BEGIN:VCALENDAR VERSION:2.0 PRODID:-//Washington Ornithological Society - ECPv6.18.0//NONSGML v1.0//EN CALSCALE:GREGORIAN METHOD:PUBLISH X-ORIGINAL-URL:https://wos.org X-WR-CALDESC:Events for Washington Ornithological Society REFRESH-INTERVAL;VALUE=DURATION:PT1H X-Robots-Tag:noindex X-PUBLISHED-TTL:PT1H BEGIN:VTIMEZONE TZID:America/Los_Angeles BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0800 TZOFFSETTO:-0700 TZNAME:PDT DTSTART:20220313T100000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0700 TZOFFSETTO:-0800 TZNAME:PST DTSTART:20221106T090000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0800 TZOFFSETTO:-0700 TZNAME:PDT DTSTART:20230312T100000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0700 TZOFFSETTO:-0800 TZNAME:PST DTSTART:20231105T090000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0800 TZOFFSETTO:-0700 TZNAME:PDT DTSTART:20240310T100000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0700 TZOFFSETTO:-0800 TZNAME:PST DTSTART:20241103T090000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0800 TZOFFSETTO:-0700 TZNAME:PDT DTSTART:20250309T100000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0700 TZOFFSETTO:-0800 TZNAME:PST DTSTART:20251102T090000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0800 TZOFFSETTO:-0700 TZNAME:PDT DTSTART:20260308T100000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0700 TZOFFSETTO:-0800 TZNAME:PST DTSTART:20261101T090000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0800 TZOFFSETTO:-0700 TZNAME:PDT DTSTART:20270314T100000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0700 TZOFFSETTO:-0800 TZNAME:PST DTSTART:20271107T090000 END:STANDARD END:VTIMEZONE BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20261005T193000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20261005T193000 DTSTAMP:20260917T230858Z CREATED:20260813T012343Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260917T230858Z UID:4733-1791228600-1791228600@wos.org SUMMARY:Jeff Kozma\, Wildlife Biologist\, Yakama Nation will present “Western Bluebirds: Nesting Success in Managed Ponderosa Pine" DESCRIPTION:Western Bluebirds (Sialia mexicana) are brilliant blue songbirds found in a variety of western U.S. habitats.  On the west side of the Cascades\, they historically had relied on mature Garry oak woodlands: because of habitat loss (old oak trees with natural cavities)\, the Western Bluebird is listed as a “Species of Greatest Conservation Need.”  Groups in Washington have been putting up nest boxes for the Western Bluebird for decades.  Did you know that the Western Bluebird is also thriving by using nest cavities in managed ponderosa pine forests? \nOur speaker\, Jeff Kozma moved to Washington in 1996 as biologist for the Army’s Yakima Training Center where he worked on habitat restoration projects and surveys of Sage Grouse\, Bald Eagle and other raptors.  Since 2002 Jeff has worked as a Wildlife Biologist for the Yakama Nation\, where Gray Flycatcher\, White-headed Woodpecker and Western Bluebird are among his most favored subjects of field research and surveys.  \nNote: This meeting will be conducted only via Zoom. Participant sign-in on Zoom begins at 7:15 PM Pacific Time. The meeting will begin at 7:30 PM. \nZoom Details for Attending Remotely \nAt meeting time\, clicking on the hyperlink below will bring participants using computers and laptops directly into the meeting (no pre-registration required\, no waiting room) via Zoom on the web\, or\, if you have previously downloaded the Zoom application (also called “client”)\, using that. \nThose who are new to Zoom: please read the section “Zoom Tips” below for more guidance. \nNote that there currently is no Phone-In Only capability for audio-only participation. \nClick here to join the meeting or paste this link into your browser:\nhttps://us02web.zoom.us/j/88208523279?pwd=b0zWu6q65nFI1b20zan7GAMIPkTMqW.1 \nMeeting ID: 882 0852 3279 \nPasscode: 927516 \nTo keep this meeting secure\, do not share this link\, Meeting ID\, or passcode publicly. \nMeeting Guidelines \nPlease keep your microphone muted and your camera (video) off. You should see a red line through both icons. \nAny questions you have during the meeting may be typed into the Chat box: we will pose them following each speakers’ presentation. \nRecordings of the WOS Monthly Meeting presentations usually can be found online a short time later on WOS’s YouTube Channel and will be retained there permanently. WOS members receive notification when new videos are posted. \nZoom Tips \nBefore joining a Zoom meeting on a computer or mobile device (smartphone or tablet)\, you can download Zoom from their Download Center. Otherwise\, when you click a “join” link\, you will be offered web-based participation or prompted to download and install Zoom. \nIf you are not familiar with Zoom\, check out their “Getting Started” page at: https://support.zoom.us/hc/en-us/categories/200101697 \nConsider Joining WOS \nIf you are not a WOS member\, please consider joining today at WOS membership. \nWOS Meetings are free and open to all. They are held the first Monday of each month\, October through June. \nCurrently\, all meetings are available remotely via Zoom. WOS sends members the Zoom link via email a week in advance\, and the link is also provided on this web page before the meeting. URL:https://wos.org/event/jeff-kozma-yakama-nation-wildlife-biologist-on-western-bluebirds/ CATEGORIES:Monthly Meetings END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20260203T000000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20260203T000000 DTSTAMP:20260813T012343Z CREATED:20260813T012343Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260813T012343Z UID:4731-1770076800-1770076800@wos.org SUMMARY:Members' Photo Night DESCRIPTION:Members’ Photo Night will take place via Zoom with each\nperson presenting their work (remotely: no in-person meeting). URL:https://wos.org/event/members-photo-night-2/ CATEGORIES:Monthly Meetings END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20260203T000000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20260203T000000 DTSTAMP:20260813T012342Z CREATED:20260813T012342Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260813T012342Z UID:4729-1770076800-1770076800@wos.org SUMMARY:Brian Zinke on "Lights out for Birds: How Reducing Nighttime Light Saves Migratory Species" DESCRIPTION:Brian Zinke on “Lights out for Birds: How Reducing Nighttime Light Saves Migratory Species”\nEach year\, millions of birds migrate across our region under the cover of darkness. But increasing levels of artificial light at night are disorienting and draw birds into cities where they face fatal collisions with buildings\, windows and other structures. Brian Zinke will explain why birds are vulnerable to nighttime light and introduce the Lights Out initiative\, a growing effort to reduce light pollution during peak bird migration. Learn about successful Lights Out programs\, and practical steps we can take to help our birds navigate the night skies safely. \nBrian trained in Wildlife\, Fisheries\, and Conservation Biology before working for Fish and Wildlife in Wyoming and in Washington. He has served in leadership roles in several wildlife nonprofits. Since November 2019\, Brian has been Executive Director of Pilchuck Audubon. URL:https://wos.org/event/brian-zinke-on-lights-out-for-birds-how-reducing-nighttime-light-saves-migratory-species/ CATEGORIES:Monthly Meetings END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20260203T000000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20260203T000000 DTSTAMP:20260813T012342Z CREATED:20260813T012342Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260813T012342Z UID:4730-1770076800-1770076800@wos.org SUMMARY:Dennis Paulson on "Madagascar\, a Place Like Nowhere Else" DESCRIPTION:Madagascar\, a Place Like Nowhere Else\nCombined Meeting: In-Person at UW Center for Urban Horticulture and via Xoom URL:https://wos.org/event/dennis-paulson-on-madagascar-a-place-like-nowhere-else/ CATEGORIES:Monthly Meetings END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20260203T000000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20260203T000000 DTSTAMP:20260813T012336Z CREATED:20260813T012336Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260813T012336Z UID:4728-1770076800-1770076800@wos.org SUMMARY:Madison Mayfield on Painting\, Curating and Taxidermying Birds DESCRIPTION:Madison Mayfield on “A Different Kind of Life List: A Career Painting\, Curating & Taxidermying Birds”\nWhat goes on in natural history museums like the one at the Burke? And why have them? \nFilled with far more than just a lot of “stuffed animals\,” these collections are time-capsule libraries of biological diversity\, and an irreplaceable\, verifiable record of life on Earth. \nMadison Mayfield is a museum professional\, educator\, natural history artist and taxidermist as well as a scientific illustrator. She holds a BS in Conservation Biology and a certificate in Natural History Illustration from the University of Washington. For the past 8 years\, she has worked in natural history museums around the world as a preparator\, educator\, outreach director and now is a collections manager at the Burke. Madison is also an artist and scientific illustrator. \nWe’ll learn aboutthe art of taxidermy and why dead birds are more important than ever as Madison takes us along a path from painting birds to sewing up a Cassowary in Australia to banding hummingbirds in Colombia! URL:https://wos.org/event/madison-mayfield-on-painting-curating-and-taxidermying-birds/ CATEGORIES:Monthly Meetings END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20251211T000000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20251211T000000 DTSTAMP:20260813T012336Z CREATED:20260813T012336Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260813T012336Z UID:4725-1765411200-1765411200@wos.org SUMMARY:Chris Templeton: Sound the alarm: How Chickadees Communicate Sophisticated Information about Predators DESCRIPTION:Note: This is the February monthly meeting but it is being held a week earlier than usual\, because Monthly Meeting volunteers are out of town on the normal date. URL:https://wos.org/event/chris-templeton-sound-the-alarm-how-chickadees-communicate-sophisticated-information-about-predators/ CATEGORIES:Monthly Meetings END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20251109T000000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20251109T000000 DTSTAMP:20260813T012331Z CREATED:20260813T012331Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260813T012331Z UID:4719-1762646400-1762646400@wos.org SUMMARY:Larry Schwitters: "Vaux’s Swifts: 27 Million and Counting" DESCRIPTION:The tiny\, narrow-winged Vaux’s Swift is found only in the western hemisphere. In the words of Mr. Swift – Schwitters\, our speaker\, “Because of its anatomy\, a swift is unable to perch and so needs a rough\, vertical surface to hook its claws into; it then puts its tail down like a kickstand.” The high-flying lives of these long-distance migrants are largely spent coursing swiftly through the air\, moving along routes that extend from British Columbia\, through the western states and into at least Central America.