• Level 1 – easy walking, mostly level paths
• Level 2 – paths can be narrow with uneven terrain
• Level 3 – steeper grades or obstacles in paths requiring agility
• Level 4 – very steep, insecure footing or longer hikes requiring good physical condition

September 2010 Field Trips

The following are walks and presentations hosted by the Victoria Natural History Society during the month of September, 2010. To learn more about the VNHS please visit their website at http://www.vicnhs.bc.ca/.

Saturday Morning Birding
September 4, 11, 18; October 2, 9, 16, 23, 30

Call the Rare Bird Alert (250-704-2555) or check the VNHS website Rare Bird Alert on the Thursday or Friday before to find out this week’s location. Starting at 8:00 a.m., rain or shine. For more details, call Rick at 250-885-2454. Novice and experienced birders all welcome.

Saturday morning bird walks with the Victoria Natural History Society may provide a chance to "get to know the gulls."

Tuesday, September 14
Wolverines: A Story of Ecological Myths and Economic Realities

Wolverines have a tough reputation as a dauntless and tenacious icon of untamed wilderness. But as untamed wilderness declines, what does this mean for wolverines? Wolverines used to range across Alberta’s Rockies, Prairies, and boreal forests, but they have declined significantly in the last century. With extensive oil and gas development, the remaining suitable habitats for wolverines may be dwindling as well. Wolverine ecology in Alberta was a blank space on the map before we started a five-year study of these elusive and rare predators. We used camera trapping and non-invasive genetic research to examine wolverines in a protected mountain forest landscape, and in an adjacent foothills forest landscape with extensive forest harvesting and energy development. We found that the myth of wolverines’ resilience is built on unsteady ground: economic development has clashed with this icon of wilderness. The outcome for all western Canadian wolverines from Ontario to BC may be uncertain, but dispelling the myths and embracing a true understanding of wolverines and their ecological requirements can help conserve this species across their range. Join wildlife ecologist Dr. Jason Fisher as he takes us on a remarkable scientific and photographic journey to reveal 
hidden insights into this largely unknown animal. We meet at 7:30 p.m. in Room 159 of the Fraser Building. Admission is free and everyone is welcome. Bring a friend and a coffee mug.

Saturday, September 18
Don’t Panic, Grow Organic

As part of the District of Saanich Pesticide-Free Gardening Series, Carolyn Herriot demonstrates through her own garden the fact that you can have a beautiful healthy landscape without using products that are harmful to nature or wildlife. Come and discover some simple natural techniques to keep your garden in balance, allowing Mother Nature to take over, while you enjoy the garden. 11:00 a.m. at the Pearkes Recreation Centre, 
Ross Room.

Saturday, September 18
Life After Pesticides: Beautiful Yards and Healthy Gardens

Dr. Linda Gilkeson will give an illustrated talk on how to have lovely yards, food gardens, and lawns, without resorting to pesticides. She will change how you think about dealing with weeds, insects, and other pests with her emphasis on prevention and low-cost, simple methods. She shows why it is essential to correctly identify pests, how to know when to treat and the right way to use organic treatments. Part of the District of Saanich Pesticide-Free Gardening Series: 1:30 p.m. at the Pearkes Recreation Centre, Ross Room.

Learn how to make your garden more insect friendly!

Sunday, September 19
Endangered Avatar Grove

We will visit the magnificent but endangered “Avatar Grove”, home to ancient redcedars and now rare old-growth Douglas-fir trees. The Grove is flagged for logging despite its potential to become a major tourism destination. TJ Watt from the Ancient Forest Alliance will show us the way around the grove, explain its significance, and what we can do to help. We will stop at spots along the way and return via Lake Cowichan. Please note that the area where we will be walking is rugged and irregular. Be prepared to climb over large logs and scramble over big roots, obstacles, and steep terrain. Limited number, VNHS members only. Leaving Victoria at 8:00 a.m. and returning late, possibly with a quick supper stop at a restaurant so have some cash for that. Pack a lunch as we will not be stopping near food facilities until evening. Preregister by contacting Agnes between Sept. 1-15. The first eight people have the option of coming in her van. Others to carpool by pre-arrangement only. Road is paved except for a few short sections of good gravel road. Cost to come in the van or carpool with others will be about $25 for the day. No pets please. Contact Agnes at 250-721-0634 to register or for more information. Field Trip Level 3.

Tuesday, September 21
Botany Night – Some Interesting Ferns And “Fern Allies” of British Columbia

There are several puzzles among the more than 100 species of British Columbia ferns and fern allies, and some taxonomical problems have been swept under the carpet. Adolf & Oluna Ceska will try to expose some of them. You might be surprised that even the most common BC ferns hide some deep secrets. Swan Lake Nature House, 7:30 p.m. Admission is free and everyone is welcome. Bring a friend!

Licorice Fern

Wednesday, September 22
Birder’s Night – Birds of Vancouver Island

Join Mike Yip as he takes us on a photographic journey 
off shore of Vancouver Island. In 2006 he spent 13 days at 
sea on a fishing boat sighting pelagics. This trip was filled 
with albatrosses, shearwaters, and the first sighted and documented Lesser Nighthawk in BC. Mike will also present photos of other uncommon birds seen since 2006. We meet at 7:30 p.m. in Room 159 of the Fraser Building. Admission is 
free and everyone is welcome. Bring a friend and a coffee 
mug.

Saturday, September 25
Hawk Watch

Join CRD Regional Parks, the Victoria Natural History Society, as well as staff from Pacific Northwest Raptors for live displays and activities at Aylard Farm. Experts with spotting scopes will be at the viewpoint above Beechey Head. The hike up to the viewpoint requires sturdy footwear and a 20-minute trek up a steep and rocky trail. Bring binoculars, water, and a lunch. Drop in anytime between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. at the parking lot off Becher Bay Road.

Turkey Vultures at East Sooke Park.

