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Godwit Days 2015

Birding Resource Guide Inside: Schedule • Event Descriptions • Keynote Speaker • Spotlight Organization • Friday Night Lectures • Registration Form • and more!



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Godwit Days 2015 Birding Resource Guide

G odwit D ays 2015

Artwork by Gary A. Bloomfield

Welcome! T

he 2015 Godwit Days Festival

includes 85 field trips, workshops and social events for birding, botanizing, boating, and more. Over its two decades, the festival has evolved to include events that explore all varieties of North Coast habitats and their associated wildlife.

New trips include a pelagic (ocean) tour out of Brookings (Ore.) Harbor, Salt River Restoration Area, Chasing Current Rarities, Ma-le’l Dunes, Bike & Bird, and several “GOLD” trips, special highlighted events that may include lunch, smaller groups, or 2 leaders. The Arcata Community Center will be abuzz with booths, birds of prey, art, nature crafts, and a silent auction open to the public during the festival weekend. There’s something for every member of your family at Godwit Days! Register now at www.godwitdays.org or just stop by Friday evening through Sunday afternoon, April 17-19.

G

odwit Days is

held at the peak of spring migration for the Marbled Godwit and numerous other shorebirds and songbirds. Field guides will lead small groups of 5 to 35 attendees on trips through the North Coast’s towering redwoods, rocky ocean coasts, wild river valleys, expansive Bay mudflats, and the world-renowned Arcata Marsh and Wildlife Sanctuary. More than 235 bird species have been recorded during our 20 years of festivals. Like us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/godwitdays

How

to

Register

Mail-in registration form on page 36. Fill out & mail in with your payment. Online registration at:

www.godwitdays.org Call (707) 826-7050 or 1-800-908-WING

Inside

Spotlight on FOAM ................................... 2 Keynote Speaker ....................................... 3 Friday Night Lectures ............................ 4-5 Schedule of Events ................................ 6-8 Event Descriptions ............................... 9-29 More About Godwit Days .................. 31 What Is a Godwit? ................................... 33 Arcata Artisans ........................................ 34 Sponsors ..................................................... 35


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Godwit Days 2015 Birding Resource Guide

Godwit Days

turns

the spotlight on

F

FOAM

riends of the Arcata Marsh (FOAM) is

proud to have been selected by the Godwit Days 2015 organizing committee as this year's “spotlight organization.” FOAM was chosen because it is a local nonprofit organization that focuses its educational efforts on the Arcata Marsh and Wildlife Sanctuary — a primary birding spot on the Pacific Flyway that boasts well over 300 species of birds. FOAM has supported Godwit Days from its inception, by offering tours and free family nature crafts at the festival, as well as co-sponsoring the Godwit Days Student Bird Art Contest for the last 12 years. FOAM was incorporated in 1989. The first task of our organization was to help raise money to build the Arcata Marsh Interpretive Center, which was dedicated in 1993. Since then, FOAM has helped fund the interpretive signs you see around the Marsh, underwritten Marsh-related research grants to local college students, published guides to Marsh birds and plants, purchased equipment for the Interpretive Center, expanded special events for children, contributed money and labor toward Marsh restoration efforts, and much more. With well over 100 tours scheduled each year, the need for Marsh volunteers has expanded. All tours need at least one trained docent to accompany the group, whether on weekdays or weekends. However, you don’t have to lead a tour to serve as a Marsh volunteer. We need people to staff the welcome desk at the Interpretive Center, help remove invasive plants, and be on call for special events.

Besides recruiting volunteers, FOAM is also seeking to expand its membership base, in order to fund new projects that benefit Marsh visitors. Tens of thousands visit the Marsh every year to hike, bike, walk dogs, birdwatch, or take photos. If just a small percentage of those people joined our organization, imagine what we could accomplish! For information about joining FOAM — with annual dues starting at just $18 for students and seniors — stop by the Interpretive Center for a brochure or visit our website:

www.arcatamarshfriends.org

To commemorate 20 years of Godwit Days, FOAM is cosponsoring an exhibit of all festival posters during April at the Arcata Marsh Interpretive Center. Join us for a free reception on Friday, April 3 from 6 to 8 p.m.


Godwit Days 2015 Birding Resource Guide

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G odwit D ays 2015 K e ynote S peaker Andrew Mack, author and Executive Director of IndoPacific Conservation Alliance presents “Uphill Struggles: Of Cassowaries, Seeds and Conservation”

N

o ordinary poo-chaser, is Andy! Yes,

that’s right, Andy chases bird poop in the forest. Even picks it up, puts it in bags, and takes it home. But Andy’s not picking up ordinary poo. He’s interested in cassowary poo and his forest is a fabulous, isolated, mountain rainforest in Papua New Guinea. Arguably chasing one of the most sought-after jobs in the world, Andy studied the habits of cassowaries, large flightless birds in New Guinea, to learn about seed dispersal and to discover how important these birds were to the maintenance of diversity of fruiting trees in such a forest. Now, with that teaser, you’re probably brimming over with exciting, earthchanging questions. Such as, what is cassowary poo like (and does it smell)? How does one collect it? — just in case you ever find yourself in the New Guinea rainforest with a pile of cassowary leavings at your feet, right? How does one study elusive cassowaries? What are these fruits and what trees do they come from? What did Andy find out? And why is this important? Be assured! You’re going to have the chance to meet Andy, and in his exciting presentation he’ll reveal all there is to tell about cassowary dung and why, if you happen to be one of any number of large fruiting trees, you’d be very thankful that these giant, hungry birds are doing what they’re doing and where they’re doing it. To have such an exciting and passionate international speaker and author this coming April is a fitting way to celebrate the 20th anniversary of Godwit Days! Birds have always been a central part of Andy’s life and he was already developing a reputation as an accomplished, hardcore birder in the early 1970s as a member of a birding expedition to the summit of El Triunfo in Mexico. He has studied birds in diverse nations, most notably in Costa Rica, Ecuador, Guyana, Peru, Bolivia, Malaysia and Indonesia, and of course, North America. But he is most wellknown for his work in Papua New Guinea on cassowaries and seed dispersal and just about anything that is related to that, as well as for his work in international conservation, including the founding and directing of Crater Mountain Biological Research Station in Papua New Guinea.


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Godwit Days 2015 Birding Resource Guide

F riday N ight L ecture 1

Following a welcome from Arcata’s mayor and presentation of the Second Annual Humboldt County Bird of the Year awards, two talks round out the evening.

F

riends of the Arcata Marsh (FOAM) is

honored to have been selected as the Spotlight Nonprofit Organization for Godwit Days 2015. Join FOAM volunteers George Ziminsky and Dr. Milton Boyd for a free public lecture on Friday, April 17 at 6:45 pm, when they will take you on a journey through time to reach the incredible birding space that we know as “the Marsh.” The Arcata Marsh and Wildlife Sanctuary was created through a perfect storm of Arcata’s desire to re-invent how it processed its wastewater and the ingenuity of Humboldt State University faculty to find beneficial uses for that resource. The Marsh has developed over the past 30 years into one of the top birding stops on the Pacific Flyway.

Our lecture will provide some insight into how this incredible place provides wastewater treatment while enhancing wildlife habitat and outdoor recreation opportunities. The presentation will cover wastewater processes and treatment marshes, the best locations for birding, accessibility tips, and future plans for this 307-acre gem on Humboldt Bay.

The 2015 Godwit Days Guide is published by the Mad River Union, 791 Eighth St. (Jacoby’s Storehouse), Suite 8, Arcata, CA 95521. Jack Durham & Kevin Hoover Publishers Lauraine Leblanc Production Manager Jada Calypso Brotman Advertising Manager Gene Lodes Godwit Days Advertising Representative Rob Fowler/Fowlerope Birding Tours & Jack Durham Photographers Marty Burdette Proofreader Printed on recycled paper using soy-based inks. Please recycle.


Godwit Days 2015 Birding Resource Guide

F riday N ight L ecture 2

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Conservation of Wildlife and Fish on Green Diamond Resource Company California Timberlands

G

reen Diamond is a family-owned company that

was established in Washington State in 1890. Consistent with its long-term commitment to responsible forestry, Green Diamond owns and sustainably manages over 1.3 million acres of timberland in California, Oregon, and Washington. Green Diamond’s long-term perspective supports significant investments in research and conservation for wildlife, water quality and aquatic resources on its forested lands. Our investments include three federallyapproved habitat conservation plans (HCPs) and cutting-edge research on experimental conservation strategies for listed and unlisted species. In 1992, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) approved the Habitat Conservation Plan for the Northern Spotted Owl on the California Timberlands of Simpson Timber Company (the NSO HCP). In 2007, the FWS and National Marine Fisheries Service approved Green Diamond’s Aquatic HCP and Candidate Conservation Agreement with Assurances (the AHCP) for conservation of listed and unlisted aquatic species on over 350,000 acres of timberland in northern California. The presentation will highlight aspects of both HCPs in California and other programs to protect and manage natural resources on the ownership.


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Godwit Days 2015 Birding Resource Guide

S chedule

Find complete event descriptions on pages 9 through 29. Events marked in gold are “Gold” events; those marked in coral are new events. You will find a registration form on page 36, or register online at www.godwitdays.org. #

EVENT

START

Wednesday, April 15

WE01 MILL CREEK/DEL NORTE REDWOODS FIELD TRIP

FEE

3:00 p.m.

$50

WE02 WARM-UP WEDNESDAY & BIRDING BY PHONE FIELD TRIP 10:30 a.m. 2:30 p.m

$15

WE03 COASTAL BIRD BLITZ FIELD TRIP

5:00 p.m.

