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UMichBirders for Saturday, March 22, 2008
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Subject: [birders] Re: birds is birds...
From: "Cendra" <cendra(AT)digitalrealm.net>
Date: 22 Mar 2008 2:10am
Yes, John, you did read that correctly.
The sad, sad news is that I am one of those Ann Arborites who somehow
manages to survive well below the poverty level. Once the health insurance
system cut out mental health as part of health care, we clinical
psychologists who had thriving practices were left out in the cold. Add
single-parenthood and inadvertantly creating a grief support site on line
which I couldn't just abandon, and you have my yearly tax credit checks
going to pay the house taxes.
Ever the optimist (see, I haven't left the Sixties), I know there's a pony
under all this manure, so I keep digging. Youngest daughter is only a
couple of years away from solvency/graduation, so in the mean time I will
just keep using my bi-focals and my ears. Despite my limited optics, I do
manage to see an inordinate number of birds lying in my hammock under the
Old West Side's mature canopy. We won't talk about what all I take in
through my ears, as I've been sent off to study bird calls in private until
my reports are credible!
Despite all the above, I couldn't agree more with your rigid opinion!! I
know when my ship comes in that I'll really enjoy the binoculars - not least
because I'm also an amateur astronomer.
Gratefully,
Cendra
-----Original Message-----
From: John Lowry [mailto:john(AT)kingbird.org]
Sent: Friday, March 21, 2008 9:54 PM
To: birders(AT)umich.edu
Cc: birders(AT)umich.edu
Subject: [birders] Re: birds is birds...
Cendra,
Did I correctly read that you don't own a binocular? I can't think of any
better use for your tax check than to pick up a decent binocular! (By the
way, a pair of binoculars is two of the items - I have a pair, but I only
use one at a time. Semantics...)
Seriously, if there is anyone on this list (therefore presumably a
bird-watcher of some species) who doesn't own (or have full time access to)
a modern, professional grade binocular, I can't stress enough how much you
are missing. You will not learn birds until you have quality optics.
Period. I'm sorry to be so rigid on this, but a sighted birder is missing
most of the birding experience without quality optics. Everyone has a
favorite, and if you start shopping with a reputable retailer you'll quickly
discover that there are so many models because each person's requirements
are different.
Anyway, spring is coming. Treat yourself (and your birding partners) by
upgrading your optics to professional grade. You will never regret it.
Regards!
John Lowry
PS. If you ever bump into me and want to look through any binocular I'm
carrying, don't be shy! The best way to test binos is in the field.
On Mar 21, 2008, at 4:54 PM, Cendra wrote:
>
> Yesterday while tooling home on Jackson Rd., I realized I was passing
> the Little Lake area. So I did two Michigan lefts and drove in. No
> birds visible. Weird, I thought, after all the messages about this
> spot. So I
> opened the windows and heard robins and red-winged blackbirds.
> Then I saw
> two ordinary, boring, probably-overwintering Canadian geese on the
> Western pond. Although there were sounds of many birds, only one
> red-winged blackbird was far enough up for me to see him. The other
> water-borne animals were two fisherpeople in a boat at the other end
> of the Eastern lake.
>
> Would I see waterfowl? Yes - there were more....DUCKS in a bay to the
> east, too far away to identify as anything other than ducks. I don't
> own binoculars. My excitement was easily bearable. They looked like
> dark-colored ducks. Suddenly there was the loud sound of ....
> CANADIAN
> GEESE! They flew in from the South and circled overhead twice,
> arguing vociferously about whether or not to land. In no formation
> whatever they circled lower and lower, with the arguing increasing,
> their back feet paddling the air. (What? Paddling? Is this a new
> aeronautical manuever?
> Does it slow them down? Speed them up? Put their chairbacks in an
> upright position and lock their trays for landing?) At an altitude of
> about 50'
> they headed south, still arguing, the last one barely clearing the
> tree top, and headed over the hill in the formation of a stealth
> bomber, making as much noise as kids at recess.) Boy! am I ever
> having a great time in this freezing wind seeing nothing whatever new,
> and very little of anything.
>
> Suddenly I forgot all about birds and the chill as I saw a minute,
> headless, brown Loch Ness monster chug chuggin out from shore. By the
> time I got out of the car it had dived. So I watched the riffles
> above where it, and soon it surfaced, chug chugging back to shore.
> Ah! At last I am in the element I
> know: mammals. A beautiful, light brown muskrat, taking a lunch
> break.
> S/he went back into her/his den, and though I waited many minutes, as
> silent as my ancestors, on the bank slightly out of the wind, s/he did
> not feel inclined to venture back out, undoubtedly having heard my
> footsteps through the ground.
>
> So I got back in the car and headed home, figuring that later on all
> those birds the rest of this group sees would soon arrive at these
> little lakes.
>
> The sun was still well up, so I didn't see any nighthawks this time!
>
> Cendra Lynn
>
>
> ---
> * birders FAQ - http://www.umich.edu/~bbowman/birds/birders_FAQ.html
> * photo sharing site - http://www.umich.edu/~bbowman/birds/se_mich/
> photos.html
>
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>
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[ << | >> | ^^ ]
Subject: [birders] Re: birds is birds...
From: WovenWoman(AT)aol.com
Date: 22 Mar 2008 9:23am
----INCLUDING text/plain MIME SECTION----
In a message dated 3/22/2008 2:10:37 AM Eastern Daylight Time,
cendra(AT)digitalrealm.net writes:
Yes, John, you did read that correctly.
The sad, sad news is that I am one of those Ann Arborites who somehow
manages to survive well below the poverty level. Once the health insurance
system cut out mental health as part of health care, we clinical
psychologists who had thriving practices were left out in the cold. Add
single-parenthood and inadvertantly creating a grief support site on line
which I couldn't just abandon, and you have my yearly tax credit checks
going to pay the house taxes.
Dear Cendra,
Join Freecycle, give away something you dont want , and ask for a binocular.
(cough semantics) The Ann Arbor group has over 3000 active members. I am
sure someone in the area has a pair they are not using and will give you for
free. _http://www.freecycle.org/group/United%20States/Michigan/Ann%20Arbor_
(http://www.freecycle.org/group/United%20States/Michigan/Ann%20Arbor)
Namaste,
Edie
**************Create a Home Theater Like the Pros. Watch the video on AOL
Home.
(http://home.aol.com/diy/home-improvement-eric-stromer?video=15?ncid=aolhom00030000000001)
---
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----DELETED text/html MIME SECTION----
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Subject: [birders] Blog update
From: "Allen T. Chartier" <amazilia1(AT)comcast.net>
Date: 22 Mar 2008 9:18am
This is a multi-part message in MIME format.