\nFollowing three decades as a teacher in the public schools\, Larry Schwitters became totally engrossed with the Vaux’s Swift\, and for some 20 consecutive years\, has carefully followed their movements (that’s 36 migrations and documentation of 200 roost sites) and more\, assisted by an ever-expanding legion of observers. \nSince 2019\, Larry has taken the lead in revising Cornell Lab of Ornithology’s Birds of the World. on Vaux’s Swift. Birders World magazine covered his work in an article titled\, “46 Minutes of WOW.” Larry is the recipient of the National Audubon Society’s 2023 National Volunteer of the Year Award. We are in for a tour-de-force presentation on these wee birds whose territory ranges from the Yukon to Guatemala! \nGo to WOS’s Monthly Meetings page to access the meeting via Zoom: https://wos.org/monthly-meetings/ URL:https://wos.org/event/larry-schwitters-vauxs-swifts-27-million-and-counting/ CATEGORIES:Monthly Meetings END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20251109T000000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20251109T000000 DTSTAMP:20260813T012331Z CREATED:20260813T012331Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260813T012331Z UID:4720-1762646400-1762646400@wos.org SUMMARY:Phil Mitchell: "Learning to be a Better Birder in the Age of AI DESCRIPTION:With the suite of AI-powered apps such as Merlin and iNaturalist we are quickly able to identify birds\, plants and animals. We may take online or in-person courses to learn about sparrows\, shorebirds or hawks. But what does it take to actually learn and retain the knowledge that enriches our birding? This talk will be an intro to the science of learning as it applies to becoming a better birder\, along with a survey of the related birding apps.\nPhil Mitchell has a Ph.D. in Cognitive Psychology and is a Seattle resident and avid naturalist. He combines academic research on how best to learn with his 20+ years’ experience as a software developer to create learning apps. He is the founder and learning expert for the app “Larkwire” which helps birders learn bird sounds\, visual ID\, and bird topography. URL:https://wos.org/event/phil-mitchell-learning-to-be-a-better-birder-in-the-age-of-ai/ CATEGORIES:Monthly Meetings END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20251020T000000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20251020T000000 DTSTAMP:20260813T012321Z CREATED:20260813T012321Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260813T012321Z UID:4717-1760918400-1760918400@wos.org SUMMARY:Ashley Martens on Birds of Washington's Old Growth Forests DESCRIPTION:The Washington Ornithological Society (WOS) is pleased to announce our next Monthly Meeting: on Monday\, November 3\, Ashley Martens will present “Birds of Washington’s Old Growth Forests.” All forest stages have an important ecological role to play. The old-growth stage of a forest is especially important because of its unique make-up\, including trees with hollow cavities and other features critical to bird populations. Multiple canopy layers and berry-producing plants are beneficial for many bird species\, providing food and shelter.\nAshley Martens\, is the Intermountain West Regional Manager of the Old-Growth Forest Network (https://www.oldgrowthforest.net/). Her organization seeks to identify and preserve remnant old growth forests in all US counties through partnerships with private\, tribal\, state and federal entities. Her educational and experiential background in ecology\, wildlife biology\, education\, restoration and mindfulness primed her perfectly for work with the Old-Growth Forest Network. She will discuss the types of old growth forests found in Washington State and key bird species found in them. \nThis meeting will be conducted virtually\, via Zoom (no in-person attendance). Sign-in will begin at 7:15 pm\, and the meeting commences at 7:30 pm. Please go to the WOS Monthly Meetings page: https://wos.org/monthly-meetings/for instructions on participation and to get the Zoom link. \nWhen joining the meeting\, we ask that you mute your device and make certain that your camera is turned off. \nThis meeting is open to all as WOS invites everyone in the wider birding community to attend. Thanks to the generosity of our presenters\, recordings of past programs are available at the following link to the WOS YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@washingtonornithologicalso7839/videos \nIf you are not yet a member of WOS\, we hope you will consider becoming one at https://wos.org URL:https://wos.org/event/ashley-martens-on-birds-of-washingtons-old-growth-forests/ CATEGORIES:Monthly Meetings END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250916T000000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250916T000000 DTSTAMP:20260813T012321Z CREATED:20260813T012321Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260813T012321Z UID:4715-1757980800-1757980800@wos.org SUMMARY:Kersti Muul on "When Science Meets Serendipity" DESCRIPTION:Is our fascination and engagement with wildlife fueled more by familiarity with the individual or the entire species? How about both? Our opening Monthly Meeting of the season explores how one determined wildlife field biologist and a single Bald Eagle’s uniqueness brought a community together\, solved a mystery and ultimately brought the eagle back home. It’s a compelling case for the power of curiosity\, community and hope\, especially meaningful during these challenging times.