Sunday, September 26
Juan De Fuca Pelagic Birding

We have hired a boat (the Fantasea II) to go from Victoria Harbour out into the Juan de Fuca Strait and to Race Rocks 
to find some of the pelagic species that feed there. We will follow the tide debris line that occurs between Victoria and 
Race Rocks as the currents cause an upwelling of nutrients from the bottom, resulting in the best feeding spots for the birds. Possible birds include shearwaters, murrelets, auklets, jaegers, Northern Fulmar, Tufted Puffin, many species of gulls, phalaropes, and other pelagics. Sea mammals, including 
whales, are also possibilities. There is room for 20 people; the cost is $60.00 (including HST) per person for a five-hour trip 
(9:30 a.m.–2:30 p.m.). You must pre-pay on the VNHS 
website or by cheque to VNHS and pre-register by phoning 
Ann Nightingale at 250-652-6450. Field Trip Level 1.

Monday, September 27
Marine Night – Whales, Satellites, and Cold Lunches on the Edge of Antarctica

In 2007, Charles Short and a small group of researchers studied Antarctic killer whales and humpbacks, using satellite tags to track their movements and migratory behaviour. Prior to that he studied eastern Pacific Gray Whales off Vancouver Island. He will present aspects of both these projects. These studies have helped biologists to understand the role of marine protected areas for wide ranging species such as whales. 
Charles is presently with the Integrated Land Management Bureau in BC where he focuses on the design of marine protected area networks. Meet at 7:30 p.m. in Room 159 of the Fraser Building. Admission is free and everyone is welcome. Bring a friend!

Birds of Vancouver Island - A Photographic Journey by Glenn Bartley

These brief reflections represent but a few of my memories of the beautiful birds of Vancouver Island. Over the past four years I have spent as much time as possible out in nature finding and photographing birds. I feel fortunate to have been able to see such wonderful creatures, and even more so to be able to share the memories of these treasured birds in my new book. I hope that you will enjoy “Birds of Vancouver Island”.

Birds of the Rainforest:

I find myself walking down a familiar path this morning – one that leads its way through a majestic place where towering cedar and fir trees force my gaze upwards in awe. The air is damp and cool – yet the lush, mossy forest has a warm and welcoming feel to it.  Off in the distance a Winter Wren is singing and, as I catch a glimpse of it, I am amazed that such a small bird can produce such an impressive song. High above, Townsend’s Warblers sing to one another, proclaiming the extent of their territories and searching for mates. Approaching a small stream I watch as an American Dipper bobs up and down before eagerly jumping into the water to search for a quick meal. The persistent “tap-tap-tap” sound from a nearby tree redirects my attention towards a Red-breasted Sapsucker that is working hard for an early morning snack…

Red-breasted Sapsucker © Glenn Bartley

Birds of the Sea: 

On a clear morning in July I wake at 4:30am. A quick bite-to-eat and a short drive to the waterfront and I am on the water in my kayak by 5:30. I paddle out into the bay as the sun rises over the Olympic Mountains in the distance and the raucous sounds of Harbour Seals make it clear that there is life all around me. Twenty minutes of paddling later and I am now a few kilometres off-shore. The water is calm – as calm as I have ever seen it – and there is something about this morning that makes it feel special. In the distance I can hear gulls squawking and starting to converge in an area where bait fish are “balling up” at the surface. I race towards them to see what I can find. Glaucous-winged and Heerman’s Gulls are everywhere making lots of noise and attracting even more birds from miles around. Among the new arrivals are plenty of Rhinoceros Auklets that are diving into the bait ball and emerging with their bills full of shiny silver sand lance. Pigeon Guillemots are also joining in the rapidly growing flock. The Guillemots are excitedly calling to one another revealing their brilliant vermillion colored mouths as they coordinate their attack on the helpless baitfish just inches below the surface. Just outside of this oceanic swarm of birdlife I spot two birds that seem distinctly different. Raising my binoculars to my eyes I feel a surge of adrenaline and excitement as I immediately recognize these two birds to be a gorgeous pair of Marbled Murrelets…

Marbled Murrelet © Glenn Bartley

Song Birds:

Emerging at a viewpoint after a lengthy hike up the side of a mountain I look out towards the horizon.  From where I now stand the towering Douglas Firs have given way to gnarled Garry Oaks. In the distance I can see an Olive-sided Flycatcher sallying up from a conspicuous open perch and snatching insects out of thin air.  The trill songs of Orange-crowned Warblers ring out from the scrubby habitat that surrounds me. Just then, a flash of colour catches my eye.  In the early morning sunlight the brilliance of the red and yellow plumage of this bird is beyond belief.  And yet here he is:  a too-beautiful-for-words male Western Tanager that I simply cannot take my eyes off…

Western Tanager © Glenn Bartley

Waterfowl:

On a warm spring afternoon I am sitting quietly next to a small sheltered pond.  Reflected colours from the Yellow Dogwoods that surround the shoreline have given the water an attractive golden glow.  American Widgeons, Hooded Mergansers, Wood Ducks and the ubiquitous Mallards are excitedly quacking and calling back and forth to one another. A mated pair of Northern Shovellers are swimming around and around one another as they feed by filtering water through their oversized bills. Ring-necked ducks group together in the middle of the pond and dive for food over and over again.  Before long, a gorgeous male Bufflehead swims by showing off his brilliant white flanks and rainbow coloured head…

Bufflehead © Glenn Bartley

Shorebirds:

The inter-tidal zone along the coast of Vancouver Island always seems to be teeming with life.  Low tide exposes resources to birds who flock to these areas to feed. Among my favourite are the Black Oystercatchers whose raucous calls     announce their presence from far off.  I love watching them as they work their way along the shoreline picking off chitons and mollusks from the rocks that low tide has recently uncovered. Nearby, a small group of Black Turnstones and Surfbirds are also picking their way along the seaweed covered rocks. When a large Gull flies over, one of the birds becomes wary and flies off. All of his companions follow close behind; calling as they select a safer area to feed…

Black Oystercatcher © Glenn Bartley

Birds of Prey:

It is fall now. The long days of the summer months are beginning to fade away and, for me, the seasonal transition is accentuated by the abundance of migratory shorebirds heading south. As I walk along the oceanfront towards a large group of shorebirds they erupt into flight. Even before I see it, I know what must be nearby. Before I can appreciate what I am witnessing a Merlin has snatched a Short-billed Dowitcher from mid-air.  I watch as this efficient predator devours the smaller bird and am captivated by the beauty and ferocity of Mother Nature…