$15

8:30 a.m.

$10

TH04

1:30 p.m.

Thursday, April 16

DAWN CHORUS - ARCATA MARSH FIELD TRIP 1

6:30 a.m.

TH05

LOST COAST BIRDING FIELD TRIP

7:00 a.m.

3:00 p.m

$50

TH06

GODWIT MYSTERY TOUR

8:30 a.m.

3:30 p.m.

$20

TH07

BIRDING NORTH TO BROOKINGS (PELAGIC PRE-TRIP)

9:00 a.m.

3:00 p.m.

$50

TH08

STONE LAGOON VISITOR CENTER RECEPTION

4:00 p.m.

6:00 p.m.

FREE

TH09

FIELD TEST OPTICS EXPO AT THE MARSH

5:00 p.m.

8:00 p.m.

$5

TH10

OWL SCOUTING FIELD TRIP

7:00 p.m.

10:00 p.m.

$10

6:00 a.m.

12:00 p.m.

$125

FR11

8:00 a.m.

END

Friday, April 17

pelagic tour out of brookings, or

FR12

DAWN CHORUS - ARCATA MARSH FIELD TRIP 2

6:30 a.m.

8:30 a.m.

$10

FR13

PATRICK’S POINT STATE PARK FIELD TRIP

8:00 a.m.

1:00 p.m.

FREE

FR14

CONIFERS OF THE NORTH COAST FIELD TRIP

8:00 a.m.

4:00 p.m.

$40

FR15

STONE LAGOON KAYAK TOUR 1

8:00 a.m.

12:00 p.m.

$65

FR16

NORTH JETTY SEA WATCH & WOODLEY ISLAND FIELD TRIP

8:30 a.m.

12:30 p.m.

$15

FR17

URBAN RETREATS FIELD TRIP

8:30 a.m.

12:30 p.m.

$10

FR18

SHOREBIRD SPECTACLE AT THE MARSH FIELD TRIP 1

8:30 a.m.

11:30 a.m.

$15

FR19

BIRDING NORTH TO TRINIDAD W/ LUNCH AT SEASCAPE

9:00 a.m.

3:00 p.m.

$20

FR20

BIRDING SOUTH TO FERNDALE W/ LUNCH AT EEL RIVER BREWERY

9:00 a.m.

3:00 p.m.

$20

FR21

KAYAK HUMBOLDT BAY 1

9:45 a.m.

12:30 p.m.

$55

FR22

SPOTTED OWLS FIELD TRIP 1

1:00 p.m.

5:00 p.m.

$25

FR23

OWL PELLET DISSECTION WORKSHOP FOR KIDS

4:00 p.m.

5:00 p.m.

FREE

FR24

OPENING RECEPTION

5:00 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

FREE

FR25

NIGHT-TIME OWLS FIELD TRIP

6:30 p.m.

10:00 p.m.

$20

FR26

OPENING LECTURES

6:30 p.m.

7:45 p.m.

FREE

FR27

ARCATA MARSH NIGHT HIKE

7:45 p.m.

9:15 p.m.

$10

Find the most up-to-date information at

www.godwitdays.org


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Godwit Days 2015 Birding Resource Guide

S chedule #

EVENT

START

Saturday, April 18

5:00 a.m.

END

FEE

8:30 a.m.

$15

SA28

MARBLED MURRELET FIELD TRIP 1

SA29

GROUSE FIELD TRIP TO REDWOOD NATIONAL PARK

6:45 a.m.

10:45 a.m

$15

SA30

HUMBOLDT “BIG DAY” 1

7:00 a.m.

5:00 p.m.

$40

SA31

BIRDING BY EAR (BASICS) WORKSHOP & FIELD TRIP

7:00 a.m.

11:30 a.m.

$15

SA32

HORSE MOUNTAIN/HIGH ELEVATION HABITATS FIELD TRIP 7:00 a.m.

12:30 p.m.

$15

SA33

HUMBOLDT BAY BIRD OBSERVATORY BANDING FIELD TRIP 1 7:15 a.m.

11:30 a.m.

$15

SA34

BEST BIRDING SPOTS FIELD TRIP

7:30 a.m.

4:00 p.m.

$50

SA35

SALT RIVER RESTORATION AREA FIELD TRIP

7:30 a.m.

1:30 p.m.

$15

SA36

STONE LAGOON KAYAK TOUR 2

8:00 a.m.

12:00 p.m.

$65

SA37

CHASING CURRENT RARITIES FIELD TRIP 1

8:00 a.m.

12:00 p.m.

$20

SA39

SHAY PARK E-BIRD SURVEY FIELD TRIP

8:30 a.m.

12:00 p.m.

$10

SA40

BIRDING ARCATA WITH LIBATIONS & FARMERS’ MARKET FIELD TRIP

9:00 a.m.

2:00 p.m.

$15

SA41

HERPETOLOGY FIELD TRIP

9:30 a.m.

2:30 p.m.

$20

SA42

SHOREBIRD SPECTACLE AT THE MARSH FIELD TRIP 2

9:30 a.m.

12:30 p.m.

$15

SA43

BEAR RIVER RIDGE FIELD TRIP

9:30 a.m.

3:30 p.m.

$25

SA44

KIDS’ BIRDING FIELD TRIP 1

9:30 a.m.

11:30 a.m.

FREE

SA46

KAYAK HUMBOLDT BAY 2

10:45 a.m. 1:30 p.m.

$55

SA47

HUMBOLDT BAY NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE FIELD TRIP

11:00 a.m. 2:00 p.m.

FREE

SA48

ART WORKSHOP FOR KIDS

12:00 p.m. 1:00 p.m.

FREE

SA49

LANPHERE DUNES FIELD TRIP 1

12:00 p.m. 2:45 p.m.

FREE

SA50

NATIVE PLANT WALK

12:30 p.m. 3:30 p.m.

FREE

SA51

SPOTTED OWLS FIELD TRIP 2

1:00 p.m.

5:00 p.m.

$25

SA52

BIRDING 101 LECTURE & FIELD TRIP

1:00 p.m.

5:00 p.m.

$10

SA53

FIELD SKETCHING WORKSHOP & FIELD TRIP

1:30 p.m.

5:00 p.m.

$15

SA54

HAPPY HOURS SOCIAL

5:00 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

NAC

SA55

BANQUET

5:30 p.m.

7:00 p.m.

$30

SA56

KEYNOTE LECTURE

7:30 p.m.

9:00 p.m.

$10


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Godwit Days 2015 Birding Resource Guide

#

EVENT

SU57 SU58

S chedule

START

END

FEE

MARBLED MURRELET FIELD TRIP 2

5:00 a.m.

8:30 a.m.

$15

HUMBOLDT “BIG DAY” 2

7:00 a.m.

5:00 p.m.

$40

SU59

BIRDING WITH THE KEYNOTE SPEAKER FIELD TRIP

7:00 a.m.

1:00 p.m.

$75

SU60

HUMBOLDT BAY BIRD OBSERVATORY BANDING FIELD TRIP 2 7:15 a.m.

11:30 a.m.

$15

SU61

TRINITY RIVER FIELD TRIP

7:15 a.m.

3:00 p.m.

$20

SU62

BIRDING BY EAR (BEYOND THE BASICS) WORKSHOP & FIELD TRIP

7:30 a.m.

11:15 a.m.

$15

SU63

DEL NORTE & TUFTED PUFFIN FIELD TRIP

7:45 a.m.

5:00 p.m.

$25

SU64

STONE LAGOON KAYAK TOUR 3

8:00 a.m.

12:00 p.m.

$65

SU65

CHASING CURRENT RARITIES FIELD TRIP 2

8:00 a.m.

12:00 p.m.

$20

SU66

BLUE LAKE & ORGANIC FARM FOR WILDLIFE FIELD TRIP

8:30 a.m.

11:30 a.m.

$15

SU67

FRIENDS OF THE ARCATA MARSH FIELD TRIP

8:30 a.m.

11:30 a.m.

FREE

SU68

BIKE & BIRD FIELD TRIP

9:00 a.m.

12:00 p.m.

$50

SU69

KIDS’ BIRDING FIELD TRIP 2

9:30 a.m.

11:30 a.m.

FREE

SU70

BINOCULARS & SCOPES LECTURE

10:00 a.m. 11:30 a.m.

FREE

SU71

SHOREBIRD SPECTACLE AT THE MARSH FIELD TRIP 3

Sunday, April 19

10:30 a.m. 1:30 p.m.

$15

SU71.5 WOODEN BIRD CARVING WORKSHOP

11:30 a.m. 4:00 p.m.

$30

SU72

KAYAK MAD RIVER SLOUGH

11:45 a.m. 2:30 p.m.

$55

SU73

MA-LE’L DUNES SOUTH AND HUMBOLDT COASTAL NATURE CENTER FIELD TRIP

12:00 p.m. 2:45 p.m.

FREE

SU74

BIRD PHOTOGRAPHY & DIGISCOPING WORKSHOP

12:00 p.m. 2:00 p.m.

$10

SU75

KAYAK HUMBOLDT BAY 3

11:45 a.m. 2:30 p.m.

$55

SU76

SPOTTED OWLS FIELD TRIP 3

1:00 p.m.

5:00 p.m.

$25

SU77

BEER & BIRDING IN MANILA

3:00 p.m.

6:00 p.m.

$25

SU78

SUNDAY EVENING SOCIAL

5:30 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

NAC

MO79 BIRDING ARCATA MARSH & SURROUNDINGS FIELD TRIP 6:30 a.m.

