june-july 2007 wingbat newsletter clearwater audubon society

8/9/2019 June-July 2007 WingBat Newsletter Clearwater Audubon Society

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Newsletter of the Clearwater Audubon Society

Promoting Conservation Through Education

June & July 2007 Volume XXXX Number 6

Perhaps most importantly, you are a wonderful friend toso many of us, and an inspiration to all who know you.

We are so lucky to count you as one of us.

We are honored and proud to applaud Dee Dubendorfffor her boundless service to the Clearwater Audubon

Society and the Tampa Bay Community.

Paul Trunk, President

April 2, 2007

AYDELETTE KELSEY

Dee Dubendorff

Inside this Issue

Thank you, WingBeat Sponsors page 2

Advocacy Corner by Liz Drayer page 3

Audubon Holiday Tips to Have Fun and Protect

Shorebirds page 7

Plus Much Much More

Clearwater Audubon Society Recognizes Dee

Dubendorff for Selfless Service

Dear Dee;

In celebration of more than 40 years of selfless service to the

Clearwater Audubon Society, we honor you!

You have served Clearwater Audubon Society in a variety ofpositions, and as the longest serving Chair of the Societys

Education Committee: 20 years.

Your positive energetic enthusiasm has expanded the SocietysConservation Education endeavors. You instituted AudubonAdventures, developed the Brown Pelican Program, andothers, which have influenced environmental awareness forcountless 4th grade students and adults in Pinellas County

Schools and Tampa Bay.

You created SAVE [Suncoast Active Volunteers forEcology] which was instrumental in preventing some very

egregious development in Clearwater as well as the drivingforce that saved Honeymoon Island from development.

You brim with innovative fund raising ideas that help support

conservation education programs

You are a devoted, generous supporter of the arts, particularly

the Florida Orchestra.

In your world travels, you are an ambassador for all that is best

about America.

In spite of these many interests [or maybe because of them?]you somehow find the time to lovingly care for family and

friends, and the many causes that are indebted to yourdevotion.

Your infectious enthusiasm for life, with all its challenges,engages everyone you touch. No matter the circumstance, youoverflow with ideas & relentlessly pursue every challenge

encountered, over which you most often prevail.

Your dedication has helped make Clearwater Audubon Society

a positive force for environmental conservation in Tampa Bay.


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Volume XXXX Number 6

June & July 2007

WingBeatis published February, April, June, August, October, &

December by the Clearwater Audubon Society and serves NorthPinellas County.

Clearwater Audubon Society

PO Box 97

Clearwater, FL 33757

727.447. 4785

www.clearwateraudubon.org

WingBeatEditor: Mac McMullen

WingBeatsubmissions deadline for the next issue is July 10, 2007.

Please submit articles to:

[email protected] or

Cathy McMullen

147 North Belcher Road

Largo, FL 33771

WingBeatadvertising deadline for the next issue is July 10, 2007.

Please submit ads to: [email protected] Please address ad rate

inquiries to Erin Heiden at 727.945.9711.

Officers of Clearwater Audubon Society

President Paul Trunk 447 4785

1st VP Michael MacDonald 538 8688

2nd VP Merle Hubbard 939 1549

Treasurer Jane Williams 447 7394Secretary Barbara Carmen-MacDonald 538 8688

Membership Chair Debbie Trunk 447 4785

Program Chair Marge Rowe 781 0745

Field Trips Lynn Sumerson 596 8822

Wing Beat Sponsors

WingBeat June & July, 2007 page 2

Office Hours By Appointment

KAMILLA SZTANKO, D.M.D.,P.A. 3830 Tampa Road, Suite 100Palm Harbor, FL 34684

Telephone: (727) 789-4044

Clearwater Audubon also thanks:

U Stor N Lock18946 US Highway 19 N

Clearwater, Fl. 33764

727 531-4040

Who donates storage space for our rummage

sale items. If you need a store room see them and

mention Clearwater Audubon.


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ADVOCACY CORNER.SUCCESSES AND

CHALLENGES

Good News for the Everglades. For the first time inhistory, state officials banned further withdrawals of wa-ter from the Everglades this past April. A new rule is-sued by the South Florida Water Management Districtrequires cities along the southeast coast of the state to

develop alternative water sources like reclaimed waterand desalination. This is an important step in balancinggrowth and environmental protection, and another step

towards helping the River of Grass recover.

More Good News on Fertilizers. State officials haveproposed a rule which would limit the content of fertilizersold for lawns, farms, golf courses and landscapingthroughout Florida. The rule would require fertilizers tobe no- or low- phosphate. Officials expect this rule toreduce the nitrogen and phosphorus that pollute water-ways by spurring the growth of algae. Too much algae

can suffocate life in lakes and rivers.