Merlin © Glenn Bartley

Backyard Birds:

Returning home from a fine day in the field I glance out the window to see the hummingbird feeder buzzing with activity.  Anna’s and Rufous Hummingbirds compete for their sought-after supply of nectar and whiz through the air with a speed and precision that mesmerizes me.  Looking beyond the window and into the backyard I see a group of birds busily feeding. The Juncos, Chickadees, Sparrows and Towhees may have individual intentions – but when a Cooper’s Hawk appears from nowhere to try for an easy meal it becomes clear that these birds are indeed working together…

Rufous Hummingbird © Glenn Bartley

To order your copy today please visit – http://www.glennbartley.com/VancouverIslandBook.html

About the Contributor:

Glenn Bartley is a professional nature photographer who focuses on photographing birds in their natural habitat. He resides in Victoria, British Columbia on Canada’s West Coast. Glenn leads instructional photography workshops to exciting destinations around the world. To find out more or to see more of Glenn’s images please visit: www.glennbartley.com. Glenn’s latest book is “Birds of Vancouver Island: A Photographic Journey.”

• Level 1 – easy walking, mostly level paths
• Level 2 – paths can be narrow with uneven terrain
• Level 3 – steeper grades or obstacles in paths requiring agility
• Level 4 – very steep, insecure footing or longer hikes requiring good physical condition

August 2010 Field Trips

The following are walks and presentations hosted by the Victoria Natural History Society during the month of August, 2010. To learn more about the VNHS please visit their website at http://www.vicnhs.bc.ca/.

Monday, August 2
Dragonflies for Beginners

As Dennis Paulson says in his book, Dragonflies of Washington, “Perhaps even more than butterflies, dragonflies are bird-watchers’ insects.” Meet Darren and Claudia Copley at the Beaver Lake Retriever Ponds at 1:00 p.m. (an advantage over birding) and we’ll see what we can find. We’ll look at what field guides are available, some tricks to catching dragonflies, and even how to key out the difficult ones. Bring binoculars, an insect net (if you have one – 
we can provide), and hope for sunny weather. Field Trip Level 1.

Paddle-tailed Darner (Aeshna palmata)

Tuesday, August 3
Insectmania at Swan Lake Christmas Hill Nature Sanctuary

They’re creepy, they’re crawly and they’re cool. Explore with us 
the fascinating world of insects and spiders. Hands-on exploration, live bugs, crafts, songs, and games. Admission by donation, Crafts $3. Event is at the Nature House 12 noon to 3:00 p.m.

Friday, August 6
Mount Washington Botanical Day Trip

Indian Hellebore (Veratrum viride)

This trip is planned for peak bloom time but the area is interesting over several weeks with a succession of flowers. The plan is to meet at Raven Lodge on the mountain around 11:00 a.m. and decide when we get there what we will do with our day. If snow levels permit, we will walk around the Lake Helen MacKenzie – Battleship Lake route. We will also fit in a tour around Paradise Meadow on our way to and from our main adventure. The trail will be on hilly and uneven ground but will be done at a slow pace. We will leave Victoria at 7:00 a.m. and return late, stopping for a quick supper on the way home. Pack a lunch that we’ll eat someplace out on the trail. Preregister by contacting Agnes after July 1. First nine people to sign up have the option of coming in her van. Others to carpool by pre-arrangement. Cost to come in the van or carpool with others will be about $30 for the day from Victoria. Additional cost of $15 ($12 senior) if we go up the chairlift for a scenic tour if time permits and weather cooperates. Remember to bring money for a fast-food supper. Wear proper footwear and bring a hiking stick plus bring warm clothes as it is usually cold up there. No pets please. Contact Agnes at ‘thelynns at shaw.ca’ or 250-721-0634 to register or for more information. Field Trip Level 3.

Sunday, August 8
Olympic Park Hike from Obstruction Point to Deer Park

This hike in Washington’s Olympic National Park is only for fit hikers as it is almost 13 kilometers over challenging terrain, along open ridges exposed to winds. The flowers and the views make it worthwhile. We will be dropped off by our bus driver at Obstruction Point and we have arranged for the bus driver to meet us at Deer Park to take us back to the ferry. Both ends of the hike are excellent wildflower areas as well. Be prepared for all kinds of weather. Also wear sturdy hiking boots and hiking poles would be an asset. Bring a lunch, snacks and lots to drink as we will not be near any facilities. Meet at the Black Ball Ferry terminal in the Inner Harbour at 5:45 a.m. for the 6:10 a.m. sailing of the M.V. Coho. Allow time to park and purchase your ferry ticket which costs about $31.00 CDN return. Important!! You will require a passport or enhanced driver’s licence for going through U.S. Customs. You’ll have to get your birding in on the way over because we will return to Victoria on the 9:30 p.m. sailing (90 minute crossing time). We will have dinner in Port Angeles. Cost of the charter bus and entry to the park is $70 CDN. Very limited number of participants so reserve your spot early. Do not book before July 1 or after August 1. Reserve your spot by paying through Paypal on the VNHS website or you can pay by cheque. Send it to VNHS, Box 5220, Victoria BC, V8R 6N4. Either way, you must let Agnes Lynn know that you are coming on the trip after you have made a payment. Contact Agnes at ‘thelynns at shaw.ca’ or 250-721-0634 for more information. Field Trip Level 4.

Saturday, August 14 and Sunday, August 15
Victoria Butterfly Count

We are always looking for keen-eyed volunteers, so get out 
your field guides. Call James Miskelly (count coordinator) at 
250-477-0490 if you would like to help out.

