't been heard since.  A lone Lesser nighthawk hunted in the dim early evening light, and a Rufous-winged Sparrow gave weak, barely discernible peeps, seemingly too tired to give its entire bouncing ball

Rufous-winged Sparrow (from previous wanderings)

repertoire.  A single Mallard duck swam on the seeming immense, yet empty lake.   The summer varieties were leaving, yet migrants were still few due to the lack of rainfall in our "desert within the desert".   Hopefully the rains from the week before would help spur plant growth and bird activity.   It was the first time the wash had run this summer, and the rainy season was about to end.   Even our desert toads were mostly silent this monsoon season. 

There was a silver lining on this waning moon of a season.  My friend Paul Suchanek had spotted a juvenile Mississippi Kite just a mile from our neighborhood, and it had been heading in our direction.  His Ebird documentation photo was outstanding as well as his write-up.  Oh, to see such a sight in our neighborhood!  I was quite envious of his find.   And to think I had birded that area just a few days before and could have missed this gem!    At least its nice to have an expert birder focusing on this rich ecosystem, discovering species I've missed in my amateur forays. 

Vesper Sparrow (from previous wanderings)

On Saturday I had some consolation to my doldrums.   As I watered our backyard plants a Warbling Vireo hopped through our mesquites, then investigated our Arizona Ash,  paying little heed to my close presence as I curiously watched its behavior.   I'd seen them in other areas nearby but this was a first for the year in the yard and neighborhood!  Later on a short walk in the wash a Vesper Sparrow was a first for the season. and Brewer's Sparrows were becoming slightly more numerous.  Green-tailed Towhees were also easy to find.    

On my early Monday morning commute I saw a large raptor with crooked wings fly over our transit bus.  "Osprey!" I found myself calling out to the non-birding commuters.  A couple  of passengers were actually interested and tried to find it before it soared out of sight.  Tonight on my bike ride home I stopped by the lake to scan for any activity.    Three swallows passed in a tight knit group, and I pegged two to be Barn Swallows.  The third, even though obviously flying with the others, was too dark and heavy.   I followed them with the bins and confirmed the male Purple Martin, silently flying with his new friends despite their biological differences.   Both parties seemed content with the arrangement regardless of what caused this interspecies bond of friendship.   I was concerned with a couple missing flight feathers on the martin and wished him happy travels on his upcoming journey.   Thank you for appreciating our other-specie-al friends, our community wildlife! 

TV Loop Zone 9-4-13

Zone-tailed Hawk juvenile

The walk up the wash to the survey start point was active with song this early morning.  I almost wished I could have "started in the middle of the route," when the noises of traffic would not be a factor.  The walk seemed slow not from the loose sand my feet trudge through but the pulling of my senses toward the variety of birds calling from every direction.  When I did reach my destination I was given a sweet surprise in the form of a juvenile Zone-tailed Hawk sitting in a cottonwood along the edge of the wash!  





I skewed my starting point slightly just so this magnificent raptor would not be disturbed.  Zone-tailed Hawks are a rare sight around the city, but are most often seen during spring migration and late summer during post nesting dispersal.   As mentioned in a previous post, their similarity to Turkey Vultures in flight is uncanny despite the size difference.  Later in this survey another Zone-tailed would circle over, its rattier tail distinguishing it from the first. 

The birds were outstanding along this stretch of wash with its new growth from the recent monsoons.  Although only a mile from our neighborhood the change is significant, and I'm guessing this stretch received some storms which just missed our neighborhood.  A singing Northern Beardless Tyrannulet lifted my spirits with its descending whistled tune.   Five Harris's Hawks circled about along with two American Kestrels.  Two Nashville Warblers flew into the lower branches of a small cottonwood as I passed.  Although no snakes were seen a Clark's Spiny Lizard (based on horizontal bars on forelimbs) clung to the bark of a mesquite. 

