Bexar tracks : the newsletter of the Bexar Audubon Society, Vol. 10, No. 03
Bexar Tracks began with Vol. 4, no. 1 (January 1986). It continues Newsletter (Bexar Audubon Society). 512-822-4503 MARCH 1992 BEXAR AUDUBON SOCIETY CHAPTER OF THE NATIONAL AUDUBON SOCIETY The Chapter's primary goals are to promote species and habitat conservation and environmental education In...
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1992
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Birds--Conservation--Texas--Periodicals. Ornithology--Texas--Periodicals. Nature conservation--Texas--Periodicals Clubs and Organizations Science and Technology |
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Birds--Conservation--Texas--Periodicals. Ornithology--Texas--Periodicals. Nature conservation--Texas--Periodicals Clubs and Organizations Science and Technology Bexar Audubon Society Bexar tracks : the newsletter of the Bexar Audubon Society, Vol. 10, No. 03 |
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Birds--Conservation--Texas--Periodicals. Ornithology--Texas--Periodicals. Nature conservation--Texas--Periodicals Clubs and Organizations Science and Technology |
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Bexar Tracks began with Vol. 4, no. 1 (January 1986). It continues Newsletter (Bexar Audubon Society). 512-822-4503 MARCH 1992 BEXAR AUDUBON SOCIETY CHAPTER OF THE NATIONAL AUDUBON SOCIETY The Chapter's primary goals are to promote species and habitat conservation and environmental education In the community. Inside Tracks • President Walter Barfield says, ~create wildlife habitat at home" • Use garden chemicals with extraordinary care • Blind Catfish endangered • Free xeriscape consultations • Preparing for Birdathon • San Antonio Environmental Coalition to meet March 10 • Join the Solar Brigade • Last Call for Scholarships • Swan Facts • Mitchell Lake sanctuary update Outing Scheduled March 21- Whooping Cranes BAS has scheduled a trip to the Texas Gulf Coast to see the beautiful, but endangered whooping cranes. Be at the dock in Rockport by 7:45am, Saturday, March 21. Captain Ted's boat, the M.V. Skimmer, will transport us. It docks beside the Sand Dollar Pavilion. Cost for the four ~ hour boat trip will • be $20 per person, if --- ~---_.;a,._ at least 15 people BAS Member Activities Parrot Repatriation in Mexico Is Colorful March Topic Kenneth Fletcher, DVM, and an assortment of his parrot friends will be our speaker and honored guests at the Bexar Audubon Society meeting on Thursday, March 19, from 7-9 pm. The meeting will be held at the Ruble Center, 419 E. Magnolia. Fletcher, who has worked with exotic birds since 1969, has worldwide experience with rare and endangered birds, in addition to his private veterinary practice in San Antonio, specializing in birds. YellowHeaded You will learn about the plight of parrots that have been kept in captivity and Fletcher's work to prepare these birds to be repatriated, and you'll hear reports of their return to native habitats. Illustrating vividly the brilliance and diversity within the parrot world, Fletcher's parrot companions will surely delight you. Come and bring a friend. Conservation Committee Meets Prior to General Meeting Scarlet Macaw register for the trip and attend. Call Marge Flandermeyer, 684-2668, and sign-up for this extraordinary opportunity to view these spectacular birds. (Carpools may be available.) Due to the early hour of departure, you may want to stay in Rockport or the surrounding area Friday night. The telephone numbers of several motels follow: Come early to the Ruble Center and participate in or observe the Conservation Committee meeting at Sand Dollar, 512-729-2381; Best Western, 512-729-8351; Days Inn, 800- 325-2525. Early reservations are recommended since this is also spring break. If you haven't taken this trip before, don't wait another year. Call today. Enjoy Nature. Get Out. 6 pm March 19. Keep in touch with the day's issues- nationally and locally. The Conservation Committee needs your participation to monitor issues, to attend hearings and other meetings, to write letters, and/or just to keep informed. The more we know, the more we can do for the good of our planet and everyone who inhabits it. ~ BEXAR TRACKS, March 1992 Page2 Bexar Facts A BAS Update President's Letter On Saturday, February 15, David Terk graciously hosted a small group from Bexar Audubon at his Cienega Ranch located a few miles west of Del Rio. We hiked a distance no greater than two miles during our brief midday visit and identified in excess of fifty species of birds. Sharp eyes and birding skills contributed to this accomplishment; but Mr. Terk, who created the shallow wetlands and preserved the huisache thickets, contributed more- habitat. At Bexar Audubon's general meeting on Thursday, February 20, Ronnie R. George talked to us about the expanding range of the White-Winged Dove in Texas. Formerly a species found nesting only in the Rio Grande Valley and the South Texas Brush Country, white-wings have recently been sited as far north as Midland, Abilene, and Ft. Worth. Formerly a species that nested in Brush Country thickets or Valley citrus trees, the largest concentration of white-wings in the state now nests in oak or ash trees inside Loop 410, right here in San Antonio, with a population estimated at 200,000 birds. It is unclear whether the increased range is due to a displacement of doves from Mexico or a natural expansion of a tropical species. However, we do know that presence or lack of a suitable habitat is the key to the white-wings' fluctuating numbers. Government agencies, like the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, perform an important service by protecting and restoring wildlife habitats. We urge our members to support their efforts by purchasing duck stamps, white-winged dove stamps, and non-game wildlife stampsand, of course, conservation passports. We would also urge our members to create wildlife refuges of their own. Numerous books, which describe both the types of habitat many animals prefer and how to attract them to your home, are available at local libraries and bookstores. Planting native plants which provide food and cover or supplying a clean, reliable source of water goes a long way toward bringing wildlife back to the urban environment. - Walter G. Barfield (editor's note: See the calendar for information on Susan Rust's May 2-3 program at the Botanical Center, ''Your Yard: How Wild Can it Be?") AUDUBON BIRDATHON Birdathon Flying In It's BIRDATHON time again. Time to get your binoculars cleaned and adjusted. Time to circle MAY 2 on your calendar. Time to decide what role you will play in this important event. What is BIRDATHON? During one 24- hour period, we try to see as many bird species as we can. We obtain monetary pledges from our friends and associates to recognize our accomplishment in recognizing each of many bird species. Therefore, BIRDATHON is a fund-raiser. Who are WE? Members of Bexar Audubon. Friends. Supporters. YOU are the WE in this formula, and you are encouraged to take one or more active parts in BIRDATHON 1992! There are roles for bird spotters, for pledge solicitors, for recorders, for drivers, for pledgers, and for others as well. There's at least one role that's right for you. And YOU are needed. Say you don't know sparrow from a condor? No problem. Experienced spotters will be glad to bring you into the ranks on-the-job. BIRDATHON is fun, educational, and a worthy cause. Money earned through BIRDATHON is divided in half between regional Audubon projects and our Audubon Adventures classroom support. This year's BIRDATHON chairperson is Leslie Linehan, 558-6594. Call her now to discuss how you will help with BIRDATHON 1992. Education Report Remember that the BAS video library is available to teachers or other groups for educational purposes. Free delivery and pick-up are offered. Contact Betty Minyard, Education Chair, 344-6128, for a list of videos or other information about any of these education programs. Last Call for Scholarships This is your last call for the Ecology Camp Scholarship program. March 15 is the