Western Cuyahoga Audubon

Society

www.wcasohio.org

August - October 2012

Ultrawalk-Ultrabird 2012 Wrap-Up

By Tom Romito, WCAS President
As we were walking up Ridge Road in
Hinckley Township on May 26, I said to
my three fellow Ultrawalkers, Do you
know what that mist down in that valley off to our right is? They said they
didnt, and I replied, Thats the East
Branch of the Rocky River, and were
walking to bring attention to residents
here that we all need to keep it clean!
I explained that we were on high
ground, hence the name Ridge Road,
and storm water takes trash, waste,
pesticides, and anything else in its path
downhill into the river. We want people
who live on the private parcels between
Hinckley and North Royalton, to consider selling their land to Cleveland
Metroparks instead of developers when
they decide to divest themselves of
their property. That way their land can
become part of the Emerald Necklace
instead of more housing and shopping
centers, I said.
WCAS board member Stan Searles
and Jason Wark and Laura Amendolagine, Cleveland Metropark Zoo employees, and I were braving the 31-mile
course from Hinckley Reservation to
Emerald Necklace Marina in Lakewood
on May 26, 2012 to raise funds for
WCAS. This was the sixth annual Ultrawalk, which is the inspiration of Stan
Searles.
Support Crew
Actually, we werent alone during
the adventure. Audubon member Vickie
Searles leapfrogged ahead of them
along the route in her vehicle to provide water, food items, and foot care.
Audubon member Terry Gorges positioned the WCAS banner at strategic
locations to bring the Ultrawalk to the
attention of passersby. Twelve Audubon
supporters joined the Ultrawalkers at
Cleveland Metroparks Ranger Operations Headquarters in Fairview Park to
walk the last five miles of the route.
Congressional Recognition
Pam Bobst, mayor of Rocky River,
was on hand at Emerald Necklace Marina to greet the entire group when it
completed the Ultrawalk at 5:30 p.m.
Joining her was Mike Patterson, sched-

uler for Congressman Dennis

Kucinich. Mike presented us with a
Certificate of Special Congressional
Recognition for raising public
awareness and expanding conservation efforts.
Donations & Pledges
During the months leading up
to the Ultrawalk, we secured donations and pledges from friends,
relatives, and associates for the
miles we walked. The intent of the
proceeds from this years Ultrawalk is to defray the cost of
publishing the final report of the
five-year (2006-2010) breeding
bird survey in the Rocky River IBA.
95 Bird Species
WCAS also wrapped up a great
migration season with a three-day
survey of the entire IBA called the
Ultrabird. This was a companion
fund-raiser to the Ultrawalk.
Thank you to all the UltraBirders
who came out to help! The best
birds for this UltraBird were the
new ones! We saw a female
Mourning Warbler at South Quarry
Picnic Area and a Gray-cheeked
Thrush in the same parking lot.
We had a Pine Warbler in Hinckley
in the same area where we've had
Magnolia Warbler in the past. We
missed the Magnolia this year, but
we had a singing White-throated
Sparrow at Lagoon Picnic Area.
Fantastic for late May! But we had
more birders come out to join us.
That was the best part.
(see Ultrawalk-Ultrabird, Page 7)

Inside this issue:

Field trips

page 2 & 3

Programs

Page 4

Carbon Offset Project

Page 4

Weeders In The Wild

Page 5

Join WCAS

Page 5

Ultra Wrap-Up

Page 6

Legacy Wildlife Stamp

Page 7

Contact Us

Page 7

Field Trips
Sunday, August 12, 8 AM
Shorebird Field trip
Meet at Black Swamp Bird Observatory, near Magee Marsh
Trip Leader: Ethan Kistler
Shorebirds abound in early August. We will join Ethan Kistler, Education and Outreach Specialist for the
Black Swamp Bird Observatory (BSBO) to see shorebirds in and around BSBO and the Ottawa National
Refuge. Scopes are a real plus. Dont forget a hat, sunscreen and a water bottle. Bring lunch for a picnic
after birding.
Carbon Offset: BSBO is about 90 miles from Cleveland, for 180 miles round trip. This trip will be part of
our Carbon Offset project A donation form is at http://www.wcasohio.org/PDF%20files/CarbonOffset.pdf
Based on mileage, birders are invited to add a few bucks to our Carbon Offset fund, benefiting habitat in
the Rocky River Important Bird Area. Donations are totally voluntary. See Page 7 for an update on the
program.
Directions to Black Swamp Bird
Observatory: From the Cleveland Area,
take I-90 West to Route 2. Continue west
on Route 2. Go past Sandusky and Port
Clinton. About 17 miles west of Port Clinton, watch for the road to Magee Marsh
Wildlife Area on the right. The sign is
small. Turn right, and watch for BSBO on
the left.
Note: On Route 2, if you reach the visitor
center for Ottawa National Wildlife Refuge, you went too far.

Sunday, September 16, 8:30 AM

Wildwood / Villa Angela State Park, Cleveland Lakefront
Trip Leader: Nancy Anderson
Target Species: Migrant Fall Warblers
Wildwood / Villa Angela is on Lake Erie at the
mouth of Euclid Creek. Varied habitats support a
variety of resident birdlife. Fall migrants congregate
here to feed and rest after a flight across the lake.
It is not uncommon to find a dozen or more warbler
species at this time of year. We will bird with Nancy
Anderson, who birds here regularly and reports on
Ohio-Birds.
Directions to Wildwood / Villa Angela: Take
Cleveland Memorial Shoreway (Route 2) to East
185th Street.
Go North on East 185th Street to Lakeshore Blvd.
Go West (left) on Lakeshore.
Lakeshore curves, then passes over Euclid Creek.
Watch on right for the driveway to the park, just
after the bridge over Euclid Creek. Follow the park
drive north to Lake Erie. Park by creek.
Note: Alternative directions are on the website.
August - October 2012

www.wcasohio.org

Page 3

Field Trips
Sunday, September 23, 8 AM
Bird Walk with Lake Erie Nature and Science Center
Lake Erie Nature and Science Center, Bay Village
Trip Leaders: Amy LeMonds (LENSC), Terri Martincic, Marty and Rob Reynard (WCAS)
Target Species: Fall Migrants
Warblers heading south for the winter will stop here on the south shores of Lake Erie to feed and rest.
We will look for these and other migrants, as well as resident birdlife. Meet at Lake Erie Nature and Science Center and walk the trails to Huntington Beach. Following our walk, we will join LENSC's Wildlife Rehabilitation Specialist Amy LeMonds for a live bird program.
Young birders welcome! One of our leaders for this
event is active in the Ohio Young Birders Club, a
dynamic group of birders ages 12 - 18. Learn more
about OYBC at www.ohioyoungbirders.org.
Directions from the west: Via I-90 East, Exit 156
Crocker -Bassett Roads. Turn left on Crocker, which
becomes Bassett at the railroad tracks. Turn right on
Wolf Road. Entrance is .7 miles on the left (north).
Directions from the east: Via I-90, Exit 159 Columbia
Road North. Turn right on Columbia. Turn left on Wolf
Road. Entrance is 1.9 miles on the right (north).
Directions from the south: Via I-480 east OR west,
Exit 3, Stearns Road. North on Stearns (eastbound
turn left; westbound turn right). Stearns becomes
Crocker, then becomes Bassett at the railroad tracks.
Turn right on Wolf Road. Entrance is .7 miles on the
left (north).