Bobcat camouflaged within brushy understory

I was trudging back up the wash after the survey when a rustling sound came from the elderberry I had just passed.  At first I saw nothing through the maze of branches.  As my focus shifted left my eyes met the warm slanted eyes of a bobcat, just a human length away.   We stared, and I smiled, yet neither moved from this magical moment.  She may have had kittens close by since she did not appear to be the one rustling about.   I moved out of her space before trying a couple photos, and, though she was most accommodating, the brightness of the sun obliterated any attempt to focus into her shady abode.   My eyes are opening with each of these wonderous encounters with our wild neighbors, and any allusion to potential danger would be a misstatement on my part.  

Bobcat-digiscoped

Male Blue Grosbeak

A raptor circled the wash, and closer inspection revealed its identity as an adult Gray Hawk!   Incidentally a Gray Hawk had used the same cottonwood used by the Zone-tailed today, and it may have been the same perch!    As I neared the car a male Blue Grosbeak came out in the open for a bit.   As I drove home the two Zone-tailed Hawks circled over the east end of our neighborhood along the Agua Caliente Wash.   It was another exciting morning along the Tanque Verde Wash!  Thank you for appreciating our wild and friendly neighbors who share our space so generously with us. 

Fall migration along the Eastern Tanque Verde Sept 1

My friend Kirk and I surveyed the far east end of the Tanque Verde Wash today.   Almost the entire first half of the survey was relatively quiet except for the constant calls of Purple Martins overhead, for which over 3 dozen were about.   An interesting find were raptor feathers strewn about one section of the wash.   The edges were frayed which would indicate an owl, and a google search on "barn owl feather identification" shows similar feathers (showing more white than a Great Horned Owl flight feather ).  What do you think?  Here is another link to a feather ID site http://www.fws.gov/lab/featheratlas

Barn Owl Feather?

The birds were so quiet compared to other excursions.   As we neared the halfway point a large brownish snake

Brief Mountain visit August 25th

With each turn I navigated up the two lane mountain road the storm clouds appeared a darker shade of gray.  It was mid afternoon and cars were heading down in droves like buffalo before charging horses.   Was it just precaution or had the assault of rain already started in the higher reaches of these steep slopes.   By the time I reached the turnoff around mile 6 a drizzle had started.   I didn't hear thunder so set off down the road to the trailhead.  

 

A touch of Rufous 7/30/13

I'd just returned from a short IBA survey.   The birds had been quiet, possibly due to the dryness these past few days.   I set about watering the plants, changing the hummingbird feeders, and other tasks while the coffee I had early that morning still provided some kick.  

As I walked into the yard a familiar neighborhood sound reached my ears.  It was familiar in the neighborhood but had never been heard from our property.  I was coming from the adjoining neighbor's yard, just over the wall.   That ping pong ball rhythm was unmistakable.   After 15 years there was finally a Rufous-winged Sparrow in our immediate area.   I remember dreaming about this day, even being envious when another great birder told how this sparrow had been attracted to the acacia at his house.   I encouraged acacia growth in our yard hoping this bird would find it pleasant enough to call home.  That day has finally arrived.   It was like a late birthday present.  


Rufous-winged Sparrow (photo 7-27-13 in wash)

I went about my tasks energized by the excitement of my new neighbor.   I even put in 6 new plantings, although 2 have since been "trimmed," by our rock squirrels.  Oh well.   Thank you for appreciating our new double-whiskered neighbor, the Rufous-winged Sparrow. 

Eastern Tanque Verde IBA Highlights

For the past two years my friend Kirk and I have been surveying an Important Bird Area transect in her area on the easternmost section of the Tanque Verde Wash.  It is a great opportunity for me to see the difference in diversity from this area which is a wetter and slightly higher section of the same wash which runs through our neighborhood.  It also has a pond which is in transition to cattail habitat, and I'm excited to see what new species this natural change can bring to this unique area. 




At dawn the skies were dark with a threatening storm which never actually arrived.  We started a couple hours late due to the weather, and would shorten the overall survey as well.  For a change we started our transect at the pond section of the route, which is usually our finishing point.   The change of venue was fortunate since one of our first birds was this beautiful male Hooded Oriole, a species seldom seen in our neighborhood.   A Cliff Swallow and Purple Martins were hunting over the pond, a Western Kingbird perched high in the trees along the shore, and Yellow Warblers were in the cottonwoods.  

As we entered the wash I saw a distant perched raptor, which, when scoped, turned into a locally rare Gray Hawk! 

