Fox Sparrow Returns

While it might not be the same Fox Sparrow that spent time at the Nature Center last winter, a grayish form Fox Sparrow has been hanging around under the feeder next to the Observation pond since Jan. 17.

Eastern Bluebirds Observed

There have been several sightings of Eastern Bluebirds. They were seen earlier in the winter along the bike trail and more recently in the trees by the parking lot.

White-Winged Junco Banded

The Rio Grande Bird Research Team, which began its winter banding on January 12, banded a White-singed Junco (junco hyemalis aidkeni). This race of junco breeds in Montana and the dakotas and is rarely seen in New Mexico.

Volunteer Recognition

Volunteers contributed 13,180 hours to the Nature Center during 2007 – an increase of over 3,000 hours over 2006!

A number of volunteers were recognized for their cumulative lifetime milestones, including Sondra Williamson for 3,000 hours, Yolanda Homann for 2,500 hours, Doug Shaw for 1,500 hours and Ann Ahlander, Polli Gerstle and Cheri Orwig for 1,000 hours. The following Individuals were recognized for years of service milestones: Yolanda Homan and Jo Sirwinski – 20 years, Don Parker, Marge Steger and Nancy Umbriet for 15 years and Dan Loughran, Nancy Merwin and Sei Tokuda for five years.