Saturday, October 13, 8 AM

Cleveland Lakefront Nature Preserve (formerly Dike 14)
Leader: Chuck Slusarczyk, Jr.
Target Species: Fall Migrants
For our October field trip we will bird
Cleveland's recently opened Lakefront Nature
Preserve (a.k.a. Dike 14) with Chuck Slusarczyk, Jr. Chuck has done a lot of birding
at CLNP and taken beautiful bird and butterfly photos there. The preserve is located on
an old dredge disposal site formerly known
as Dike 14 and is adjacent to the East 72nd
Street Marina in Cleveland. Be sure to park
at the Cleveland Lakefront State Park office,
not the E.72nd Street Marina parking lot. The
part office is located at 8701 Lake Shore
Blvd.
Directions: Via the Shoreway / I-90, take
the Martin Luther King Drive exit. Turn north
toward Lake Erie. Stay straight to go on
Lake Shore Blvd. The office is on the left.
Page 3

www.wcasohio.org

The Feathered Flyer

Programs
All WCAS programs are free and open to the public. Our monthly programs are held
the first Tuesday of each month, September through May, at Rocky River Nature Center, 24000 Valley Parkway, North Olmsted, Ohio. For a map and directions see
www.wcasohio.org.

August
Field Trip & Weeders in the Wild Only!
Go Birding!
Tuesday, September 4, 7:30 PM
The World of the House Sparrow
Science and natural history author Kim Todd introduces us to the
world of the House Sparrow and humans perception of this species.
Innocent, invader, lover and thief are just some of the terms used to
describe the House Sparrow. In her program, Sparrow (also the
name of her most recent book) Kim will explore the natural and cultural history of this beloved, reviled, and ubiquitous bird as well as
discuss its decline.

Tuesday, October 2, 7:30 PM

Mentor Marsh
Mentor Marsh State Nature Preserve is one of Ohios unique
natural areas of wetlands and upland forest. Nature is still
changing the marsh, but so too is the careful management
that has improved the opportunity for viewing open water
areas and the wildlife using the Marsh as a home or a migratory stop. Mentor Marsh Naturalist, Becky Donaldson,
will explain some of the ongoing challenges involved in the
management and preservation of this coastal Ohio gem in
the program, Mentor Marsh: Restoring the Green Ribbon.

Carbon Offset Project Update

Modeled after the Carbon Offset Bird Project launched at the 2011 Midwest Birding Symposium, Western
Cuyahoga Audubon has begun a project to offset the carbon impact of some of the driving done during
our field trips. The process involves participants voluntarily contributing toward the fund based on mileage and the size of vehicle driven. The WCAS website has more information and a handy form to calculate the amount you wish to donate. Click on Field Trip then Carbon Offset Project. Money generated will
go toward habitat preservation and restoration in the Rocky river Important Bird Area or other area
within the range of the Western Cuyahoga Chapter. Consider contributing to the Carbon Offset Project
when you take a birding trip. The birds say, Thank you.

Total collected to date - $140.48

Page 4

www.wcasohio.org

The Feathered Flyer

Join WCAS as a Chapter Friend

By Tom Romito, WCAS President
Its time again to encourage all readers of The Feathered Flyer to board the train as a Western Cuyahoga
Audubon Society Friend. For people interested in connecting with nature, this is one of the best deals
but best-kept secrets in Cleveland. Why? Its easy to join, but we have to continually get the word out
to the public. Lets cut to the chase and tell you how to join: Go to http://www.wcasohio.org/
join_wcas.htm or the insert in this newsletter, find the application form, then act!
So whats in it for you for your $20 application fee? First, all of your dues stay with WCAS to support
our programs, field trips, and conservation activities. These things are not costly, but they are not costfree, and we need your help to keep them going. Second, you will receive a hard-copy version of The
Feathered Flyer every three months in the U.S. mail so you can keep up with the news and calendar of
our activities. If youre not computer friendly, the newsletter coming in your mail is a benefit and convenience for you. Youll also receive a name tag and WCAS window cling.
There are about 100 WCAS Friends in Greater Cleveland. Im proud of everyone who supports us, comes
to meetings, and gets involved in our conservation and public education activities.
Once again, to join please use the application form that has been inserted in this newsletter or (for those
that are OK with computers,) the application form on the WCAS website. Directions are on the form.