Mt Lemmon Summer Summit Birding Aug 10 2013

My friend Kendall and I decided to take a drive up to the top of Mount Lemmon for some mountain birding.   Mount Lemmon starts at 2500 feet of elevation in the desert, but by the time you reach the summit at just over 9000 feet the habitat and weather has the feel of Canada.   The peaks in the region are called "sky islands," because in order to reach similar habitat you need to go over to the next peak, which means crossing desert for land animals such as bear.   This causes some animals to be semi-restricted in their range.   The sky islands add to the diversity of the southern Arizona desert, creating the possibility of seeing or hearing about 200 species of birds in a single day.  The purpose of this trip for me was to see species not usually seen in the lower elevations.



Olive-sided Flycatcher

Kendall is a great birding partner.   His  relaxed zen-like personality and knowledge of plants as well as birds creates a  great learning environment as well.  He is the unofficial captain of our birdathons, guiding us in decisions with his analytical thought process.   

July IBA experience

We finally received a respectable monsoon rain on July 26th, and I knew their would be a wildlife celebration the following day.. I set out for a bird survey the next morning in our neighborhood, which is an Important Bird Area. The birds were awesome. I watched a Peregrine Falcon eat his breakfast on the bare branch of the tall Eucalyptus which seems to attract all raptors.
The Western Screech Owl also poked his head from our man-made nest box.  A Tree Swallow was a surprising find over the lake, and the Purple Martins were in attendance as well . Three Tropical Kingbirds

Sycamore Reservoir- A Miniature Garden of Eden in the Catalina's

Note;  reading "Aunt Jones Farm," post (6-29-13) first may enhance the reading of this post.
http://tucsonsparrowseeker.blogspot.com/2013/06/aunt-joans-farm-flashback-to-youth-and.html

My friend Bob Bates used to tell me about Sycamore Canyon during the Christmas Bird counts.  One birdy soul would traverse the trail each year and find all kinds of gems not seen in other areas of the count circle, and in a fraction of the time spent by the rest of us.  After some years I finally took the Arizona Trail to this mountain oasis, and felt the tranquil, otherworldly beauty of its environment.   It is a place where one can still find solitude, make surprising discoveries, and find  serenity for the mind.   Moreover, the two mile hike each way is not too strenuous, and is about an hour and a half each way at birders's pace.  

6/30/13 Fire as seen from our house-digiscoped.

I started in the late afternoon and left Mrs. S a note not to worry until after 8:00, then changed it to 9:00, remembering how time slips into unimportance on these journeys of discovery.   As the car climbed up into the foothills a Zone-tailed Hawk soared at eye level just off the cliff at the edge of the roadway.   As I turned off the highway toward the trail head I was met with a road block due to a recent fire there.   So this is where the fire was, spotted from our house at the beginning of the monsoons!    It did mean another quarter mile of walking and I was now thankful I moved up my return time on the note.  




Hooded Oriole female

 One of my first sightings on the trail was a beautiful female Hooded Oriole, its slightly curved beak, long tail, and bright yellow chest used to determine the species.  I became aware that I was the only one on the trail due to the recent fire, which added to the beauty surrounding me.  As I passed the area of the burn life was already rebounding, and new shoots burst from the burned grasses spurred by the monsoon rains.  Bushes had the yin yang effect of looking half burnt yet the other half vibrant with fresh growth.   It seemed this fire was a healthy burn, creating life from its ashes, and I was a lucky witness. 

Rufous-crowned Sparrow 8-3-13

I wandered further up the saddle and Rufous-crowned Sparrows cried out warnings as I passed their trail side nesting sites, repeating "Pill, pill, pill, pill, pill, pill!  I remembered how special it was to find this bird out of habitat in our neighborhood for several years, which is very unusual inside the city limits.    As I reached the top of the saddle the magnificent view was enhanced by a Prairie Falcon soaring by on angled wings.   On the precarious way down toward the reservoir a Loggerhead Shrike, known for impaling its prey onto thorns, flipped its tail up and down for balance on its perch as it searched for insects, rodents, or small birds.  A solitary Western Scrub Jay called out, and I contemplated the fact that this is the last reliable spot I know to find this species.   