9:30 a.m.

$10

MO80 LAVA BEDS NE CALIFORNIA 2-DAY FIELD TRIP

7:00 a.m.

6:00 p.m.

$200

7:30 a.m.

12:30 p.m.

FREE

MO82 MULLIGAN MONDAY FIELD TRIP

8:30 a.m.

1:00 p.m.

$15

MO83 SHOREBIRD SPECTACLE AT THE MARSH 4

12:00 p.m. 3:00 p.m.

$15

6:30 a.m.

$8

Monday, April 20

MO81

TU84

HUMBOLDT LAGOONS STATE PARK - STONE LAGOON FIELD TRIP

Tuesday, April 21

TAIL-END TUESDAY FIELD TRIP

9:30 a.m.

Find the most up-to-date information at

www.godwitdays.org


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Godwit Days 2015 Birding Resource Guide

E vents

Basic Registration of $35 includes Opening Reception with drink ticket, Keynote, Happy Hours Social, Sunday Evening Social, and events designated as “No Additional Charge (NAC)” or “Free.” Additional events are as priced.

Events identified as Gold are small groups and/or lunch included. All registrants, except those attending only Free events, must pay the Basic Registration fee. If you plan to sign up for Free community events ONLY, call (707) 826-7050 or 1-800-908-WING to reserve your spot. All events meet at the Arcata Community Center unless otherwise noted.

Wednesday, April 15

Gold WE01 Mill Creek/Del Norte Redwoods Field Trip (w/ box lunch) $50 8:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. Leader: Tony Kurz

This intimate trip with only 8 participants will travel north. The Mill Creek Watershed is a newer addition to the State Park system here on the North Coast. The carpool drive will take more than an hour, but the lagoons, giant redwoods, and, possibly, the local Roosevelt elk herd will provide a most scenic trip. Nestled in the redwood forest, riparian habitat along Mill Creek provides excellent birding opportunities. Tony is a State Parks employee who has birded this location regularly. A great mixture of forest bird species and riparian specialties will be seen including, possibly, Ruffed Grouse. Includes box lunch (inform us of any food allergies or special dietary requirements).

New!

WE02 Warm-Up Wednesday & Birding by Phone Field Trip $15 10:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.

Leader: Gary Bloomfield

This casual birding trip will use smart phone apps to enhance the birding experience. We will work around the Arcata area, starting at the Arcata Marsh & Wildlife Sanctuary, to witness the thousands of shorebirds that roost, feed, and fly around the marsh in spectacular display. A variety of species will be seen as we move on to the Arcata Bottoms and the north end of Humboldt Bay. Bring lunch and something to drink.

New!

WE03 Coastal Bird Blitz Field Trip 1:30 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.

$15

Leader: Robert Hewitt

This will be a fast-paced trip to many of the top Humboldt coastal birding spots. Ranging from South Bay and King Salmon, the trip will end up overlooking the rocky shore in Trinidad and the large Common Murre colony located at Elk Head. Shorebirds will be in abundance and a spotting scope is recommended if you have one to bring. Rob, our Godwit Days founder, has birded Humboldt for 25 years and loves to pass on his knowledge to other birders. Many western species will be noted and if you have any specially desired species in mind, he can provide details to get you fired up for your birding weekend. Bring a snack and something to drink, as we will not be making stops other than for requested restroom breaks.


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Godwit Days 2015 Birding Resource Guide

E vents

Thursday, April 16

TH04 Dawn Chorus – Arcata Marsh Field Trip 1 6:30 a.m. – 8:30 a.m.

$10

Leader: Chet Ogan

The Arcata Marsh & Wildlife Sanctuary is the jewel in the crown of Humboldt birding. The marshes support ducks, herons, sparrows, chickadees, roosting shorebirds, and many more species. This pre-breakfast trip is planned to catch the dawn chorus in full swing. Birds are on the move, so there will be plenty of birding action. Willows along the trails house songbirds and reed beds support chattering Marsh Wrens. This trip is for everyone and will provide an introduction to the variety of birds at the marsh. Chet is a long-time local birder who chairs the Conservation Committee for our local Audubon Society. Terrain is mostly flat on maintained trails. We will not stop for food and there will be opportunity to use a spotting scope. [Event repeats on Friday as #FR12.]

$50 Gold TH05 Lost Coast Birding Field Trip 7:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. Leaders: Tony Kurz, Rob Hewitt

Join Tony and Rob birding south via Ferndale, as they plan to visit isolated willow patches that are seldom birded during prime migration season. A check of the Centerville wetlands might be in order before heading south. They will also scan for raptors as we pass over the west end of Bear River Ridge. Petrolia is at the mouth of the Mattole River, the eventual destination after the glorious coastal drive. Bring a lunch and something to drink.

TH06 Godwit Mystery Tour $20 8:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.

Leader: Mystery Leader

Just want to go birding? Well, you can enjoy the suspense and fun of this mystery tour. You will never know where you are going next or who will be your field guide! This trip will visit a variety of habitats in the Humboldt Bay area. Bring a lunch and something to drink. Restrooms will be available in some locations; prepare for a variety of terrain.


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Godwit Days 2015 Birding Resource Guide

E vents

Thursday, April 16 continued

Gold TH07 Birding North to Brookings (Pre-pelagic trip w/box lunch) $50 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. Leader: Rob Fowler

This is an optional add-on to the Friday pelagic trip [#FR12] and will not be returning to Arcata on Thursday. Driving up the coast past the lagoons, we will bird spots such as Redwood Creek riparian habitat. In Crescent City, we will visit the harbor, Point St. George, and Castle Rock, where there is the potential for Tufted Puffin. Overnight accommodation for the Friday pelagic trip is recommended at the Oceanside Motel very close to the boat dock [see event #FR12 for details]. Includes box lunch (inform us of any food allergies or special dietary requirements).

New!

TH08 Stone Lagoon Visitor Center Reception 4:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.

FREE

Host: Marna Powell (Kayak Zak’s)

This event meets at the Stone Lagoon Visitor Center on Hwy 101, 30 miles north of Arcata (see map in registration packet). Drop by to say hello, meet other outdoor and birding enthusiasts, or bring your spotting scope and enjoy nature from the redwood deck. Light refreshments featuring local products will be served. Humboldt Lagoons State Parks nestles on the coast between Redwood National and State Parks and Patrick’s Point State Park. These lagoons are important estuaries for migratory shore birds, nesting summer residents, and feeding grounds for many birds and other wildlife such as Roosevelt elk and river otters all year long.

Marbled Godwit by Rob Fowler

TH09 Field Test Optics Expo at the Marsh 5:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.

$5

Leaders: Rob Hewitt, Optics Representatives

Festival optics representatives will have demos on hand for you to try and learn about their features to help choose the right glass for you or help you utilize your optics to your best advantage. Enjoy wine and cheese during a short demonstration inside the Arcata Marsh Interpretive Center, followed by a field-test session around the marsh, using demo spotting scopes and binoculars while enjoying the sunset. Shorebirds – including American Avocets, Willet, and Marbled Godwits – will gather for high tide that evening. Terrain is flat but may be wet; restrooms are available.


12

Godwit Days 2015 Birding Resource Guide

Thursday, April 16

E vents

continued

TH10 Owl Scouting Field Trip 7:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.

$10

Leader: Sandra Hunt von-Arb

If you have never gone “owling” this is a great chance to see what is involved. Sandra is an experienced “owler” and can demonstrate various calling techniques. A short slideshow will introduce some of the common owl species of Humboldt County. Help scout potential locations through the Arcata Bottom looking for Barn Owl and Short-eared Owl, then visit various locations using tapes or voice calling to elicit responses from the nighttime forest owls, including Barred Owl. Requires good luck, a flashlight, and warm clothes. Expect variable terrain and, possibly, wet ground. There may be an opportunity to use a spotting scope until dark. Restrooms will not be available once the trip leaves the Community Center. Rain cancels this trip. Northern Pygmy Owl by Rob Fowler/Fowlerope Birding Tours

Friday, April 17

Gold New!

FR11 Pelagic Tour

6:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

$125

Leader: Rob Fowler

This event meets in Brookings, Ore. at the Brookings Harbor Marina, Dock A (see map in registration packet). This is a new location for the festival’s pelagic trip. The boat will travel south through Del Norte County, CA waters, offshore from Point St. George. Aboard the 25-person boat, Pacific Ocean pelagic birds — including Black-footed Albatross, shearwaters, Cassin’s Auklet, Sabine’s Gull, and jaegers — are expected. Marine mammals such as migrating gray whales, dolphins, and sea lions are likely. Bring a snack and something to drink. Take motion sickness medication if needed. A small restroom or “head” is available on the boat. We will “chum” as we head out on the water, to attract a gull flock of various species. This also draws in such as Pink-footed Shearwaters and piratic jaegers (Long-tailed, Parasitic, and Pomarine). Northern Fulmar, storm-petrels, Rhinoceros Auklet, and Red-necked Phalarope are other possible pelagic species. The recommended overnight accommodation in Brookings is the Ocean Suites Motel (541) 469-4004, 16045 Lower Harbor Rd, which has reserved rooms for pelagic participants. [The $79.79 rate for a suite room with kitchenette is not included in event price.] Rough seas will cancel this trip, with registrants receiving a full refund. Please be sure we have a way to contact you locally if last minute-weather does cancel the trip. All participants will be notified and trip details will be updated at www.godwitdays.org.