deadline to apply for the BAS scholarship to attend a National Audubon Society Ecology Camp or Workshop. The winner will be announced on April 1, but your application must be postmarked by March 15 or in the hands of the judges by that date. There is still time to apply. Teachers, scout leaders, zoo or museum docents, others involved in teaching children, or college students pursuing a career in education may apply. For an application form and guidelines, call Betty Minyard at 344-6128. Former winners include Lisa Kuntz, 1989; Carolyn Chipman-Evans and Betty Watson, 1990; and Marcia Rathbun, 1991. Perhaps you will be our 1992 scholar. Blind Catfish -Bexar's Own Endangered Species Most of us know of at least some of the high-profile species that are in danger of extinction due to continuing loss of habitat or other encroaching human activities. Species that easily come to mind include the Whooping Crane, California Condor, Attwater's Prairie-chicken, the Red Wolf, or Golden-cheeked Warbler, whose plights have been well publicized. We should remember also, however, that many lessvisible species, such as water dwellers, are also at our mercy and even more at risk, since their survival is totally dependent on a clean and consistent supply of water. I REDUCE • REUSE • RECYCLE • REDUCE • REUSE • RECYCLE • REDUCE • REUSE I Page3 How many know that two threatened and possibly endangered fish species are unique inhabitants of Bexar County, living only in the southern portion of the Edwards Aquifer San Antonio Pool? Their names are Satan eurystomus (widemouth blindcat) and Trogloglanis pattersoni (toothless blindcat), first described in 1919 and 1947, respectively. They are the only troglobitic (cave-dwelling) catfish in the United States, and are probably descendants of ancestors of the Ictalurid flathead and bullhead catfish. They possess not even indications of eyes and have no skin pigment, appearing pink in color. The widemouth blindcat is also probably the top carnivore in its distribution and, therefore, might be susceptible to and an accurate monitor of any pollutants that might find their way into the aquifer. The toothless blindcat is probably largely herbivorous. These two catfish are protected as nongame species by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, but are not currently listed as endangered. The last surveys and last known observations of these two species were made in 1977 and 1978 by Glenn Longley of SWTU and Henry Karnei, Jr. Bexar Audubon has requested the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to review and determine the current status of these blindcats, since no observations have been made since those surveys. We are especially concerned about them, as well as other aquatic species dependent on the aquifer, in view of the drastic water withdrawals and other changes impacting the aquifer that have occurred in the area they inhabit in the last few years. We hope the blindcats are still there and are secure in their status. -Jim Garriott Education Report Terk Ranch Wildlife Haven On undoubtedly the most beautiful day so far in 1992, a small group visited the Del Rio ranch of David Terk, president of American Beverage. As he had told us, the ranch was host or home to a great deal of wildlife. The bird species count for our trip was over fifty, including all three phoebes, the Verdin, the Vermillion Flycatcher, Harris Hawk, and many species of waterfowl. One of the most fascinating sights was of a Red-shouldered Hawk performing a courting or territorial display. As long as David Terk and family manage their ranch, there will be a safe haven for wildlife living around and passing through Del Rio, Texas. We applaud and appreciate his stewardship. Mitchell Lake Sanctuary Coming True Due to poor weather conditions on January 18 our outing to Mitchell Lake was postponed to February 1. The weather was considerably improved then. Ruth Lofgren presented a concise history and outline of plans for the San Antonio Wetlands project, summarized at right. The dream of Mitchell Lake becoming a wonderful wildlife sanctuary is coming true, slowly but surely. -Marge Flandermeger Congratulations BEXAR TRACKS, March 1992 ~ San Antonio Wetlands Following are excerpts from a January 17 report presented by Dr. Ruth Lofgren, Wetlands Project Director for the League of Women Voters of the San Antonio Area: The Wastewater Management Department of the City of San Antonio is converting the sewage lagoons at the north end of Mitchell Lake into a wildlife refuge for shorebirds and waterfowl as part of a comprehensive plan to clean up and maintain the area no longer needed for sludge management. Public support for the Wildlife Sanctuary will be essential if it is to be developed, enjoyed, protected, and maintained. The San Antonio Wetlands project is a cooperative program in Mitchell Lake Wetlands Wildlife Sanctuary Area BAS Conservation Committee National Audubon Society Chapter Membership Application 0 Yes, I'd like to join. Please enroll me as a member of the National Audubon Society and of my local chapter, Bexar Audubon Society. Please send Audubon magazine, Bexar Tracks, and my membership card to the address below. Chairman Vice Chairman Public Lands (Refuges, Forests, & Wetlands) Open Space Planning Recycling/Resource Conservation Aquifer Protection & Regional Water Plan Endangered Species Mitchell Lake Project Friedrich Park Richard Pipes Linda Tippen 1-512-569-2452 590-9371 Richard Pipes 1-512-569-2452 Linda & Ted Tippen 590-9371 Walter Barfield 736-0355 Pete Bauml Jim Garriott 1-512-620-0640 695-9520 684-2668 223-3281 Marge Flandermeyer Bill Woller 0 A $20 check for my introductory membership is enclosed. 0 I think an Audubon Society membership is a great gift. Send gift memberships to my friends and family listed separately ($20 each). NAME __________________ ~PHONE ______ __ ADDRESS ____________________________ __ CITY/STATE/ZIP --- Make all checks payable to the National Audubon Society. I· --- WT9--1 Send this form and your check to: , Local Chapter i Bexar Audubon Society L__~:2~-~---J P.O.Box 6084, San Antonio, TX 78209 ~ BEXAR TRACKS, March 1992 Page4 which volunteers from the League of ~ •n 'Tt.,.~c·''" Women Voters, the Junior League of San ~ . eep1 1£6 ~ ~ .,. .ft Antonio, the San Antonio Audubon ;:, Society, the Bexar Audubon Society, and E D other interested groups are working with nvironmental Coalition ftecgcling Begins with You the Department of Wastewater Management to assist in public education as well as the planning and implementation of the Master Plan for the wetlands. • Birds migrating along the central flyway have been stopping at the 'wetlands' for the century since Mitchell Lake was formed. • A map dated 1764 indicates that a Camino Real ran through the Mitchell Lake area. When the San Antonio Wetlands Wildlife Refuge is ready for visitors, it will be located on the map of La Bahia Historical Corridor published by the Alamo Area Council of Governments. The Environmental Action Group at Trinity University will develop an informative as well as attractive display on the wetlands for a window in the Maverick Building on Houston Street as part of the Downtown Alamo Area Window Museum program. The San Antonio Environmental Coalition quarterly Environmental Issues Forum is scheduled for Tuesday, March 10 at 7 pm at the Witte Museum Auditorium, 3801 Broadway (south of Hildebrand). The forum is free and open to the public. The topic is "Resource Protection Initiatives: Grassroots Vigilance." Speakers include David Buzan, Texas Watch Coordinator, Texas Water Commission, speaking on the Community Support Program; Kathy McWhorter, Coordinator, Friends of Waller Creek, and Patricia Dubose, Coordinator, Friends of Little Blanco Creek, discussing two independent grassroots water monitoring initiatives; and Channi Gilfeather, Student, LBJ Science Academy, providing personal perspectives on the Colorado River Watch Network sponsored by the Lower Colorado River Authority. For more information, call 826-4698. The mural painting class at San Antonio Art Institute has been invited to consider improving the walls below the display