Bird & Nature Blog
A clutch of the latest stories from Southern Wisconsin Bird Alliance
We are surprised and deeply disappointed in National Audubon’s decision to knowingly bear a name that causes pain and harm to members of our community. Madison Audubon will continue to pursue a name change in the coming months, in cooperation with our membership and in communication with other chapters.
Photo by Mike Budd/USFWS Midwest
Birds are the heart of Madison Audubon’s mission, and they always will be. Protecting and restoring habitats, reducing dangers to our feathered friends in urban areas, and creating spaces to share in the joy of nature together are essential. We need all the support, from all the people who care, to build a better future for the birds we love.
Photo by Mike Budd/USFWS Midwest
As I worked from my home "office" this week, trying to make sense of things, keeping my 11-year-old son busy, and pondering the future, I had a few visitors. Not the kind that ring the doorbell... these were of the feathered variety. First was the pair of house finches, adding material to their nest on my front downspout. Then I listened in as the black-capped chickadees counter-sang their version of “hot cross buns.” An overhead scan for the bugling cranes led me to spot a red-tailed hawk perched in my black walnut tree (the chickadees were not so entertained).
While all the birds called and flitted about, I felt a sense of gratitude for the joy that birds bring. What a welcome feeling that is. And now, Spring has sprung and so has spring migration!
Photo by Eric Begin
While orange fencing, gray tarps, and bare ground are not the usual view in Bicentennial Prairie, this is a sight made beautiful by what it signifies. Tucked into the hillside overlooking Goose Pond is physical proof that many people know and love this sanctuary and those who tend it, and are creating something special to honor them.
We are delighted to share that nearly 100 donors have helped us reach our fundraising goal of $50,000! Because of all of you, the Wingspan observation pavilion will become a reality and a welcoming place for generations to come. We thank you from the bottom of our hearts.
On site, concrete footings have been poured, and the first of three sets of columns are scheduled for installation this week. The shades are being fabricated as we speak, and the solid oak slabs for the benches are in hand. We are preparing signage, and beginning to plan the dedication ceremony. Even the prairie seems ready, with its incredible show of flowers and abundance of birds and insects.
Through all of this hustle and bustle, Mark Martin and Susan Foote-Martin continue their dedicated work on the land at Goose Pond Sanctuary. They're graduating interns, controlling invasives, counting butterflies, and conducting outreach. Your support and respect for these humble and wonderful land managers are well founded.
Everyone is welcome to visit the Wingspan site at Goose Pond (follow the path up and to the left of the kiosk), and see the fruits of your generosity.
Sincerely,
The Wingspan Committee
John Kaiser, Galen Hasler, Brenna Marsicek, Roger Packard, Matt Reetz, Don Schmidt, and Topf Wells, in collaboration with Mark Martin and Susan Foote-Martin