----INCLUDING text/plain MIME SECTION----
Birders,
I've added some ramblings about the arrival of spring, and a few photos, =
to my blog.
http://mihummingbirdguy.blogspot.com/
Allen T. Chartier
amazilia1(AT)comcast.net
Inkster, Michigan, USA
-------------------------------------------------------------------------=
----
Website: www.amazilia.net
HummerNet: www.amazilia.net/MIHummerNet
Blog: http://mihummingbirdguy.blogspot.com
-------------------------------------------------------------------------=
----
Every day, the hummingbird eats its own weight in food.
You may wonder how it weighs the food.=20
It doesn't. It just eats another hummingbird.=20
-- Steven Wright
=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=
=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D
---
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* photo sharing site - http://www.umich.edu/~bbowman/birds/se_mich/photos.html
* To unsubscribe from birders(AT)umich.edu send a blank message to
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Subject: [birders] Re: OT: Salamander Migration Information update
From: "Allen T. Chartier" <amazilia1(AT)comcast.net>
Date: 22 Mar 2008 9:40am
Vince,
I have to say that Eddie's messages are usually the trigger for me to go out
and look for salamanders in spring :-)
I'd like to add a little to what has already been said, based on my own
limited knowledge and experience.
The Spotted Salamander is the species that is most frequently encountered
during these spring migrations to the breeding ponds at Hudson Mills
Metropark. In my experience, this species tends to be the latest of the four
"mole salamander" species to emerge in Michigan. I have seen Blue-spotted
Salamanders (the most common mole salamander in the state) and the
state-endangered Small-mouthed Salamander migrating to breeding ponds in
Hillsdale County that were half-covered over with ice. And, Tiger
Salamanders seem to emerge earliest, sometimes in February (not this year),
though they seem to be more common in southwestern Michigan than in
southeastern Michigan. Tiger Salamanders seem to time their emergence with
the chorus frogs, so that may indeed be a good time to start looking for
this largest species. It seems to prefer ponds in more open situations,
including farm ponds, and I personally have only seen this species three
times in my life.
Oakwoods Metropark and Highland SGA are good places to see Blue-spotted
Salamanders in April, as they can be found under rocks and logs in the
daytime (please carefully place everything back exactly where you found it),
but witnessing the actual migration is not easy as these parks do not stay
open late enough at night. Given that some species like Tiger Salamanders
can begin migrating as late as midnight, another option is to drive dirt
roads adjacent to swampy woodlands and upland wooded areas with vernal ponds
on rainy nights in March and April (don't get stuck in the mud!). There are
many areas in Washtenaw and Oakland counties where salamanders can be seen
crossing roads, including busy paved roads. In some states, these
road-crossings are well known and consistent, and have been signposted as
"salamander crossings" to help reduce the road kill which can significantly
affect their populations. Some areas have even constructed tunnels so the
salamanders can cross under the road rather than over it. The Cherry Hill
Preserve in Washtenaw County also has salamanders and vernal ponds, though
I've personally only seen Red-backed Salamander and Eastern Newt there,
neither of which are "mole salamanders".
Allen T. Chartier
amazilia1(AT)comcast.net
Inkster, Michigan, USA
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Website: www.amazilia.net
HummerNet: www.amazilia.net/MIHummerNet
Blog: http://mihummingbirdguy.blogspot.com
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Every day, the hummingbird eats its own weight in food.
You may wonder how it weighs the food.
It doesn't. It just eats another hummingbird.
-- Steven Wright
=========================================
----- Original Message -----
From: "Vincent Ste-Marie" <v_ste.marie(AT)sbcglobal.net>
To: <birders(AT)umich.edu>
Sent: Thursday, March 20, 2008 7:54 AM
Subject: [birders] OT: Salamander Migration Information update
> Birders,
>
> Eddie has asked me to post his salamander 'hunt' info for those who may be
> interested. I've removed some of the 'conversation' parts of his e-mail,
> forwarding only the pertinent details.
>
> Vince
>
> ________________________________________
> From: Edwin Sanchez [mailto:chainking(AT)mac.com]
> Subject: Re: [birders] OT: Spring Salamander Migration?
>
> Most years the sals start moving the last week of March, sometimes not
> until
> early April. But this year it has been a cold late Winter, so we may not
> see
> the migration until after March 30.
>
> As to timing the event, here are my guidelines. Although I must admit that
> more often than not I just sense when the weather is right and simply go
> out
> and find them. Hard to explain.
>
> 1) Chorus frogs singing. This is usually a signal to make plans, because
> the
> frogs usually start calling about a week before hand. Main reason is that
> chorus frogs prefer ponds in open meadows, which thaw first. The mole sals
> prefer vernal pools in mature hardwoods, which thaw later.
>
> 2) Nighttime air temps in the 40s, usually with some rain. But beware of a
> temporary warming spell in early March. Then the ice is likely to be on
> the
> ponds and the ground still frozen. So sals won't migrate.
>
> 3) Thaw. The woodland ponds have to be ice free, or nearly so. Usually I
> don't go to check, but predict based on the temps and open ponds around my
> house.
>
> Right now the weather forecast is for low temps through Sunday. Looks like
> even the open ponds will stay frozen at least another week. So am hoping
> that it starts warming up fast early in the week. If so, then I may luck
> out
> and see the sals maybe on March 28 or 29. Not optimistic though.
>
> If the weather seems to break and I can play hooky from my
> responsibilities,
> I will run out to Hudson Mills so that I can give you a report.
>
> Otherwise, you and your amblin' ambystoma buddies will have to enjoy them
> without me!
>
> Park hours and location: It has to be dark (need-flashlight-to-see dark)
> for
> the sals to start moving. So that is usually after 8 PM, more like 8:30.
> If
> the park closes at 10 that is OK. But some years they move closing time to
> 9
> pm! (Only way to know is to check at the park entrance.) Then your only
> recourse is to befriend the park sheriff and get him to let you stay late.
> One sheriff is named Dilbert (I believe) and he is very friendly about
> this.
> Last year, though, the guy on duty was not.
>
> My most dependable spots are the vernal pools near the Oak Grove parking
> lot.
>
> -Enter park and make first right after kiosk.
> -Make first left into Oak Grove parking area.
> -Park all the way at the back end.
> -Take utility dirt road leading away from parking area until you intersect
> the nature trail.
> -Go right on the nature trail and within one hundred yards you are at the
> spot!
> -Watch your step. :-)
>
> Would not be concerned about flashlights being too strong.
>
> Enjoy and please let me know if you see any.
>
> Thanks for your interest.
>
> Eddie
>
> PS Since I am swamped, do you mind posting this info to the birders group
> as
> an OT topic? Thanks!
>
>
> ---
> * birders FAQ - http://www.umich.edu/~bbowman/birds/birders_FAQ.html
> * photo sharing site -
> http://www.umich.edu/~bbowman/birds/se_mich/photos.html
>
> * To unsubscribe from birders(AT)umich.edu send a blank message to
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> line. To
> resubscribe use SUBSCRIBE BIRDERS Your Name.
