The Old Ones
By Claudia Strijek

Spotted Towhee in Lava Beds National Monument. Photo by Claudia Strijek

The old ones were here when the erupting earth spewed forth a fire river.  They saw the red and orange molten rock fill the valley and saw huge plumes of smoke. They stared at the changing landscape for too long and the red burned into their eyes. So now we all have red eyes to remind us of a time that passed but may come again.

This is my take on a Native American tale I heard not long ago. After being in Lava Beds National Monument for two weeks walking over all that cooled lava flow, I could
not help but think of this common bird with its red eye.

Claudia Strijek is a KBO Field Technician conducting point counts in southern Oregon and northern California. Click here to visit her blog for more of her writings and photography.

Editor’s note—the Spotted Towhee’s iris color changes with age. Upon hatching, the young have dull grayish-brown eyes. Over its first winter the eye color progresses from brownish hues to an orangey-red to red. It is the older individuals that have deep red eyes.

Eyes Upon Me
By Claudia Strijek

I glance up haphazardly thru thin trees, binoculars in hand, looking for winged activity. My eyes meet a fierce stare only a few feet above me. I freeze in place hoping to not cause this little hunter to flush. Two small golden eyes, surrounded by spotted feathers forming a disc shape on either side of a pale hooked beak, are the features I notice immediately. How long have you been watching me, I ask myself? Like so many forest dwellers I’m certain its detection is easily ten-times my own and has in all likelihood noticed my fellow bird surveyors and me for some time already.

I whisper to the others of my discovery and they slowly move in for a better look. The small bird rotates its head towards the new onlookers without body movement in that manner which all owls are capable of—a motion often mimicked in movies by aliens or possessed people but never as gracefully executed. It views us with disregard, perhaps even some contempt as if to confirm who has the upper hand and rules the forest.

This is the Northern Pygmy-owl, one of the smallest owls in North America, standing on average 6.5” tall and wing span 15”. It is diurnal and feeds primarily on songbirds in coniferous forests. A very aggressive hunter, it will search for prey in tree cavities as well as snatch birds in flight or on the ground. In case its hunting prowess were not enough its “false eyes” feather pattern on the nape keeps all prey edgy and on alert as well as deflect its enemies.

I slowly back away for several yards, then sprint back to the truck for my camera. A “life list” bird for me, I don’t want to miss this chance to get some photographs. I run back into the forest with my camera hoping the owl would still be perched. I stop short of my original position to relocate the bird. It had not flown and I snap several close-ups, grateful and amazed at my luck.

Zoomed in I notice its feather pattern more so—in profile I see tiny feathers protruding between the eyes and beak. Its rusty dark brown plumage resembles the bark color of incense cedar. But it’s the false eyes that really capture me. Unlike the wide and round real ones, these black and white feathered patterns are narrowed and angry. Both pairs seem to be constantly searching, watching, scanning; this pint-size predator transfixes me.

It is these encounters that draw me to this important biological work season after season—there is magic, inspiration and rewards beyond words.

Claudia Strijek is a KBO Field Technician conducting point counts in southern Oregon and northern California. Click here to visit her blog for more of her writings and photography.

Photos by Claudia Strijek

Wild Birds Unlimited and Klamath Bird Observatory will present a Birding By Ear workshop Wednesday June 14, 2017 6:00 pm – 7:00 pm.

Birding by ear is an essential tool for detecting more birds in the field, and your birding experiences will be greatly enhanced as you improve your birding-by-ear skills. In this workshop, John Alexander will teach bird songs and calls using sound recordings, mnemonic devices, sonograms, and drawing. The workshop integrates lecture, images, guided listening, and participation. We will focus on breeding songbirds of the Klamath-Siskiyou Bioregion, comparing sound-alike species of riparian, fir, pine, and oak habitats.

Space is limited to 20 participants – visit the Wild Birds Unlimited store in the Medford Center, or call 541-772-2107 to reserve a spot.

Click here for the Wild Birds Unlimited store in Medford website.

John is the co-founder and Executive Director of Klamath Bird Observatory and has been working to integrate bird conservation with natural resource management in the Pacific Northwest since 1992. He is focused on applying bird conservation science as a tool for advancing ecosystem conservation regionally, nationally, and internationally. His expertise includes participatory action research; ecological monitoring and research using standard bird and habitat sampling techniques; the use of scientific results for overcoming land stewardship challenges; and the development of applied science tools and teaching materials for natural resource management professionals, community members, and students of all ages.