FR12 Dawn Chorus – Arcata Marsh Field Trip 2 6:30 a.m. – 8:30 a.m. [See description of event #TH04.]

FR13 Patrick’s Point State Park Field Trip 8:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.

$10

Leader: Chet Ogan

FREE

Leader: California State Parks staff

Join California State Parks staff for a birding and cultural tour of Patrick’s Point. A State Park interpretative specialist will lead participants on a short tour (30 minutes) of Sumeg Village, a reconstructed Yurok village. There will be opportunities to view seabirds and species associated with the park’s Sitka spruce forests and meadows. Participants hopefully will see resident Red Crossbills and Gray Jays, as well as Varied Thrush. Bring lunch/snack and something to drink. Restrooms are available. California State Parks is a major sponsor of Godwit Days and provides a variety of trips, access to the parks, and expert staff as guides.


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FR14 Conifers of the North Coast Field Trip 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

$40

Leader: Michael Kauffmann

Michael Kauffmann, author of Conifer Country, Conifers of the Pacific Slope, and A Field Guide to Manzanitas (summer 2015), will lead an exploration into the Klamath Mountains, home to one of the most species-rich temperate coniferous forests on Earth. The trip will be centered along South Fork Mountain that, due to proximity to the Pacific Ocean and complex soils, fosters complex plant associations — including over half of all the plant families in California. The group will explore the mutualistic relationships between birds and conifers and search out regionally exceptional tree and bird species. Bring lunch and something to drink. [NOTE: Price includes choice of one of Michael’s books.]

FR15 Stone Lagoon Kayak Tour 1 8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

$65

Leader: Kayak Zak’s

This event meets at the Stone Lagoon Visitor Center on Hwy 101, 30 miles north of Arcata (see map in registration packet). Stone Lagoon nestles in the heart of Humboldt Lagoons State Park and borders Redwood National Park. This enclosed body of brackish water fed by MacDonald Creek is an important estuary for migratory shorebirds. Expect to see wading birds, dabbling ducks, Marsh Wrens, and raptors. There are two Double-breasted Cormorant rookeries along the lagoon and Belted Kingfisher nest in the sandstone. We will take a walking break (¼ mile) at the primitive campsite on the west side to look for songbirds and woodpeckers. This is where we will find several enormous old-growth Sitka spruce and other native plants and fungi. Another break will be held on the sand spit to look for marine mammals and coastal shorebirds (¼ mile walk). This lagoon shares a 1.5-mile sand spit with the ocean and is 4.5 miles to circumnavigate. Keep your eyes open along the lagoon for river otters and Roosevelt elk. This trip is appropriate for beginners and all ages. The kayaks are stable sponson-hulled sit-on-tops, both one-person and tandems. Kayak Zak’s will also provide wetsuits, booties, splash jackets, and life jackets. We will include a short kayak lesson before launching. Restrooms are available at launch site and at campground. Participants should bring a fleece jacket, hat, a snack, drinking water, waterproof binoculars, waterproof camera, and sunscreen. Wear a bathing suit and thin synthetic shirt (rash guard) for under the sleeveless wetsuit. If you have questions, call Kayak Zak’s at (707) 498-1130. [Event repeats on Saturday and Sunday as #SA36 and #SU64.]

FR16 North Jetty Sea Watch & Woodley Island Field Trip 8:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.

$15

Leader: Ken Burton

The North Spit provides a variety of birding spots out to the jetty. Here, the rocky shore specialists — Surfbird, Black Turnstone, and Wandering Tattler — can be found. Bring a spotting scope to scan the ocean for seabirds. Woodley Island, Vance Road, and the Samoa Bridge will harbor nesting egrets and mud-dwelling shorebirds. Bring a snack and something to drink. An optional no-host lunch is planned at the trip’s end time at Café Marina on Woodley Island. Stilt Sandpiper among other peeps by Rob Fowler


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New!

continued

FR17 Urban Retreats Field Trip 8:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.

$10

Leader: Samantha Bacon

Cooper Gulch, an oasis of riparian habitat, lies in the middle of a busy section of Eureka. The Hikshari’ Trail the along Elk River feeds into Humboldt Bay. Surf Scoters and other ducks, shorebirds, gulls, and terns can be found here. The willows that line the paved trail support Black-capped Chickadees, Bewick’s Wren, and other passerines. Bring a snack and something to drink.

FR18 Shorebird Spectacle at the Marsh Field Trip 1 8:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.

Red Knot by Rob Fowler

$15

Leader: David Fix

Witness tens of thousands of shorebirds gathered on the mudflats of North Humboldt Bay. Approaching high breeding condition, these northbound Arctic and subarctic nesters swarm and vocalize in a manner that cannot be experienced at other seasons. The number of birds on the move is staggering and can be experienced daily during this northward spring migration push. Shorebird species expected include Western and Least Sandpiper, Dunlin, Marbled Godwit, Willet, dowitchers, Black-bellied Plover, and American Avocet. [Event repeats on Saturday, Sunday and Monday as #SA42, #SU72 and #MO83.]


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FR19 Birding North to Trinidad (w/No-Host Lunch at Seascape) $20 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.

Take an easy walk while looking for migrant spring passerines like Pacific Slope Flycatcher or Black-capped Chickadee, as well as any warblers that have arrived in the Blue Lake riparian habitats along the Mad River. There will be Allen’s and Anna’s Hummingbirds and potentially Rufous Hummingbird. This is the only chance for White-throated Swifts, a new arrival in this area. We will visit Elk Head to see a Common Murre colony and the Sitka spruce forest on the way out with Winter Wrens and possible kinglets and Brown Creeper. Bring a snack and something to drink. Prepare for wet ground and some variable terrain. There will be restrooms at the Blue Lake Fish Hatchery and opportunity to use a spotting scope at Elk Head. We will end with lunch at the Seascape Restaurant in Trinidad Harbor.

Leader: Rob Hewitt

Anna’s Hummingbird by Rob Fowler

FR20 Birding South to Ferndale (w/No-Host Lunch at Eel River Brewery) $20 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.

Leader: To Be Determined

The Eel River Delta to the south of Humboldt Bay is home to the Victorian town of Ferndale and some great waterfowl and riparian bird habitats. The cemetery often has Red-breasted Sapsucker in the poplars. Open pastureland supports swallows, raptors, and blackbirds at the many dairies. Open waters should hold migrating ducks and shorebirds. The trip will feature Humboldt Bay NWR and the raptor-rich bottomland pastures of the Eel River. Shorebirds, waterfowl, and other birds of the Bay will be seen. The Salt River can be a migrant corridor and should still hold Black-capped Chickadee and Golden-crowned Sparrow. General all-around car-birding will be enjoyed and the trip is focused on enjoying all the birds encountered. Bring a snack and something to drink. Prepare for wet ground; terrain is mostly flat. Restrooms are at the refuge. There will be plenty of opportunity to use a spotting scope. A late lunch at the Eel River Brewery will round out the trip.

New!

FR21 Kayak Humboldt Bay 1 9:45 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.

$55

Leader: Pacific Outfitters

This event meets at Pacific Outfitters, 1600 Fifth Street in Eureka (see map in registration packet). During this 2.5-hour tour, we’ll paddle 2 to 4 miles as we explore Humboldt Bay and the Eureka waterfront’s rich history and wildlife. In addition to being home to more than 100 plant species, 300 invertebrate species, 100 fish species, and 200 bird species, the bay and its complex system of marshes and grasses support hundreds of thousands of migrating and resident shorebirds. This on-top-of-the-water experience allows for close up views of water birds and flocks of small shorebirds as they fly close over your head in switch-back flight. Loons, grebes, cormorants, and diving ducks will be encountered. All gear and instruction provided, no experience necessary. Humboldt Bay is the largest protected body of water on the West Coast between San Francisco Bay and Puget Sound, the second-largest enclosed bay in California, and the largest port between San Francisco and Coos Bay, Oregon. This estuary houses the largest oyster production operations on the West Coast, producing more than half of all oysters farmed in California. [Event repeats on Saturday and Sunday as #SA46 and #SU75.]

FR22 Spotted Owls Field Trip 1

$25

1:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. Leader: Patrick Tweedy, Green Diamond Resource Company

This trip is a “wow!” experience, as we visit excellent spots to observe Northern Spotted Owls in their nesting habitat. This trip offers superb photographic opportunities, as the owls have become accustomed to human presence over the years they have been studied. Green Diamond Resource Company biologists are quite knowledgeable on the subject of Spotted Owl biology and are happy to share their experiences with these birds. The owls come amazingly close as they swoop down for mice. The owls may be seen roadside, but more likely will require a hike along a short but possibly steep forest trail. Wear hiking boots and dress in layers. Will not stop for food or restrooms. You may want to have a spotting scope available in your vehicle if we stop to scan for eagles, but it won’t be needed to see the owls. Bring a snack and something to drink. [Event repeats on Saturday and Sunday as #SA51 and #SU76.]

FR23 Owl Pellet Dissection Workshop for Kids 4:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.

FREE

Leader: Friends of the Dunes

Children and their parents will have fun breaking apart owl pellets to see what the birds have been eating. Rodent bone identification sheets will be provided, along with the owl pellets and tools for dissecting them.


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FR24 Opening Reception 5:00 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.

FREE

Visit the art exhibit and Bird Fair vendor booths. Light hors d’oeuvres will be provided, plus a cash bar with wine from local vintners and beer from Humboldt Beer Distributors. This is a great time to track down your field trip leaders and talk about what you are hoping to see. All paid registrants receive one drink ticket for this event.