>
>
---
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[ << | >> | ^^ ]
Subject: [birders] Re: birds is birds...
From: eba(AT)umich.edu
Date: 22 Mar 2008 10:26am
--On Friday, March 21, 2008 9:54 PM -0400 John Lowry <john(AT)kingbird.org>
wrote:
> (By the way, a pair of binoculars is two of the items - I have a pair,
> but I only use one at a time. Semantics...)
I wonder, John, if when you dress in the morning, you put on only one pant,
or do you put on a pair just as many other men and women do? And do you
use a plier when you need a tight mechanical grip on something, and a
scissor to cut paper? ;-)
The American Heritage Dictionary of the English Language (my edition
copyright 1969) includes this definition of "pair":
"One object composed of two joined, similar parts, dependent on each other,
[e.g.] a pair of pliers." (brackets mine to avoid using italics).
Thus Cendra's usage fits that description perfectly, and indeed it is
familiar usage with respect to binoculars in my experience.
Eric Arnold
---
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[ << | >> | ^^ ]
Subject: [birders] cowbirds
From: "Su Clift" <s.clift(AT)comcast.net>
Date: 22 Mar 2008 10:34am
This is a multi-part message in MIME format.
----INCLUDING text/plain MIME SECTION----
I have a big bunch of 33+ cowbirds at my feeders this morning. I didn't =
realize they flock together like this. If they are all raised by other =
species of birds, how do they recognize each other as being the same as =
them, I wonder?
I also have 10 to 12 inches of snow all over, plus drifts 2.5 feet high. =
2 robins eating sunflower hearts from my feeder are here, plus the =
usual guys. I looked out at one point to a lone feeder and saw 1 =
red-winged blackbird, one grackle, and one cowbird, all around the =
buffet. Must be spring somewhere.
Su in Adrian
---
* birders FAQ - http://www.umich.edu/~bbowman/birds/birders_FAQ.html
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Subject: [birders] binoculars and WAS field trips and Ann Arbor Bird
walks
From: ddarm(AT)umich.edu
Date: 22 Mar 2008 10:50am
Dear all,
All Washtenaw Audubon Field trips are free* and open to the public and
we have a few pairs of good binoculars for those who do not have them.
Just let the leader know in advance that you'd like to borrow a pair.
If you cannot find a way to get to the departure sight (usually
Briarwood, parking area #4 or Maple/Miller Park and ride), call or
email the leader and make arrangements for a ride. See
http://www.washtenawaudubon.org/
All Ann Arbor City Parks Bird Walks are free and open to the public and
there are some pairs of binoculars available (usually about 6) to those
who do not have them. I also bring a scope that we can use to see most
of the birds up close.
There will be 3 walks sponsored by the city this spring and summer. Please see
http://www.a2gov.org/government/publicservices/fieldoperations/NAP/Pages/NaturalAreaPreservation.aspx and look up the latest newsletter. (or google city of Ann Arbor, look up Natural Area Preservation under the government menu,
etc.)
Hope this helps.
Dea Armstrong
*Some WAS field trips require membership in WAS but if one cannot
afford to pay the $20 dues, we have always waved them.
****************************************************
Deaver D. Armstrong
City Ornithologist
Natural Area Preservation Division City of Ann Arbor Department Park
Operations
1831 Traver Road
Ann Arbor, MI 48105
734-996-3266
****************************************************
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[ << | >> | ^^ ]
Subject: [birders] eagle cam
From: "Su Clift" <s.clift(AT)comcast.net>
Date: 22 Mar 2008 10:56am
This is a multi-part message in MIME format.
----INCLUDING text/plain MIME SECTION----
http://birdcam.xcelenergy.com/eagle.html
This is a great view of an eagle nest in Colorado.
Su in Adrian
---
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Subject: [birders] Re: cowbirds
From: "Allen T. Chartier" <amazilia1(AT)comcast.net>
Date: 22 Mar 2008 11:08am
This is a multi-part message in MIME format.
----INCLUDING text/plain MIME SECTION----
Su,
I'm sure their species-specific vocalizations bring them together in the =
fall as they flock prior to migration.=20
"Only" 6-inches or so of snow here in Inkster. The American Tree =
Sparrows were on the thistle socks again. This is the first winter I've =
seen this, as they are usually feeding on the ground, or briefly on an =
elevated platform feeder.
Allen T. Chartier
amazilia1(AT)comcast.net
Inkster, Michigan, USA
-------------------------------------------------------------------------=
----
Website: www.amazilia.net
HummerNet: www.amazilia.net/MIHummerNet
Blog: http://mihummingbirdguy.blogspot.com
-------------------------------------------------------------------------=
----
Every day, the hummingbird eats its own weight in food.
You may wonder how it weighs the food.=20
It doesn't. It just eats another hummingbird.=20
-- Steven Wright
=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=
=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D
----- Original Message -----=20
From: Su Clift=20
To: birders(AT)umich.edu=20
Sent: Saturday, March 22, 2008 11:34 AM
Subject: [birders] cowbirds
I have a big bunch of 33+ cowbirds at my feeders this morning. I =
didn't realize they flock together like this. If they are all raised by =
other species of birds, how do they recognize each other as being the =
same as them, I wonder?
I also have 10 to 12 inches of snow all over, plus drifts 2.5 feet =
high. 2 robins eating sunflower hearts from my feeder are here, plus =
the usual guys. I looked out at one point to a lone feeder and saw 1 =
red-winged blackbird, one grackle, and one cowbird, all around the =
buffet. Must be spring somewhere.
Su in Adrian
---
* birders FAQ - http://www.umich.edu/~bbowman/birds/birders_FAQ.html
* photo sharing site - =
http://www.umich.edu/~bbowman/birds/se_mich/photos.html=20
* To unsubscribe from birders(AT)umich.edu send a blank message to
lyris(AT)listserver.itd.umich.edu with UNSUBSCRIBE BIRDERS as the Subject =
line. To
resubscribe use SUBSCRIBE BIRDERS Your Name.=20
---
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[ << | >> | ^^ ]
Subject: [birders] woodcock in the snow
From: Macklin Smith <macklins(AT)umich.edu>
Date: 22 Mar 2008 11:11am
All--
Not rare and probably not even newsworthy, but I was amazed early this
morning to have flushed a woodcock from beneath a conifer right by the side
of the trail at County Farm Park. My first record out there, but I'm never
present at dusk either, when any birds possibly breeding would be calling.
Maybe a migrant sheltering from the thick snow?
~Macklin
Macklin Smith
Department of English
University of Michigan
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Subject: [birders] Re: birds is birds...
From: "J. Michael Nolan" <mnolan(AT)rainforestandreef.org>
Date: 22 Mar 2008 11:47am
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Cendra....
I have several pair and would be glad to give you one. Send me your =
address.=20
Thanks.