\nKersti Muul is a wildlife field biologist\, urban conservation specialist and science educator whose work focuses on the intersection of wildlife and urban environments. She is a frequent contributor to local and national media and centers on the impacts of human activity on natural spaces and biodiversity. She also works to empower and educate the community through outreach\, monitoring\, photography and community science projects. Kersti is the founder of Salish Wildlife Watch – dedicated to promoting responsible recreation\, diversity and free access to awe in the outdoors. URL:https://wos.org/event/kersti-muul-on-when-science-meets-serendipity/ CATEGORIES:Monthly Meetings END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250326T000000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250326T000000 DTSTAMP:20260813T012306Z CREATED:20260813T012306Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260813T012306Z UID:4712-1742947200-1742947200@wos.org SUMMARY:Chris Anderson on Common Loon Management in Washington State DESCRIPTION:May 5\, 2025 Monthly Meeting: Chris Anderson on Common Loon Management in Washington State.\nFactoid: Washington may be the only state in which Common Loons are known to overwinter on both salt and fresh water. The Common Loon (Gavia immer) was known to be a fairly common breeding species both east and west of the Cascades\, but currently is listed in Washington as a “State Sensitive” species. Records indicate that Washington’s Common Loons were nearly eliminated due to sport shooting\, loss of habitat and other factors including lead poisoning. A WDFW survey in the early 1980s found only two nesting pairs. In this presentation\, Chris will describe the framework of cooperative conservation efforts dedicated to management of this species in Washington\, with notes on territorial birds local to King County. \nChris D. Anderson is the District Wildlife Biologist with Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) for the King Co. area. The district is unique in being the most urban in the state – populated by many species of wildlife and one-third of the humans in Washington. URL:https://wos.org/event/chris-anderson-on-common-loon-management-in-washington-state/ CATEGORIES:Monthly Meetings END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250326T000000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250326T000000 DTSTAMP:20260813T012306Z CREATED:20260813T012306Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260813T012306Z UID:4713-1742947200-1742947200@wos.org SUMMARY:Members Photo Night DESCRIPTION: URL:https://wos.org/event/members-photo-night/ CATEGORIES:Monthly Meetings END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250320T000000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250320T000000 DTSTAMP:20260813T012306Z CREATED:20260813T012306Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260813T012306Z UID:4711-1742428800-1742428800@wos.org SUMMARY:Kim Marie Thorburn on "Biodiversity Conservation and the Endangered Species Act" DESCRIPTION:Kim Marie Thorburn on Biodiversity Conservation and the Endangered Species Act”\nAt 50 years+\, the Endangered Species Act is considered one of our most successful conservation policies. More than 200 species’ extinctions have been prevented to date: which is 99% of all species listed as endangered. Yet\, as the earth faces the sixth great extinction\, the Act’s imperfections require a shift in the approach to conservation and management with more focus on ecosystems than individual species. In this presentation\, Kim will draw from her experience with wildlife conservation work to discuss contemporary conservation strategies and challenges. \nKim Thorburn is a retired public health physician. Her love of animals and the outdoors dates from her childhood farm life in the Central Valley of California. Upon retirement from medicine\, she turned to these avocations full time. Kim was drawn to birding by way of a class given by the Spokane Audubon Society\, and by a certain Canyon Wren in the Santa Rosa mountains of Nevada. She played an important role volunteering in Washington Fish and Wildlife Department Prairie Grouse recovery efforts\, and served for eight years as a Fish and Wildlife Commissioner. She has served on the Board of WOS as treasurer and for two terms as a director. Kim’s habitat is in Washington’s sagebrush country. URL:https://wos.org/event/kim-marie-thorburn-on-biodiversity-conservation-and-the-endangered-species-act/ CATEGORIES:Monthly Meetings END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250209T000000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250209T000000 DTSTAMP:20260813T012306Z CREATED:20260813T012306Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260813T012306Z UID:4710-1739059200-1739059200@wos.org SUMMARY:Matt Farr and Toby Ross: “Counting Seabirds in Puget Sound: How Difficult Could It Be?" DESCRIPTION:Healthy seabird populations are an indicator of a healthy ocean. Unfortunately\, many of our seabird populations are imperiled and in need of conservation action. Among those monitoring seabird species and assessing population trends is the Puget Sound Seabird Survey (PSSS). However\, the collection of data is only the first step toward understanding the underlying ecology of seabird declines. In this presentation\, we explore the underbelly of translating counts of birds to estimates of population trends.