Zephyr Anglewing

Sunday, August 15
Olympic Peninsula: Tufted Puffins, Brown Pelicans and More

We are going to merge two trips on Washington’s Olympic Peninsula that we have done before with our trusted tour bus leader. This time, we hope to enjoy seeing some good birds but there will be lots for all to enjoy along the way at a leisurely pace. We will start with the tour to Cape Flattery, the most northern point on the west coast of the continental United States and one of the closest locations to Victoria where you can see Tufted Puffins. Islands off the point are home to thousands of seabirds throughout the year. The birds can be observed from platforms which are located about a half hour’s walk through the forest. Instead of stopping at the excellent museum on this trip, we will continue south to La Push and other beaches where we hope to see Brown Pelicans and other sea birds that might not venture as far north as Victoria. We will make intermittent stops along the way to enjoy the beaches, where we can test our knowledge of dune plants. The Olympic Peninsula is covered with the lush growth of giant trees and luxuriant vegetation, making it a very scenic trip. Tour leader Willie also is full of fascinating facts about the area. This will be a long day so bring a lunch, snacks, and drinks as we will not stop near any facilities. Meet at the Black Ball Ferry terminal in the Inner Harbour at 5:45 a.m. for the 6:10 a.m. sailing of the M.V. Coho. Allow time to park and purchase your ferry ticket which costs about $31.00 CDN return. Important!! You will require a passport or enhanced driver’s licence for going through U.S. Customs. You’ll have to get your birding in on the way over because we will return to Victoria on the 9:30 p.m. sailing (90 minute crossing time). We will have dinner in Port Angeles. Cost of the charter bus and entry to the park is $60 CDN. Limited number of participants so reserve 
your spot early. VNHS members get priority. Do not book before July 1 or after August 8. Reserve your spot by paying through Paypal on the VNHS website or you can pay by cheque. Send it to VNHS, Box 5220, Victoria BC, V8R 6N4. Either way, you must let Agnes Lynn know that you are coming on the trip after you have made a payment. Contact Agnes at ‘thelynns at shaw.ca’ or 250-721-0634 for more information. Field Trip Level 2.

Tuesday, August 17
Fabulous Frogs at Swan Lake Christmas Hill Nature Sanctuary

Long sticky tongues, breathing through skin, and webbed feet! Discover what makes frogs so fabulous. Join us for a puppet show, hands-on displays, live animals and froggy crafts. Admission by donation. Crafts $3. Event held at the Nature House 12 noon to 3:00 p.m.

Red-legged Frog

Sunday, August 22
Discovery Island and Chain Islands Ecological Reserve Bird-watchers Kayak Tour

Discovery Island Provincial Marine Park presents many opportunities for viewing wildlife. The tour will also explore the nearby Chain Islands, which are protected bird sanctuaries and seal rookeries. You may see Bald Eagles, Rhinoceros Auklets, Harlequin Ducks, various sandpipers, and other shorebirds. By kayak, we are able to see the numerous sea birds that nest and feed in and around these shores such as the Pigeon Guillemots, Black Oystercatchers, and cormorants. Baby Harbour Seals remain undisturbed as we quietly glide past. You do not need to be an experienced kayaker as enough instruction will be given for you to enjoy a safe day on the water. Cost: $95.20 for a 5-hour guided tour starting at 9:00 a.m. Minimum required: 8 people/tour. Sign up as soon as possible but at least a week in advance. We normally pull up on a beach to have our lunch and do a bit of exploring on the island. Depending on the day’s weather, be prepared to layer up or down while on the water. Suggested gear: sunglasses, sun hat, sun screen, footwear you can get wet, windbreaker, toque, binoculars, lunch, snacks, and lots of liquid to drink. For more information/to register, phone Pacifica Paddle at 250-665-7411. Field Trip Level 3.

Somass Estuary in the Alberni Valley on Vancouver Island, British Columbia.

I recently ran across a couple at Victoria Quay in Port Alberni. They had the tell-tale sign of a birder and a visitor – binoculars hanging from their necks and hanging around the signs by the Somass River. I approached them and they started asking about how to get to the bird sanctuary on the other side.

I’ve written about the sanctuary, that is, the Somass Estuary Project before on my blog (A Birder’s Site Guide for the Somass Estuary, Vancouver Island) but I realized, in talking to them, that there are quite a number of other places to find birds in the Valley. Here are my top five birding locations in the Alberni Valley.

1. The Somass Estuary

This area is an excellent place to look for birds. It is best in the winter when the waterfowl are wintering. However summer birding is also good. For a detailed guide to it you can follow the link provided above.

Trail access into the Somass Estuary, Alberni Valley, Vancouver Island, British Columbia.

2. Kitsuksis Dyke

This is the most easily accessible spot where you can find decent birding in the Alberni Valley. Kitsuksis Creek flows into the Somass River just beside the Clutesi Haven Marina which you drive by on Highway 4 on your way to the West Coast. The easiest way to visit is to take the right fork just after the little bridge over the creek and park just past the restaurant on the right.

Kitsuksis Dyke, Port Alberni, Vancouver Island, British Columbia.

I have created a map from Google to show the route. The entire route is paved and located on a dyke that was created after the tsunami in 1964. I have marked the main route in red. In green are interesting alternatives. The creek is tidal up to the Gertrude Street Bridge. Across from the Marina is a swampy little wood where I suspect the beaver I often see there lives. The entire creek is lined with willow and there are wooded areas mainly on the west side of the walkway and upstream from the Gertrude Street bridge. There are two foot bridges at the top and at the bottom. Recently a trail has been built from the upstream pavement as far as the railway trestle to a little falls where a strong run of Coho now exists thanks to dedicated efforts of a salmon enhancement group.

The entire walkway is very good for warblers like Orange-crowned, Black-throated Grey and Wilson’s in the spring. In the summer, this area is one of the few areas on Vancouver Island where you can find Green Herons. And of course, there are a variety of sparrows, towhees, juncos and a resident Merlin. In the winter, it’s a good idea to walk up to the little pond where you often find Ring-necked ducks among others.

3. Burde Street Ponds

Located on the east edge of Port Alberni, there are two beautiful little ponds that I enjoy visiting at any time of year. To get to them, you need to take the left fork as you arrive in town off the hill. You will pass the Visitor Information Centre on your right. Follow the road past the West Coast General Hospital and take a left on 17th, 16th or if you miss them 15th Avenue and go a couple of blocks to Burde Street. Turn right and drive past to the 4-way stop sign and past the subdivision on your left. Look for a small parking area with a yellow gate on the left. Park here or across the street if it is full. You will be at one access point to the Log Train Trail. About 100 meters in there is a short path up off the rail grade that will take you to a good view of the lower pond. In June, it is a magnificent place when the Yellow Flag Iris is in bloom. It’s very invasive, but beautiful. This pond and the upper one are excellent places to find Wood Ducks, Bufflehead, Lesser Scaup, and Hooded Mergansers in season. From time to time, you may also see the beaver that make their home in the upper pond. Herons and Belted Kingfishers are also possible here. All along the rail grade, you will encounter a very good variety of forest birds.