Mike Nolan
----------
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=20
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Sincerely,
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=20
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Subject: [birders] bincoulars, birding Little Lake on 3/20
From: "Heidi Dodson" <heidi.dodson(AT)comcast.net>
Date: 22 Mar 2008 2:33pm
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Fellow Birders,
All this talk about optics prompts me to ask, is there somewhere in Ann
Arbor I can get a pair of binoculars repaired? The strap broke and the
predictable happened, they eventually met with a sidewalk in Windsor, and
now I see two of everything, no matter what I adjust. This has negatively
impacted my birding, to say the least. So it was without binoculars that I
birded Little Lake off Jackson Rd. in Washtenaw County on Thur., 3/20. I
couldn't name species, but there were several waterfowl on the water, and
they sure didn't look like Mallards or Canada Geese. It seemed as though
some of them had reddish heads, but as I said, I couldn't see very well from
my particular vantage point. Does the House Builders Association mind if we
go into their parking lot to bird?
Heidi Dodson
Washtenaw County
-----Original Message-----
From: J. Michael Nolan [mailto:mnolan(AT)rainforestandreef.org]
Sent: Saturday, March 22, 2008 11:48 AM
To: birders(AT)umich.edu
Subject: [birders] Re: birds is birds...
Cendra....
I have several pair and would be glad to give you one. Send me your
address.
Thanks.
Mike Nolan
----------
If we are on another line or away from the phone, please leave your
number, best time to return your call and/or your e-mail address.
After hours and weekend phone appointments are available upon request.
Sincerely,
J. Michael Nolan, Director
Rainforest and Reef 501 (c)(3) non-profit
**************************************************************************
************************
“Outstanding-Affordable Field Courses in Rainforest & Marine Ecology”
“Spanish/Cultural Immersion Programs: Spain, Mexico, Central and South
America”
Rainforest and Reef 501 (c)(3) non-profit
P.O. Box 141543
Grand Rapids, Michigan 49514-1543 USA
Local/International Phone: 001.616.604.0546
Toll Free U.S. and Canada: 1.877.255.3721
Skype/MS IM: travelwithrandr
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Subject: [birders] Re: birds is birds...
From: "Russell Emmons" <birdeland(AT)pasty.net>
Date: 22 Mar 2008 3:02pm
John: You are not the only birder "rigidly" stating regards quality
binoculars that I've heard of. Wondering though your opinion as to where
the line is drawn between "professional" quality optics and sub standard
regards, price, type, brands etc. Also is there an accepted standard among
birders overall as to where the line is? I realize there are MANY
variations as to brands, types, preferences, types of use, sales, etc. etc.
I've noted from the binocs (scopes also) I've looked through that often the
very cheapest are just as good in many cases as the "decent" medium priced
brands. So just where is the line (if there is indeed one) where there is
always an obvious upstage of top of the line quality viewing for the price
difference? OR---- does this all mean one MUST pay in the $1000 range to
get something really worthwhile to see a bird? I don't think so! This has
come up before though amongst birders.
Russ Emmons, St. Clair county
----- Original Message -----
From: "John Lowry" <john(AT)kingbird.org>
To: <birders(AT)umich.edu>
Cc: <birders(AT)umich.edu>
Sent: Friday, March 21, 2008 9:54 PM
Subject: [birders] Re: birds is birds...
> Cendra,
>
> Did I correctly read that you don't own a binocular? I can't think of
> any better use for your tax check than to pick up a decent binocular!
> (By the way, a pair of binoculars is two of the items - I have a pair,
> but I only use one at a time. Semantics...)
>
> Seriously, if there is anyone on this list (therefore presumably a
> bird-watcher of some species) who doesn't own (or have full time access
> to) a modern, professional grade binocular, I can't stress enough how
> much you are missing. You will not learn birds until you have quality
> optics. Period. I'm sorry to be so rigid on this, but a sighted birder
> is missing most of the birding experience without quality optics.
> Everyone has a favorite, and if you start shopping with a reputable
> retailer you'll quickly discover that there are so many models because
> each person's requirements are different.
>
> Anyway, spring is coming. Treat yourself (and your birding partners) by
> upgrading your optics to professional grade. You will never regret it.
>
> Regards!
>
> John Lowry
>
> PS. If you ever bump into me and want to look through any binocular I'm
> carrying, don't be shy! The best way to test binos is in the field.
>
>
> On Mar 21, 2008, at 4:54 PM, Cendra wrote:
>
>>
>> Yesterday while tooling home on Jackson Rd., I realized I was passing
>> the
>> Little Lake area. So I did two Michigan lefts and drove in. No birds
>> visible. Weird, I thought, after all the messages about this spot. So
>> I
>> opened the windows and heard robins and red-winged blackbirds. Then I
>> saw
>> two ordinary, boring, probably-overwintering Canadian geese on the
>> Western
>> pond. Although there were sounds of many birds, only one red-winged
>> blackbird was far enough up for me to see him. The other water-borne
>> animals were two fisherpeople in a boat at the other end of the Eastern
>> lake.
>>
>> Would I see waterfowl? Yes - there were more....DUCKS in a bay to the
>> east,
>> too far away to identify as anything other than ducks. I don't own
>> binoculars. My excitement was easily bearable. They looked like
>> dark-colored ducks. Suddenly there was the loud sound of .... CANADIAN
>> GEESE! They flew in from the South and circled overhead twice, arguing
>> vociferously about whether or not to land. In no formation whatever
>> they
>> circled lower and lower, with the arguing increasing, their back feet
>> paddling the air. (What? Paddling? Is this a new aeronautical
>> manuever?
>> Does it slow them down? Speed them up? Put their chairbacks in an
>> upright
>> position and lock their trays for landing?) At an altitude of about 50'
>> they headed south, still arguing, the last one barely clearing the tree
>> top,
>> and headed over the hill in the formation of a stealth bomber, making as
>> much noise as kids at recess.) Boy! am I ever having a great time in
>> this
>> freezing wind seeing nothing whatever new, and very little of anything.
>>
>> Suddenly I forgot all about birds and the chill as I saw a minute,
>> headless,
>> brown Loch Ness monster chug chuggin out from shore. By the time I got
>> out
>> of the car it had dived. So I watched the riffles above where it, and
>> soon
>> it surfaced, chug chugging back to shore. Ah! At last I am in the
>> element I
>> know: mammals. A beautiful, light brown muskrat, taking a lunch break.
>> S/he went back into her/his den, and though I waited many minutes, as
>> silent
>> as my ancestors, on the bank slightly out of the wind, s/he did not feel
>> inclined to venture back out, undoubtedly having heard my footsteps
>> through
>> the ground.
>>
>> So I got back in the car and headed home, figuring that later on all
>> those
>> birds the rest of this group sees would soon arrive at these little
>> lakes.
>>
>> The sun was still well up, so I didn't see any nighthawks this time!