Action Needed on Global Warming. In a major victoryfor environmentalists, the United States Supreme Courtruled in April that the federal government has the author-ity to regulate greenhouse gases. Congress and the stateswill use this decision to step up their regulation of thegases that contribute to global warming. Hundreds ofbills have already been filed in state legislatures that ad-dress greenhouse gases in some form. Please write toyour congressman and state representatives and ask foraction on this issue, which is especially important in ourcoastal state of Florida. (Go to ClearwaterAudubon.org

and click on issues for a sample letter you can send.)

Speak out to Protect Shell Key. You can have a voicein protecting Shell Key, a barrier island west of TierraVerde that is important as a bird sanctuary. County offi-cials are developing a management plan for the island.Shell Keys bird population has been declining in recentyears while the number of visitors has been increasing.Camper and pet activity may be disturbing bird nestingareas. Please contact your county commissioners and askthem to protect this beautiful little island and its bird

population.

Preserve the Brooker Creek Preserve. Urge your

county commissioners to reject any proposal to build inor develop Brooker Creek Preserve. Billed as PinellasCountys wildest place, lets make sure it stays that

way.

Our recent successes show that we can influence govern-ment action by working together. Let your voice beheard on environmental protection, and we will have

more to celebrate.


Clearwater Audubon is Getting Good PR

Dear all,

I got a call from the station manager at Access Pinellas TV

today. She wanted to tell me that the Pinellas assistant

county administrator has asked to see BIRDS GONE

WILD! (the game show we made for public access TV) to

determine funding for the station during the budget process,

apparently because of its creativity and educational con-

tent. She was excited and glad to have it to show them as an

example of what producers at the station can do.

As producer/writer/host of Birds Gone Wild, I admit I am

proud and so glad our group is getting this exposure! I put

many hours into creating the show but had no idea who actu-

ally saw it (besides my friends who I forced to watch). I do

think the show is entertaining, and it contains several plugs

for Clearwater Audubon. It also has a strong "habitat preser-

vation" message, which I'm happy is getting out there.

Thanks to Marge Rowe for conceiving the "Nature Matters"TV series, to the board of directors for sending us to

"producer" class, and to all the participants in the

show. Now I have to call Alex Trebek and tell him his job is

in JEOPARDY.

Liz Drayer

MAKE A DIFFERENCE

join Clearwater Audubons

conservation advocacy committee

for more info contact Liz Drayer

at 771-8044 or [email protected]


4/12


Birding at Morris Bridge

by Steve Baet

Eight happy birders congregated at the parking lot at Morris

Bridge for another fine day of pursuing our fine feathered

friends. And we were not disappointed!

It was rather cool when we started out around 8 a.m. but as

the sun rose, so did our spirits. We were especially cheered

to hear Northern Parulas singing quite lustily as well as

Blue-headed Vireo. We were tipped off to where a "pygmy

rattlesnake" was lurking just below the boardwalk. On

closer inspection it turned out to be a Cottonmouth and

appeared to be in the midst of skin shedding as its markings

were dulled.

Two parulas were in such a passion over territory that they

actually buzzed your reporter, their wings flipping against

the side of his head!! A preponderance of Blue-Gray

Gnatcatchers accompanied us all through our walk at Morris

Bridge, sometimes alighting over our heads near whereVireos and Parulas were calling, and causing us great

confusion when spotted.

After finishing our circuit at Morris Bridge, we drove down

to Lettuce Lake, about five miles away. Here we entered an

amazing bird wonderland with great views of White Ibis,

Roseate Spoonbill and a fine Greater Yellowlegs. The

stellar attraction however was hearing the calls of two

Barred Owls back in the woods. These owls kept at it for

several minutes, doing their full "Who Cooks For You-All"

routine.

Our morning ended at the viewing tower over Lettuce Lake

where a good many birds were spotted despite the

distressingly low water levels. Ospreys, Spoonbills,

Anhingas, Cormorants and the Yellowlegs were all present

here.

A much-deserved lunch ended our morning around 12

noon. Great outing! Over 40 birds spotted!

More Birding on Morris Bridgeby Madeleine Bohrer

Birds, like people, seem to be more lively where there iswarmth and water. When our group began this field trip at 8a.m. at Morris Bridge, the air had just enough of a chill to

keep the birds at bay.