Weeders in the Wild

Join Western Cuyahoga Audubon as we go into nature
and restore biodiversity one plant at a time.

Saturday, August 4, 1:00 pm

Look About Lodge, Cleveland Metroparks
(Last One in 2012!)
The woodland around Look About Lodge is dotted with Japanese barberry, an invasive plant that can
grow from 2 - 8 feet high. Ages 14 to adult can bring work gloves and a shovel to help curtail the
spread of this shrub.
Take I-480 east to Route 422 (near I-271). Exit at Miles Road (the exit comes up quickly!). Turn right
(east) on Miles. Look About Lodge will be on the right.

Suggestions on Ways to Help Birds

Some suggestions you may want to consider to help our feathered friends 1. Offer fresh water
2. Use native plants to provide food and shelter
3. Have a brush pile
4. Let dead trees stand if practical.
5. Keep pesticides to a minimum
6. Cover large expanses of glass with a screen, or
pull a white curtain

7. Pet cats should stay inside

8. Work with local land conservancies or park districts to preserve land for habitat.
9. Keep on top of local and national conservation
issues, and communicate your views to your legislators
10. Join WCAS!

Want to be a WCAS Board Member?

Remember that opportunities abound in WCAS. How about
considering these:
Data Entry/Spreadsheet Development
Presentation/Teaching Outreach
Contact Development
Hospitality for Meetings
Fundraising
August - October 2012

Planning
Arranging Field Trips
Leading Tours or Field Trips
Event Participation
Record Keeping
www.wcasohio.org

Welcome New Members

Most recent
Rich Caja
Last 6 months
Terry Hogan
Mary Lou McGuire
Barbara Miske
Dr. Barbara Shagawat
Page 5

Volunteer Page

Do You know Any of these

UltraBird or UltraWalk Participants?

If so, you might ask them why they did it and will they do it again?
Thank you to the following:
UltraBirders
Kit Birch
Bill Deininger
Mary Lou Hura
Joanne Gorges

Terry Gorges
Penny O'Connor
Mike Pasek
Rayka Petkova

Ryan Pulis
Mary Anne Romito
Tom Romito
Eileen Zimlich

UltraWalkers & 5 Mile Walkers

Gayle Albers
Jennie DeChant
Mark Hofelich

Ellen Horton
Christopher, Sophia & Jonah Kuhar

Tom Romito
Stan Searles
Laura Amendolagine

Park Ops, Emerald Necklace and Support Volunteers

Liz Clingman
Joanne Gorges
Terry Gorges

Mark Hofelich
Mary Lou Hura
Mike Pasek

Vicki Searles
Barry Wolfe

Walk for Salvation

Thank you to those who participated in the Walk for Salvation on the Near West Side of Cleveland on
Saturday, July 14. We also were interviewed by WTAM 1100 who was present at the event. WCAS people
included: Tom Romito, Mary Anne Romito, Nancy Howell, Stan Searles and Vickie Searles.

Thank You, Field Trip Leaders

Our fantastic volunteer field trip leaders showed us more than 140 different bird species during our bird
walks in 2011-2012. We went to more than two dozen different birding hotspots, including the Ultrabird
and the Christmas Bird Count.

Christine Cain
Craig Caldwell
Tim Colborn
Bill Deininger

Tim Fairweather
Nancy Howell
Rich Kassouf
Ethan Kistler
JoAnn Kubicki

Gabe Leidy
Terri Martincic
Mary Anne Romito
Jeanne Williams

Maybe a little premature, but

Christmas Bird Count 2012

For those of you who like to plan way ahead, Christmas Bird Count 2012 is scheduled for Sunday, December 30. Details will be announced at a later date. Everyone from beginners to very experienced
birder are invited join in the count, as well as the post count festivities. Mark your calendar!