I entered the "reservoir." which ironically is dry except for a stream which runs through it.  But the trees, vines and understory plants make it a jungle in places.  Even with this lush habitat the birds were amazingly quiet.    As I entered the habitat my first encounter was a long slender snake which zipped over the underbrush, then became still while still in view.   I would later identify it as a Sonoran Whipsnake.

Az Black Rattlesnake 8-3-13

I mosied over to the dam, and on returning to the same spot found another snake species stretched out on the vegetation.   The Arizona Black Rattlesnake calmly went on his way.   I would later return to relocate it and would practically step into its camouflaged hiding place, its coiled frame tucked into a neat eight inch circle.   Even at just a foot-length it posed no threatening gesture, keeping silent before moving on.






As I explored this Eden filled with snakes and the fruits (wild Canyon Grape) I would stumble upon another Sonoran Whipsnake which seemed to reach five and a half feet, yet only an inch wide.    It would slide as a figure skater on ice toward the cover of the underbrush nearby.  As I walked past an recently fallen dead sycamore trunk I heard the faintest of rustles behind me.  As I turned the long slender snake was on top of the log two arm lengths away, sliding slowly...unabashedly...forward.   It was well aware of my presence and had decided to not only come in close, but to expose itself on top of the log, vulnerable should I prove to be a foe.

I was perplexed.  All my life snakes have always chosen to run away from humans if possible.     Here was a snake who seemed to want to make contact, or at least did not see humans as a threat.   I watched as it silently and stealthily circled about the log in search of insects, or possibly the lizard that shot out noisily from the other end.  I was impressed with its hunting prowess, and felt sorry for the animals on its diet.  They didn't stand a chance against this silent hunter or huntress.

I knew even during the moment that I was receiving a gift, an inside look at our natural world few humans get to experience.  The communication seemed to be there, yet without words, only trust.  It's like passing a tree on a windless day, and suddenly the leaves rustle from a self created breeze, and you swear you hear the tree whisper its greeting.   My spirit was reconnected with the natural world, and I felt rejuvenated. 

The canyon floor became overshadowed by it's high walls as the sun sank toward dusk.   What looked like a tarantula disappeared into the dense thicket.  It was time to leave before it was too dark to see the trail, especially since I didn't have a flashlight.   By the time I reached the saddle darkness had fallen, and three Great Horned Owls hooted back and forth, their calls echoing against the canyon walls.   The calls pulled my eyes from the path just the wrong time, but the rattle from the Arizona Black Rattlesnake redirected my focus.   I thanked him for the warning before I ventured too close, especially since I was alone in this beautiful landscape.   At the wash bottom a handful of Common Poorwills were softly calling their namesake, and an Elf Owl barked from the hillside.   I wondered how I could ever leave this place, this moment, this paradise.  Perhaps by sharing my experience others can appreciate the natural  gifts we have in this world, this life, this time, for as long as we choose to preserve it for our future generations.    Thank you for appreciating our wildlife neighbors. 

Bobcat Article

On my previous blog post I was so excited to have an extra special bobcat experience.   I was disheartened by an email sent to our community soon after warning of the presence of bobcats, and telling parents to watch their children.  This is despite the fact that there isn't any examples of human deaths by bobcats.   A request for a follow-up email with accurate information was denied but I did write an article, which will hopefully make it into our community newsletter.   Below is the article for your viewing.  

                    Our friendly neighbors, the Bobcat family

As a wildlife enthusiast I would like to share some knowledge regarding the correct procedure when a bobcat is discovered on your property.   Following these steps will ensure a positive experience if this event should ever occur. 

1.       Slowly back away from the window or glass door so as not to be seen.

2.      Walk quickly to the nearest camera available in the house.

3.      Return to the window or glass door and snap as many pictures as possible.

4.      Share photos of your unique experience with friends and relatives.

If you are outside when this beautiful animal appears be still and enjoy this rare treasure as an amateur astronomer appreciates a new comet.    Being that bobcats cover a 12 square mile territory and are secretive in nature this gem may not be seen again for years. 