>>
>> Cendra Lynn
>>
>>
>> ---
>> * birders FAQ - http://www.umich.edu/~bbowman/birds/birders_FAQ.html
>> * photo sharing site - http://www.umich.edu/~bbowman/birds/se_mich/
>> photos.html
>>
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>>
>
>
> ---
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Subject: [birders] that time of year....
From: "J. Michael Nolan" <mnolan(AT)rainforestandreef.org>
Date: 22 Mar 2008 3:16pm
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----INCLUDING text/plain MIME SECTION----
thought some might want to share with their students? there are =
bird-cams all over the place, i found this one to be quite interesting.
http://birdcam.xcelenergy.com/eagle.html
thanks and enjoy if you love birds. enjoy even if you don't love birds!
mike nolan
----------
If we are on another line or away from the phone, please leave your =
number, best time to return your call and/or your e-mail address.
=20
After hours and weekend phone appointments are available upon request.
Sincerely,
J. Michael Nolan, Director
=20
Rainforest and Reef 501 (c)(3) non-profit
*************************************************************************=
*************************
=E2=80=9COutstanding-Affordable Field Courses in Rainforest & Marine =
Ecology=E2=80=9D
=E2=80=9CSpanish/Cultural Immersion Programs: Spain, Mexico, Central and =
South America=E2=80=9D
Rainforest and Reef 501 (c)(3) non-profit
P.O. Box 141543
Grand Rapids, Michigan 49514-1543 USA
Local/International Phone: 001.616.604.0546
Toll Free U.S. and Canada: 1.877.255.3721
Skype/MS IM: travelwithrandr
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Subject: [birders] Re: that time of year....
From: "J. Michael Nolan" <mnolan(AT)rainforestandreef.org>
Date: 22 Mar 2008 3:29pm
This is a multi-part message in MIME format.
----INCLUDING text/plain MIME SECTION----
apologies for sending this back to the same list. thanks to the person =
who shared it btw. went out to many people!
mike nolan
----------
If we are on another line or away from the phone, please leave your =
number, best time to return your call and/or your e-mail address.
=20
After hours and weekend phone appointments are available upon request.
Sincerely,
J. Michael Nolan, Director
=20
Rainforest and Reef 501 (c)(3) non-profit
*************************************************************************=
*************************
=E2=80=9COutstanding-Affordable Field Courses in Rainforest & Marine =
Ecology=E2=80=9D
=E2=80=9CSpanish/Cultural Immersion Programs: Spain, Mexico, Central and =
South America=E2=80=9D
Rainforest and Reef 501 (c)(3) non-profit
P.O. Box 141543
Grand Rapids, Michigan 49514-1543 USA
Local/International Phone: 001.616.604.0546
Toll Free U.S. and Canada: 1.877.255.3721
Skype/MS IM: travelwithrandr
AOL IM: buddythemacaw
E-mail: info(AT)rainforestandreef.org and travelwithrandr(AT)gmail.com
*Note: Please send inquiries to both e-mail addresses
Web: http://rainforestandreef.org
*************************************************************************=
*************************
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Subject: [birders] Flock of Red-Winged Blackbirds
From: <David.Blank(AT)lyondellbasell.com>
Date: 22 Mar 2008 3:34pm
A couple of dozen (more or less) at Barton North Drive and Whitmore Lake
Road at about 12:45 pm, heading in a northeasterly direction.
David Blank
Barton Hills
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Subject: [birders] American Woodcock
From: Carleton <car_le_ton(AT)yahoo.com>
Date: 22 Mar 2008 3:15pm
Seem to be a day of woodcocks. Wonder if the snow is flushing them out of the
normal habitat today, from one bird guide they suppose to be nocturnal.
A small area behind our house this afternoon where the wind blew the snow away
last night and melted with the sun to open a small grassy area. It was there,
about 12 feet from the porch, an American Woodcock just a bit ago (late
afternoon Saturday). He had his tail up in the air and doing a little bouncy
dance, maybe mating?? He was not shy at all, stayed around for 5-10 minutes
then took off. We are about 3 miles south of Carleton.
Gene
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Subject: [birders] FW: birds is birds, but words is words
From: "Cendra" <cendra(AT)digitalrealm.net>
Date: 22 Mar 2008 6:16pm
I am still on trial here for saying I hear a nighthawk, but I can with
assurance (and educational credentials to back me up), stand up and declare
"The English language is a collection of rules violations."
A monocular is an optical magnification instrument used over one eye.
Binoculars are used over two eyes. Yes, by logic it should be monocular and
binocular (single): "I am looking through a monocular; I am looking through
a binocular." However, English contains many colloquialisms that have
become standard usage, making it oh, so difficult to teach ESL. So we have
one monocular and a set or (yes, it's illogical) a pair of binoculars.
Then, just to make certain that we have exceptions to several grammatical
rules at once, we can have two pairs of binoculars. You can get away with
two pair of binoculars, and perhaps no one will notice, but don't expect
reciprocation in the American Midwest.
Cendra (singular)
-----Original Message-----
From: eba(AT)umich.edu [mailto:eba(AT)umich.edu]
Sent: Saturday, March 22, 2008 10:26 AM
To: birders(AT)umich.edu
Subject: [birders] Re: birds is birds...
--On Friday, March 21, 2008 9:54 PM -0400 John Lowry <john(AT)kingbird.org>
wrote:
> (By the way, a pair of binoculars is two of the items - I have a
> pair, but I only use one at a time. Semantics...)
I wonder, John, if when you dress in the morning, you put on only one pant,
or do you put on a pair just as many other men and women do? And do you use
a plier when you need a tight mechanical grip on something, and a scissor to
cut paper? ;-)
The American Heritage Dictionary of the English Language (my edition
copyright 1969) includes this definition of "pair":
"One object composed of two joined, similar parts, dependent on each other,
[e.g.] a pair of pliers." (brackets mine to avoid using italics).
Thus Cendra's usage fits that description perfectly, and indeed it is
familiar usage with respect to binoculars in my experience.
Eric Arnold
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Subject: [birders] song sparrow
From: Susan Miller <smiller179(AT)comcast.net>
Date: 22 Mar 2008 6:21pm
My first song sparrow of the year is feeding under the bird feeder
today.
Susan Miller/Ann Arbor
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Subject: [birders] northern goshawk; Gibraltar/Trenton
From: "Greg Norwood" <Greg_Norwood(AT)fws.gov>
Date: 22 Mar 2008 7:06pm
Hello,
An adult northern goshawk was flying north along the western shoreline of
the Detroit River along the Humbug Marsh Unit of the Detroit River
International Wildlife Refuge in Gibraltar/Trenton. The bird was moving
just over the treetops and was seen from Humbug Marina, which can be
accessed from North Gibraltar Road. There was also a fox sparrow in the
nearby trees.
