On Saturday, May 10th RPBO participated in the
celebration of International Migratory Bird Day at Beaver Lake. Thanks to Penny
Lancaster who organized us for the event and to the many RPBO members who came
out to volunteer for the day. Also big thanks to the CRD, particularly Nancy Dohan, who were instrumental in putting this event together!
The other participants were: Victoria Natural History Society,
Pacific Northwest Raptors, Saanich Nature Pre-School, Rithet’s Bog Conservation
Society, the BC Hummingbird Project and Malcolm & Christina Rodin displaying
their birdhouses (which attract our native species). There were also hour-long bird walks with Geoffrey Newell which
were well attended. Everyone participating was there to share their love of
birds and to promote awareness of bird migration.
The IMBD website on the topic of “Why Celebrate Birds” says:
“Public awareness and concern are
crucial components of migratory bird conservation. Citizens who are
enthusiastic about birds, informed about threats, and empowered to become
involved in addressing those threats, can make a tremendous contribution to
maintaining healthy bird populations. By modeling what can be done and
involving people, their interest and involvement in stewardship can grow. One
of the most successful vehicles for public education on migratory birds is
International Migratory Bird Day (IMBD). Across the Americas Bird Day
events are providing great ways for people to get involved.”
RPBO set up 5 mist nets in the area with
the intent of netting some birds to demonstrate bird banding to the public and
explain the importance of the work that we do. The first bird in the net was a
female Rufous Hummingbird. Alison Moran, our hummingbird expert, banded and measured the
bird while providing everyone with a great deal of fascinating information
about Rufous Hummingbirds. She showed us that this female had a brood patch,
meaning she has eggs or young in a nest. So the bird was quickly released to
return to her nest. Needless to say, everyone was completely fascinated to get
a close look and to learn so much at the same time.
The other birds caught and banded were a
Chestnut-backed Chickadee, an Oregon Junco and an American Robin. Towards the
end of the day we caught a beautiful female Northern Flicker much to everyone’s
delight. We didn’t have a large enough band for that bird, so once everyone had
a good look she was released. The best part of the day was watching the delight
of the children crowded around the banding table looking on with rapt attention
and asking so many questions. The fate of our birds lies in the hands of
children and inspiring their interest and concern for the avian world.
Pacific Northwest Raptors brought some
wonderful birds to show everyone – a Peregrine Falcon, a Swainson’s Hawk (not a
local bird, but beautiful!), a Barred Owl, and later on in the day a Turkey
Vulture put in an appearance direct from the ferry after a film shoot! The
woman showing these birds did an excellent job of describing the special
qualities of each raptor. She even made us love Turkey Vultures and their
unique features! It was a treat to see these wonderful raptors up close.
All in all, it was a great day to be
outside with the public, sharing our appreciation and knowledge about birds and
hopefully inspiring people to get involved!