A bunch of Blue-gray Gnatcatchers met us in the parkinglot flitting from tree to tree and there were plenty ofCardinals to spice up the scenery. Two fabulous Red-shouldered Hawks shared the top branches of a tall pinetree nearby. We imagined that they were a pair thinkingSpring-like thoughts. Indeed, all the birds we were to seehad the breeding plumage fineries that make them so

distinctive and remarkable at this time of year.

If you have ever visited Morris Bridge you know what aspecial forest it is. It lies on the banks of theHillsborough River and has managed to stay free ofinvasivesperhaps through good management. Thislends the forest a unique quality especially in the partsouth of Morris Bridge Road: as you walk along thepath, you can see for quite a distance into the woods.All the plants and trees had shiny, new, Spring leaves.When there is a dearth of birds two things happen: weappreciate the more common birds that are present andwe can bask in the peaceful beauty of the surroundings.There was one particular Tufted Titmouse who looked

quite regal indeed.

We saw relatively few birds there but by the time wewere at Lettuce Lake, the sun had warmed the airsufficiently to stir up quite a flurry of birds. The waterwas extremely low, though, which again limited the

number of species seen.

We all know how challenging it is to see a NorthernParula. Not at Lettuce Lake. Palm Warblers and Parulaswere a dime a dozen and literally an arms length away.They are so cute and tiny without binoculars blowingthem up to huge dimensions! We heard Blue-headed

Vireos, House Wrens, and Barred Owls. Not being ableto see birds also increases your hearing sense and helps

you appreciate their calls.

Roseate Spoonbills never fail to steel the show. Therewere three feeding in full view right off the boardwalk onthe lake and someone had a scope on them. Talk aboutbreeding plumage! These birds were pristine. One inparticular had black on the back of its head, bleedingwings, bright red (and I mean lipstick-red-bright) legsand eyes, and yellow-brown shoulders and undertail.They dont call it breeding plumage for nothingthisbird could have attracted a mate from a mile away. Its

bill was just as amazing: it looked scaled like a reptile.

From the observation tower, we watched an Osprey in itsnest, a Greater Yellowlegs foraging, and severalMallards, one of which was leucistic which made it a

lovely coffee color.

Please see Morris Bridge on page 5


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WingBeat June & July , 2007 page 5

Morris Bridge from page 4

Seen walking back to our cars, there was a Carolina Wrenon side of the path. Lunch was pleasant under the trees. Tocrown our day, we looked up and saw a lone Swallow-tailedKite soaring high above us. So, in spite of a slow start to theday, it turned out to be peaceful, fun, and rewarding. Thereis always something new to see and learn no matter how

long one has been in the field.

Report From Emerson Point Park in Manateeby Steve Baet

Four lonely men took off for Emerson Point Park inManatee in April, but despite the great birding conditions,we saw very few species. We'd expected a large fallout ofwarblers, etc. but there was nothing. We managed to list

about 40 birds, most of them not unusual. A RoseateSpoonbill and a Spotted Sandpiper were the standouts. We

got back to Tri-City Plaza by 11 a.m.

John Chestnut Park Observationsby Steve Baet

Twelve happy campers met in the parking lot of JohnChesnut Park in Clearwater in April for a magnificent threehours of birding. Northern Parulas were calling vigorouslywhen we stepped out of our cars around 8 am. A gentlemanworking for the park asked us to keep a list of what we sawas they (the park staff) are trying to compile a record of what

birds are seen there.

A wonderful surprise was seeing a huge Pileatedwoodpecker working on the side of a palm tree. Wewatched as he stripped some of the loose bark from the treeto feed under it. Two different kinds of Vireo brightenedour path: Red-eyed and Blue-headed. We were excited tofind ourselves standing underneath the nest of a Red-

shouldered Hawk.

Another interesting nest-sighting was that of a pair of Blue-Gray Gnatcatchers which flitted in and out of the branches

with nesting material.

We even had a thrilling moment when some of us heard thebaying of several Coyotes in the near distance! It was a very

successful morning with 37 species accounted

The Florida House may pass legislation

preventing local governments from protecting

wetlands. This is a big issue. I am sending the

attached letter to my representative in the

Florida House. If you would like to write, you

can copy my letter if you want.

Liz Drayer

Dear [your state representative to the Florida House],

I strongly oppose the amendment to HB 957 (passed lastweek by a House committee) that states: In order toavoid duplication and inefficiency, no local governmentshall enact or enforce a wetland regulatory program.This language would eliminate the existing localprotections for wetlands which are necessary to protect

this precious natural resource.