FR25 Night-time Owls Field Trip 6:30 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.

$20

Leader: Sandra Hunt von-Arb

Based on what the Owl Scouting Trip found [see event # TH10], several locations will be searched in the hopes of a call or lucky glimpse of an owl. Hope for the best, but expect nothing. Owls are notoriously difficult to scare up on a field trip. Some years, this trip can hear quite a few species. Clear weather is best for night-time owling. Dress warmly and wear comfortable shoes, although terrain is mostly flat. This carpool trip will not stop for food or restrooms. There may be opportunity to use a spotting scope until dark. Rain cancels this trip.

FR26 Opening Lectures

FREE

6:30 p.m. – 7:45 p.m. Speakers: Friends of the Arcata Marsh, Green Diamond Resource Company

Following a short welcome from Arcata’s mayor and presentation of the Second Annual Humboldt County Bird of the Year awards, two talks will round out the evening. First, volunteers from Friends of the Arcata Marsh — this year’s Spotlight Organization — will talk about the nonprofit organization’s educational outreach program for the world-renowned Arcata Marsh & Wildlife Sanctuary. Then, Green Diamond Resource Company biologists conduct a range of wildlife work on their redwood forest timber lands. A brief synopsis on their work with wildlife and fish will be presented.

FR27 Arcata Marsh Night Hike 7:45 p.m. – 9:15 p.m.

$10

Leader: To Be Determined

Once again, we feature the delights of the marsh, but with a twist. Join this tour for a unique perspective from twilight to dark at the Arcata Marsh & Wildlife Sanctuary. We’ll look for birds at twilight and signs of mammals after dark, including a bat hunt. Dusk hours are prime mosquito time. Wear long pants, a long-sleeved shirt, and other protective clothing and use mosquito repellent. Terrain is flat but may be wet. Restrooms are available. Light will be low for optics use.

Saturday, April 18

SA28 Marbled Murrelet Field Trip 1 5:00 a.m. – 8:30 a.m.

$15

Leader: Moe Morrissette

Experience the endangered and mysterious Marbled Murrelet, set in dramatic redwood old-growth forest with a local biologist. Its ringing “keer” calls pierce the early morning mist. This 90-mile round trip to Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park near Orick is for early birds! The dawn chorus, including Varied Thrush, Pacific Wren, and, possibly, Pileated Woodpecker, accompanies pre-dawn flights of the murrelets. These birds are usually seen only in flight. Plenty of other redwood forest birds can be enjoyed. Flat terrain, but moist. Restrooms are available, will not stop for food. [Event repeats on Sunday as #SU57.]


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SA29 Grouse Field Trip to Redwood National Park 6:45 a.m. – 10:45 a.m.

$15

Leader: Brit O’Brien

This trip will take you in search of grouse and other gamebirds in the early morning in Redwood National Park. Brit, the owner of O’Brien Biological Consultants, has worked extensively as a wildlife biologist in our region and beyond. He is quite familiar with forest wildlife and has led this trip for many years. Successfully seeing Ruffed Grouse is never guaranteed, but he gets them most years and this is certainly your best chance for it. Expect mostly flat even ground, but we may need to go off-trail if a grouse is spotted. Other redwood forest birds such as Varied Thrush and Pacific Wren will be singing. Roosevelt elk may be seen as well. Bring a snack and something to drink.

SA30 Humboldt “Big Day” 1 $40 7:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

Leader: Scott Carey

There is no better way to experience the variety of spring birds in Humboldt. Join the Big Day team as it attempts to exceed the 100 species mark! Travel up and down the coast by city bus visiting our area’s best spots. This is a fast-paced field trip, making several quick stops to record as many species of birds as possible. Waterfowl and shorebirds over the bay, herons and egrets at the Arcata Marsh, seabirds offshore, riparian passerines, and of course some Marbled Godwits will be seen. In recent years we exceeded the 125 species mark, as locations such as the Blue Lake Cottonwoods or Elk Head are visited. Restrooms will be available at some stops. There will be opportunity to use a spotting scope. Includes box lunch (inform us of any food allergies or special dietary requirements). [Event repeats on Sunday as #SU58.]

SA31 Birding by Ear (Basics) Workshop & Field Trip 7:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.

$15

Leader: David Juliano

Spend the first hour in a classroom focusing on methods for identifying bird songs, then key in on several local species. The remainder will be spent traveling to different habitats to practice. Expertise is not required for this primer designed to get you started on this critical aspect of bird ID. The simple whistle of the Pacific Slope Flycatcher and the jumbled trill of the Pacific Wren are two of the redwood bird songs focused on. While at the Arcata Marsh, the Song Sparrow and chattering Marsh Wren will be heard. Once started on this skill, with David’s help, you will definitely finish this workshop with some new birdsongs in your voMarsh Wren by Rob Fowler cabulary. Prepare for forest trails, some hills, and flat marsh trails. Restrooms are available at the Community Center. Bring a snack and something to drink. [Event has a more-advanced session on Sunday as #SU62 focusing on warblers.]

SA32 Horse Mountain/High Elevation Habitats Field Trip 7:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.

$15

Leader: Jim McIntosh

Head to Horse Mountain (about 30 minutes inland). In the Douglas fir and pine forest, we will search for montane species such as Mountain Quail along the higher elevations (4500’) reached on Forest Service Route 1 (Titlow Hill). Bring lunch, something to drink, warm clothes, and expect beautiful scenery! There may be snow on the ground, but that never discourages the Mountain Chickadees. The land here is managed by Six Rivers National Forest. Roads are tight up in this hill-timber country and unexpected vehicles can cause problems, so carpool to the greatest extent possible. Prepare for variable terrain, possibly snow or wet ground. Restrooms not available; opportunities to use a spotting scope. Bring lunch and something to drink.

Find the most up-to-date information at

www.godwitdays.org


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SA33 HBBO Bird Banding Field Trip 1 7:15 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.

$15

Leaders: Humboldt Bay Bird Observatory staff

Bird banding uses mist nets to capture small birds and place bands around their legs to enable continuous monitoring through re-capture. The Humboldt Bay Bird Observatory (HBBO) was established in 1982 by Dr. C. John Ralph and Dr. Carol Pearson Ralph. HBBO is adjacent to the Lanphere Dunes Unit of the Humboldt Bay NWR, bordered by Mad River Slough and coastal dune forest. This variety of habitats supports a high diversity of bird species. Bird populations and demographics have been monitored at the station continuously since 1982, making the HBBO one of the longest-running stations in the nation. Education and volunteer programs provide the opportunity to observe and learn about birds, bird monitoring, and research techniques. The banding program has grown into the Klamath Demographic Network that runs banding stations from southern Oregon through the Klamath and California North Coast regions and south to Mendocino. Expect narrow trails and possibly wet ground. Bring a snack and something to drink. Restrooms are available at the site. No scope necessary. [Event repeats on Sunday as #SU60.]

Gold

SA34 Best Birding Spots Field Trip 7:15 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

$50

Leader: Ken Burton

This trip will sample the birds at a half-dozen of the best birding spots in central coastal Humboldt County. Outer coast, spruce forest, cottonwood riparia, and freshwater marsh will be visited. Emphasis is on interpretation of each site and enjoying birding at a relaxed pace. Terrain is mostly flat but not good for access-limited persons. Bring a lunch, something to drink, layered clothing, a hat, and sunscreen. There will be stops for restrooms and opportunities to use a spotting scope.

New!

SA35 Salt River Restoration Area Field Trip 7:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.

$15

Leader: Sean McAllister

Located in Ferndale, in the Eel River Bottoms, the Salt River has gone through some recent restoration efforts that birds have responded to, by literally flocking to the area. Bring a lunch and something to drink.

SA36 Stone Lagoon Kayak Tour 2 8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. [See description of event #FR15.]

New!

SA37 Chasing Current Rarities Field Trip 1 8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

$65

Leader: Kayak Zak’s

$20

Leader: Brad Elvert

Over the years, we have recorded an impressive array of rarities during the festival, and particularly rare birds known as “accidentals.” These have included Magnificent Hummingbird, Brown Shrike, and Smith’s Longspur. Last year, a Humboldt County first record Royal Tern showed up. We’ve always coordinated a last-minute impromptu trip to see these species so this year we are planning ahead! The rare bird board we keep in the Community Center lobby will guide where this trip is going to go and what we’ll try to find. No guarantees of a “mega,” but Brad will chase the range of desired species. [Event repeats Sunday as #SU65.]


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SA39 Shay Park eBird Survey Field Trip 8:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Local “Arcata Patch” Shay Park has been surveyed monthly by Rob as part of the national Cornell Lab of Ornithology’s eBird site survey program for over 3 years. Rob’s intimate knowledge of the site is helpful. Pacific-slope Flycatcher and Black-capped and Chestnut-backed Chickadees will be in residence, as will White-tailed Kite and Red-shouldered Hawk, all of which nest in or near the park. This trip is an easy-paced birding trip in one of Arcata’s finest urban parks. Other urban bird habitat locations will be visited to round out the range of species one can see in town. Bring a snack and something to drink. [NOTE: This and all Godwit Days birding trips are entered into the eBird database. Look for the eBird booth at the Community Center for further questions and help entering your own eBird data.] American Bittern by Rob Fowler

$10

Leader: Rob Fowler

SA40 Birding Arcata with Libations & Farmers’ Market Field Trip $15 9:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.