Greg Norwood
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Subject: [birders] LT Duck @ Barton
From: laurent fournier <laurentfournier2003(AT)yahoo.com>
Date: 22 Mar 2008 4:10pm
----INCLUDING text/plain MIME SECTION----
At my 6th attempt in 2 weeks, the birding Gods finally let have a good view of
the elusive Long Tailed Duck (and preserve my sanity). Finally!!!!! I saw her
tonight (until 6h30), among other birders, on Barton Pond, from the "brown
barrel pull out". Also seen was a male red breasted merganser, and a horned
grebe
My next goal? Maybe The Loch Ness Monster in Scoland, or the big foot in Nepal.
Nothing can be harder than the Long Tail Duck on Barton Pond......
Bye
Laurent Fournier
Cell : 1 734 709 3153
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Subject: [birders] RE: song sparrow
From: "Fred Kaluza" <fkaluza(AT)sbcglobal.net>
Date: 22 Mar 2008 8:04pm
And yesterday my wife had 3 of them under the feeders too! They are
a week later here this year over last. On the other hand, my "regular"
Red-breasted Nuthatch has become more and more scarce. Last weekend I
didn't see it at all but on Wednesday it made a few trips to the peanut
feeder. Today again, nothing. It wouldn't surprise me if it's just keeping
its distance from the ravenous Grackles or maybe it's spending a lot of time
excavating a cavity? The Red-Winged Blackbirds and Grackles have not had a
deterrent affect on the Redpolls of which 7 were eating Thistle seed from
the "socks" today.
A few weeks ago, Meijer's had the "Morning Song Goldfinch Super
Socks" on sale for like $4.98 so I got a few of them. They came full of
seed too! They're refillable but I have no idea how long they will last if
I keep them outdoors year-round. At least they prove the birds will cluster
tighter together to feed than on the plastic tube-feeders of equivalent
length sometimes doubling the number of birds you'd normally get. The
"socks" at least will not crack & shatter when the January wind bangs them
into each other and the supporting Sheppard's hooks at minus 10F as happens
to the plastic "tubes". I'll never use the tubes again. Another bonus,
moist seed dries quickly in a sock and you never have to worry about the
feeder "ports" getting plugged by a piece of debris or a cockeyed seed.
Fred in Warren
-----Original Message-----
From: Susan Miller [mailto:smiller179(AT)comcast.net]
Sent: Saturday, March 22, 2008 6:21 PM
To: birders(AT)umich.edu
Subject: [birders] song sparrow
My first song sparrow of the year is feeding under the bird feeder
today.
Susan Miller/Ann Arbor
No virus found in this outgoing message.
Checked by AVG.
Version: 7.5.519 / Virus Database: 269.21.8/1339 - Release Date: 3/22/2008
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[ << | >> | ^^ ]
Subject: [birders] Re: birds is birds...
From: John Lowry <john(AT)kingbird.org>
Date: 22 Mar 2008 8:37pm
Russell,
In my opinion, we are extremely lucky to live in times where a great
binocular (or even a pair!) can be had for anywhere from $275 on up.
Although I love my Zeiss 7x42 (and the only research I did when I
bought them was to find out what Roger Tory Peterson used - not a
great way to make a decision! But it worked out fine in my case...),
they were about $1000 and went higher before they were discontinued
last year. There is an updated version of them which I'm sure are as
good or better, but most birders with disposable income and pro tour
leaders are using a Leica glass (and I would be very happy with
them!). I think the main point to make, is to look through the
bins. We have a great local resource in our own Jerry Sadowski of
Adray Appliance who keeps a great selection of optics in stock and is
expert in matching the glass to the user.
My second pair (sic) is the Nikon Monarch 8x42 which were under $300
and are, I think 80% as good as the Zeiss. The big difference comes
in low light situations, but honestly they are dang good.
I'm sure a used binocular can be found on eBay for much less.
Good birding!
John Lowry
On Mar 22, 2008, at 3:02 PM, Russell Emmons wrote:
> John: You are not the only birder "rigidly" stating regards quality
> binoculars that I've heard of. Wondering though your opinion as to
> where the line is drawn between "professional" quality optics and
> sub standard regards, price, type, brands etc. Also is there an
> accepted standard among birders overall as to where the line is?
> I realize there are MANY variations as to brands, types,
> preferences, types of use, sales, etc. etc. I've noted from the
> binocs (scopes also) I've looked through that often the very
> cheapest are just as good in many cases as the "decent" medium
> priced brands. So just where is the line (if there is indeed one)
> where there is always an obvious upstage of top of the line quality
> viewing for the price difference? OR---- does this all mean one
> MUST pay in the $1000 range to get something really worthwhile to
> see a bird? I don't think so! This has come up before though
> amongst birders.
>
> Russ Emmons, St. Clair county
>
>
> ----- Original Message ----- From: "John Lowry" <john(AT)kingbird.org>
> To: <birders(AT)umich.edu>
> Cc: <birders(AT)umich.edu>
> Sent: Friday, March 21, 2008 9:54 PM
> Subject: [birders] Re: birds is birds...
>
>
>> Cendra,
>>
>> Did I correctly read that you don't own a binocular? I can't
>> think of any better use for your tax check than to pick up a
>> decent binocular! (By the way, a pair of binoculars is two of the
>> items - I have a pair, but I only use one at a time. Semantics...)
>>
>> Seriously, if there is anyone on this list (therefore presumably a
>> bird-watcher of some species) who doesn't own (or have full time
>> access to) a modern, professional grade binocular, I can't stress
>> enough how much you are missing. You will not learn birds until
>> you have quality optics. Period. I'm sorry to be so rigid on
>> this, but a sighted birder is missing most of the birding
>> experience without quality optics. Everyone has a favorite, and
>> if you start shopping with a reputable retailer you'll quickly
>> discover that there are so many models because each person's
>> requirements are different.
>>
>> Anyway, spring is coming. Treat yourself (and your birding
>> partners) by upgrading your optics to professional grade. You
>> will never regret it.
>>
>> Regards!
>>
>> John Lowry
>>
>> PS. If you ever bump into me and want to look through any
>> binocular I'm carrying, don't be shy! The best way to test binos
>> is in the field.
>>
>>
>> On Mar 21, 2008, at 4:54 PM, Cendra wrote:
>>
>>>
>>> Yesterday while tooling home on Jackson Rd., I realized I was
>>> passing the
>>> Little Lake area. So I did two Michigan lefts and drove in. No
>>> birds
>>> visible. Weird, I thought, after all the messages about this
>>> spot. So I
>>> opened the windows and heard robins and red-winged blackbirds.
>>> Then I saw
>>> two ordinary, boring, probably-overwintering Canadian geese on
>>> the Western
>>> pond. Although there were sounds of many birds, only one red-winged
>>> blackbird was far enough up for me to see him. The other water-
>>> borne
>>> animals were two fisherpeople in a boat at the other end of the
>>> Eastern
>>> lake.