“But what about the danger?” you may ask.  Would you want to be warned of danger when you start your car, when a domestic dog approaches, or, heaven forbid, another human.  All of these scenarios are far more dangerous statistically than a bobcat sighting.  In fact there has not been a single human death caused by a bobcat.  For that matter even coyotes have only one fatal incident ever, and that occurred in Canada.  Statistically speaking mosquitoes are the second most dangerous animal worldwide with 3 million human deaths to their credit each year.   But they are left in the dust by another more deadly animal, which only requires a look in the mirror to identify. 

Bobcats are an important part of our ecology, feeding on rabbits, pack rats, mice, small birds, snakes and lizards.  Their size ranges between 2 to 2.5 feet long, and they weigh in at 12 to 30 pounds.  They are year round residents in our area but because of their secretive nature are not usually seen.    Kittens are typically born between April and June and stay with their mother for seven to 12 months.  Now that’s a strong family bond! 

Pets can be protected from wildlife such as bobcats, coyotes, and rattlesnakes by simply not leaving them outside alone.  This point is reiterated consistently in the media but sometimes is not heeded.   Bobcats, though cute, should never be kept as a pet or treated like a pet, as with any wild animal.   Finding a bobcat in your yard is a special gift, an exciting event which shows the ecological richness of our area.   I hope you enjoy their presence as much as I do.

 I would like to conclude by telling a story which happened back on Saturday, July 27th. We had our first real monsoon soaking and the birds were celebrating.  I set out early for a bird survey of our area, and finished with awesome sightings of a Peregrine Falcon, Zone-tailed Hawk, Western Screech Owls, a Great Horned Owl, and Tropical Kingbirds, a bird whose northern range just touches southern Arizona.   On the way home I walked through a remote part of our woods and was startled by a reddish animal scurrying up a tree directly in front of me.   It was a young bobcat, who had tried to stay still until my approach came too close for comfort.   I heard another rustle and the mother, who had been under the same tree, scampered off in a diagonal path away from me in an attempt to draw my attention from her youngster.  I never felt threatened but wanted to assure them of my good intentions by walking a wide arc around the tree.  At one point the branches cleared and I saw the kitten clearly.  I took the opportunity to shoot some photographs at a distance with a technique called digiscoping.   This picture exemplifies the cute yet wild nature of our most welcome neighbor, the bobcat.   Thank you for supporting our unique wildlife community.

What a Purrfect picture of cuteness-Grrr!

Fox Tales (flashback)

Some twenty years ago Rodney was my first mentor regarding birding and the appreciation of nature.  He had a way of finding incredible birds while having fun, even goofing off.   He was known to burn the candle at both ends during migration, helping with owl banding at night, and with hawks during the day.   Although I'm more in favor of passive research now, at that time it was a true thrill helping him on rare occasions with his hawk banding research, braving the cold Vermont winter.    

We had great success this one particular weekend, banding a few Rough-legged hawks escaping the Arctic winter for less frigid weather in rural Vermont.   On the second day we were conversing about the use of mouse squeaks to draw in owls.   Rodney had tried it in a field one night and told how he was almost ready to give up when he glanced up to see a Great Horned Owl hovering over him.   We decided to try our luck in a nearby field just before dusk to draw in an owl, or even possibly a hawk.  

We sat against a tree trunk so each would have a different, partially overlapping view of the landscape.  First Rodney tried some mouse squeaks, then I held my hand to my mouth and chimed in.  We alternated, each concentrating on the quality of our calls while looking for any activity.   About fifteen minutes had passed in the dusky light when Rodney nudged me a signal with his elbow. 

Night Flights and Sparrow sights

Having a relaxing B'day hanging out with my bud.  He's laying against my legs as I sit on the floor.   He didn't make it to the pond tonight but we were able to walk to the mailbox and back.  When we got back Lilly and Daniel Boone were sitting at the door waiting with expectant looks to their big brother.   His big smile tonight shows his happy demeanor, always happy to be with his family.   Even this morning he had a look of peaceful contentment as I stroked his head and neck and said good bye.
I woke at 3:30 AM this morning and almost went back to sleep, but for the curiosity as to whether Purple Martins would be in flight over the house at this early hour.   I stood on the porch