Leader: To Be Determined

Enjoy a day of birding the Arcata Marsh, Blue Lake Cottonwoods, and other local birding hotspots with a visit to the Arcata Farmers’ Market for a no-host lunch break. Follow up watching flights of birds with delicious flights of wine at Libation Wine Shop and Wine Bar on the Arcata Plaza (no host, not included in trip price).

SA41 Herpetology Field Trip $20 9:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.

Leader: David Dimitrie

Reptiles and amphibians are sometimes overlooked, but they can be fascinating! David works as a biologist for Green Diamond Resource Company and herpetology is his specialty. The redwood forest is home to the Pacific Giant Salamander, which can grow to nearly 1 foot in length and is one of the only salamanders that vocalize — a faint yelp when captured! Uncover the world of snakes, turtles, salamanders, frogs, and more. Bring a lunch and something to drink. Spotting scopes unnecessary for herps, but may be used for incidental birds.

SA42 Shorebird Spectacle at the Marsh Field Trip 2 9:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. [See description of event #FR18.]

$15

Leader: David Fix


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SA43 Bear River Ridge Field Trip 9:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.

$25

Leader: To Be Determined

From Rio Del to Ferndale, this classic ridge-top route takes birders out of the forests and into extensive prairies. This 35-mile trip boasts spectacular views of Humboldt Bay, Ferndale, and the Eel River Bottoms. Golden Eagle is possible on this route, as well as other ridge-migrating raptors. Western Meadowlarks, possibly bluebirds, and Horned Larks are other bird specialists of this habitat. In 2012, this trip discovered a breeding plumage Smith’s Longspur, a first for Humboldt County. This will be mostly roadside birding. Bring lunch and something to drink. Restrooms are available in Rio Del and Ferndale.

SA44 Kids’ Birding Field Trip 1 9:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.

FREE

Leader: To Be Determined

This field trip is designed for the young naturalist between the ages of 4 and 12, accompanied by an adult. An introduction to birds, how to use binoculars, and identification tips will precede a leisurely walk around the Arcata Marsh practicing what the youngsters have learned. Donated by Out of This World/ discountbinoculars.com, small binoculars suitable for children will be provided for use during the trip. The terrain is mostly flat, groomed trails. Bring a snack and something to drink. A restroom is available at the Interpretive Center and at Klopp Lake. [Event repeats on Sunday as #SU69.]

New!

SA46 Kayak Humboldt Bay 2 10:45 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.

[See description of event #FR21.]

SA47 Humboldt Bay National Wildlife Refuge Field Trip 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.

$55

Leader: Pacific Outfitters

FREE

Leader: HBNWR staff

This event meets at the Refuge visitor center (see map in registration packet). See a startling diversity of bird life and hear about refuge management for migratory birds and other wildlife. Staff will lead a leisurely, level walk around the refuge that supports thousands of both Aleutian Cackling Geese and Black Brant. The ground may be wet, but trails are used along the pond levees. Bring lunch and something to drink. Restrooms are available at refuge headquarters before or after the walk. Spotting scopes are available for general use to scan the open water from a viewing window.

SA48 Art Workshop for Kids

FREE

12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m. Leader: Gary Bloomfield

This workshop is designed for young artists to learn the basics of drawing birds. Children must be accompanied by a responsible adult. Bring your own paper and drawing materials. Local wildlife artist Gary Bloomfield, who created our 20th anniversary artwork, will share his insight on this fun activity. 20th Anniversary Godwit Days artwork by Gary Bloomfield


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SA49 Lanphere Dunes Field Trip 1 12:00 p.m. – 2:45 p.m.

Enjoy the dynamic dunes ecosystem and associated rare and endangered plants. Formerly a Nature Conservancy property, the dunes are now part of the Humboldt Bay NWR. The coastal spruce forest supports flocks of chickadees and the brush boasts Wrentits. Terrain is sandy, steeply undulating; wear closed-toed shoes. Dress in layers. Bring a lunch/snack and something to drink. No restrooms or opportunity to use a spotting scope. [Event repeats on Sunday as #SU73.] Brown Creeper by Rob Fowler

SA50 Native Plant Walk 12:30 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.

FREE

Leader: Friends of the Dunes

FREE

Leader: Carol Ralph

Humboldt is not just for the birds, its plant life is fascinating, too! Join the California Native Plant Society for an afternoon walk from the Community Center to Arcata Community Forest and back to see native plants in landscapes and in a redwood forest. Besides identification, questions like “What IS a native plant?”, “Why should I plant natives in my yard?” and “How does one mimic in a yard a wild, native habitat?” will be considered. Hopefully, trillium will be blooming in the forest. The walk is about 3 miles on sidewalks and good paths, with about 250 ft. elevation gain. Bring a snack and something to drink.

SA51 Spotted Owls Field Trip 2 1:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. [See description of event #FR22.]

SA52 Birding 101 Lecture & Field Trip 1:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.

$25

Leader: Desiree Early

$10

Leader: Samantha Bacon

This session will begin with a 1-hour lecture to introduce the tools of the trade. Photos of common local birds will be shown and their identification will be discussed. Then, attendees will go on a field trip to apply what they have learned. Bring your favorite field guide. Expect mostly flat terrain, and there will be plenty of opportunity to use a spotting scope. Bring a snack and something to drink.

SA53 Field Sketching Workshop & Field Trip 1:30 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.

$15

Leader: Gary Bloomfield

This is a crash course in bird anatomy shorthand for capturing gestures in moving birds. Gary is a Godwit Days Board member and the 20th anniversary poster artist. Following an introductory lecture, participants will head outdoors to learn field sketching techniques for art reference and visual note taking. Terrain will be flat with easy access. Sunny weather will allow outdoor sketching. Wet weather will bring us indoors to sketch the live raptors on display in the main hall. Bring a lunch/snack and something to drink.


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SA54 Happy Hours Social 5:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.

NAC

Join us for no-host local beer, a variety of local wines and non-alcoholic drinks before the keynote address. Browse vendor booths and find out about the day’s birding highlights.

SA55 Banquet $30 5:30 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.

Relax after a full day of events over a gourmet banquet provided by Abruzzi Italian restaurant, featuring dishes for both meat-lovers and vegetarians. Includes a buffet meal, complimentary glass of beer or wine, shade-grown bird-friendly coffee, and dessert.

SA56 Keynote Lecture included w/paid registration; $10 without registration 7:30 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.

Speaker: Andy Mack

Andy is currently the executive director of the Indo-Pacific Conservation Alliance. The title of his presentation is “Uphill struggles: of cassowaries, seeds, and conservation.” Andy is passionately committed to raising up future generations of indigenous biologists wherever he works, concentrating on building scientific capacity in developing countries and training national students and budding scientists in biodiversity and conservation science. He is a captivating speaker and presenter on birds and all aspects of conservation. His book, Searching for PekPek: Cassowaries and Conservation in a New Guinea Rainforest, has just been released and is available at local bookshops such as Rookery Books on the Arcata Plaza. See page 3 in this guide for more information about this fascinating speaker!


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Sunday, April 19

SU57 Marbled Murrelet Field Trip 2 5:00 a.m. – 8:30 a.m. [See description of event #SA28.]

$15

Leader: Sean McAllister

SU58 Humboldt “Big Day” 2 $40 7:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. [See description of event #SA30.]

Gold

Leader: Rob Hewitt

SU59 Birding with Keynote Speaker (includes lunch) 7:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.

$75

Leaders: Andy Mack & CJ Ralph

A unique and interesting birding opportunity is provided on this trip. Join this year’s keynote speaker Andy Mack and Godwit Days Board member Dr. C.J. Ralph on a leisurely field trip to local birding hotspots. The habitats near Lanphere Dunes will also be checked for a variety of birds and the trip will end with a light lunch on the deck at C.J.’s house.

SU60 HBBO Bird Banding Field Trip 2 7:15 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.

[See description of event #SA33.]

$15

Leaders: Humboldt Bay Bird Observatory staff

SU61 Trinity River Field Trip 7:15 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.

$20

Leader: Tom Leskiw

Drive along the designated Scenic Highway as we head to inland Humboldt County, Willow Creek, and the Trinity River. Forest birds will be the focus, but also may see Spotted Sandpiper, American Dipper, and other exciting inland birds. Located just over the Humboldt County line, one-way travel is about 1 hour. Expect variable terrain, including short, steep pitches on developed trails. Weather may be warmer than the coast, but there is always the possibility of rain. Bring lunch and something to drink. Restrooms are available 1 hour into the trip and on the return. Opportunity to use a spotting scope is limited.

SU62 Birding by Ear (Beyond the Basics) Workshop & Field Trip $15 7:30 a.m. – 11:15 a.m.

Leader: David Juliano

This workshop is designed for birders who already know common bird vocalizations and wish to expand their knowledge. Work on recognizing group vocal characteristics of wrens, thrushes, and others. The focus of this particular session will be on wood warblers. The songs of local breeding warblers will be the starting point, but chips and flight calls, as well as those clues about a possible Eastern vagrant, will be discussed. The classroom and field trip will work on both identifying unfamiliar birds to group and differentiating group members. Bring a snack and something to drink. Restrooms available; opportunity to use a spotting scope. [Beginner course on Saturday as #SA37.]


