Fall Migration at Fern Ridge
The annual fall bird migration has begun. Signs of the changing seasons are everywhere, if you know here to look. The West Eugene Wetlands are a spectacular place to witness the ancient cyclical event.
Now is the time to start watching for the annual migration of Vaux's Swifts. From late August to early September, Swifts gather at migratory roosts, which include chimneys and large hollow trees, before traveling to their winter homes in Central and South America. In the fall, up to 40,000 birds may use the larger roosts at one time.
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9/2/2010
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Echo Basin Old Growth Trail
Due to its unusual structure, Echo Basin is home to plants and animals usually found much farther north or at higher elevations. This beautiful trail offers access to a spectacular late season floral display.
Sightings: You can observe native Western Pond Turtles at Delta Ponds near Valley River Center, as they soak up the sun basking on logs.o The best time to see turtles is early to mid-mornings on sunny days. The turtles will retreat back into the water if the temperature is too hot. Please try to watch the turtles from a distance to avoid disturbing them. Unfortunately, viewers will likely see Red-eared sliders in addition to the Western Pond Turtlesl. The Sliders are a non-native, invasive species that compete with our native turtles for habitat and food.
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8/26/2010
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Summer on the Coast Fork
An amazing diversity and abundance of life exists on and just below the surface of the Coast Fork of the Willamette. It is especially easy to observe in the summer, when the river is calm and shallow.
Events: Lane County Audubon is sponsoring a "Farms and Birds Walk" this Saturday, August 21st, from 7 AM to noon. When the Blick family started the Living Earth Farm in 2007, they made a commitment to sustainable practices and restoring native plants and wildlife habitat. Tour their 15 acres, learning how farming and wildlife, including birds, co-exist. Finish the morning with a look at the wildlife on the nearby Amazon Canal in the West Eugene Wetlands. All levels of birders are welcome, from first timer to expert. Meet at South Eugene High at 19th and Patterson, rain or shine, at 7:00 AM. A small donation is suggested. For more information call 968-5533.
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8/19/2010
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Cox Island
Cox Island is a strange place to walk. Depending on the tides, it is either exposed or under water. There is an enormous amount of biological activity taking place beneath its muddy surface.
Oregon has 15 species of Bats, most of which occur in the Willamette Valley. Look for Bats foraging for insects at dusk. Anywhere close to water is a good place to see Bats and they may even fly over your backyard. These little creatures are good to have around as they can eat up to 600 mosquitoes in an hour! The Valley wildlife refuges are all good places to see these fascinating animals.
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8/12/2010
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Row River Trail
Row River Bicycle Trail is part of the Rails to Trails movement. This beautiful 26-mile round trip ride draws people from all over.
Events: Willamette Riverkeeper is hosting the 10th annual Paddle Oregon from Monday, August 16th to Friday, August 20th. Join more than 100 other people in conoes and kayaks for a 96 mile journey on the Willamette from Eugene to Willamette Mission State Park, north of Salem. All meals, gear shuttle, safety support, camping acco0mmodations and entertainment will be provided. Paddle Oregon is a benefit for Willamette Riverkeeper...a group devoted to protecting and restoring the river. Go to www.paddleoregon.org to register or for more information.
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8/5/2010
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Waldo Lake
Waldo Lake is one of Oregon's largest lakes and among the purest lakes in the world. Paddling across its surface can be a surreal experience, as the paddler is surrounded by an unusual and intensely beautiful landscape.
Sightings: Nighthawks may be seen feeding on insects on clear warm summer evenings. They often fly fairly high and are usually heard before they are spotted. They have a distinctive nasal "peent" call and they also make a roaring sound with their wings as they swoop towards the ground. These birds were once common but are now considered a sensitive species in the Willamette Valley. They are most visible about one hour before dark.
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7/29/2010
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Ten Mile Creek
The meeting place between land and sea is one of the world's most violent and chaotic environments. Many creatures take advantage of this chaos to find food and avoid predators. The first people exploited the rocky intertidal coast for many centuries.
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7/22/2010
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River Trail - Mt. Pisgah Arboretum
The pace of life is frantic in the Willamette Valley in mid-summer. Riparian plants are going to seed, insects are abundant, while birds and mammals are raising the next generation. A walk in the woods will reward the observer with an abundance of sights and sounds.
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7/15/2010
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Fern Ridge Wildlife Area
The overgrown marsh west of Eugene is full of hidden life. Many animals use the dense growth for food and shelter. A little patience will reveal many unexpected surprises.
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7/8/2010
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Spencer's Spit State Park
Spring tides create a watery chaos around the placid San Juan Islands. The lagoon at Spencer's Spit State Park on Lopez Island features abundant life as land, sea and air intersect.
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7/1/2010
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