>>>
>>> Would I see waterfowl? Yes - there were more....DUCKS in a bay
>>> to the east,
>>> too far away to identify as anything other than ducks. I don't own
>>> binoculars. My excitement was easily bearable. They looked like
>>> dark-colored ducks. Suddenly there was the loud sound of ....
>>> CANADIAN
>>> GEESE! They flew in from the South and circled overhead twice,
>>> arguing
>>> vociferously about whether or not to land. In no formation
>>> whatever they
>>> circled lower and lower, with the arguing increasing, their back
>>> feet
>>> paddling the air. (What? Paddling? Is this a new aeronautical
>>> manuever?
>>> Does it slow them down? Speed them up? Put their chairbacks in
>>> an upright
>>> position and lock their trays for landing?) At an altitude of
>>> about 50'
>>> they headed south, still arguing, the last one barely clearing
>>> the tree top,
>>> and headed over the hill in the formation of a stealth bomber,
>>> making as
>>> much noise as kids at recess.) Boy! am I ever having a great
>>> time in this
>>> freezing wind seeing nothing whatever new, and very little of
>>> anything.
>>>
>>> Suddenly I forgot all about birds and the chill as I saw a
>>> minute, headless,
>>> brown Loch Ness monster chug chuggin out from shore. By the time
>>> I got out
>>> of the car it had dived. So I watched the riffles above where
>>> it, and soon
>>> it surfaced, chug chugging back to shore. Ah! At last I am in
>>> the element I
>>> know: mammals. A beautiful, light brown muskrat, taking a lunch
>>> break.
>>> S/he went back into her/his den, and though I waited many
>>> minutes, as silent
>>> as my ancestors, on the bank slightly out of the wind, s/he did
>>> not feel
>>> inclined to venture back out, undoubtedly having heard my
>>> footsteps through
>>> the ground.
>>>
>>> So I got back in the car and headed home, figuring that later on
>>> all those
>>> birds the rest of this group sees would soon arrive at these
>>> little lakes.
>>>
>>> The sun was still well up, so I didn't see any nighthawks this time!
>>>
>>> Cendra Lynn
>>>
>>>
>>> ---
>>> * birders FAQ - http://www.umich.edu/~bbowman/birds/birders_FAQ.html
>>> * photo sharing site - http://www.umich.edu/~bbowman/birds/
>>> se_mich/ photos.html
>>>
>>> * To unsubscribe from birders(AT)umich.edu send a blank message to
>>> lyris(AT)listserver.itd.umich.edu with UNSUBSCRIBE BIRDERS as the
>>> Subject line. To
>>> resubscribe use SUBSCRIBE BIRDERS Your Name.
>>>
>>
>>
>> ---
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>> * photo sharing site - http://www.umich.edu/~bbowman/birds/se_mich/
>> photos.html
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>> resubscribe use SUBSCRIBE BIRDERS Your Name.
>
>
> ---
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[ << | >> | ^^ ]
Subject: [birders] Re: birds is birds...
From: John Lowry <john(AT)kingbird.org>
Date: 22 Mar 2008 8:50pm
Eric,
First of all, I don't typically wake up until well past noon, at
which point I don a kilt - if I dress at all.
So all right, I think I will have to admit that "pair of binoculars"
is acceptable common usage and eat a pair of crow.
So what can I gripe about now? How about the mistaken singular of
"species"? Or the abandonment of the singular of "data".
I really need to drink less coffee (or is it fewer?)
Good birding all.
John Lowry
On Mar 22, 2008, at 10:26 AM, eba(AT)umich.edu wrote:
>
>
> --On Friday, March 21, 2008 9:54 PM -0400 John Lowry
> <john(AT)kingbird.org> wrote:
>
>> (By the way, a pair of binoculars is two of the items - I have a
>> pair,
>> but I only use one at a time. Semantics...)
>
> I wonder, John, if when you dress in the morning, you put on only
> one pant, or do you put on a pair just as many other men and women
> do? And do you use a plier when you need a tight mechanical grip
> on something, and a scissor to cut paper? ;-)
>
> The American Heritage Dictionary of the English Language (my
> edition copyright 1969) includes this definition of "pair":
>
> "One object composed of two joined, similar parts, dependent on
> each other, [e.g.] a pair of pliers." (brackets mine to avoid
> using italics).
>
> Thus Cendra's usage fits that description perfectly, and indeed it
> is familiar usage with respect to binoculars in my experience.
>
> Eric Arnold
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[ << | >> | ^^ ]
Subject: [birders] Cendra...& all
From: Pamm Hoskin <dexterdame(AT)hotmail.com>
Date: 22 Mar 2008 9:02pm
----INCLUDING text/plain MIME SECTION----
I also have an extra pair of binocs I would be glad to donate to you. Emai=
l me if you wish.
To keep this bird related, I saw the neatest thing yesterday. My first Flic=
ker (hurrah!) but instead of eating my suet, he was clinging to a tree & su=
cking down thistle seed! With my binocs ;), I watched his tongue reach into=
the thistle feeder, just like a hummer tongue-it was really cool!!
=20
Pamm from Dexter
along the Huron River
_________________________________________________________________
Watch =93Cause Effect,=94 a show about real people making a real difference=
. Learn more.
http://im.live.com/Messenger/IM/MTV/?source=3Dtext_watchcause=
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----DELETED text/html MIME SECTION----
[ << | >> | ^^ ]
Subject: [birders] Re: birds is birds...
From: WovenWoman(AT)aol.com
Date: 22 Mar 2008 9:27pm
----INCLUDING text/plain MIME SECTION----
The beauty of language is that like all things, it evolves.
I am sure that if you had called someone a birder a little over a century
ago, they would have had a haul of passenger pigeons (or some other bird)
hanging
down their back, and they were probably sporting a gun, not binoculars. I am
not sure what they would have thought a twitcher was back then. I remember
being called a "bird watcher" a few decades ago.
So like, its ok, if you wanna say binoculars, right?
The songs outside today were fabulous. All that snow brought tons of
regulars, and I notice that the goldfinches are becoming more goldyer by the
minute.
(thats Gold E er) Thats a sure sign of spring, don't you think? I heard ,
but did not see, a song sparrow, even though I waited and waited. I am pretty
sure it wasn't a starling, like some that were mentioned earlier on the list.
What a beautiful voice, and if it was a starling it was pretty darn good. Our
regular Downy seems to live on the suet feeder, and the little sacks of seed
were swinging wildly from the exchange of house and gold finches. The little
juncos were pretty aggressive, fighting for space and for seed. Nothing
fancy, but lots of action.
To John, it must be pretty darn cold out there birding with your kilt or
undressed. Brr. Bet you are glad that Spring is here.