WHAT’S IN THE NAME? A presentation by Harry Fuller, Author and Bird Guide
May 25th Thursday night 6:30-8 pm

Klamath Bird Observatory 320 Beach Street, Ashland, Oregon 

William MacGillivray

It’s great to see a Cassin’s Finch or Steller’s Jay but it can be a bit more exciting when you know some stories about Steller or Cassin…or Anna or Forster. Come enjoy the stories and long-ago adventures of the men and women who discovered our birds, named or got named, back when North America’s birds were new to science. Our list of names to explore will include Allen, Baird, Bewick, Brandt, Brewer, the two Clarks, Gambel, Lewis, Lincoln, MacGillivray, Nuttall, Townsend, and the mysterious Mr. Hutton.

To sign up contact Shannon Rio at shannonrio@aol.com or call her at 541-840-4655. The presentationis $15. Make out a check to KBO and mail it to Shannon Rio, 610 Iowa Street, Ashland, Oregon 97520. This will reserve your spot!

Great Grey Owl by Frank Lospalluto

Ah, spring, when young persons’ fancies turn to thoughts of bird migration and YES! The Birdathon! It’s a high point of the year for our team, the Great Greys. It started out to be an excuse to spend some quality time with pals, looking for birds. But we were subjected to some serious ridicule a few years back, and we still haven’t gotten over it. That was the year we actually won the competition, surprising us as much as the previous year’s winners, the Mighty Falcons. So the leader of the Falcons, who shall remain nameless₍₁₎, had the nerve to publish an article in High Country news about our surprising victory, calling us the “Bad News Bears of Birding₍₂₎.”

Well. Now we started to care. So the next year we won again. But the year after that, the Falcons cleaned our clock, setting the county record that still stands (162 species). The year after that, we won again. One year we tied another team, the Binosaurs, for first place. Last year we came in second. This year we won again, with 154 species₍₃₎. Not that we’re counting. It’s all in good fun…

But hey, the purpose of the Birdathon is to raise money, by getting friends and relatives to pledge some amount per species identified. Every year I send out a fund-raising, trash-talking letter, offering the opportunity to pledge at different levels, from Golden Eagle ($1,000 per species identified)₍₄₎ down to brown-headed cowbird ($0.10/species).

We raised over $3,400 this year, which is pretty darn thrilling. We split the money between Rogue Valley Audubon and KBO, even though John Alexander, KBO’s Executive Director, is actually a Falcon, and thus one of our fierce rivals. However, we know the main reason the Great Greys started winning is because Frank Lospalluto joined our team that year. You may know Frank as a field biologist who has worked for KBO over ten years. Like the rest of the KBO folks, he is really passionate, and amazingly knowledgeable, about birds. So we owe a substantial part of our success to KBO. Hence, the donation.

And in case you were wondering? Everyone is welcome to join our support network₍₅₎. Just let me know and I’ll add your name to the annual trash-talking solicitation.

Gretchen Hunter
gretchenhunter@embarqmail.com

———–

1. Pepper Trail. Stewart Janes and John Alexander are also Falcons.
2. High Country News article about the Bad News Bears of Birding!
3. Take that, Falcons. Team members are Bob Hunter, Dom DiPaolo, Brian Barr and Frank Lospalluto.
4. A girl can hope!
5. Even John Alexander has pledged on behalf of the Great Greys. Don’t tell Pepper.

Oak woodlands are under-protected in the Klamath-Siskiyou Bioregion, according to this study. Increasing the size of the Cascade-Siskiyou National Monument protects more oak woodlands, meeting a priority bird conservation objective. (Photo Credit Frank Lospalluto)

***NEWS RELEASE: May 8, 2017 6:15 AM PDT***

John Alexander, Executive Director, Klamath Bird Observatory, 541-890-7067, jda@KlamathBird.org

Ashland, OR – New study demonstrates an improved approach to ensure protected areas enhance and conserve biodiversity. The results of the study were used to inform expansion of the Cascade-Siskiyou National Monument.

A team of researchers from the Klamath Bird Observatory, Point Blue Conservation Science, and other partner organizations used big data and fine-scaled modeling to 1) evaluate an existing network of protected areas in the Klamath Siskiyou Bioregion of southern Oregon and northern California, and 2) to identify and prioritize new areas for protection. The study used birds as indicators of important habitats and biodiversity.