windows at the east end of the Maverick Building by painting an appropriate mural there. The Historical Review Board Solar Brigade Forms has given conceptual approval. Friends of the Wetlands Wildlife Refuge will be delighted to hear that a meeting of the Mitchell Lake Subcommittee of the 201 Wastewater Advisory Committee of City Council will review the Master Plan and the plans for the wetlands in detail. In Memoriam Steven J. Hanselmann, regarded by all who knew him as a consummate birder, passed away suddenly on Monday, February 17, 1992. Steve knew birds - by calls, song and chip notes, field marks, behaviors, habitats, and life histories. His skills set the standard for the art in this area. His contributions to field work in central Texas, not only relating to birds but also to his secondary avocation, beetles, have been significant. His appreciation of natural history was deep and abiding. He taught us much. Steve was an irreplaceable resource. He will long be missed. According to Fred Baumgarten of NAS, "More Americans than ever say they are ready for solar power and that the need for an environmentally sound alternative energy \GA is urgent. With that in ~\\ IJ~ mind, Audubon is launching a 'national referendum' to push utilities toward greater use of solar energy. The aim is to have at least a million citizens enlisted in a 'Solar Brigade' by year's end." "'Ten percent solar in ten years' is our motto," says Audubon scientist Jan Etyea. What can you do? Put a note in with your next monthly electric utility bill, and get your friends and neighbors to do the same. i>ear Arthur VOn Rosenberg General Manager, Clty.Public Service: We want 10 percent solar electricity h:fiO years. · · Then, send your name, address, and phone, along with the name of your utility company to: National Audubon Society, ATTN: Solar Brigade - Dept. AA, 950 Third Ave., New York, NY 10022. Does your company or business recycle? Do you/they buy recycled paper and other products? If you don't know the answers to these questions, ask - and offer to get information on how to implement a recycling program or a more "enlightened" purchasing program. Be sure to sign and return the curbside recycling petition that is being circulated. If you want more information or need a copy of the petition, call the League of Women Voters, 733-0438. Veriscape for Beauty, .4. Water Conservation "Xeriscaping - planting drought-resistant plants, mulching, using low-flow irrigation, and other strategies- can cut lawn and garden water use by 30 to 80 percent," according to the February 1992 Audubon Activist. But, your xeriscape may be the key to more than a beautiful yard, water conservation, and less time behind the lawnmower. The Edwards Underground Water District and WOAI Radio are sponsoring a xeriscape contest from now through April 15. Either your xeriscape plan or its implementation may be entered. As a complement to the contest, the Homeowner Consultation team of the Master Gardeners of Bexar County is offering half-hour consultations on xeriscape conversion questions March 13- 14 from 9 am until noon. Additional days may be scheduled. For more information, call Kathy at the Bexar County Office of the Texas Agricultural Extension Service, 228-0417. Bexar Tracks The editor believes the information in this publication to be accurate as of March 1. We welcome contributions of news, opinions, letters, and other information of interest to members. Any submission may be edited. Deadline for submissions is generally the Friday following the general meeting, Please send your comments or contributions for Bexar Tracks to the editor, POBox 690028, San Antonio, TX 78269-0028, FAX to 512-696-8053, or bring them to the meeting. Or phone the editor at 512-696-6868. PageS A Lesson Too Late This morning I said a final good-bye to my dearest companion, Theya. The day before yesterday she was running happy circles in the yard, stalking squirrels, napping in the sun, and engaging in the other activities that made up her daily existence. As a bonus, that afternoon we'd planted bluebonnets. In my one concession to garden pesticides, and to protect the new plants from the ravages of snails, slugs, and pill bugs, I'd scattered just a few "bug bait" pellets (Metaldehyde) by each plant and carefully watered them in - as I have ever since I took up gardening. The label warns of possible attractiveness to dogs, but her complete disinterest during the past eight years had lulled me into complacence. Just as the Olympic torch was being lighted, I happened to glance out and saw her with her head down by the new plants. The tremors commenced within minutes and all the emergency attention of the next 36 hours was unequal to the power of half-a-dozen quarter-inch bits -of mostly inert ingredients. This story isn't meant to be morbid. (Theya had a good, if too short life, and my own life was enriched for her presence in it.) The intent is to prevent this tragedy from being repeated. -Susan Rust Poison in the Garden Last week my first bluebonnet bloomed and everywhere I looked there was evidence of spring. In a drive to keep this beauty with us as long as possible, we are tempted to try to keep everything off and away from our growing things. Remember Rachel Carson's book, The Silent Spring? Oftentimes we forget that in exchange for a bug-free· environment we get one that is free of many more organisms than just "bugs." So, what can you do to keep destructive pests out of your garden and protect tender vegetation? Some alternatives to powerful chemicals take a little more time and attention, but when you think about them objectively and READ THE LABELS, the "organic" alternatives are often clearly superior. R.H. Hart's book, Bugs, Slugs & Other Thugs: Controlling Garden Pests Organically (Storey Communications,1991), presents a wide range of pest controls that are safe for both the user and the environment. . Take snails and slugs as examples. Hart says poisons for snails and slugs (often dehydrating agents) are sometimes not even fatal. In rainy or humid weather they can rehydrate themselves and survive. Snails and slugs can be repelled by interplanting prostrate rosemarywhich is also a wonderful herb to have. If you leave a board in your garden they will congregate under it and can easily be collected or destroyed when you lift it. Spray a 50/50 (no stronger) vinegar and water solution directly on plants or slugs. Try hot pepper emulsion or fresh lime juice sprays. Snip coarse hair, such as human or horse hair, into tiny pieces and scatter it in areas snails or slugs frequent. The tiny hairs irritate their skin. An old stand-by is to sink a shallow dish, tin can, or similar container of beer in an area slugs and snails frequent. They are attracted to the beer, fall in, and drown. If you don't want to use beer, use cider vinegar and sugar; fermented fruit peels; or a mixture of brown sugar (1 lb.), dry yeast (lh package), and water (to make 1 gallon). Let ferment for several days uncovered. When you think about "bugs" remember that pesticides can have far-reaching effects. Watch out for beneficial insects. And remember when you consider killing caterpillars . they are a necessary part of having butterflies. Be cautious with fertilizers to reduce surface water pollution. Minimize the amount that flows to storm sewers. Use the correct amount of slow-release product and keep it off pavement and driveways. '17gnettes from Nature The swan has long been romanticized in legends and the arts. Sibelius composed the idyllic tone poem, "The Swan of Tuonela," and Tschaikovsky immortalized this family of waterfowl in his "Swan Lake" ballet. Finland has honored the Whooper Swan as its national bird. Majestic and enchanting, swans evoke images of cold moonlit nights and serene lakes nestled in pristine northern forests. The pure white feathers and long graceful necks of the adult birds remind us of qualities such as peace, grace, and elegance, and their worldwide habitat means their beauty is an experience shared by people of many lands. Swans are members of the family Anatidae. Of the several species in North BEXAR TRACKS, March 1992 