Cuyahoga Fairground Wind Turbine Survey

WCAS is planning to conduct a survey of the consequences of large wind turbines to wildlife and particularly to bats at the new turbine in Berea. Tom Romito is exploring how this is accomplished while abiding
by federal, state and county protocols. Once this is established, volunteers will be needed. The current
plan is to begin no later than April, 2013, although a preliminary study may start late this year.
Page 6

www.wcasohio.org

The Feathered Flyer

(Ultrawalk/
Ultrabird, contd
From Page 1)

UltraWalkers joined by 5 milers Terry

Gorges

To see the list of

birds and great
photographs of
both the Ultrabird
and Ultrawalk,
visit the website,
www.wcasohio.org
and click on the
Pictures and Reports navigation
A Bald Eagle with chick in the Rocky River
button.
IBA Mary Anne Romito.

Lake Erie Birding Trail

Did you know that the shores of Lake Erie offer the opportunity to see more than 400 species of birds?
The Ohio Dept. of Natural Resources has developed the Lake Erie Birding Trail, a string of prime birding
locations along the 312-mile Ohio Lake Erie shore and immediate environs. The Cleveland area loop includes 24 parks and preserves. The website for the trail includes directions to the various sites, bird
highlights and checklists. Check it out at: ohiodnr.com/Home/LakeErieBirdTrailIndex/

Ohio Wildlife Legacy Stamp

Get your 2012 Ohio Wildlife Legacy Stamp, available
from WCAS at programs and field trips. The $15 stamp
features a spotted salamander. Your packet also includes a lapel pin, a window sticker and an information
card. Buying this collectible wildlife stamp will show
that you support:

habitat restoration, land purchases and conservation easements

keeping common species common
endangered & threatened native species
educational products for students and wildlife enthusiasts
wildlife and habitat research projects

Contact Us

WCAS Chapter Newsletter

Published 4 times per year in
February, May, August and

WESTERN CUYAHOGA
AUDUBON SOCIETY

4310 Bush Ave.

Cleveland, OH 44109
Phone: 216-741-2352
Fax: 216-741-1879
Email: [email protected]

Visit our website

www.wcasohio.org
August - October 2012

November by the Western

Cuyahoga Audubon Society.
www.wcasohio.org is the official
Chapter Web Site.

WCAS Board Meetings held at

6:30 pm prior to each program
at Rocky River Nature Center.
General public and WCAS
members welcome.

www.wcasohio.org

President
Tom Romito, 216-741-2352
Treasurer
Nancy Howell, 440-891-1710
Newsletter Editor
Kurt Miske, 440-835-6700
Webmaster
Mary Anne Romito, 216-741-2352
Field Trip Coordinator
Penny OConnor, 216-676-4859
Directors at Large
Liz Clingman, 440-799-1881
Gayle Albers
Stan Searles
Barry Wolfe
Mark Hofelich

Page 7

Mission Statement
The mission of WCAS is to educate the public about conservation of the natural world through member
involvement in chapter activities and community outreach.

What are we about?

What we are really about is enjoying, experiencing and learning about nature. We offer many opportunities to participate in field trips, volunteer activities and educational programs while meeting other people
with similar interests and values. We conduct bird walks, teach bird identification and participate in the
Annual Christmas Bird Count and Audubon Spring Bird Census. But thats only a small part of what were
about. When you think of WCAS, think of:

Birds

Education, Conservation efforts & Legislation

Butterflies, Bees and Dragonflies

advocacy

Deer, Chipmunks, Squirrels & Raccoons

Children, Families, Seniors & Friends

Photography and Nature Video

The Cleveland Metroparks our various local

Picnics, Guided Walks, Naturalists, Field Trips

county Metroparks, the CVNP, The Cleveland Mu-

Gardening, Backyard Habitats & Plant Sales

seum of Natural History & The Cleveland Zoo

Our members range from experienced naturalists to first time explorers. What binds us is our love of nature in all seasons. Join us in enjoying, supporting & experiencing all of the nature Cleveland has to offer.

Western Cuyahoga Audubon Society

4310 Bush Ave.
Cleveland, OH 44109