Burde Street Ponds, Port Alberni, British Columbia.

After you return to the rail grade, about 100 meters further on look for a trail leading east up off the rail grade. It will take you through the older second-growth forest into a 10-year-old cut block with mostly Red Alder regenerating. The path leads up to the second pond which has a couple of good access points to see what is on the pond. The beaver lodge is easily visible and there is a short side trail to the beaver dam! The path loops back to Burde Street along the logging access road through the young alder and Douglas fir. You’ll find White-crowned Sparrows, MacGillivray’s and Orange-crowned Warblers here as well as Red-breasted Sapsucker in the older fringe of trees along the ponds.

4. McCoy Lake Area

McCoy Lake is a broad shallow lake surrounded by private property and Indian Reserve. The reserve side is undeveloped and consists of swampy bog. The west side is swampy farmland. Bring a spotting scope if you want to see what is on the lake.

McCoy Lake, Port Alberni, Vancouver Island, British Columbia.

This area is interesting in any season. The lake is one of the few places on Vancouver Island where you can reliably find Ruddy ducks in winter. The winter rains create flooding around the perimeter of the lake and attract a good variety of ducks and raptors as well as Wilson’s Snipe, and Killdeer. The open fields attract thousands of migrating Savannah Sparrows, American Pipits and sometimes interesting shorebirds like Whimbrel and Pectoral Sandpipers in the spring and fall. The summer sees good populations of four species of swallows; Violet-green, Tree, Cliff and Barn. This is partly thanks to Bill Thompson Sr. who built twenty or so swallow boxes around his house when he was alive.

To get there, drive up River Road from Port Alberni along the Somass River to the grey iron bridge. After going over the bridge look for the second left turn onto McCoy Lake Road about 500 meters further on around the bend. The road will take you up past the road to the local landfill and then the view opens up when you get to the agricultural area. The road will bend to the right. There will be a turn off onto Stirling Arm Drive. Don’t take the turn but continue straight. You will go past an old farm, across a small creek and up onto a knoll with a house on it. This is the most productive area. There are a couple of turnout spots in the area. But the whole road is a good area to walk along. You can continue along this road until you meet highway 4 again.

5. Taylor River Estuary

The Taylor River flows into the west end of Sproat Lake. The mouth of it has many side channels and sloughs. The vegetation is dominated by alder and salmonberry. Interestingly, a major part of the estuary contains a patch of deciduous old growth that survived the 1967 fire that burned the entire end of the valley. This is extremely unusual. The riparian character of the area below the river contrasts sharply with the hillsides dominated by second-growth Douglas fir. And the views of the surrounding mountains are wonderful. The bird life here is prolific in the summer months but pretty quiet during the winter.

Taylor River Estuary

Finding this area is easy. Follow Highway 4 westward out of Port Alberni. There is a turnoff to the left 20 km past the West Bay Hotel, the last commercial establishment before you get to the Tourist Info Centre at Pacific Rim. Immediately, you will have to choose between a left or right turn. Right leads to a very popular unofficial camping area. Along the road, there is a view of the mouth of the river where you may see Hooded Mergansers, Wood Ducks and perhaps a Common Loon. The dense shrubbery contains Wilson’s, Yellow, Black-throated Grey, Orange-crowned and MacGillivrays’ warblers as well as Common Yellowthroats, Warbling Vireos and even a Red-eyed Vireo if you are lucky. Going the other way takes a short distance to where the road is ditched, making any further progress by car impossible. Half a kilometer up is an old bridge. From it, you may see a Spotted Sandpiper, or Common Mergansers. A Dipper is also possible here. On the other side is a junction where the road runs back to the lake or west to Highway 4.

Back at the initial turnoff, you can also turn right and follow the road up the mountain side. This road has been deactivated and so don’t try to drive this one. However, a short walk up it leads to a rocky bluff where there is a good view of a little pond you can see from the highway. A longer hike takes you up the side of the valley to some dead trees remaining from the fire I mentioned. This area has become a good place for woodpeckers and for Band-tailed Pigeons.

There are a number of other places to bird in the Alberni Valley. Sproat Lake Provincial Park, Mulcaster Slough or Swamp, McLean Mill, and Turtle Lake are some others. In fact, there are so many lakes, swamps, bluffs, and trails around the area that you are bound to find some other interesting places on your own. These places are offered just to get you started.

About the Contributor:

Long-time Vancouver Island resident, Sandy McRuer, runs Rainbird Excursions, an ecotourism and sightseeing business in the Port Alberni & Qualicum Beach area. He is an ex-forester and avid birder. More of his images can be found on Flickr.

Island of Rainbows

The name Sointula, the Malcolm Island community of utopian origin off northern Vancouver Island, translates as ‘Place of Harmony’ – but it might equally be called ‘Place of Rainbows’. A frequency of rainbows of course means an abundance of rain, of which Malcolm Island receives over 150 cm annually – but the south facing shore of the island also captures the evening sun to create rainbows, as the clouds clear over Port McNeill opposite, across Broughton Strait.

The hyper-maritime climate is also indicated by the abundance of hemlock, spruce & cedar – Douglas Fir which grows in a drier climate is rare on Malcolm Island. Dense stands of second growth forest alternate with wet pockets of marsh, swamp and bog in the island’s interior.

Moody Forest

A gravel road runs the entire 24 km length of the island from the Pulteney Point Lighthouse on the west end to Donegal Head at the east. At Pulteney Point, Malcolm Island is at its closest point to Vancouver Island, and bears have been known to swim across from the Cluxewe River estuary north of Port McNeill. The north shore of Malcolm Island faces Queen Charlotte Strait, home of dolphins, humpback whales, and orca which use the beaches for rubbing.