\nMatt Farr is a postdoctoral scholar at the U of Washington’s Washington Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit and School of Aquatic and Fishery Sciences. His research has focused on population and community ecology\, with an emphasis on modeling wildlife abundance and dynamics. Matt works with the US Fish and Wildlife Service and WA Department of Fish and Wildlife\, among other entities. \nToby Ross has been dedicated to global conservation efforts for more than 30 years. Locally\, he has held the reins of the Puget Sound Seabird Survey since its inception in 2007. This year he is responsible for training and coordinating 268 volunteers distributed at 157 sites. URL:https://wos.org/event/matt-farr-and-toby-ross-counting-seabirds-in-puget-sound-how-difficult-could-it-be/ CATEGORIES:Monthly Meetings END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20241212T000000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20241212T000000 DTSTAMP:20260813T012250Z CREATED:20260813T012250Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260813T012250Z UID:4708-1733961600-1733961600@wos.org SUMMARY:Sarah Sloane on Bushtits DESCRIPTION:Sarah Sloane on DNA\, Kinship and Competition: Unraveling the Complex Social Web of Bushtits” The Bushtit is a common nonmigratory species known for its cooperative breeding and intricate social dynamics. In this talk\, Sarah Sloane will share insights\, showcasing a range of fascinating behaviors. These include how young from the previous year assist with nest care\, and variations on mating relationships. Using new DNA evidence\, Dr. Sloane will discuss how these flexible and complex social behaviors provide a deeper understanding of cooperation\, kinship\, and reproductive strategies in this adorable\, common backyard species. \n Dr. Sloane received her PhD from the University of Michigan focusing on the Bushtit in SE Arizona. Inspired by the sociality of Arizonian Bushtit\, she migrated her research to the Pacific Northwest in 2013. Dr. Sloane is author of the Birds of the World chapter on Bushtits\, and is currently Associate Professor of Biology at the University of Maine at Farmington. URL:https://wos.org/event/sarah-sloane-on-bushtits/ CATEGORIES:Monthly Meetings END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20241118T000000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20241118T000000 DTSTAMP:20260813T012250Z CREATED:20260813T012250Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260813T012250Z UID:4705-1731888000-1731888000@wos.org SUMMARY:Tom Bancroft on Raptors: Pondering their Evolution and Adaptations DESCRIPTION:WOS Monthly Meeting December 2\, 2024 online only via Zoom\nTom Bancroft on Raptors: Pondering their Evolution and Adaptations \nToday\, we think of raptors as carnivorous birds with hooked beaks and talons\, but that definition has changed in the last 50 years. And not all birds we call raptors fit that description. We will explore this group by asking how\, when\, and where they evolved\, and see how recent genetics have shed new light on bird evolution. Continental drift and climate stop convergence and divergent evolution has given us some fascinating birds. This talk will leave you with much to consider on your next birding expedition. \nThomas Bancroft has been a lifelong birder and naturalist. He holds a Ph.D. in Biology and an M.A. in Zoology from the University of South Florida\, focusing on birds and their conservation. Thomas has served in leadership roles for National Audubon and The Wilderness Society. “Beyond the Wonder: An Ecologist’s View of Wild Alaska” is his recently published book. \nFor information on how to join the Zoom presentation\, go to Monthly Meetings page URL:https://wos.org/event/tom-bancroft-on-raptors-pondering-their-evolution-and-adaptations/ CATEGORIES:Monthly Meetings END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20241118T000000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20241118T000000 DTSTAMP:20260813T012250Z CREATED:20260813T012250Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260813T012250Z UID:4707-1731888000-1731888000@wos.org SUMMARY:Josh Morris on THUD: What birders need to know (and do) about window collisions DESCRIPTION:WOS Monthly Meeting Monday\, January 6\, 2024 (Online only via Zoom)\nJosh Morris will speak on THUD: What birders need to know (and do) about window collisions \nGlobally\, billions of birds are killed each year after colliding with windows. Seattle’s built environment contributes to the carnage\, killing up to 80\,000 birds during migration periods alone. The good news is that effective solutions for reducing collision risk are widely available\, but implementation is complicated. Joshua Morris is Urban Conservation Manager at Birds Connect Seattle and leader of the Seattle Bird Collision Monitoring Project. The project is a community