fil . America, only a subspecies of the Tundra Swan (Cygnus columbianus), formerly called Whistling Swan, is commonly in Texas - it winters in west Texas and southern New Mexico, as well as the west and east coasts of the U.S. "Whooper," "Trumpeter," "Whistling," and "Mute"the common names of some swan species- indicate the importance of their characteristic calls for identification. Swans are omnivorous and have large broad bodies, huge wings, dense plumage with abundant down, short legs, and webbed feet- evidence of their excellent adaptation to frigid northern habitats and aquatic lifestyle. Their size does require a long water runway to get airborne, however, so they literally run on the water, pounding the surface with their webbed feet and even their wing tips. Swans migrate with their families and mate for life. Swans often line their nests with their own down to protect and conceal eggs, and, once the eggs hatch, both parents continue this regime of devoted attention to their young, called "cygnets," who usually swim within a day. These creatures are so prized for their beauty, exotic species are often imported to grace private and public ponds. Wild populations of the Mute Swan, an Old World species, are increasing on the east coast. A contrast to the more common white species, the Australian Black Swan is a popular addition to parks and private estates, as is the South American Blacknecked Swan. Neither of these has yet become established in the wild in North America. -Allen Perry AUDUBON COLLECTION JOHN J. AUDUBON 171~·\~SI SE.fl.AND FALCON AUDUBON BLANC CALIFO RNIA WHITE WlNE PRODUCED&. BOTIU.D BY AUDUBON CELLARS, 8ERKEI.l!.Y, CA ALCOHOL 12.4" BY VOLUME • CONTACNS SUt.FtfES ~ BEXAR TRACKS, March 1992 Calendar - March A~p==-r-:-il-:--:---=-~:--~-=--. 3-5 Audubon Council of Texas. Plano, Texas. 7 Natural history hike. Friedrich Wilderness Park. 9 am. Call698-1057. 10 "Madagascar: A Naturalist's Paradise in Peril." John McLain, Curator of Reptiles & Aquarium. San Antonio Zoo Education Bldg. 7-8:30 pm. $2 [zoo members free]. Call734-7184, ext.168. 10 "Resource Protection Initiatives: Grassroots Vigilance." San Antonio Environmental Coalition. 7 pm. Witte Museum Auditorium, Free and open to the public. For information, 826-4698. 12 BAS Board Meeting. 7:30pm. Call Thelma Nungesser, 824-8199, for more information. 12-14 San Antonio Carden Center Plant Sale, 9 am-4 pm. 3310 N. New Braunfels. Xeriscape plants, herbs, bedding plants, bulbs, vegetables, and more. 14 "Archaeology of the Texas Hill Country." BAS Second Saturday at Friedrich Wilderness Park. 9 am. Call698-1057. IS Deadline to apply for BAS Ecology Camp/Workshopscholarship. Contact Betty Minyard, 344-6128. I9 BAS Conservation Committee Meeting. Ruble Center, 419 E. Magnolia, 6 pm. Call Dick Pipes, 1-512-569-2452, or Linda Tippen, Vice Chair, at 590-9371. Members and interested others welcome. 19 BAS General Meeting. Ruble Center, 419 E. Magnolia, 7 pm. Call Nathan Ratner, 826-4462. 21 BAS Outing. Whooping crane tour to the Texas Coast. See page I. Phone 684-2668. 24 Native Plant Society. 7 pm. Lion's Field Clubhouse. Broadway at Mulberry. 681-8370. 28 "Wonderful World of Weather." John Willing, KMOL-TV. Cibolo Wilderness Trail. 10-11 am. Call1-512-537-4141. 31 Deadline for Curbside Recycling Pickup petitions. Call the League of Women Voters, 733-0438, for more information. OFFICERS AND BOARD 4 4 5 Call Jan or Dick Woolheater at 214-618-- 0732 or E.G. White-Swift at 214-328-5939. Natural history hike. Friedrich Wilderness Park. 9 am. Call698-1057. "Spring Wildflowers." Seminar and field trip. Patty Leslie. Botanical Center. 9 am-5 pm. Call BettY Hughes, 821-5143. Wildflower Bus Trip to Eagle Lake and Wildseed, Inc. Patty Leslie and Friends of Friedrich. $35 (includes $10 membership); $25 for members. Call698-1057 or 824-1235 by March 20 for reservations. BAS Board Meeting. 7:30 pm. 10 "Hornbills: Headed for Trouble." San Antonio Zoo, Straus Education Building, 7-8:30 pm. $2. Call 734-7184, ext. 168. 11 ."Golden-Cheeked Warblers & Black-Capped Vireos." Second saturday at Friedrich Wilderness Park. 9 am. Call 698-1057. 11-12 VIVA BOTANICAl 12th Anniversary. Botanical Center. 10 am-6 pm. 16 BAS Conservation Committee Meeting. Ruble Center, 419 E. Magnolia, 6 pm. Call Dick Pipes, 1-512-569-2452, or Linda Tippen, Vice Chair, 590-9371. 16 BAS General Meeting. 7 pm. 25 Cibolo Native Plant Sale & Demonstration. Cibolo Wilderness Trail, Boerne. 9 am-noon. Call1-512-537-4141. Mag 12 Bexar Audubon Birdathon. Don't miss itt I 2 2-3 9 Natural history hike. Friedrich Wilderness Park. 9 am. Call698-1057. "Your Yard: How Wild Can it Be?" Susan Rust Botanical Center. 9 am-12. 821-5143. "Wildflowers of Friedrich Wilderness Park." BAS Second Saturday at Friedrich Wilderness Park. 9 am. Call698-1057. Page6 12 "Paraguay: Native Peoples; Native Problems." San Antonio Zoo, Straus Education Building, 7-8:30 pm. $2. Call 734-7184, ext. 168. 13 "Insects of the Night" Second Saturday at Friedrich Wilderness Park, 9 pm. Call 698-1057 for more information, ·.· 13-19 Act for Wildlife in '92: EnMngeyed Species Need Youl-NAS convention in Washington, D.C. Write Audubon Convention Office, 4150 Darley Ave. #5, Boulder, CO 80303 by April!. . 23 Reptile & herpetile program. Diana Sarratt Junek. Cibolo Wilderness Trail, Boerne. 10 am-12. Call1-512-537-4141. June 1-12 U.N. Conference on Environment & Development. Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. 6 Natural history hike. Friedrich Wilderness Park. 9 am. Call698-1057. 10 Project Wild environmental training for teachers, and other educators. 8:30 am - 3:30 pm. AAT credit. Free, preregistration required. 821-5143. 27 "Gardens by Moonlight." Botanical Center. 7-10 pm. Call Betty Hughes, 821-5143. Ongoing Every Thursday, 1 pm, San Antonio City Council meetings, City Hall. Fourth Tuesdays, 5-6 pm, Open Space Advisory Board meets, City Hall. San Antonio Light CreenLine offers environmental tips & event reminders 24 hours a day at 512-554-0500, category 7220. National Audubon Society's Actionline provides a weekly update of environmental news. Dial 202-547-9009 and ask for the Actionline; after hours, press 4 when the line answers. For status of federal bills, call Legislative Information & Bill Status, 202-225-1772. NOTE: For additional events, please see the Februarg Calendar. Walter Barfield Marge Flandermeyer Betty Minyard President Vice President Treasurer Secretary Board Member Board Member Board Member Board Member 736-0355 684-2668 344-6128 653-2860 651-6054 226-6808 696-6868 824-8199 BEXAR AUDUBON SOCIE1Y P.O. BOX 6084 NON-PROFIT ORG. U.S. POSTAGE PAID Caryl Swann Audrey Cooper Ronald "Rusty" Guyer Susan K. Hughes Thelma Nungesser COMMITTEE CHAIRPERSONS Conservation Education Finance Richard Pipes 1-512-569-2452 Betty Minyard 344-6128 Membership Thelma Nungesser 824-8199 Outings Marge Flandermeyer 653-2860 Programs Nathan Ratner 826-4462 Publicity Barb DeLuca 492-4291 Bexar Tracks Editor Susan K. Hughes 696-6868 PO Box 690028, San Antonio, TX 78269-0028•FAX 696-8053 Printed on recycled paper. Please recycle in the interest of the present and the future. SAN ANTONIO, TX 78209 Address Con-ection Requested SAN ANTONIO, TEXAS Permit No. 590 |
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Bexar tracks : the newsletter of the Bexar Audubon Society, Vol. 10, No. 03 |
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bexar tracks : the newsletter of the bexar audubon society, vol. 10, no. 03 |
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San Antonio, Tex. : Bexar Audubon Society, |
publishDate |
1992 |
url |
http://digital.utsa.edu/cdm/ref/collection/p15125coll10/id/8149 |
op_coverage |
2012-07-02 |
long_lat |
ENVELOPE(-67.100,-67.100,-68.133,-68.133) ENVELOPE(-55.233,-55.233,-61.250,-61.250) ENVELOPE(-128.637,-128.637,54.283,54.283) ENVELOPE(-58.990,-58.990,-62.198,-62.198) ENVELOPE(8.224,8.224,63.072,63.072) ENVELOPE(-61.250,-61.250,-62.783,-62.783) ENVELOPE(-62.967,-62.967,-73.867,-73.867) ENVELOPE(17.519,17.519,69.084,69.084) ENVELOPE(-130.120,-130.120,53.344,53.344) |
geographic |
Audrey Blanco DuBose Grande Valley Midland Plano Swann Tippen Waller Creek |