State regulations are not strict enough to protect Floridaswetlands, which are so important in controlling flooding

and pollution, as well as providing habitat for wildlife.The states no net loss policy has failed to prevent thedestruction of thousands of acres of wetlands throughoutFlorida. Many studies have shown that the statesmitigation requirements are insufficient to replace naturalwetlands. Moreover, the state does not protect wetlands

of less than a half acre.

For all these reasons, local governments must have theability to enact more stringent regulations to protect thewetlands in their communities. I am therefore asking younot to pass HB 957 as amended when it comes before the

full House for a vote.The St. Petersburg Times quoted Representative WillKendrick as stating that opponents of this amendment areusually on the payroll to get paid to say what they aresaying. Please note that as an opponent of thisamendment, I am not being paid by any organization andhave no financial interest in this legislation. I am only aprivate citizen who cannot sit idly by and watch the

destruction of Floridas natural environment continue.

Sincerely,

[your name]

file: wetlands amendmentAt Nature's Focus 10% of your cash purchases

and 5% of credit card purchases will be donated to

Clearwater Audubon if you identify yourself as a

member. Sale or discounted items may not qualify.

Store is located at the Brooker Creek Preserve.

Call for hours or other information: 727.453.6959


6/12

Fantastic Fort DeSoto Birding

by Steve Baet

What a fantastic morning we had at Ft. DeSoto

Beach! There was a Warbler fallout during the stormy

weather on Wednesday that brought in several species

including the lovely Hooded, Common Yellowthroat and

Kentucky. We saw both sexes in several cases.

The day started out cool and foggy but the sun rose

beautifully and burned off the fog by the time we reached

Ft. Desoto. We began at the Mulberry Tree where we

spotted our first warbler of the day, a male Hooded.

Pickings were slim here so we went on to North Beach

where we did magnificently.

We had been tipped off by another birder that flocks of

warblers were assembled here and we weren't

disappointed. Hooded, Common Yellowthroat,

Kentucky, Prothonotary and Black and White were all

spotted here. We also stumbled upon a nest of youngGreat Blue Herons up in a tree and their ingoing-outgoing

parents. Nearby we encountered what appeared to

be three fledged youngsters that were possibly trying out

their wings.

We then went to East Beach after an Indigo Bunting that

had also been reported down there. We didn't find the

bunting but we found several shore birds, all busily either

bathing in rain puddles or feeding in the weedy grass on

the beach. We were surprised to discover a Red-breasted

Merganser floating in the water near shore. As we

watched him, he waddled ashore, which is the first time Ihave ever seen a merganser on land!

On the way out of the park, we sighted a Magnificent

Frigatebird from our vehicle, soaring miles up in the

sky. Nice ending to a fabulous day!

Birds seen included: Hooded, Kentucky, Prothonotary,

Palm and Black and White warblers, Semipalmated

Sandpipers and Plovers, Willets, Western Sandpipers,

Ruddy Turnstone, Redhead, Blue-winged Teal and

mallard ducks, Pied-billed grebes, Black Skimmers,

Snowy and Great Egrets in their showy whiteskirts, Summer Tanagers, gloriously brilliant and strong

competition for the Northern Cardinals. Great Blue

Herons, Tricolored Herons and one Little Blue.

Tired of Crowds and High Prices at Theme Parks?

Try a Field Trip with Clearwater Audubonby Liz Drayer

If you havent been on one of Clearwater Audubons fieldtrips, its time to try one! I have been enjoying these tripsfor over a year, and recommend them to anyone who likes

birds or just being outdoors.

The trips are not only fun and a great way to get outside.They are an easy and economical way to learn about thecreatures living around you, and one that many people arenot aware of. Aside from the cost of transportation, mosttrips are free. They are a good way for parents to teach theirchildren about nature and spend time together withoutspending a fortune. They offer everyone the chance toescape from the hectic pace of the work week and enjoy

peace and quiet in a natural setting.

The field trips are led by knowledgeable people who areable to point out different species of birds, their calls andsongs, and their behaviors. Some of the leaders have formaltraining in biology and ornithology, and some are selftaught. All, however, are willing to share what they know

and teach those who want to learn.

The more I learn about birds the more I appreciate them.This appreciation adds to the pleasure of living on the gulfcoast of Florida, home to some magnificent birds, and somany different species. This new knowledge also increasesmy desire to protect them from the pressures of human

activities.

I also highly recommend Birding 101, a one-timeintroduction to birding taught by Dr. Lynn Sumerson, tobeginning birders. Contact Lynn at 596-8822 to find outwhen the next class will be. This entertaining andinformative class will help get you started on enjoying a new

and fun hobby.