science initiative that seeks to understand and prevent bird-window collisions. Over the last four years\, 200 volunteers have conducted nearly 5\,000 surveys at more than 150 buildings in the Seattle area. Josh will share everything we need to know about bird-window collisions\, including opportunities to get involved in local community science\, advocacy\, and direct action. URL:https://wos.org/event/josh-morris-on-thud-what-birders-need-to-know-and-do-about-window-collisions/ CATEGORIES:Monthly Meetings END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20240829T000000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20240829T000000 DTSTAMP:20260813T012250Z CREATED:20260813T012250Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260813T012250Z UID:4703-1724889600-1724889600@wos.org SUMMARY:Connie Sidles on "Hummingbirds: Masters of the Air” DESCRIPTION:Note: This presentation will not be recorded and thus will not be available for later viewing at the WOS YouTube Channel.\nWith their ability to hover in place\, fly upside-down or backwards\, and cross seas without stopping\, hummingbirds seem immune to the ordinary laws of physics. Their jewel-tone feathers flash in the sun brighter than rubies or emeralds. Their wings flap faster than the eye can see. Their courtship flights defy gravity. These tiny dynamos of the avian world both fascinate and flummox us. Find out more about one of the fiercest birds in the animal kingdom\, as Master Birder Connie Sidles brings us an appreciation of the wonders of hummingbirds\, and tells you how to attract them to your yard. URL:https://wos.org/event/connie-sidles-on-hummingbirds-masters-of-the-air/ CATEGORIES:Monthly Meetings END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20240829T000000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20240829T000000 DTSTAMP:20260813T012250Z CREATED:20260813T012250Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260813T012250Z UID:4704-1724889600-1724889600@wos.org SUMMARY:Loma Pendergraft on "Clever\, Curious\, and Charismatic Crows” DESCRIPTION:Loma Pendergraft on “Clever\, Curious\, and Charismatic Crows” \nThe antics of crows\, ravens\, and other Corvids—have captivated our imaginations throughout history. Many of our myths\, legends and stories revolve around the astonishing brainpower these birds possess. But what is fact and what is fiction? Join us while we discuss fun facts about crows\, the capabilities (and limits) of their intelligence\, and the research that scientists at the University of Washington have conducted on these fascinating birds.” Loma Pendergraft earned his Ph.D. studying crow behavior at the University of Washington. He currently works for the UW as an instructor of animal behavior and wildlife science. Visit his website: https://lomapendergraft.com \nGo to the Monthly Meetings page https://wos.org/monthly-meetings/ to connect with the meeting via Zoom. \nThis presentation will be by Zoom only. It will be recorded and also will be available later on WOS’s YouTube Channel for viewing. URL:https://wos.org/event/loma-pendergraft-on-clever-curious-and-charismatic-crows/ CATEGORIES:Monthly Meetings END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20240406T000000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20240406T000000 DTSTAMP:20260813T012250Z CREATED:20260813T012250Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260813T012250Z UID:4700-1712361600-1712361600@wos.org SUMMARY:Dennis Paulson -- In person and by Zoom DESCRIPTION:The May 6\, 2024 meeting will be both an in-person meeting at the UW Center for Urban Horticulture and available over Zoom. Stay tuned for more information. URL:https://wos.org/event/dennis-paulson-in-person-and-by-zoom/ CATEGORIES:Monthly Meetings END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20240406T000000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20240406T000000 DTSTAMP:20260813T012250Z CREATED:20260813T012250Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260813T012250Z UID:4701-1712361600-1712361600@wos.org SUMMARY:Member Photo Night DESCRIPTION:More information to come. URL:https://wos.org/event/member-photo-night-4/ CATEGORIES:Monthly Meetings END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20240207T000000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20240207T000000 DTSTAMP:20260813T012234Z CREATED:20260813T012234Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260813T012234Z UID:4695-1707264000-1707264000@wos.org SUMMARY:Andy Stepniewski speaking on ""Finding Birds in Eastern Washington: An introduction to the myriad of habitats and their birds\, east of the Cascade Crest”" DESCRIPTION:Andy Stepniewski will speak on “Finding Birds in Eastern Washington: An introduction to the myriad of habitats and their birds\, east of the Cascade Crest”\nJoin Andy Stepniewski on an armchair tour east of the Cascades\, where a diversity of habitats\, elevations and precipitation create a mosaic of vegetation zones. Travel from the crest of the Cascade Mountains to the sun-baked Columbia Plateau to appreciate habitats that provide breeding\, wintering and migration-period habitat for more than 300 species of birds. \nAndy has lived for four decades in the Yakima Valley and is a life-long naturalist. He has a special interest in the American West\, through which he has travelled extensively for the past 50 years. He is a founding member of