geographic_facet |
Audrey Blanco DuBose Grande Valley Midland Plano Swann Tippen Waller Creek |
genre |
Cygnus columbianus Tundra Tundra Swan Whooper Swan |
genre_facet |
Cygnus columbianus Tundra Tundra Swan Whooper Swan |
op_relation |
https://utsa.primo.exlibrisgroup.com/discovery/fulldisplay?docid=alma9926776313904621&context=L&vid=01UTXSANT_INST:DEFAULT&search_scope=MyInstitution&tab=LibraryCatalog&lang=en Newsletter (Bexar Audubon Society) QL684.T4 B49 http://digital.utsa.edu/cdm/ref/collection/p15125coll10/id/8149 |
op_rights |
https://lib.utsa.edu/specialcollections/reproductions/copyright |
_version_ |
1766395676139192320 |
spelling |
ftutexasanantodc:oai:digital.utsa.edu:p15125coll10/8149 2023-05-15T15:59:45+02:00 Bexar tracks : the newsletter of the Bexar Audubon Society, Vol. 10, No. 03 Bexar Audubon Society 2012-07-02 1992-03 pdf Periodicals http://digital.utsa.edu/cdm/ref/collection/p15125coll10/id/8149 eng eng San Antonio, Tex. : Bexar Audubon Society, University of Texas at San Antonio https://utsa.primo.exlibrisgroup.com/discovery/fulldisplay?docid=alma9926776313904621&context=L&vid=01UTXSANT_INST:DEFAULT&search_scope=MyInstitution&tab=LibraryCatalog&lang=en Newsletter (Bexar Audubon Society) QL684.T4 B49 http://digital.utsa.edu/cdm/ref/collection/p15125coll10/id/8149 https://lib.utsa.edu/specialcollections/reproductions/copyright Birds--Conservation--Texas--Periodicals. Ornithology--Texas--Periodicals. Nature conservation--Texas--Periodicals Clubs and Organizations Science and Technology text 1992 ftutexasanantodc 2019-02-19T18:10:25Z Bexar Tracks began with Vol. 4, no. 1 (January 1986). It continues Newsletter (Bexar Audubon Society). 512-822-4503 MARCH 1992 BEXAR AUDUBON SOCIETY CHAPTER OF THE NATIONAL AUDUBON SOCIETY The Chapter's primary goals are to promote species and habitat conservation and environmental education In the community. Inside Tracks • President Walter Barfield says, ~create wildlife habitat at home" • Use garden chemicals with extraordinary care • Blind Catfish endangered • Free xeriscape consultations • Preparing for Birdathon • San Antonio Environmental Coalition to meet March 10 • Join the Solar Brigade • Last Call for Scholarships • Swan Facts • Mitchell Lake sanctuary update Outing Scheduled March 21- Whooping Cranes BAS has scheduled a trip to the Texas Gulf Coast to see the beautiful, but endangered whooping cranes. Be at the dock in Rockport by 7:45am, Saturday, March 21. Captain Ted's boat, the M.V. Skimmer, will transport us. It docks beside the Sand Dollar Pavilion. Cost for the four ~ hour boat trip will • be $20 per person, if --- ~---_.;a,._ at least 15 people BAS Member Activities Parrot Repatriation in Mexico Is Colorful March Topic Kenneth Fletcher, DVM, and an assortment of his parrot friends will be our speaker and honored guests at the Bexar Audubon Society meeting on Thursday, March 19, from 7-9 pm. The meeting will be held at the Ruble Center, 419 E. Magnolia. Fletcher, who has worked with exotic birds since 1969, has worldwide experience with rare and endangered birds, in addition to his private veterinary practice in San Antonio, specializing in birds. YellowHeaded You will learn about the plight of parrots that have been kept in captivity and Fletcher's work to prepare these birds to be repatriated, and you'll hear reports of their return to native habitats. Illustrating vividly the brilliance and diversity within the parrot world, Fletcher's parrot companions will surely delight you. Come and bring a friend. Conservation Committee Meets Prior to General Meeting Scarlet Macaw register for the trip and attend. Call Marge Flandermeyer, 684-2668, and sign-up for this extraordinary opportunity to view these spectacular birds. (Carpools may be available.) Due to the early hour of departure, you may want to stay in Rockport or the surrounding area Friday night. The telephone numbers of several motels follow: Come early to the Ruble Center and participate in or observe the Conservation Committee meeting at Sand Dollar, 512-729-2381; Best Western, 512-729-8351; Days Inn, 800- 325-2525. Early reservations are recommended since this is also spring break. If you haven't taken this trip before, don't wait another year. Call today. Enjoy Nature. Get Out. 6 pm March 19. Keep in touch with the day's issues- nationally and locally. The Conservation Committee needs your participation to monitor issues, to attend hearings and other meetings, to write letters, and/or just to keep informed. The more we know, the more we can do for the good of our planet and everyone who inhabits it. ~ BEXAR TRACKS, March 1992 Page2 Bexar Facts A BAS Update President's Letter On Saturday, February 15, David Terk graciously hosted a small group from Bexar Audubon at his Cienega Ranch located a few miles west of Del Rio. We hiked a distance no greater than two miles during our brief midday visit and identified in excess of fifty species of birds. Sharp eyes and birding skills contributed to this accomplishment; but Mr. Terk, who created the shallow wetlands and preserved the huisache thickets, contributed more- habitat. At Bexar Audubon's general meeting on Thursday, February 20, Ronnie R. George talked to us about the expanding range of the White-Winged Dove in Texas. Formerly a species found nesting only in the Rio Grande Valley and the South Texas Brush Country, white-wings have recently been sited as far north as Midland, Abilene, and Ft. Worth. Formerly a species that nested in Brush Country thickets or Valley citrus trees, the largest concentration of white-wings in the state now nests in oak or ash trees inside Loop 410, right here in San Antonio, with a population estimated at 200,000 birds. It is unclear whether the increased range is due to a displacement of doves from Mexico or a natural expansion of a tropical species. However, we do know that presence or lack of a suitable habitat is the key to the white-wings' fluctuating numbers. Government agencies, like the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, perform an important service by protecting and restoring wildlife habitats. We urge our members to support their efforts by purchasing duck stamps, white-winged dove stamps, and non-game wildlife stampsand, of course, conservation passports. We would also urge our members to create wildlife refuges of their own. Numerous books, which describe both the types of habitat many animals prefer and how to attract them to your home, are available at local libraries and bookstores. Planting native plants which provide food and cover or supplying a clean, reliable source of water goes a long way toward bringing wildlife back to the urban environment. - Walter G. Barfield (editor's note: See the calendar for information on Susan Rust's May 2-3 program at the Botanical Center, ''Your Yard: How Wild Can it Be?") AUDUBON BIRDATHON Birdathon Flying In It's BIRDATHON time again. Time to get your binoculars cleaned and adjusted. Time to circle MAY 2 on your calendar. Time to decide what role you will play in this important event. What is BIRDATHON? During one 24- hour period, we try to see as many bird species as we can. We obtain monetary pledges from our friends and associates to recognize our accomplishment in recognizing each of many bird species. Therefore, BIRDATHON is a fund-raiser. Who are WE? Members of Bexar Audubon. Friends. Supporters. YOU are the WE in this formula, and you are encouraged to take one or more active parts in BIRDATHON 1992! There are roles for bird spotters, for pledge solicitors, for recorders, for drivers, for pledgers, and for others as well. There's at least one role that's right for you. And YOU are needed. Say you don't know sparrow from a condor? No problem. Experienced spotters will be glad to bring you into the ranks on-the-job. BIRDATHON is fun, educational, and a worthy cause. Money earned through BIRDATHON is divided in half between regional Audubon projects and our Audubon Adventures classroom support. This year's BIRDATHON chairperson is Leslie Linehan, 558-6594. Call her now to discuss how you will help with BIRDATHON 1992. Education Report Remember that