Namaste,
Edie
In a message dated 3/22/2008 8:50:23 PM Eastern Daylight Time,
john(AT)kingbird.org writes:
Eric,
First of all, I don't typically wake up until well past noon, at
which point I don a kilt - if I dress at all.
So all right, I think I will have to admit that "pair of binoculars"
is acceptable common usage and eat a pair of crow.
So what can I gripe about now? How about the mistaken singular of
"species"? Or the abandonment of the singular of "data".
I really need to drink less coffee (or is it fewer?)
Good birding all.
John Lowry
**************Create a Home Theater Like the Pros. Watch the video on AOL
Home.
(http://home.aol.com/diy/home-improvement-eric-stromer?video=15?ncid=aolhom00030000000001)
---
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[ << | >> | ^^ ]
Subject: [birders] Re: birds is birds...
From: "CJ McDonald" <cjmcd77(AT)comcast.net>
Date: 22 Mar 2008 10:56pm
My binocular preferences, in order:
1. Birding with great binoculars
2. Birding with other binoculars
3. Birding with no binoculars
4. Talking about binoculars
Jim McDonald
-----Original Message-----
From: Russell Emmons [mailto:birdeland(AT)pasty.net]
Sent: Saturday, March 22, 2008 3:03 PM
To: birders(AT)umich.edu
Cc: birders(AT)umich.edu
Subject: [birders] Re: birds is birds...
John: You are not the only birder "rigidly" stating regards quality
binoculars that I've heard of. Wondering though your opinion as to where
the line is drawn between "professional" quality optics and sub standard
regards, price, type, brands etc. Also is there an accepted standard among
birders overall as to where the line is? I realize there are MANY
variations as to brands, types, preferences, types of use, sales, etc. etc.
I've noted from the binocs (scopes also) I've looked through that often the
very cheapest are just as good in many cases as the "decent" medium priced
brands. So just where is the line (if there is indeed one) where there is
always an obvious upstage of top of the line quality viewing for the price
difference? OR---- does this all mean one MUST pay in the $1000 range to
get something really worthwhile to see a bird? I don't think so! This has
come up before though amongst birders.
Russ Emmons, St. Clair county
----- Original Message -----
From: "John Lowry" <john(AT)kingbird.org>
To: <birders(AT)umich.edu>
Cc: <birders(AT)umich.edu>
Sent: Friday, March 21, 2008 9:54 PM
Subject: [birders] Re: birds is birds...
> Cendra,
>
> Did I correctly read that you don't own a binocular? I can't think of
> any better use for your tax check than to pick up a decent binocular!
> (By the way, a pair of binoculars is two of the items - I have a pair,
> but I only use one at a time. Semantics...)
>
> Seriously, if there is anyone on this list (therefore presumably a
> bird-watcher of some species) who doesn't own (or have full time access
> to) a modern, professional grade binocular, I can't stress enough how
> much you are missing. You will not learn birds until you have quality
> optics. Period. I'm sorry to be so rigid on this, but a sighted birder
> is missing most of the birding experience without quality optics.
> Everyone has a favorite, and if you start shopping with a reputable
> retailer you'll quickly discover that there are so many models because
> each person's requirements are different.
>
> Anyway, spring is coming. Treat yourself (and your birding partners) by
> upgrading your optics to professional grade. You will never regret it.
>
> Regards!
>
> John Lowry
>
> PS. If you ever bump into me and want to look through any binocular I'm
> carrying, don't be shy! The best way to test binos is in the field.
>
>
> On Mar 21, 2008, at 4:54 PM, Cendra wrote:
>
>>
>> Yesterday while tooling home on Jackson Rd., I realized I was passing
>> the
>> Little Lake area. So I did two Michigan lefts and drove in. No birds
>> visible. Weird, I thought, after all the messages about this spot. So
>> I
>> opened the windows and heard robins and red-winged blackbirds. Then I
>> saw
>> two ordinary, boring, probably-overwintering Canadian geese on the
>> Western
>> pond. Although there were sounds of many birds, only one red-winged
>> blackbird was far enough up for me to see him. The other water-borne
>> animals were two fisherpeople in a boat at the other end of the Eastern
>> lake.
>>
>> Would I see waterfowl? Yes - there were more....DUCKS in a bay to the
>> east,
>> too far away to identify as anything other than ducks. I don't own
>> binoculars. My excitement was easily bearable. They looked like
>> dark-colored ducks. Suddenly there was the loud sound of .... CANADIAN
>> GEESE! They flew in from the South and circled overhead twice, arguing
>> vociferously about whether or not to land. In no formation whatever
>> they
>> circled lower and lower, with the arguing increasing, their back feet
>> paddling the air. (What? Paddling? Is this a new aeronautical
>> manuever?
>> Does it slow them down? Speed them up? Put their chairbacks in an
>> upright
>> position and lock their trays for landing?) At an altitude of about 50'
>> they headed south, still arguing, the last one barely clearing the tree
>> top,
>> and headed over the hill in the formation of a stealth bomber, making as
>> much noise as kids at recess.) Boy! am I ever having a great time in
>> this
>> freezing wind seeing nothing whatever new, and very little of anything.
>>
>> Suddenly I forgot all about birds and the chill as I saw a minute,
>> headless,
>> brown Loch Ness monster chug chuggin out from shore. By the time I got
>> out
>> of the car it had dived. So I watched the riffles above where it, and
>> soon
>> it surfaced, chug chugging back to shore. Ah! At last I am in the
>> element I
>> know: mammals. A beautiful, light brown muskrat, taking a lunch break.
>> S/he went back into her/his den, and though I waited many minutes, as
>> silent
>> as my ancestors, on the bank slightly out of the wind, s/he did not feel
>> inclined to venture back out, undoubtedly having heard my footsteps
>> through
>> the ground.
>>
>> So I got back in the car and headed home, figuring that later on all
>> those
>> birds the rest of this group sees would soon arrive at these little
>> lakes.
>>
>> The sun was still well up, so I didn't see any nighthawks this time!
>>
>> Cendra Lynn
>>
>>
>> ---
>> * birders FAQ - http://www.umich.edu/~bbowman/birds/birders_FAQ.html
>> * photo sharing site - http://www.umich.edu/~bbowman/birds/se_mich/
>> photos.html
>>
>> * To unsubscribe from birders(AT)umich.edu send a blank message to
>> lyris(AT)listserver.itd.umich.edu with UNSUBSCRIBE BIRDERS as the Subject
>> line. To
>> resubscribe use SUBSCRIBE BIRDERS Your Name.
>>
>
>
> ---
> * birders FAQ - http://www.umich.edu/~bbowman/birds/birders_FAQ.html
> * photo sharing site -
> http://www.umich.edu/~bbowman/birds/se_mich/photos.html
> * To unsubscribe from birders(AT)umich.edu send a blank message to
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> resubscribe use SUBSCRIBE BIRDERS Your Name.
---
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