WOS and takes great pleasure in sharing his love of nature. Andy and his wife Ellen made major contributions to the Birder’s Guide to Washington. URL:https://wos.org/event/andy-stepniewski-speaking-on-finding-birds-in-eastern-washington-an-introduction-to-the-myriad-of-habitats-and-their-birds-east-of-the-cascade-crest/ CATEGORIES:Monthly Meetings END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20240207T000000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20240207T000000 DTSTAMP:20260813T012234Z CREATED:20260813T012234Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260813T012234Z UID:4696-1707264000-1707264000@wos.org SUMMARY:Julia Parrish "What's Washed In: Seabirds and Citizen Science” (COASST) DESCRIPTION:Marine biologist\, conservation biologist and specialist in animal aggregation\, Julia Parrish has conducted research on seabirds for more than 30 years\, focusing on the natural and human-caused factors causing population decline. Julia is Executive Director of the Coastal Observation and Seabird Survey Team (COASST) housed at the University of Washington.\nFor 25 years\, the Coastal Observation and Seabird Survey Team (COASST) has organized local citizens to track the patterns of seabird mortality on local beaches. This “citizen science” effort deploys hundreds of participants monthly to collect data on the identity and abundance of beach-cast birds and marine debris. It also provides the opportunity for program participants and partners to learn at multiple scales: from seasonal shifts in the distribution of local species to dramatic changes in the ecosystem. These collected environmental data offer the opportunity to learn about natural history\, over time and space\, something no research lab could hope to attain on its own. URL:https://wos.org/event/julia-parrish-whats-washed-in-seabirds-and-citizen-science-coasst/ CATEGORIES:Monthly Meetings END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20240114T000000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20240114T000000 DTSTAMP:20260813T012226Z CREATED:20260813T012226Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260813T012226Z UID:4693-1705190400-1705190400@wos.org SUMMARY:Martha Jordan: Washington’s White Birds of Winter - Swans and Snow Geese DESCRIPTION:Martha Jordan will speak on Washington’s White Birds of Winter – Swans and Snow Geese\nSince the late 1970s\, well-known swan biologist Martha Jordan has contributed enormously to understanding the life history of swans and Snow Geese\, their biology and what influences their distribution across our state and the Pacific flyway. She wrote the state’s first Trumpeter Swan management plan in 1985\, and is a member of Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife’s Waterfowl Advisory Group. \nThese birds face a changing landscape in migration and on their wintering grounds\, and are confronted by habitat issues\, avian influenza\, swan lead poisoning and more. Martha will detail these challenges to our White Birds of Winter\, and what is needed to ensure their future. \nConsult the Monthly Meetings page for details on how to view the meeting by Zoom. URL:https://wos.org/event/martha-jordan-washingtons-white-birds-of-winter-swans-and-snow-geese/ CATEGORIES:Monthly Meetings END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20231215T000000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20231215T000000 DTSTAMP:20260813T012225Z CREATED:20260813T012225Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260813T012225Z UID:4692-1702598400-1702598400@wos.org SUMMARY:Thomas Good of NOAA Fisheries on Caspian Terns in Puget Sound DESCRIPTION:The January 2024 WOS meeting will be held on January 8\, 2024 rather than on New Year’s Day. Speaker is Thomas Good of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Fisheries. He will speak on the topic of “Caspian Terns in Puget Sound: caught between multiple rocks and hard places.” This will be an online-only meeting. Check the WOS Monthly Meetings page a week or two before the meeting for information on how to watch online. URL:https://wos.org/event/thomas-good-of-noaa-fisheries-on-caspian-terns-in-puget-sound/ CATEGORIES:Monthly Meetings END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20231026T000000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20231026T000000 DTSTAMP:20260813T012225Z CREATED:20260813T012225Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260813T012225Z UID:4690-1698278400-1698278400@wos.org SUMMARY:Nick Bayard of Bird Note DESCRIPTION:Nick Bayard on “BirdNote at 18: How One Powerful Idea Grew into a Global Storytelling Phenomenon”\nBirdNote Executive Director Nick Bayard will offer a brief history and glimpse behind the scenes at BirdNote\, our sensational PNW-born public radio program that seeks to inspire people to care about birds and the challenges they face — and to take steps to protect the natural world. \nToday BirdNote reaches millions of regular listeners with compelling stories via radio (more than 160 stations) and podcasts. \nNick will also share how BirdNote contributes to a more inclusive world for birding. Enjoy a “sneak preview” of BirdNote’s new strategic vision which aims to inspire more people to take action for bird conservation. Learn more about BirdNote at www.birdnote.org\, and join us for this presentation URL:https://wos.org/event/nick-bayard-of-bird-note/ CATEGORIES:Monthly Meetings END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20231012T000000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20231012T000000 DTSTAMP:20260813T012216Z CREATED:20260813T012216Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260813T012216Z UID:4688-1697068800-1697068800@wos.org SUMMARY:Madilyn Odiorne on "Bird Use of a Prairie Restoration Site in Eastern Washington" DESCRIPTION:Speaker Madilyn Odiorne will present on the topic of “Bird Use of a Prairie Restoration Site in Eastern Washington.” This is an online-only event over Zoom. For details on connecting to the meeting\, visit the Monthly Meetings page a week or two before the meeting.