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Sunday, April 19 continued

SU63 Del Norte & Tufted Puffin Field Trip 7:45 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

$25

Leader: Rob Fowler

Del Norte County provides an interesting contrast to Humboldt birding. This trip begins with a scenic drive north through the redwoods and lagoons to Crescent City. Rendezvous at Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park with participants from the Marbled Murrelet trip [see event #SU57] is possible. The harbor and rocky shore support an array of birds, including Tufted Puffin on Castle Rock, the West Coast’s third largest seabird colony. This is the only land-based location in California where one can see Tufted Puffin, usually requiring a spotting scope. We will visit Alexandre Dairy for shorebirds and Lake Earl for waterfowl. Point St. George could reveal some sea ducks like scoters and Harlequin Duck and it’s an outstanding location for all the West Coast rocky shorebirds. Crescent City harbor should have loons, grebes, Black Oystercatcher by Rob Fowler Red-breasted Merganser, Surf Scoter, and migrant shorebirds. The gull flock at the mouth of Elk Creek is always worth a scan. To ensure there are no lost parties, Anchor Way in Crescent City will be the rendezvous point to reconvene after our 1.5 hours of travel from the Arcata Community Center. Expect uneven terrain, rocky shorelines, and possibly wet ground. Bring a lunch and something to drink; there will be restroom stops.

SU64 Stone Lagoon Kayak Tour 3 8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

$65

Leader: Kayak Zak’s

[See description of event #FR15.]

$20 New! SU65 Chasing Current Rarities Field Trip 2 8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Leader: Brad Elvert

[See description of event #SA37.]

SU66 Blue Lake & Organic Farm for Wildlife Field Trip 8:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.

$15

Leader: Paul Lohse

Over the years, Paul has developed his organic farm in Blue Lake and has always considered providing for wildlife as part of his plan. As an experienced birder, Paul keeps us updated on species he encounters on his farm, which is ideally located adjacent to the natural riparian forest along the Mad River just outside Blue Lake. The mixed chickadee flocks can be impressive as they move through the cottonwoods that skirt his property. Pacific Slope Flycatcher, Allen’s Hummingbird, and possibly White-throated Swift should be seen. Located on the edge of town, the riparian corridor along the Mad River is integrated into the rural urban interface to provide some of the most-diverse habitat in our area. Restrooms are not available and a spotting scope is not critical. Bring a snack and something to drink.

New!

SU67 Friends of the Arcata Marsh Field Trip 8:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.

FREE

Leaders: George Ziminsky, David Couch

Join FOAM Board Members George Ziminsky (a daily visitor to the Marsh) and David Couch (wastewater treatment plant operator) for a birding trip that includes a behind-the-scenes look at Arcata’s innovative treatment plant. Over 325 species of birds have been recorded at the Marsh. A leisurely paced trip introducing the marsh birds is perfect for anybody with an interest in nature. As part of the City of Arcata’s wastewater treatment process, these (re)constructed wetlands hosts an abundance of birds and other wildlife. Terrain mostly flat, but may be wet. Restrooms at the Interpretive Center and Klopp Lake. Plenty of opportunities to use a spotting scope. Bring a snack and something to drink.


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Sunday, April 19 continued

New! SU68 Bike & Bird Field Trip $50/$25 if you supply your own bike 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Leaders: Gary Bloomfield & Pacific Outfitters

This event meets at Pacific Outfitters, 737 G Street in Arcata (map in registration packet). From there, participants will bike to the Arcata Marsh for birdwatching and trail exploration. This is a prime spot for birding, with great views of the Arcata Bay. At any time of the year, birds and mammals can be viewed from one of the many trails that network the over 225 acres that are open to the public. Go green on this trip that will use bicycles as the vantage point for enjoying birds.

SU69 Kids’ Birding Field Trip 2 9:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. [See description of event #SA44.]

FREE

Leader: Katy Allen

SU70 Binoculars & Scopes Lecture 10:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.

FREE

Speaker: Marilyn Rose, Out of This World

Whether you’ve just started birding or are looking for an upgrade, this talk will introduce the many types and uses of optical aids. Get essential information about types, field of view, focus distance, magnification, highdensity glass, and jargon related to birding optics. Several optics representatives will be at the Bird Fair with all types and brands of binoculars, spotting scopes, tripods, and accessories for side-by-side comparisons.

SU71 Shorebird Spectacle at the Marsh Field Trip 3 10:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. [See description of event #FR18.]

$15

Leader: David Fix


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Sunday, April 19 continued

SU71.5 Wooden Bird Carving Workshop 11:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

$30

Leader: Pacific Flyway Decoy Association

Join PFDA master carvers for a 4-hour carving seminar. All of the necessary materials, including a study guide and the best knives on the market, will be provided. Short lectures with lots of hands-on carving will enable you to complete a Marsh Wren. Topics include where to get your supplies, how to use reference material, wood selection, and how to use hand tools and power tools. This workshop’s fee includes a 1-year membership in the PFDA. Registrants must be at least 15 years old.

SU72 Kayak Mad River Slough 11:45 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.

$55

Leader: Pacific Outfitters

This event meets at Pacific Outfitters, 1600 Fifth Street in Eureka (see map in registration packet). The Mad River Slough Wildlife Area provides opportunities for spectacular bird watching and wildlife viewing. This tour is a favorite among birdwatchers. We’ll paddle 2 to 4 miles, exploring the Mad River Slough’s unique environment west of Arcata on the east side of Humboldt Bay. Over 150 years ago, loggers dug out a channel and connected the slough with the Mad River in order to float their logs down river, all the way to the mill yards that sat on the edge of Humboldt Bay. This ontop-of-the-water experience allows for close-up views of water birds and flocks of small shorebirds as they fly close over your head in switch-back flight. Loons, grebes, cormorants, and diving ducks will be encountered. All gear and instruction provided; no experience necessary. Bring a lunch/snack and something to drink. Lesser Yellowlegs by Rob Fowler


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Sunday, April 19 continued

New! SU73 Ma-le’l Dunes & Humboldt Coastal Nature Center Field Trip FREE 12:00 p.m. – 2:45 p.m. Leader: Jenny Hanson, Friends of the Dunes

Enjoy the dynamic dunes ecosystem and associated rare and endangered plants. Formerly a Nature Conservancy property, the dunes are now part of the Humboldt Bay NWR. The coastal spruce forest supports flocks of chickadees and the brush boasts Wrentits. Terrain is sandy, steeply undulating; wear closed-toed shoes and dress in layers. After a tour through the dunes, we will visit the Friends of the Dunes headquarters: the Humboldt Coastal Nature Center (HCNC), a restored house that was originally built into the dunes and still has a “living roof.” Restrooms available at the HCNC. Bring a snack and something to drink.

SU74 Bird Photography & Digiscoping Workshop 12:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m.

$10

Leader: To Be Determined

Learn the skills to take bird photos through digital camera attached to a spotting scope.

SU75 Kayak Humboldt Bay 3 11:45 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.

$55

Leader: Pacific Outfitters

[See description of event #FR21.]

SU76 Spotted Owls Field Trip 3

$25

1:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. Leader: Carol Gress, Green Diamond Resource Company [See description of event #FR22.]

New!

SU77 Beer & Birding in Manila 3:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.

$25

Leaders: Carol Vander Meer, Ken Burton

This event meets at 44 Pelican Lane in Manila, a 5-minute drive out Samoa Boulevard from Arcata (map included in registration packet). Enjoy birding on Humboldt Bay with Friends of the Dunes Executive Director Carol Van der Meer and her husband Steven as they host this fun birding event at their home on the shores of Humboldt Bay. Sample local beers, nibble on appetizers made with locally sourced foods, and enjoy excellent birding by the bay. Soft drinks and wine will also be available. Birding expert Ken Burton will be on hand to help with identification, along with Ken Griggs, Humboldt Bay NWR Deputy Manager, who will have some of his home brew available to sample. Proceeds from the workshop benefit Friends of the Dunes education and stewardship programs.

SU78 Sunday Evening Social 5:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.

NAC

Hosted by: Plaza Grill, Jacoby’s Storehouse on the Plaza

Join us for a social recap of the festival highlights. The restaurant will have food and drink service at your own expense.

Monday, April 20

MO79 Birding Arcata Marsh & Surroundings Field Trip 6:30 a.m. – 9:30 a.m.

$10

Leader: Alexandra Lamb

The greater Arcata Marsh area, including the oxidation ponds, will be visited early to get the best birding action. Shorebirds and ducks are present in numbers and the variety of other “little birds” is great. Join us as we observe this area’s shorebirds and waterfowl. The Marsh has tallied over 325 species and the diverse array of habitats creates great birding variety. The footpaths boast the tamest Golden-crowned Sparrows around and the Marsh Wrens chatter away. This pre-breakfast trip is planned to catch the dawn chorus in full swing. We will check Brackish Pond along South I Street before heading out along the V Street Loop and the Arcata Bottom. Bring a snack and something to drink.