First logged by Finnish settlers in the early 1900’s for homesteads around Sointula, the majority of the island was logged in later decades and continues to be logged today. Gravel roads provide access to high points of the island with views of the Coast Mountains, though the rapid growth of re-planted trees will soon obscure the view.
Two nature trails established within the last dozen years offer contrasting experiences of the island. The Beautiful Bay Trail, 5 km (one way) from Bere Point on the north shore, has been cut through a dense salal forest and downed trees from a windstorm that occurred just a couple of years after the trail was built. In calmer weather, sea birds including scoters, grebes, loons, harlequin, cormorant, pigeon guillemot, bufflehead, and red-breasted merganser should be common, as well as shorebirds such as dunlin and western sandpiper. A viewing stand near the start of the trail was constructed to offer views of orca off the rubbing beach.

Hemlock Varnish Shelf (Ganoderma tsugae) grows out of old stumps.

The 3.2 km (one-way) Mateoja Heritage Trail in the island’s interior passes through dense second growth hemlock, alternating with bogs with acid-loving plants and bizarre candelabra snags, which look like nature’s totems. Bald eagles perch on the snags and woodpeckers can be heard among the dead trees. Areas of mistletoe infestation have created small clearings in the woods. The trail passes the site of an old homestead, ponds and a marsh on the way to Big Lake – the local swimming hole, but not actually the biggest lake on the island!

Birding at Big Lake on Malcolm Island.

Among the colourful houses and weathered boat sheds of the town of Sointula itself, other birds are common around the quiet streets: Eurasian collared dove, rufous & Anna’s hummingbirds, savannah, fox, song, white-crowned, golden-crowned and house sparrows, house finches, and red crossbills. Ten years ago, a small but enthusiastic group of birders on Malcolm Island started an annual spring bird count at the end of April in the memory of Doug Innes, a teacher who retired to the Comox Valley and pursued research on the red-throated loon and Townsend’s warbler, both frequent on Malcolm Island. Several years ago a Lapland longspur, rare to the island, was seen on the count, and gleefully disputed by visiting birders from Port McNeill and the Comox Valley.

A ‘rainbow’ of birds seems to arrive the same weekend as the bird count: violet-green swallows join orange-crowned, yellow-rumped, black-throated gray, and Townsend’s warblers; as spring arrives on Malcolm Island.

Need to Know:

• For the utopian history of the island, check out ‘Sointula:Island Utopia’ by Paula Wild

About the Contributor:

Krista Kaptein is an intermittent hiker, naturalist, writer, & photographer based in the Comox Valley, Vancouver Island, British Columbia. More of her interests can be found on her blog.

A Brandt's Cormorant (Phalacrocorax penicillatus) showing off its exotic blue gular patch and white breeding feathers.

If I only had a dollar for every time I’ve seen the confusion in the spelling of Brandt’s and Brant, I might be able to afford my dream birding trip to Ecuador. Right now we are nearing the end of the Brant Goose migration from Baja, Mexico to the Yukon and Alaska. Many of the Brant stage in the Parksville region to replenish their fat reserves on eelgrass and herring roe before they carry on to their nesting grounds. On the other hand, the Brandt’s Cormorant (Phalacrocorax penicillatus) is a common year-round resident around the west coast and Vancouver Island.

Brandt's Cormorants (Phalacrocorax penicillatus) are very social. They often hunt together in flocks and socialize on the rocks.

There are three species of cormorants found around Vancouver Island: Double-crested, Pelagic, and Brandt’s. The Pelagic is the smallest at about 71 cm (28 in) long. The Double-crested is next at 84 cm (33 in) and the Brandt’s is the largest at 86 cm (34 in). As you can see, the Brandt’s and Double-crested are similar in size but can easily be distinguished because the Brandt’s has a dark bill versus the orangey-yellow bill of the Double-crested. Besides being the largest cormorant, the Brandt’s has two other distinguishing features. First, it has pale, buffy feathers on its chin just under the eyes. Second, its breeding plumage features white feathering off the side of the head as well as a remarkable light blue gular patch on its chin. The Brandt’s is now molting into its breeding plumage, and this is a great time to see all three species in their breeding finery. In fact, I made a point of visiting Campbell River last week just to photograph the Brandt’s with its sexy blue gular patch.

A Brandt's Cormorant (Phalacrocorax penicillatus) carrying seaweed to its nesting site on the Oregon coast.

It won’t be long now before the breeding hormones kick in and the males start looking for their mates. Just like male humans the male cormorants try to entice the females with gifts. Instead of diamonds or other high-priced trinkets, the cormorants rely on practical earthly goods like seaweed and grass for nesting material. If the female likes her suitor she accepts the gift and starts building the nest while the male gathers more material. The Brandt’s usually nest on the outer coast on steep hillsides or cliffs. A great place to see the nesting activity in action is along the Oregon coast. In late May last year at Maquina Head conservation area, I had a great time photographing the Brandt’s Cormorants as they flew right in front of me mouthfuls of grass, and just below there were many nests in between the thousands of Common Murres. I would love to go back some time later in the summer to see the nestlings.

The Brandt’s is a deep-diving bird. It catches fish at all levels, but it often feeds on fish, shrimp, and crabs on the bottom as far as 150 feet down. Like other cormorants, its feathers are designed to water-log to assist in the diving. After the diving it is not uncommon to see the cormorants on the rocks with their wings hung out to dry.

If you want to see the Brandt’s and other cormorants, don’t wait too long. The best place to look is on the rocks at high tide along the shoreline just south of Campbell River. They’ll soon be heading for their nesting grounds.

About the Contributor:

Mike Yip is a Vancouver Island photographer who has published two very successful books on birds and has just released his third. More of his bird images can be found at his website Vancouver Island Birds.

Search for gulls during the Brant Wildlife Festival Big Day bird count.

Saturday, April 10

5 a.m. to 3 p.m. counting
3:30 p.m. post count gathering (Shelley Hall) Shelley Road, Parksville
$20 per person

Enter your team for a chance to test your abilities at finding birds. Great prizes and a good time awaits at the post count gathering where lists are tallied, prizes awarded, stories told and dinner served to flocks of hungry birders. Deadline for entering is April 1, 2010.

When you register, your team will receive a Big Day package via e-mail that includes a list of birding Hot Spots in the count area.