the BAS video library is available to teachers or other groups for educational purposes. Free delivery and pick-up are offered. Contact Betty Minyard, Education Chair, 344-6128, for a list of videos or other information about any of these education programs. Last Call for Scholarships This is your last call for the Ecology Camp Scholarship program. March 15 is the deadline to apply for the BAS scholarship to attend a National Audubon Society Ecology Camp or Workshop. The winner will be announced on April 1, but your application must be postmarked by March 15 or in the hands of the judges by that date. There is still time to apply. Teachers, scout leaders, zoo or museum docents, others involved in teaching children, or college students pursuing a career in education may apply. For an application form and guidelines, call Betty Minyard at 344-6128. Former winners include Lisa Kuntz, 1989; Carolyn Chipman-Evans and Betty Watson, 1990; and Marcia Rathbun, 1991. Perhaps you will be our 1992 scholar. Blind Catfish -Bexar's Own Endangered Species Most of us know of at least some of the high-profile species that are in danger of extinction due to continuing loss of habitat or other encroaching human activities. Species that easily come to mind include the Whooping Crane, California Condor, Attwater's Prairie-chicken, the Red Wolf, or Golden-cheeked Warbler, whose plights have been well publicized. We should remember also, however, that many lessvisible species, such as water dwellers, are also at our mercy and even more at risk, since their survival is totally dependent on a clean and consistent supply of water. I REDUCE • REUSE • RECYCLE • REDUCE • REUSE • RECYCLE • REDUCE • REUSE I Page3 How many know that two threatened and possibly endangered fish species are unique inhabitants of Bexar County, living only in the southern portion of the Edwards Aquifer San Antonio Pool? Their names are Satan eurystomus (widemouth blindcat) and Trogloglanis pattersoni (toothless blindcat), first described in 1919 and 1947, respectively. They are the only troglobitic (cave-dwelling) catfish in the United States, and are probably descendants of ancestors of the Ictalurid flathead and bullhead catfish. They possess not even indications of eyes and have no skin pigment, appearing pink in color. The widemouth blindcat is also probably the top carnivore in its distribution and, therefore, might be susceptible to and an accurate monitor of any pollutants that might find their way into the aquifer. The toothless blindcat is probably largely herbivorous. These two catfish are protected as nongame species by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, but are not currently listed as endangered. The last surveys and last known observations of these two species were made in 1977 and 1978 by Glenn Longley of SWTU and Henry Karnei, Jr. Bexar Audubon has requested the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to review and determine the current status of these blindcats, since no observations have been made since those surveys. We are especially concerned about them, as well as other aquatic species dependent on the aquifer, in view of the drastic water withdrawals and other changes impacting the aquifer that have occurred in the area they inhabit in the last few years. We hope the blindcats are still there and are secure in their status. -Jim Garriott Education Report Terk Ranch Wildlife Haven On undoubtedly the most beautiful day so far in 1992, a small group visited the Del Rio ranch of David Terk, president of American Beverage. As he had told us, the ranch was host or home to a great deal of wildlife. The bird species count for our trip was over fifty, including all three phoebes, the Verdin, the Vermillion Flycatcher, Harris Hawk, and many species of waterfowl. One of the most fascinating sights was of a Red-shouldered Hawk performing a courting or territorial display. As long as David Terk and family manage their ranch, there will be a safe haven for wildlife living around and passing through Del Rio, Texas. We applaud and appreciate his stewardship. Mitchell Lake Sanctuary Coming True Due to poor weather conditions on January 18 our outing to Mitchell Lake was postponed to February 1. The weather was considerably improved then. Ruth Lofgren presented a concise history and outline of plans for the San Antonio Wetlands project, summarized at right. The dream of Mitchell Lake becoming a wonderful wildlife sanctuary is coming true, slowly but surely. -Marge Flandermeger Congratulations BEXAR TRACKS, March 1992 ~ San Antonio Wetlands Following are excerpts from a January 17 report presented by Dr. Ruth Lofgren, Wetlands Project Director for the League of Women Voters of the San Antonio Area: The Wastewater Management Department of the City of San Antonio is converting the sewage lagoons at the north end of Mitchell Lake into a wildlife refuge for shorebirds and waterfowl as part of a comprehensive plan to clean up and maintain the area no longer needed for sludge management. Public support for the Wildlife Sanctuary will be essential if it is to be developed, enjoyed, protected, and maintained. The San Antonio Wetlands project is a cooperative program in Mitchell Lake Wetlands Wildlife Sanctuary Area BAS Conservation Committee National Audubon Society Chapter Membership Application 0 Yes, I'd like to join. Please enroll me as a member of the National Audubon Society and of my local chapter, Bexar Audubon Society. Please send Audubon magazine, Bexar Tracks, and my membership card to the address below. Chairman Vice Chairman Public Lands (Refuges, Forests, & Wetlands) Open Space Planning Recycling/Resource Conservation Aquifer Protection & Regional Water Plan Endangered Species Mitchell Lake Project Friedrich Park Richard Pipes Linda Tippen 1-512-569-2452 590-9371 Richard Pipes 1-512-569-2452 Linda & Ted Tippen 590-9371 Walter Barfield 736-0355 Pete Bauml Jim Garriott 1-512-620-0640 695-9520 684-2668 223-3281 Marge Flandermeyer Bill Woller 0 A $20 check for my introductory membership is enclosed. 0 I think an Audubon Society membership is a great gift. Send gift memberships to my friends and family listed separately ($20 each). NAME __________________ ~PHONE ______ __ ADDRESS ____________________________ __ CITY/STATE/ZIP --- Make all checks payable to the National Audubon Society. I· --- WT9--1 Send this form and your check to: , Local Chapter i Bexar Audubon Society L__~:2~-~---J P.O.Box 6084, San Antonio, TX 78209 ~ BEXAR TRACKS, March 1992 Page4 which volunteers from the League of ~ •n 'Tt.,.~c·''" Women Voters, the Junior League of San ~ . eep1 1£6 ~ ~ .,. .ft Antonio, the San Antonio Audubon ;:, Society, the Bexar Audubon Society, and E D other interested groups are working with nvironmental Coalition ftecgcling Begins with You the Department of Wastewater Management to assist in public education as well as the planning and implementation of the Master Plan for the wetlands. • Birds migrating along the central flyway have been stopping at the 'wetlands' for the century since Mitchell Lake was formed. • A map dated 1764 indicates that a Camino Real ran through the Mitchell Lake area. When the San Antonio Wetlands Wildlife Refuge is ready for visitors, it will be located on the map of La Bahia Historical Corridor published by the Alamo Area Council of Governments. The Environmental Action Group at Trinity University will develop an informative as well as attractive display on the wetlands for a window in the Maverick Building on Houston Street as part of the Downtown Alamo Area Window Museum program. The San Antonio Environmental Coalition quarterly Environmental Issues Forum is scheduled for Tuesday, March 10 at 7 pm at the Witte Museum Auditorium, 3801 Broadway (south of Hildebrand). The forum is free and open to the public. The topic is "Resource Protection Initiatives: Grassroots Vigilance." Speakers include David Buzan, Texas Watch Coordinator, Texas Water Commission, speaking on the Community Support Program; Kathy McWhorter, Coordinator, Friends of Waller Creek, and Patricia Dubose, Coordinator, Friends of Little Blanco Creek, discussing two independent