Find the most up-to-date information at

www.godwitdays.org


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Monday, April 20 continued

$200 Gold MO80 Lava Beds NE California 2-Day Field Trip Mon. 7:00 a.m. – Tues. 6:00 p.m. Leaders: Rob Hewitt, Chet Ogan

Monday night evening meal, accommodations, and Tuesday’s breakfast and box lunch included in trip price. The variety of birds seen on this trip is impressive, from Sandhill Crane and American White Pelican – two of the largest US species – to the smallest US bird, the Calliope Hummingbird. Based on the traditional Ornithology II field trip with Dr. Harris, who referred to it as the “Bird-Blitz,” this trip heads for the Klamath Basin along Hwy. 299, first to Redding, then up to Weed past Mt. Shasta. Hwy. 97 will take us to Grass Lake and the Butte Valley. The evening will be spent at the Tule Lake NWR where we will stay at Winema Lodge (included in trip fee). The first day starts with birding at the Straw House along Hwy. 299, with stops for restrooms and coffee. Kutras Lake and Turtle Bay will be the picnic lunch stop in Redding (12 to 1 p.m., lunch not provided). At the top of the Central Valley, the riparian habitat is excellent and Nuttall’s Woodpecker and Yellow-billed Magpie should be seen. Weed and Grass Lake (2 to 3 p.m.), here we will hopefully observe our first Sandhill Cranes and Yellow-headed Blackbirds, Butte Valley (4 p.m.) for raptors, Klamath NWR (5 to 6 p.m.) for ducks, and an evening meal will be waiting for us at Winema Lodge (6 to 7 p.m.). The variety of habitats and species expected to be seen will include the following additional species not typical of our coastal area: Oak Titmouse, Hooded Oriole, Swainson’s Hawk, Bald Eagle, Black-billed Magpie, Rock Wren, Mountain Bluebird, and White-faced Ibis. On the second day, we will bird the auto-tour routes before breakfast back at the lodge (not included in trip price). We have seen Wilson’s Phalarope, Franklin’s Gull, and Tricolored Blackbird in the past. Then we head out via Tule Lake, the petrocliffs (11 a.m.), Mammoth Crater, and the Lava Beds south on Hwy. 139 towards Ash Creek. Rock and Canyon Wrens, Townsend’s Solitaire, and Pygmy Nuthatch will be new passerines, while Great Horned Owl and Prairie Falcon will hopefully be tending their cliff-top nests. We will head back to Arcata by way of Hwy. 299 and stop along the way as needed. Red-naped Sapsucker by Rob Fowler


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Monday, April 20 continued

MO81 Humboldt Lagoons State Park-Stone Lagoon Field Trip FREE 7:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.

Leader: Moe Morrissette

Stone Lagoon is located on Hwy 101 between Trinidad and Orick. It has great birding, with a mix of riparian hardwood, open freshwater, strong conifer influence, and open beach. The trip will also check out Dry and Big Lagoons along this exquisite drive. If you have a spotting scope, this is a great opportunity to use it. Ring-necked Ducks often hunker down in the reed beds, forest passerines will include Chestnutbacked Chickadees and Pacific Slope Flycatchers, and Varied and Swainson’s Thrush will serenade. There is a great chance to witness the magnificent Roosevelt elk herd along this stretch. Expect mostly flat terrain, posCinnamon Teal by Rob Fowler sibly wet ground. Bring a lunch/ snack and something to drink. Restrooms are available at some stops. California State Parks is a major sponsor of Godwit Days and provides a variety of trips, access to the parks, and expert staff as guides.

MO82 Mulligan Monday Field Trip 8:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.

$15

Leader: To Be Determined

The rare bird board will have filled up, with notes given to this leader. Round up all the great birds found during the festival weekend. Arcata Marsh, the Arcata Bottom, and the Blue Lake cottonwoods will be visited. There will also be the chance for some special requests, based on what has been seen over the Godwit Days weekend or what you still need for your species list. Bring a lunch and something to drink. Prepare for variable terrain; restrooms will be available.

MO83 Shorebird Spectacle at the Marsh Field Trip 4 12:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.

$15

Leader: Ken Burton

[See description of event #FR18.]

Tuesday, April 21

TU84 Tail-end Tuesday Field Trip 6:30 a.m. – 9:30 a.m.

$8

Leader: Alexandra Lamb

This will be a casual, wind-down birding trip to round out your week. Based on what has been located over the weekend, or targeting specific birds you have not seen yet, this trip is designed to be flexible and to meet your birding goals. Bring a snack and something to drink.

Find the most up-to-date information at

www.godwitdays.org



Godwit Days 2015 Birding Resource Guide

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More about Godwit Days You’ll find all this and more at the Arcata Community Center, 321 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Parkway in Arcata.

On-site registration Hours 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. Friday; 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Saturday; 7 a.m. to noon Sunday Provisions Godwit Café, operated by Redwood Region Audubon, will sell food and drink Saturday and Sunday from 6 a.m. to 3 p.m. Live Birds of Prey on display from Humboldt Wildlife Care Center, Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Family Nature Crafts provided free by Friends of the Arcata Marsh, Saturday from noon to 2 p.m. in the Arts & Crafts room. Student Bird Art Contest entries on display all weekend. Art and writing contest winners will be announced Saturday at 11 a.m. Free Community Activities No registration fee, but sign-up required to reserve a place. (See pages 6-8 to find field trips designated as “Free.”) Art Show & Sale by members of Arcata Artisans.

Silent Auction open to the public 3 p.m. Friday, closes 6:30 p.m. Saturday.

Godwit Merchandise available in the registration room. T-shirts featuring the 20th anniversary artwork design by Gary Bloomfield, hats, and vests.



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Godwit Days 2015 Birding Resource Guide

W hat

is a

G odwit ? Limosa fedoa beringiae

A

Marbled Godwit is a large, bright brown shorebird with a long, slightly upturned bi-colored bill. In flight, the underside of the wings is bright cinnamon-brown. Marbled Godwits nest from early May through July in wet meadows and grassy areas near water. They are coastal in winter, feeding in muddy bays, estuaries, salt marshes and wet pastures. During Godwit Days, they are in Humboldt Bay by the thousands. Most Marbled Godwits breed in the central United States and Canadian prairies and winter on the Pacific Coast. A distinct population (the slightly smaller subspecies beringiae) winters predominantly in the Arcata Marsh and Wildlife Sanctuary and on Humboldt Bay. In certain years, Arcata’s Christmas Bird Count records more individual godwits than any other location in the United States. The great number of Marbled Godwits along with other wintering shorebirds has resulted in recognition of Humboldt Bay as a critical stopover on the Pacific Flyway. The beringiae subspecies of godwits breed on the tundra near Ugashik Bay, Alaska.

G re at B i rd i n g S p ot s • Arcata Marsh & Wildlife Sanctuary

• Humboldt Bay NWR, Salmon Creek Unit • Behind 3G’s Hay & Grain, 5307 Boyd Rd., Arcata • Elk Head, Trinidad

• Mad River County Park

• Blue Lake Fish Hatchery • Shay Park • V Street Loop & Arcata Bottom • Hikshari’ Trail, South Eureka Waterfront

Don’t miss the color brochure “Year-round birding in Arcata and beyond” www. godwitdays.com/about/arcata_birding_01.pdf www. godwitdays.com/about/arcata_birding_02.pdf


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Godwit Days 2015 Birding Resource Guide

A rcata

Afternoon Jazz by Patricia Sennott

A rtisans

A

rcata Artisans

Cooperative features a dynamic co-op gallery on the Arcata Plaza and will celebrate 12 years in business this June! Its 30 members create a range of media, including ceramic, silver jewelry, fine art photography, woodworking, mixed media assemblage, and painting. Several members of Arcata Artisans will display again at Godwit Days, Arcata Community Center, April 17 through April 19. Patricia Sennott is one of the members who looks forward to this free community event every year. She will be showing her naturethemed monotype prints and watercolor paintings along with reprints and greeting cards. Work by former member Steven Vander Meer will also be available and includes his popular Bird Buttons made from salvaged field guides.

Forest Home by Patricia Sennott

Campfire Visitor by Patricia Sennott


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Godwit Days 2015 Birding Resource Guide

S ponsors

Godwit Super Sponsors

Avocet Major Sponsors Sue

Leskiw

Dowitcher Sponsors

Dunlin Sponsors

Alibi Restaurant & Cocktail Lounge • All Under Heaven • Baroni Designs • Blue Lake Rancheria • Brome Bird Care • Friends of the Dunes • KBO/HBBO • Mad River Brewing Co. • Cathy Mayer • Pierson Building Center • The Plumberman • Alex Stillman • Violet-Green Winery

Supporters

Arcata Artisans • Arcata Exchange • Arcata Mad River Ambulance • Big Blue Café • Café Mokka/Finnish Country Sauna • California Native Plant Society - North Coast Chapter • CartriCharge Imaging • Cypress Grove Chevre • Fowlerope Birding Tours • Humboldt Bay National Wildlife Refuge • Humboldt Beer Distributors • Humboldt Builders Exchange • Humboldt Maritime Museum/Madaket • Humboldt Wildlife Care Center • Jessicurl • Jitter Bean Coffee Company • Kayak Zak’s • Los Bagels • Mary Hana’s Flowers • Mirador Glass • Moonrise Herbs • Northcoast Co-op • Northtown Books • ’Ohana Organics • Pacific Outfitters • Linda Parkinson • Provolt Design • Ramone’s Bakery & Café • Redwood Yogurt • Rookery Books • Safeway • Sushi Spot • TaoReiki Holistic Services • Threadbare Dancewear • Tofu Shop • Tomas Jewelry


G odwit D ays 2015

R egistration F orm

Name Street Address City

State

ZIP

Phone Email

Registration Type

Basic $35 fee includes reception, opening talk, keynote, and Sunday Social; other trip fees added. Basic registration fee is waived for kids under 18 free; events are also no charge EXCEPT Gold trips, Big Days, Pelagic, Banquet, Kayak trips, and Bike & Bird trip. Trips are by carpool and meet at the Arcata Community Center, unless otherwise noted in field trip description (find the most up-to-date information at www.godwitdays.org).

Basic • $35 Under 18 •

free

Event Registration Event #

Cost $

Event #

Cost $

Total

Payment Type Mastercard Discover Visa Number

Check Enclosed Exp.

Signature

Mail to: Godwit Days, P.O. Box 4978, Arcata, CA 95518 or register online at www.godwitdays.org!




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