Hope you try a field trip soon!


PROTECT MOCCASIN LAKE

NATURE PARK FROM THE BUDGET

AX

Attention Clearwater residents: budget cuts are

coming soon to our city. Contact your citycommissioners at 562-4050 and tell them Moccasin

Lake, the citys only environmental education center,

is important to you. Its also where the Clearwater

Audubon Society and other local environmental

groups hold their meetings. We need Moccasin Lake

to inspire the environmentalists of tomorrow!


7/12

Audubons Holiday Tips to Have Fun and

Protect Shorebirds

Florida BeachesMemorial Day weekend is a call to

the coast for boating, beach parties and water sports,

but it can also mean disaster for Floridas shorebirds.

To help people enjoy the holiday and avoid disturbing

our feathered friends, Audubon of Florida encourages

beachgoers to take a few easy precautions.Shorebirds use our beaches for nesting, resting and

feeding, and include families like sandpipers, as well as

their tern and gull allies. Their beach-toned plumages

of white, gray and tan afford them critical camouflage

protection from natural predators and make them well-

suited to life in a habitat of extreme temperatures.

Unfortunately, their camouflage works on beachgoers

too who inadvertently disturb the birds.

The crush of people drawn to Floridas coasts for the

holiday can spell imminent doom to nesting shorebirds.Human disturbance flushes them off their nests, leaving

their eggs to cook in the hot sun in mere minutes.

Solitary nesting species like plovers are often unnoticed

and many colonial nesters, including terns, are apparent

only because their colonies are roped off by officials to

help limit disturbance.


Most people think a mother bird is incubating her eggs to

keep them warm, said David Anderson, Executive Director of

Audubon of Florida. With Floridas shorebirds, the parent is

actually providing shade to eggs and chicks during the day. A

single significant disturbance can destroy an entire colony.

In addition to nesting shorebirds, our beaches currently host

long-distance migrants, such as Red Knots, which use Florida

beaches as a rest stop between their wintering grounds inextreme South America and their breeding grounds on the

still-frozen Arctic tundra. These globetrotting migrants feed on

our beaches to replenish the fat used up in their migration thus

far and to prepare for the long trip ahead. Successful feeding

has direct bearing on the knots ability to reproduce or even

reach their breeding grounds, another 2500 miles away.

Few things are more beautiful to the uninitiated than a flock

of birds, rising in unison, after being flushed by a child or

dog, said Julie Wraithmell, Policy Associate for Audubon.

Unfortunately, we now know that every time these birds fly,

not only are they not feeding and gaining fat, theyre actuallyexpending the energy they need for their long trip ahead. A

series of innocent disturbances can have significant

implications for their metabolic budget.

Beachgoers can take a few easy precautions to protect nesting

and feeding shorebirds:

- When walking along the beach, avoid the temptation to flush

groups of birds. They may be resting, feeding, or incubating

eggs. Either way, by giving them a wide berth, youll be sure

your actions dont have deadly consequences for eggs or

chicks.

- Similarly, obey leash laws and restrict your dog from

flushing birds. Even in areas where there do not appear to be

groups of shorebirds, remember solitary nesters may be

camouflaged with the beach.

- Respect posted nesting areas, which may be roped off to

prevent disturbance. Officials dont rope off solitary beach

nesters, only colonies where a single disturbance can affect

hundreds or thousands of birds and their nests. While these

areas can sometimes be an inconvenience, they are only

temporary. Later in the summer, the birds and their chicks willbe gone, and so will the signs restricting your access.

- In those few remaining places where beach driving is

allowed, take extra care to be aware of birds on the beach.

Moving faster than a pedestrian and further removed from the

sights and sounds of the beach by the vehicle surrounding you,

youre more likely to overlook birds you may be disturbing.

Please see tips page 8

A Tribute to Noel Oliver Wamer

April 9, 1952 March 18, 2007by Barbara Walker

Jacksonville

On Sunday evening, March 18th 2007 Noel Wamerpassed away. Noel was a well known birder andactively posted to the Florida Bird List http://

bkpass.tripod.com/FLORIDABIRDS-L.htm. Noelposted greatly anticipated spring migratory radar datato alert Florida birders of movements north out of Cubaand up the Florida coastlines. He had a keen interest innocturnal migratory radar imagery and inspired manywith his knowledge including many online friends whomay never have met him personally. Noels colleague,Ph.D. Candidate David La Puma of New Jersey isKeeping Noels dream alive one migrant at a timeby continuing his blog which can be accessed at http://badbirdz2.wordpress.com/. David maintains awebsite, www.woodcreeper.com, which was inspired

by Noels work and features radar imagery for NewJersey. Thank you to Noel and David for enriching our

birding experiences in amazing ways.