grassroots water monitoring initiatives; and Channi Gilfeather, Student, LBJ Science Academy, providing personal perspectives on the Colorado River Watch Network sponsored by the Lower Colorado River Authority. For more information, call 826-4698. The mural painting class at San Antonio Art Institute has been invited to consider improving the walls below the display windows at the east end of the Maverick Building by painting an appropriate mural there. The Historical Review Board Solar Brigade Forms has given conceptual approval. Friends of the Wetlands Wildlife Refuge will be delighted to hear that a meeting of the Mitchell Lake Subcommittee of the 201 Wastewater Advisory Committee of City Council will review the Master Plan and the plans for the wetlands in detail. In Memoriam Steven J. Hanselmann, regarded by all who knew him as a consummate birder, passed away suddenly on Monday, February 17, 1992. Steve knew birds - by calls, song and chip notes, field marks, behaviors, habitats, and life histories. His skills set the standard for the art in this area. His contributions to field work in central Texas, not only relating to birds but also to his secondary avocation, beetles, have been significant. His appreciation of natural history was deep and abiding. He taught us much. Steve was an irreplaceable resource. He will long be missed. According to Fred Baumgarten of NAS, "More Americans than ever say they are ready for solar power and that the need for an environmentally sound alternative energy \GA is urgent. With that in ~\\ IJ~ mind, Audubon is launching a 'national referendum' to push utilities toward greater use of solar energy. The aim is to have at least a million citizens enlisted in a 'Solar Brigade' by year's end." "'Ten percent solar in ten years' is our motto," says Audubon scientist Jan Etyea. What can you do? Put a note in with your next monthly electric utility bill, and get your friends and neighbors to do the same. i>ear Arthur VOn Rosenberg General Manager, Clty.Public Service: We want 10 percent solar electricity h:fiO years. · · Then, send your name, address, and phone, along with the name of your utility company to: National Audubon Society, ATTN: Solar Brigade - Dept. AA, 950 Third Ave., New York, NY 10022. Does your company or business recycle? Do you/they buy recycled paper and other products? If you don't know the answers to these questions, ask - and offer to get information on how to implement a recycling program or a more "enlightened" purchasing program. Be sure to sign and return the curbside recycling petition that is being circulated. If you want more information or need a copy of the petition, call the League of Women Voters, 733-0438. Veriscape for Beauty, .4. Water Conservation "Xeriscaping - planting drought-resistant plants, mulching, using low-flow irrigation, and other strategies- can cut lawn and garden water use by 30 to 80 percent," according to the February 1992 Audubon Activist. But, your xeriscape may be the key to more than a beautiful yard, water conservation, and less time behind the lawnmower. The Edwards Underground Water District and WOAI Radio are sponsoring a xeriscape contest from now through April 15. Either your xeriscape plan or its implementation may be entered. As a complement to the contest, the Homeowner Consultation team of the Master Gardeners of Bexar County is offering half-hour consultations on xeriscape conversion questions March 13- 14 from 9 am until noon. Additional days may be scheduled. For more information, call Kathy at the Bexar County Office of the Texas Agricultural Extension Service, 228-0417. Bexar Tracks The editor believes the information in this publication to be accurate as of March 1. We welcome contributions of news, opinions, letters, and other information of interest to members. Any submission may be edited. Deadline for submissions is generally the Friday following the general meeting, Please send your comments or contributions for Bexar Tracks to the editor, POBox 690028, San Antonio, TX 78269-0028, FAX to 512-696-8053, or bring them to the meeting. Or phone the editor at 512-696-6868. PageS A Lesson Too Late This morning I said a final good-bye to my dearest companion, Theya. The day before yesterday she was running happy circles in the yard, stalking squirrels, napping in the sun, and engaging in the other activities that made up her daily existence. As a bonus, that afternoon we'd planted bluebonnets. In my one concession to garden pesticides, and to protect the new plants from the ravages of snails, slugs, and pill bugs, I'd scattered just a few "bug bait" pellets (Metaldehyde) by each plant and carefully watered them in - as I have ever since I took up gardening. The label warns of possible attractiveness to dogs, but her complete disinterest during the past eight years had lulled me into complacence. Just as the Olympic torch was being lighted, I happened to glance out and saw her with her head down by the new plants. The tremors commenced within minutes and all the emergency attention of the next 36 hours was unequal to the power of half-a-dozen quarter-inch bits -of mostly inert ingredients. This story isn't meant to be morbid. (Theya had a good, if too short life, and my own life was enriched for her presence in it.) The intent is to prevent this tragedy from being repeated. -Susan Rust Poison in the Garden Last week my first bluebonnet bloomed and everywhere I looked there was evidence of spring. In a drive to keep this beauty with us as long as possible, we are tempted to try to keep everything off and away from our growing things. Remember Rachel Carson's book, The Silent Spring? Oftentimes we forget that in exchange for a bug-free· environment we get one that is free of many more organisms than just "bugs." So, what can you do to keep destructive pests out of your garden and protect tender vegetation? Some alternatives to powerful chemicals take a little more time and attention, but when you think about them objectively and READ THE LABELS, the "organic" alternatives are often clearly superior. R.H. Hart's book, Bugs, Slugs & Other Thugs: Controlling Garden Pests Organically (Storey Communications,1991), presents a wide range of pest controls that are safe for both the user and the environment. . Take snails and slugs as examples. Hart says poisons for snails and slugs (often dehydrating agents) are sometimes not even fatal. In rainy or humid weather they can rehydrate themselves and survive. Snails and slugs can be repelled by interplanting prostrate rosemarywhich is also a wonderful herb to have. If you leave a board in your garden they will congregate under it and can easily be collected or destroyed when you lift it. Spray a 50/50 (no stronger) vinegar and water solution directly on plants or slugs. Try hot pepper emulsion or fresh lime juice sprays. Snip coarse hair, such as human or horse hair, into tiny pieces and scatter it in areas snails or slugs frequent. The tiny hairs irritate their skin. An old stand-by is to sink a shallow dish, tin can, or similar container of beer in an area slugs and snails frequent. They are attracted to the beer, fall in, and drown. If you don't want to use beer, use cider vinegar and sugar; fermented fruit peels; or a mixture of brown sugar (1 lb.), dry yeast (lh package), and water (to make 1 gallon). Let ferment for several days uncovered. When you think about "bugs" remember that pesticides can have far-reaching effects. Watch out for beneficial insects. And remember when you consider killing caterpillars . they are a necessary part of having butterflies. Be cautious with fertilizers to reduce surface water pollution. Minimize the amount that flows to storm sewers. Use the correct amount of slow-release product and keep it off pavement and driveways. '17gnettes from Nature The swan has long been romanticized in legends and the arts. Sibelius composed the idyllic tone poem, "The Swan of Tuonela," and Tschaikovsky immortalized this family of waterfowl in his "Swan Lake" ballet. Finland has honored the Whooper Swan as its national bird. Majestic and enchanting, swans evoke images of cold moonlit nights and