POST Event Blog

Reprint of an email from Pam, they were walking the Russel Tract.

Pam wrote:
Just had to share a lucky shot I got today of a Black-capped Vireo.  We were on the walk with Judy Bell.  She had let us hear what to listen for when a member of the group thought he heard it ;  we walked over closer to the road.  This cooperative little guy gave us a thrill ... what fun.
Pam Goolsby

Well, I would usually post about the days events and show pictures and present the birdlist here, but.....you gotta check out Chuck's Blog for his fabulous dissertation on the days events and official birdlist. It may be a day or two before the birdlist is posted to it.

If you attended, expect a survey so we can get your feedback/suggestions for making the experience better for you. You can also get to it here: SPARROWFEST SURVEY

If you would like to share your SPARROWFEST pictures, you can upload them to a photo album on your member profile page. You must be logged into the website to see (paid) member-only content.

On behalf of the Friends of Balcones Board, thank you so very much for joining us. I hope we have many more opportunities to see you at the Refuge!

The refuge hosted its first ever Big Sit! on Sunday, October 11th.
Shelia Hargis and Laurie Foss arrived at the location at 7:00 a.m. full of hope and expectations for the day to clear up and be sunny. That was just not to be! Instead of clearing up and getting warmer, it rained most of the day and was cold. The cold and rain kept it from being a really "birdy" day, but we had a blast anyway.
Joined by Cathy and John Harrington, the day provided us 26 species, only 4 short of our target goal of 30 species for the day.
We set our circle at Doeskin Ranch, on a spur of the Pond Trail. This gave us a view of the riparian area as well as the grasslands that eventually make their way up the hillside.
We had a family of American Kestrels that entertained us all day with their antics, and a Northern Cardinal showed up in the rain so brightly red that it looked like it was lit from within!

While the weather was a bit chilly, and the monarchs were missing, 185 participants arrived to enjoy the field trips and the kids really enjoyed  the Snakes Alive show and of course, Lucas Miller.

Liz was kept busy gathering pond critters and even a snake was rescued from the porta pottie. The rat snake,affectionately named 'Greeny Wienie' was a funny green shade, but he did survive.

I'm still looking for pictures so if any of you who attended has some to share, login to the website account and post them in your profile. YES, our paid membership levels have a nice new option now that allows YOU to share your photos on our website.