8/12

Tips from page 7

Furthermore, chicks may sometimes shelter in the depression

of tire tracks in the sand. Keep a sharp eye out for little ones

frozen in your path.

Most people would be appalled if they realized their innocent

recreation resulted in the failure of even just one nest, said

Wraithmell. Thats why we think its important that people

learn of the unintended consequences of some of these actions.So we can ensure the birds will be there for Memorial Days to

come.

July & August 2007 Calendar

7/14/07, 7AM Rainbow Springs canoe, kayak, tube float:

cool off in the refreshing waters of a class 1 Florida Spring, &

enjoy the flora and fauna of this natural wonders. Water craft

rental & transport to/from the spring additional. Meet at Coun-

tryside Shopping Town.Mike MacDonald 727-538-8688.

Saturday, 8/4/07, 8AM Marine splendor of Clearwater

Harbor with the Clearwater Marine Aquarium: explore the

marine environment of St. Joseph Sound with biologists from

the CMA. Lunch on shore after. Mike MacDonald 727-538-

8688.

Weedon Island Preserve June Calendar

Saturday Guided Hikes

Saturday, June 2, 2007 9:00 am - 11:00 am





Weedon Island Preserve Cultural and Natural History

Center Volunteers

Guided hikes through coastal mangrove and upland ecosys-tems of the Preserve are held each Saturday of the month. Join

us to learn about the coastal environment and the early resi-

dents of Weedon Island Preserve. Be sure to bring water and a

snack for this two-hour hike. A hat and closed-toe shoes are

also recommended. Reserve your space by 2 pm on the Friday

prior to the tour of choice. This event is free and open to the

public. Pre-registration is required. All ages welcome. Chil-

dren younger than 6 may find this hike challenging.


Guided Canoe Trip

Friday, June 1, 2007 9:00 am - 12:00 pm

Weedon Island Preserve Cultural and Natural

History Center Staff and Volunteers

Take this opportunity to explore the south canoe trail

of Weedon Island Preserve. This trail offers a rare

look at some of the aquatic ecosystems that make

west-central Florida so special. Trained canoe guideslead you through mangrove stands and over seagrass

and oyster beds while pointing out various flora and

fauna that live here. If you have never explored the

Preserve from the water, this is an exciting opportu-

nity you don't want to miss! The cost for this unique

experience is $9.35 per person plus tax ($10 total) or

$18.70 per canoe plus tax ($20 total) (maximum of 3

people per canoe). Spaces fill quickly so call for

more information and pre-register today! Minimum

age: Children must be 6 years old or older and all

minors must be accompanied by an adult.

Photography Hike

Sunday, June 3, 2007 8:00 am - 10:00 am


History Center Staff

This program is designed to provide great opportuni-ties for photographers of all levels. The first Sundayof every month visitors hike the Preserve in search of

that perfect shot. Center staff members highlight sea-sonal features of the Preserve as well as specificwildlife behaviors that help participants capture thenatural beauty of Weedon Island Preserve. This eventis free and open to the public. Pre-registration is re-

quired. Recommended for adults.

Ecological Research Along Florida's Gulf Coast

Friday, June 8, 2007 7:00 pm - 8:00 pm

Dr. Steven Harper, Environmental Lands Division

Join Dr. Harper, Research Director for PinellasCounty's Environmental Lands Division, as he pre-

sents information about ecological research con-

ducted on preserves and management areas. He will

introduce general ecological concepts and discuss

challenges associated with studying diverse natural

areas.


9/12

Dr. Harper will also describe the methods and results of

several on-going studies, including the investigation of

populations of protected plants, habitats of a coastal

barrier island, beach-nesting birds, and surveys

of other organisms. This is a great opportunity to learn

more about how science can help enhance stewardship

of our natural resources. This event is free and open to

the public. Pre-registration is required. Recommended

for adults.

Plankton - The Hidden World of the Estuary

Saturday, June 9, 2007 10:00 am - 12:00 pm



Plankton is a term that describes a diverse group oforganisms suspended in the water of estuaries, oceansand other bodies of water. The class will study this

amazing world of small organisms often overlookedbecause of their size. With simple collection techniquesand slight magnification, we will identify and discussthese fascinating creatures. The program will culminatewith a wonderful activity in which we design and raceour own plankton models. This event is free and open tothe public. Pre-registration is required. Recommended

for adults and children over 10 years old.

