The Redbud Audubon Society will lead its first field trip of the year on Saturday, September 23 at the Rodman Preserve, 6350 Westlake Rd. off of the Nice Lucerne Cutoff starting at 9 a.m.
The preserve features Oak and wetland habitats and this interesting outing usually includes species that inhabit the wetlands along Rodman Slough including herons and migratory waterfowl. The walk should also include sightings of other wildlife and many songbirds including flycatchers, woodpeckers, sparrows and blue birds. Please wear sturdy shoes and bring water, binoculars and a lunch if you would like to enjoy lunch on the Rodman Preserve nature center porch.
The walk is approximately one and one-half miles on mostly level terrain with some short uphill areas.
Please do not confuse the Rodman Preserve with the County’s Rodman Slough Park. The preserve is on Westlake Dr. which is a left turn after you have exited onto the Nice Lucerne Cutoff. If you go as far as the bridge crossing Rodman Slough you have missed it. The County Park is at the bridge; the Preserve is on Westlake Dr.
For more information about the Redbud Audubon Society go to www.redbudaudubon.org.
Program focuses on historical impacts on Kaua’i
Redbud Audubon welcomes Gordon Beebe as the first program presenter for the season on Thursday, September 21, at the Kelseyville Presbyterian Church Social Hall, 5430 Third St. Kelseyville. This is a new location for the group which previously met at St. Peter’s Catholic Church social hall. The evening starts with refreshments at 7 p.m. followed by announcements and the program.
When Beebe traveled to Kaua’i in 2016, there was a species of bird he was particularly looking forward to seeing, the I’iwi. The fact that he didn’t find it led him to research why not. The reason is complex, best explained by examining the entire history of the island, from its volcanic birth to the arrival of the first plant and animal species, to their adaptation and evolution in this new environment.
The presentation continues with the arrival of the first humans from Polynesia, then the subsequent arrival of Europeans and others, their manipulation of the environment, introduction of foreign animals and diseases, and the effects of all of these changes on native species.
Beebe’s presentation showcases Native and introduced species of birds, other animals, plants and scenic views using photos, audio and video. Graphics and animations are included, illustrating significant events in the history of Kaua’i. The presentation concludes by highlighting the efforts of many local and international groups to preserve and protect the native species and habitats on this fragile island paradise.
Beebe is a field trip leader and website editor for Madrone Audubon Society, as well as a volunteer at Native Songbird Care in Sebastopol every breeding season. He specializes in documenting natural tropical habitats in photo, video and sound in order to share his experiences with others. He lives with his wife and faithful traveling companion Judy in Santa Rosa.
For more information about the Redbud Audubon Society, go to www.redbudaudubon.org. The society is a local non-profit, affiliated with the National Audubon Society. Redbud Audubon leads monthly walks September through April, gives monthly program meetings, presents the annual Heron Days event and holds the annual Christmas Bird Count. The public is welcome to all Redbud Audubon Society events.