\nPrairies and other grassland ecosystems are in decline worldwide due to factors such as agriculture\, climate change and fossil fuel extraction. Among the organisms affected are avian grassland groups\, shown to have declined 50% since the 1960s. As birds are widely recognized to be important indicators of ecosystem health\, this project aims to estimate baseline abundance and diversity of birds at two contrasting sites: an intact prairie remnant (Magnuson Butte) and a restoration site on the Eastern Washington University (EWU) campus. It is hoped that results will inform future efforts and shed light on the benefits of restoring native grasslands locally and worldwide. URL:https://wos.org/event/madilyn-odiorne-on-bird-use-of-a-prairie-restoration-site-in-eastern-washington/ CATEGORIES:Monthly Meetings END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20230907T000000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20230907T000000 DTSTAMP:20260813T012215Z CREATED:20260813T012215Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260813T012215Z UID:4687-1694044800-1694044800@wos.org SUMMARY:Wild Stories from the History of Bird Migration Research with Speaker Rebecca Heisman DESCRIPTION:By Zoom Only. We’ve all heard amazing facts about bird migration—the long distances traveled\, the ways they navigate\, etc. But did you ever wonder how this has all been figured out? Our speaker\, Rebecca Heisman\, became fascinated with the varied and creative techniques that have been used to investigate bird migration\, and has recently published her first book\, Flight Paths: How a Passionate and Quirky Group of Pioneering Scientists Solved the Mystery of Bird Migration. In her talk for WOS\, Rebecca\, who lives in Walla Walla\, will share intriguing stories from the history of bird migration research and discuss why understanding migration is so crucial for bird conservation. URL:https://wos.org/event/wild-stories-from-the-history-of-bird-migration-research-with-speaker-rebecca-heisman/ CATEGORIES:Monthly Meetings END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20230512T000000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20230512T000000 DTSTAMP:20260813T012215Z CREATED:20260813T012215Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260813T012215Z UID:4684-1683849600-1683849600@wos.org SUMMARY:Member Photo Night DESCRIPTION:Share Your Photos: Member Photo Night!\n(“virtual” monthly meeting via Zoom) \nMonday\, June 5\, 2023 \nOur final WOS Monthly Meeting of the season will be “Member Photo Night\,” when favorite and new birding sites and insights are shared via the diverse and entertaining birding experiences of our members. \nPhotographer Members\, thank you in advance for sharing your camera skills and talents as story tellers! Please do some birding on your hard drive\, and step up to share some of your favorite bird photos: we’d love to learn about your encounters and anecdotes! \nGuidelines for those interested in participating: \nPlease send an email by May 21 to Elaine elc@uw.edu with “WOS Member Photo Night” in the subject line. \nPlease include your full name . (Elaine will then contact you) \nOn June 5\, we will take turns via Zoom using “share screen.” \nPlease plan to limit your presentation to 8 minutes (to include show and tell) \nIdeally\, each presenter will present their own photos via Zoom and their computer equipped with microphone and camera. \nFor information about how to watch the program on June 5\, please visit WOS’s Monthly Meetings Page. URL:https://wos.org/event/member-photo-night-3/ CATEGORIES:Monthly Meetings END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20230416T000000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20230416T000000 DTSTAMP:20260813T012205Z CREATED:20260813T012205Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260813T012205Z UID:4683-1681603200-1681603200@wos.org SUMMARY:Steve Hampton on Birds and Climate Change with a Special Focus on the Pacific Northwest DESCRIPTION:Steve Hampton will share the results of his recently published research on birds and climate change – changes that are already happening – with a special focus on the Pacific Northwest.\nHampton has been birding since he was seven years old. He worked for the California Department of Fish & Wildlife for 25 years\, where he was involved in oil spill response\, natural resource damage assessment\, seabird restoration\, and partnerships with Native communities. After retiring\, he moved to Port Townsend where he serves as conservation chair and CBC compiler for Admiralty Audubon. URL:https://wos.org/event/steve-hampton-on-birds-and-climate-change-with-a-special-focus-on-the-pacific-northwest/ CATEGORIES:Monthly Meetings END:VEVENT END:VCALENDAR