Sunday Stroll

Sunday, June 10, 2007 8:30 am - 9:30 am



Join us for an early morning nature walk at Weedon

Island Preserve. We'll look for birds and other wildlife

as we stroll through some of the Preserve's ecosystems.

This short outing is a great way to explore some of

Florida's natural areas as we take advantage of the

learning opportunities along the trails. A hat and closed-

toe shoes are recommended. Reserve your space by 2

pm on Friday. This event is free and open to the public.

Pre-registration is required. All ages welcome.Children younger than 6 may find this hike

challenging.


Wee-time at Weedon:Busy Buzzers: Bees in YourBackyard

Thursday, June 14, 2007 10:30 am - 11:30 am


Center Staff

This program is designed to introduce pre-school children to

the wonders of the natural world. Every second and fourth

Thursday of each month, children are treated to a variety ofstories and hands-on activities that connect them to their

environment. This week presentsBusy Buzzers: Bees in Your

Backyardby Nancy Loewen. Did you know that there are

over 20,000 species of bees in the world? This week focuses

on a familiar garden resident: the honeybee. This program

also includes a hands-on craft and outdoor exploration. This

event is free and open to the public. Spaces are limited so

register early! Recommended ages: 3-5.

Back in Time


Jay Hardman, Archaeologist

Take a journey with archaeologist Jay Hardman back in time

to the early days of prehistory and history along the Central

Gulf Coast of Florida. Hardman will relate the delicate

balance between people and their environment through

thousands of years of history as recorded in the

archaeological record. He will put time into perspective as he

discusses the many years of human occupation in this area

while demonstrating the tools and sources of livelihood ofpast cultures. There is no fee for this family-oriented

program. Pre-registration is required. All ages welcome.

From Sea to Shining Sea: 200 Years of America's Coastal

Survey - Exhibit Opening

Thursday, June 21, 2007 10:00 am - 4:00 pm

Sponsored by NOAA and Smithsonian Institution

Traveling Exhibition Services

This exhibit of 20 posters celebrates 200 years of science,service and stewardship at America's oldest scientificresearch organization - the National Oceanic andAtmospheric Administration (NOAA). Thomas Jefferson,the third president of the United States, signed the OrganicAct of 1807, which authorized surveying the coast of the

United States. All ages welcome.

Please see Weedon Island page 10


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Audubon Membership Form

National Audubon Membership includes an automatic membership in your local chapter as well as annual subscriptions to Audubon

Magazine, Florida Naturalist, & Wing Beat. Introductory membership to National Audubon is $20.00 (National renewal will be han-

dled by National Audubon.) Make your check payable to the National Audubon Society.

Chapter Only Membership enrolls you as a member of the Clearwater Audubon Society and includes a 6-issue annual subscrip-

tion to Wing Beat. Annual dues are $15.00. Your renewal date will appear after your name on your mailing label. Make your

check payable to Clearwater Audubon Society.

Member Name(s)_________________________________________________________________________________

Mailing Address ___________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Phone ____________________________________________________________________________________________________

Email_____________________________________________________________________________________________________

Please save resources and send WingBeat via Email.

This is a gift membership for someone else. My name is______________________________________________________

Mail to: Debbie Trunk, CAS Membership Chair

1583 Budleigh Street

Clearwater, FL 33756

727-447-4785


Weedon Island from page 9

The Great Weedon Bird Quest

Sunday, June 24, 20078:00 am - 9:30 am


Center Staff and Volunteers

Come and join us on a quest to find Weedon Island Preservebirds! Learn the identifying marks and behaviors of our

feathered year-round inhabitants and seasonal visitors, whilehelping us compile an annual checklist of the Preserve's birds.These hikes are designed to take advantage of all levels ofbirding experience. Binoculars and bird guides are available.Hikes are scheduled for the last Sunday of every month. Pleasejoin us for a relaxing morning outing led by experiencedbirders and staff. Call us for more information and to register.This event is free and open to the public. Recommended for

adults.

Please Call (727) 453-to register for events.

SAVING THE EVERGLADESNational Audubon Society Issues and Action

Web Page

America's Everglades is a land whose rich, largelyunknown story almost ended prematurely as it wasditched, diked, and drained almost out of existence overthe past century. Today, Audubon, in concert withlocal, state, federal, and nongovernmental groups, ismounting an unprecedented ecological intervention torestore the Everglades.

A unique ecosystemEncompassing three million acres of wetlands, theEverglades is home to more than 350 species of birds,including the Great Egret, Wood Stork, Swallow-tailedKite, and Roseate Spoonbill.