All participants get a chance to win the Grand Prize Draw and prizes will be awarded to teams for the Most Species, Most Species Green, Bird of the Day, Best Team Spirit, Story of the Day, Big Sit, and Big Miss.

To register your team, contact Robin Rivers at 1-866-288-7878 ext. 226 or 604-924-9771 or e-mail rrivers@naturetrust.bc.ca or go to our website at www.brantfestival.bc.ca

The male Bufflehead (Bucephala albeola) sports attractive iridescent purple and colours on its head.

The Buffleheads (Bucephala albeola) may be the smallest ducks in North America, but they are the favorites of many bird lovers. Because of their petite size and elaborate courtship displays, they are always fun to watch. Whenever I see them in freshwater ponds or the shallow coastal waters, I always think of the little rubber duckies that youngsters enjoy playing with in the bathtub. Just how small are they? Just think of how small you need to be to nest in the tree cavity of a Northern Flicker. The Buffleheads are slightly larger than the flicker but can squeeze into the 3 inch opening that the flickers use.

The bright white male Bufflehead will be the first to catch your attention. It is mostly white except for the iridescent purple and green head and a black back. The head colour is interrupted by a large white wedge on the back. Like many other duck species, the female is mostly brown except for a white cheek patch. Both ducks have the characteristic large head similar to a buffalo which is the origin of “buffle.”

The female Bufflehead (Bucephala albeola) is distinguished by a small white cheek patch.

During the winter Buffleheads are distributed along the Pacific and Atlantic coasts and throughout most of the United States into Mexico. The summer breeding range extends from B.C. east to Ontario and north to Alaska. Unused Northern Flicker holes are the favorite nesting cavities. The females lay from 4 to 17 eggs and incubate and raise the ducklings on her own. Interior lakes and ponds are used for rearing the young until the cold weather forces them south.

In the early 20th century Bufflehead populations were significantly reduced by extensive hunting. However, their populations have rebounded nicely since 1955.

About the Contributor:

Mike Yip is a Vancouver Island photographer who has published two very successful books on birds and has just released his third. More of his bird images can be found at his website Vancouver Island Birds.

Herring roe on fucus, a nutritional meal for many birds and animals. Photo © Guy Monty.

Each year herring spawns around Vancouver Island, British Columbia in early March. This year is no exception. Last week, I heard that the herring were spawning near French Creek between Parksville and Qualicum Beach. This area has traditionally been one of the most important spawning areas on the British Columbia Coast. The spawn attracts tens of thousands of sea birds, as well as seals, and sea lions. It is a real spectacle!

In some ways, it is the foundation of all the ocean life around Vancouver Island. Herring is the most populous fish in the ocean here. It has the largest biomass too. And the wildlife knows this and depends on the fecundity of the herring spawn.
One of the birds that depend on it is a little sea goose called the Brant (Branta bernicla). Smaller than our familiar Canada Goose, it sports a black head and neck. However, the white patch is around the neck not under the chin. It starts arriving on the shores of the Vancouver Island in late February in time to feed on eelgrass that is impregnated with herring roe. This is a vital food source that will sustain them on their migration to Alaska. This little goose has inspired an annual festival, the Brant Festival where there are interpretive tours, a bird-watching competition, art shows, and a number of other events spaced across March & April.

Brant (Branta bernicla) feeding on seaweed and herring roe. Photo © Sandy McRuer.

Other sea birds that depend on herring roe are vast flocks, or rafts, of sea-ducks like Black Scoters, Surf Scoters and White-winged Scoters, Greater Scaup, Long-tailed Ducks, Mergansers, and Goldeneyes. These rafts can contain as many as 13,000 birds. They all time their migration to coincide with the spawn. They gorge on the eggs. It has been documented that Scoters, for instance, experience a significant weight gain from feeding on herring roe just prior to their migration to their breeding grounds. You can think of these large rafts of birds as a staging area before migration.

A mixed flock of Brant, gulls and ducks waiting for the spawn. Photo © Guy Monty.

Gulls also gather from all parts of the Salish Sea (Strait of Georgia), interior island lakes and the Alberni Inlet. Sorting through enormous flocks of up to 10 different species of gulls can be rewarding. Rarities like Iceland Gulls, Slaty-back Gulls, Ivory Gulls, and Glaucous Gulls show up at this time of year. Keep in mind that sorting through groups of upwards of 100,000 gulls is very time consuming and patience and a spotting scope are both required. The gulls often erupt into whirling masses of birds when a predator like a bald eagle scares them up or when the herring fleet goes to work.

Countless gulls gather in Parksville and Qualicum Bay on Vancouver Island, BC during the herring spawn. Photo © Guy Monty.

Yes, the herring fleet, another “creature” that gathers to await the spawning of these fish. It is a very controversial fishery. Old timers tell stories about how abundant the herring were even 20 years ago! They say the herring is much less abundant now and the fish are smaller. And they are disgusted to see it still happening when the abundance of the herring is a mere shadow of their former numbers.

The fishery was closed for four years starting in 1967. Before this the harvest techniques and use of the herring was primarily for rendering into fish meal and fish oil. When fishing started again, the goal was to produce high-value roe for the lucrative Japanese market.

Herring boats gather for the herring fishery. Photo © Sandy McRuer.

As a result, there are stories all over the west coast of fishermen making over $30,000 in a few days fishing for herring. It is very intense and very exciting. There are stories about herring skiffs sinking from the amount of fish they have caught! The fleet converges in one spot. Herring skiffs go out and jockey for position. Spotting planes fly overhead looking for the choicest spots. And larger buyer boats sit nearby with large signs announcing that they are willing to buy the herring on the spot.

Both residents and visitors to Vancouver Island are advised to head for Parksville and Qualicum Bay to view this wildlife spectacle. The Brant Wildlife Festival has a number of excellent events and activities in March and April that celebrate the return of the herring, the Brant, and the other birds and animals that depend on the herring spawn.

About the Contributors:

Long-time Vancouver Island resident, Sandy McRuer, runs Rainbird Excursions, an ecotourism and sightseeing business in the Port Alberni & Qualicum Beach area. He is an ex-forester and avid birder. More of his images can be found on Flickr.

Thanks to Guy Monty for additional images under a Creative Commons Licence. See more of Guy’s photography on Flickr.