The researchers found that the region’s protected areas, including seven National Parks and Monuments, were protecting coniferous forest habitat. However, adequate amounts of grassland and oak woodland habitats were not being protected. Birds that are associated with these under-protected habitats have been identified as at-risk at both national and regional scales and the conservation of grasslands and oak woodlands has become a priority.

This study showed that grassland habitats, where Oregon Vesper Sparrows occur, were under-protected in the Klamath-Siskiyou Bioregion; the science-based expansion of the Cascade-Siskiyou National Monument increased the amount of habitats protected within the Klamath Siskiyou Bioregion’s network of protected areas, benefiting this at-risk species (Photo Credit James Livaudais)

Results from the study identified some protected areas where grassland and oak woodland birds did occur, as well as additional areas that, if protected, would increase the amount of priority birds protected by the region’s Parks and Monuments. Specifically, these priority habitats occur within the Cascade-Siskiyou National Monument and on adjacent multiple-use lands. This scientific insight informed science-driven recommendations to expand the Cascade-Siskiyou National Monument. With support from Oregon’s US Senators Wyden and Merkley, President Obama signed an executive order on January 12, 2017 increasing the size of Cascade-Siskiyou National Monument by more than 45,000 acres resulting in more protection for grassland and oak woodland birds.

“This study offers robust scientific evidence that expanding the Cascade-Siskiyou National Monument provides critical protection to an amazing ecosystem found nowhere else in the world, and will serve Oregonians well for decades to come,” said Oregon’s Senator Jeff Merkley. “National monuments are American treasures that belong to the people.”

This study and its application offer an improved science-based approach to evaluating protected areas and identifying and prioritizing new areas for protection. The results were published today by the Ecological Society of America in a special feature of the journal Ecosphere, Science For Our National Parks’ Second Century. The special feature highlights the crucial value of long-term monitoring and scientific inquiry and the role of science in informing natural resource management and conservation on public lands. This research was completed with support from the National Park Service, Bureau of Land Management, and US Forest Service and contributes to the Partners in Flight bird conservation initiative. A gigantic amount of data used for this research was made available through the Avian Knowledge Network. The paper can be accessed online at http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/ecs2.1799/full.

Citation: Alexander, J. D., J. L. Stephens, S. Veloz, L. Salas, J. Rousseau, C. J. Ralph, and D. A. Sarr. 2017. Using regional bird density distribution models to evaluate protected area networks and inform conservation planning. Ecosphere 00(00):e01799. 10.1002/ecs2.1799

Click here to download a zipped press package: News Release – Science informs protected area evaluation and expansion (RELEASE DATE 5-8-2017)

Click here to download a PDF of this News Release: News Release – Science informs protected area evaluation and expansion (RELEASE DATE 5-8-2017)

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About Klamath Bird Observatory:

Klamath Bird Observatory advances bird and habitat conservation through science, education, and partnerships. We work in the Pacific Northwest and throughout the migratory ranges of the birds of our region. We developed our award-winning conservation model in the ruggedly beautiful and wildlife-rich Klamath-Siskiyou Bioregion of southern Oregon and northern California. Emphasizing high caliber science and the role of birds as indicators of the health of the land, we specialize in cost-effective bird monitoring and research projects that improve natural resource management. Also, recognizing that conservation occurs across many fronts, we nurture a conservation ethic in our communities through our outreach and educational programs. Visit Klamath Bird Observatory at www.KlamathBird.org.

About Point Blue Conservation Science:

At Point Blue Conservation Science (Point Blue), our 140 staff and seasonal scientists conserve nature through science, partnerships and outreach, on land and at sea. Using our long-term data, we identify and evaluate both natural and human-driven change over time. We work hand-in-hand with governmental and non-governmental agencies as well as private interests to help ensure that every dollar invested in conservation yields the most for biodiversity and our communities. Visit Point Blue at www.PointBlue.org.

About Avian Knowledge Network:

Avian Knowledge Network is a network of people, data, and technology working together to improve bird conservation, management, and research across organizational boundaries and spatial scales. Visit the Pacific Northwest node of the Avian Knowledge Network at www.AvianKnowledgeNorthwest.net.

About Partners in Flight:

Partners in Flight is a network of organizations advancing the conservation of birds via sound science, integrated conservation partnerships, habitat delivery, and targeted citizen outreach. Visit Partners in Flight at www.PartnersinFlight.org.

On Saturday April 22 at 11:45 am, a diverse group of scientists will present “Scientists Speak Up!” at the Rogue Valley Earth Day celebration at ScienceWorks Hands-on Museum.