Often called the "River of Grass," the Everglades is asubtropical wilderness featuring slow-moving freshwater that flows south from Lake Okeechobee throughsawgrass and tree islands to the mangroves andseagrasses of Florida Bay. An international treasure,the Everglades is an open system, which drains into the

ocean, and there is no other ecosystem like it in theworld.

Please Everglades page 11.


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Everglades from page 10

The greater Everglades ecosystem is also aninternational center for business, agriculture, andtourism, with a rapidly growing population of variedethnic, economic, and social values - all dependent on afully functioning ecosystem for an adequate freshwatersupply, a healthy and sustainable economy, and overallquality of life.

Driven to the breaking pointPoor development, water mismanagement, and urbanand agricultural pollution make the Evergladesecosystem among the most endangered in the world.Populations of wading birds and other critical indicatorspecies have been decimated, and Lake Okeechobeeand the tropical estuaries on the edges of theEverglades ecosystem have been severely damaged.

The decline of the once widespread flocks of wadingbirds, by as much as 90 percent, was the first sign thatthe Everglades ecosystem was threatened. Evergladesrestoration will repair much of the damage fromdrainage and development, bringing back the wadingbirds that once filled the South Florida landscape, andrestoring hundreds of thousands of acres of wetlandsand estuarine habitat.

What Audubon is doingAudubon's storied ties to the everglades began in 1902when Audubon Wardens risked their own safety toprotect Everglades birds from plume hunters. In thedecades that followed, Audubon played critical roles inthe establishment of parks and preserves in the area.

During the past 80 years, Audubon sanctuaries havegiven millions a glimpse of the region's wildlife andnature. Our scientists at the Tavernier Science Centerhave collected some of the most critical baseline data

by which future restoration efforts will be judged.In response to the threats to the South Floridaecosystem, Audubon established the EvergladesConservation Office in 1992 as our largest nationwideconservation initiative. Restoring the GreaterEverglades Ecosystem is one of our highest nationwidepriorities. Audubon experts in public policy and land-use planning have been at the forefront of changingpolitical will in favor of restoration of our naturalecosystems.

Our mission is to restore and conserve a fullyfunctional, healthy Everglades ecosystem, through (1)providing technical guidance for and participating inrestoration efforts, (2) developing and implementinglocal, regional, and national advocacy, and (3)cultivating an informed and engaged mainstreamconstituency.

For more information about Everglades Restorationefforts, please visit Audubon of Florida.


Call That Progress!By Barbara Walker

Progress Energy donated an artificial nesting platform to theClearwater Audubon Society for the Ospreys currently nestingon the Tarpon Woods Country Club sign at Tarpon WoodsBoulevard and East Lake Road. Big thanks to ProgressEnergy! Also a big thanks to Mr. Ferrentino of Tarpon WoodsDevelopment Inc. for his generosity in allowing the pole to be

placed on his property. Both parties have made a tremendouscommitment to conservation efforts.

The Osprey family has endured multiple near misses with highprofile vehicles, three sign text changes, predators, high winds,smoke and still holds firm. At one point the male Osprey wasunder duress due to a large gathering of Vultures that hadencircled the nest area due to a road kill not far from the baseof the sign. A caller notified me of the problem so I went tothe area and moved the Armadillo carcass away from the nest.Ironically, another Osprey nest in an aged pine fell near the 9thhole of the Tarpon Woods Golf Course. Mathew Poling didthe ground check. We were happy to hear from witnesses thatthe young Osprey had fledged. Hopefully that Osprey couplewill pick a better nesting place than their sign nesting

neighbors.

Next Progress Energy will stake out the location which isfurther from both East Lake Road and Tarpon WoodsBoulevard. After that the work order will be placed with agoal of placing the pole by August as we expect the nest to beempty by then. Progress Energy has the necessary nestremoval permits and will transfer the entire nest to the newplatform. Meanwhile, the fate of the country club itself hasbecome uncertain. Speculation that all or perhaps 9 holes of

the course will be leveled to solve area flooding problems wasreported by the St. Petersburg Times the week of May 6th.May 11th the text on the sign changed again. It currently reads

18 Reasons to Play Tarpon Woods.


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Clearwater Audubon Societygeneral meetings are free and open to the public.

Our meetings are designed around environmental

topics to be both entertaining and educational.

Meeting Dates

1st Monday of each month, October through May.

Meetings will resume in the fall.

LocationMoccasin Lake Nature Park

Program Committee ChairMarge Rowe (727) 781-0745

june-july 2007 wingbat newsletter clearwater audubon society

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