]]> http://islandnature.ca/2010/03/spawning-spectacle/feed/ 0 http://islandnature.ca/2010/03/20th-annual-brant-festival/ http://islandnature.ca/2010/03/20th-annual-brant-festival/#comments Sat, 06 Mar 2010 07:48:14 +0000 Dave Ingram http://islandnature.ca/?p=205

Brant (Image © Guy Monty)

The return of Brant geese to the estuaries and bays of Vancouver Island in late February and early March on their migration from California and Mexico is celebrated annually by the Brant Wildlife Festival in Parksville/Qualicum Beach. This year’s festival runs from March 5th to April 28th and features a wide range of activities and events.

Herring spawn and sunset in Parksville, Vancouver Island, BC. (Image © Guy Monty)

The arrival of the Brant is timed to coincide with the arrival of spawning Pacific Herring. The Brant stop to rest and feed on the eelgrass, sea lettuce and herring roe at Rathtrevor Beach Provincial Park, Parksville Bay, Columbia Beach and the Little Qualicum River estuary. They are joined by thousands of migrating seabirds, sea lions, seals, bald eagles and gulls providing a phenomenal opportunity for spectacular wildlife viewing.

Here’s a small sampling of some of the events taking place over the course of the festival. Many of the activities require pre-registration so be sure to visit the Brant Wildlife Festival web site to confirm dates and other details. For more information or to pre-register contact Robin Rivers at rrivers@naturetrust.bc.ca or call toll free 1-866-288-7878.

Brant in the Bay

Arrowsmith Naturalists will be on hand at the Parksville Community Park to answer your questions about the Brant geese and the herring spawn. Bring your binoculars and a camera.

Saturday, March 6, 2010
10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Star Gazers Astronomy Night

See stars and constellations. Learn about the night skies in the northern hemisphere with David Prud’homme. Please bring a lawn chair and binoculars, and dress warmly. Pre-register, $5/person. Note: clear skies only.

Saturday, March 6, 2010
7 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Rathtrevor Provincial Park

Wild Shores Herring Tour

Learn about the amazing spawning cycle of herring with Pacific Rainforest Adventure Tours as the briny blue waters of Georgia Strait explode in a spectacle of spring fever. Pre-register, $20/person.

Sunday, March 7, 2010
10 a.m. to noon

Robert Bateman’s Kids Get to Know Nature Camp

Children aged 6 to 12 are invited to Rathtrevor Provincial Park to get to know their wild neighbours in the great outdoors and learn to express their understanding of the natural world through games, art, photography, woodwork and journals. Pre-register $20 each session or $90 for 5 sessions

Spring Break, March 8-12, 2010
9 a.m. to 3 p.m. (bring a lunch)
Rathtrevor Provincial Park

Wild Shores Salish Sea Tour

Discover the biological riches of the Salish Sea with Pacific Rainforest Adventure Tours at one of our favourite places where lapping waves and sounds of nature all contribute to the ambiance of this special location. Pre-register, $20/person.

Sunday, March 14, 2010
11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Wild Shores Secluded Shores Tour

Enhance your understanding of plants and animals that live in tide pools with Pacific Rainforest Adventure Tours. Pre-register, $20/person.

Tuesday, March 23, 2010
4 p.m. to 6 p.m.

Wild in Alberni: Somass Estuary Tour

Explore one of Vancouver Island’s natural gems with the Alberni Valley Enhancement Association. Enjoy great birding, beautiful views, discover evidence of historic tsunamis and First Nations sites that date artifacts back 4000 years. Pre-register, free.

Sunday, March 28, 2010
1:30 pm to 3:30 pm

Wild Shores Intertidal Tour 2

Explore tide pools with Pacific Rainforest Adventure Tours to see wild creatures where ocean and land meet. Pre-register, $20/person.

Tuesday, March 30, 2010
noon to 2 p.m.

Learn to Bird

Join birder Guy Monty to learn about the pleasures of being able to locate and identify birds by sight and song. Whether on a morning walk or travelling there is something very special about being able to identify the birds you see and call them by name. Pre-register, $20/person for both sessions.

Thursday, April 1, 2010
5 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Saturday, April 3, 2010
8:30 a.m. to noon

Buttertubs Marsh Nature Walk

Join naturalist Bill Merilees for a walk around this special wetland in Nanaimo. An author and world traveler, Bill is known for his curiosity and dedication to discovery. Pre-register, $5/person.

Saturday, April 3, 2010
10 a.m. to noon

Wild Shores and Tide Pools Tour

Have an exciting educational experience with Pacific Rainforest Adventure Tours visiting the unique habitat where the ocean meets the land. Pre-register, $20/person.

Tuesday, April 6, 2010
5 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Big Day Birding

This is a fun event that gives everyone a chance to test their abilities finding birds. Teams will find and record as many bird species as they can during the allotted time. There are tons of prizes and a good time is had by all at the post count gathering where lists are tallied, prizes awarded, stories told and dinner served.

If you don’t have a team but would like to participate, let us know and we will try to match you up with a group.

Birding takes place from 5 a.m. to 3 p.m.
3:30 to 5:30 p.m. is the post count gathering and opportunities to share stories of the day. Pre-register, $20/adult, $10/child.

Saturday, April 10, 2010
Counting 5 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Buds ‘n Blooms Plant Walk

Join Karen Barry to explore forest trail and wild meadows in search of spring’s first blooms. Learn about flowering phenology and native plants. Hosted by Pacific Rainforest Adventure Tours. Pre-register, $20/person.

Sunday, April 11, 2010
10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Brant in the Bay in Comox

Join birders from the Comox Valley Naturalists to celebrate Goose Spit Park and the migration of Pacific Black Brant. Learn about the Brant’s long journey and get a chance to observe the birds up close through spotting scopes set up along the beach.

Saturday, April 17, 2010
noon to 3 p.m.
Goose Spit Park, Comox
Free

Splash!

A special event celebrating local food, wine and beer benefiting the Brant Wildlife Festival.

Wednesday, April 28, 2010 at 6 p.m.
Pacific Shores Resort & Spa.
Tickets are $75 per person. Call toll free 1-866-288-7878 to reserve tickets or e-mail tloewen@naturetrust.bc.ca