serene lakes nestled in pristine northern forests. The pure white feathers and long graceful necks of the adult birds remind us of qualities such as peace, grace, and elegance, and their worldwide habitat means their beauty is an experience shared by people of many lands. Swans are members of the family Anatidae. Of the several species in North BEXAR TRACKS, March 1992 fil . America, only a subspecies of the Tundra Swan (Cygnus columbianus), formerly called Whistling Swan, is commonly in Texas - it winters in west Texas and southern New Mexico, as well as the west and east coasts of the U.S. "Whooper," "Trumpeter," "Whistling," and "Mute"the common names of some swan species- indicate the importance of their characteristic calls for identification. Swans are omnivorous and have large broad bodies, huge wings, dense plumage with abundant down, short legs, and webbed feet- evidence of their excellent adaptation to frigid northern habitats and aquatic lifestyle. Their size does require a long water runway to get airborne, however, so they literally run on the water, pounding the surface with their webbed feet and even their wing tips. Swans migrate with their families and mate for life. Swans often line their nests with their own down to protect and conceal eggs, and, once the eggs hatch, both parents continue this regime of devoted attention to their young, called "cygnets," who usually swim within a day. These creatures are so prized for their beauty, exotic species are often imported to grace private and public ponds. Wild populations of the Mute Swan, an Old World species, are increasing on the east coast. A contrast to the more common white species, the Australian Black Swan is a popular addition to parks and private estates, as is the South American Blacknecked Swan. Neither of these has yet become established in the wild in North America. -Allen Perry AUDUBON COLLECTION JOHN J. AUDUBON 171~·\~SI SE.fl.AND FALCON AUDUBON BLANC CALIFO RNIA WHITE WlNE PRODUCED&. BOTIU.D BY AUDUBON CELLARS, 8ERKEI.l!.Y, CA ALCOHOL 12.4" BY VOLUME • CONTACNS SUt.FtfES ~ BEXAR TRACKS, March 1992 Calendar - March A~p==-r-:-il-:--:---=-~:--~-=--. 3-5 Audubon Council of Texas. Plano, Texas. 7 Natural history hike. Friedrich Wilderness Park. 9 am. Call698-1057. 10 "Madagascar: A Naturalist's Paradise in Peril." John McLain, Curator of Reptiles & Aquarium. San Antonio Zoo Education Bldg. 7-8:30 pm. $2 [zoo members free]. Call734-7184, ext.168. 10 "Resource Protection Initiatives: Grassroots Vigilance." San Antonio Environmental Coalition. 7 pm. Witte Museum Auditorium, Free and open to the public. For information, 826-4698. 12 BAS Board Meeting. 7:30pm. Call Thelma Nungesser, 824-8199, for more information. 12-14 San Antonio Carden Center Plant Sale, 9 am-4 pm. 3310 N. New Braunfels. Xeriscape plants, herbs, bedding plants, bulbs, vegetables, and more. 14 "Archaeology of the Texas Hill Country." BAS Second Saturday at Friedrich Wilderness Park. 9 am. Call698-1057. IS Deadline to apply for BAS Ecology Camp/Workshopscholarship. Contact Betty Minyard, 344-6128. I9 BAS Conservation Committee Meeting. Ruble Center, 419 E. Magnolia, 6 pm. Call Dick Pipes, 1-512-569-2452, or Linda Tippen, Vice Chair, at 590-9371. Members and interested others welcome. 19 BAS General Meeting. Ruble Center, 419 E. Magnolia, 7 pm. Call Nathan Ratner, 826-4462. 21 BAS Outing. Whooping crane tour to the Texas Coast. See page I. Phone 684-2668. 24 Native Plant Society. 7 pm. Lion's Field Clubhouse. Broadway at Mulberry. 681-8370. 28 "Wonderful World of Weather." John Willing, KMOL-TV. Cibolo Wilderness Trail. 10-11 am. Call1-512-537-4141. 31 Deadline for Curbside Recycling Pickup petitions. Call the League of Women Voters, 733-0438, for more information. OFFICERS AND BOARD 4 4 5 Call Jan or Dick Woolheater at 214-618-- 0732 or E.G. White-Swift at 214-328-5939. Natural history hike. Friedrich Wilderness Park. 9 am. Call698-1057. "Spring Wildflowers." Seminar and field trip. Patty Leslie. Botanical Center. 9 am-5 pm. Call BettY Hughes, 821-5143. Wildflower Bus Trip to Eagle Lake and Wildseed, Inc. Patty Leslie and Friends of Friedrich. $35 (includes $10 membership); $25 for members. Call698-1057 or 824-1235 by March 20 for reservations. BAS Board Meeting. 7:30 pm. 10 "Hornbills: Headed for Trouble." San Antonio Zoo, Straus Education Building, 7-8:30 pm. $2. Call 734-7184, ext. 168. 11 ."Golden-Cheeked Warblers & Black-Capped Vireos." Second saturday at Friedrich Wilderness Park. 9 am. Call 698-1057. 11-12 VIVA BOTANICAl 12th Anniversary. Botanical Center. 10 am-6 pm. 16 BAS Conservation Committee Meeting. Ruble Center, 419 E. Magnolia, 6 pm. Call Dick Pipes, 1-512-569-2452, or Linda Tippen, Vice Chair, 590-9371. 16 BAS General Meeting. 7 pm. 25 Cibolo Native Plant Sale & Demonstration. Cibolo Wilderness Trail, Boerne. 9 am-noon. Call1-512-537-4141. Mag 12 Bexar Audubon Birdathon. Don't miss itt I 2 2-3 9 Natural history hike. Friedrich Wilderness Park. 9 am. Call698-1057. "Your Yard: How Wild Can it Be?" Susan Rust Botanical Center. 9 am-12. 821-5143. "Wildflowers of Friedrich Wilderness Park." BAS Second Saturday at Friedrich Wilderness Park. 9 am. Call698-1057. Page6 12 "Paraguay: Native Peoples; Native Problems." San Antonio Zoo, Straus Education Building, 7-8:30 pm. $2. Call 734-7184, ext. 168. 13 "Insects of the Night" Second Saturday at Friedrich Wilderness Park, 9 pm. Call 698-1057 for more information, ·.· 13-19 Act for Wildlife in '92: EnMngeyed Species Need Youl-NAS convention in Washington, D.C. Write Audubon Convention Office, 4150 Darley Ave. #5, Boulder, CO 80303 by April!. . 23 Reptile & herpetile program. Diana Sarratt Junek. Cibolo Wilderness Trail, Boerne. 10 am-12. Call1-512-537-4141. June 1-12 U.N. Conference on Environment & Development. Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. 6 Natural history hike. Friedrich Wilderness Park. 9 am. Call698-1057. 10 Project Wild environmental training for teachers, and other educators. 8:30 am - 3:30 pm. AAT credit. Free, preregistration required. 821-5143. 27 "Gardens by Moonlight." Botanical Center. 7-10 pm. Call Betty Hughes, 821-5143. Ongoing Every Thursday, 1 pm, San Antonio City Council meetings, City Hall. Fourth Tuesdays, 5-6 pm, Open Space Advisory Board meets, City Hall. San Antonio Light CreenLine offers environmental tips & event reminders 24 hours a day at 512-554-0500, category 7220. National Audubon Society's Actionline provides a weekly update of environmental news. Dial 202-547-9009 and ask for the Actionline; after hours, press 4 when the line answers. For status of federal bills, call Legislative Information & Bill Status, 202-225-1772. NOTE: For additional events, please see the Februarg Calendar. Walter Barfield Marge Flandermeyer Betty Minyard President Vice President Treasurer Secretary Board Member Board Member Board Member Board Member 736-0355 684-2668 344-6128 653-2860 651-6054 226-6808 696-6868 824-8199 BEXAR AUDUBON SOCIE1Y P.O. BOX 6084 NON-PROFIT ORG. U.S. POSTAGE PAID Caryl Swann Audrey Cooper Ronald "Rusty" Guyer Susan K. Hughes Thelma Nungesser COMMITTEE CHAIRPERSONS Conservation Education Finance Richard Pipes 1-512-569-2452 Betty Minyard 344-6128 Membership Thelma Nungesser 824-8199 Outings Marge Flandermeyer 653-2860 Programs Nathan Ratner 826-4462 Publicity Barb DeLuca 492-4291 Bexar Tracks Editor Susan K. Hughes 696-6868 PO Box 690028, San Antonio, TX 78269-0028•FAX 696-8053 Printed on recycled paper. Please recycle in the interest of the present and the future. SAN ANTONIO, TX 78209 Address Con-ection Requested SAN ANTONIO, TEXAS Permit No. 590 Text Cygnus columbianus Tundra Tundra Swan Whooper Swan UTSA Digital Collections (The University of Texas at San Antonio) Audrey ENVELOPE(-67.100,-67.100,-68.133,-68.133) Blanco ENVELOPE(-55.233,-55.233,-61.250,-61.250) DuBose ENVELOPE(-128.637,-128.637,54.283,54.283) Grande Valley ENVELOPE(-58.990,-58.990,-62.198,-62.198) Midland ENVELOPE(8.224,8.224,63.072,63.072) Plano ENVELOPE(-61.250,-61.250,-62.783,-62.783) Swann ENVELOPE(-62.967,-62.967,-73.867,-73.867) Tippen ENVELOPE(17.519,17.519,69.084,69.084) Waller Creek ENVELOPE(-130.120,-130.120,53.344,53.344) |