A growing group of southern Oregon citizens are joining the global scientific community in defense of the vital role science plays in our health, safety, economies, and governments. Professional, academic, and student scientists will join together to present personal vignettes that focus on the very real role science plays in each of our lives. Speakers will include local citizens from Southern Oregon University, Ashland School District’s John Muir School, and Ashland’s science-based Klamath Bird Observatory.

The speakers will be giving voice to the defense of science, scientists, and evidence-based policymaking. These scientists will be standing up for science in the face of budget cuts, censorship of researchers, disappearing datasets, and threats to dismantle government agencies and government supported science that are putting our health, food, air, water, climate, and jobs at risk.

This “Scientists Speak Up!” presentation will take place at 11:45 on the main stage as part of Rogue Valley Earth Day’s high-energy entertainment line-up that will include of dance, culture, youth science, poetry, and music. Rogue Valley Earth Day will also be highlighted with many additional science-based activities. ScienceWorks will present a ScienceLive show, “Science is Cool,” and The Caterpillar, Pacifica’s Mobile Science and Nature Center will feature activities about the solar system and weather. The festival features many exhibits from organizations and agencies, activities for kids, local food vendors, and live entertainment.

The Rogue Valley Earth Day celebration takes place outdoors at ScienceWorks Hands-on Museum from 11:00am to 4:00pm. Join us as we build awareness about the impact of science on all our lives. “Scientists Speak Up!” at 11:45 on the Rogue Valley Earth Day main stage – building a community that champions robustly funded and publicly communicated science as a pillar of human freedom and prosperity.

Click here to learn more about KBO Standing Up For Science.

Top off your Earth Day weekend with the Siskiyou Singers’ spring concert series, For the Beauty of the Earth, April 22 & 23 — click here for more information.

A NOTE FROM OUR SCIENCE DIRECTOR: 

Peer-reviewed science is nonpartisan. While science is non-advocacy in nature, scientific results ensure fact-driven debate and informed decision making. In this time when our colleagues are being silenced, science is being dismissed, and funding is being cut, Klamath Bird Observatory remains steadfast in standing up for science. And today, right now, science needs you. Your support is more important than ever.

Our science provides the foundation for conservation of our most at-risk bird species and the habitats on which all wildlife depend. In the last six months alone, our science has influenced state policy to eliminate red tape for oak restoration on private lands, informed the expansion of the Cascade-Siskiyou National Monument, and contributed to the petition to list the Oregon Vesper Sparrow under the Endangered Species Act. These are just a few examples of how our work is having an impact.

But there is so much more to do! Please consider joining our monthly sustained giving program. For less than the cost of a daily latte ($50/month), or cup of coffee ($25/month), you can ensure that Klamath Bird Observatory’s science is at the table when decisions are being made. Your monthly contribution will provide staff time to put our science in front of decision makers at all levels. The reliable monthly revenue from you, our loyal supporter, will ensure that we can stand up for science during this unprecedented time in our nation’s history.

Thank you for your contined support — Jaime L. Stephens, Science Director

PLEASE CLICK HERE TO MAKE YOUR SCIENCE DONATION NOW

Image Copyright Gary Bloomfield

This May, the American Birding Association (ABA) published their 2nd Birder’s Guide to Conservation & Community. This edition of the popular Birder’s Guide series is designed to help, to inspire, and to support birders in building a better future. This latest edition features an article about Klamath Bird Observatory’s Mountain Bird Festival. We are extremely excited that the American Birding Association recognizes the Mountain Bird Festival as an avenue for conservation.

Click here to read about the Mountain Bird Festival and more in the American Birding Association Birder’s Guide to Conservation & Community, May 2015.

The inaugural Mountain Bird Festival received recognition in the May 2014 edition of the Birding Community e-Bulletin, a widely distributed email newsletter concerning birds, birding, and bird conservation. The Birding Community e-Bulletin is coedited by Paul Baicich and Wayne Petersen. The Mountain Bird Festival also received similar recognition in the April edition of The Birding Wire news bulletin.

Klamath Bird Observatory’s conservation-focused festival received this attention for being the first festival to provide every attendee with a federal Migratory Bird Hunting and Conservation [Duck] Stamp. Proceeds from “Duck Stamp” sales directly support strategic wetland habitat conservation through the US National Wildlife Refuge program.

Click here to read the Birding Community e-Bulletin write-up about the Mountain Bird Festival. Click here to read The Birding Wire write-up about the Mountain Bird Festival.