Ed Whistler ©Ken Kemmerling
Yolo Audubon will sponsor a bird walk on Saturday, October 28, 2023, from 8am to 10am, at the Davis Cemetery in honor of our friend Ed Whisler. Ed was one of the top birders and wildlife biologists in our area for the past forty years. He was very generous in sharing his vast knowledge with the Davis community. He was a former president of Yolo Audubon, co-designer of West Pond and North Ponds, a conservationist, activist and educator. The Halloween trip to the Davis Cemetery was led by Ed for many years and is a favorite among Yolo Audubon members. This walk will retrace Ed’s steps to look for late fall migrants and incoming winter resident birds including warblers, woodpeckers, and sparrows.
Twenty years ago, in June 2003, Ed Whisler discovered Western Bluebirds nesting in the old tree at the eastern edge of the Davis Cemetery, the first time in thirty years that Bluebirds had nested in Davis. It was Ed who first suggested a nest box trail along the greenbelt from Veterans Memorial to North Davis Ponds. With the nest box programs, nesting Western Bluebirds (and Tree Swallows) are now common in Davis and along Putah Creek.
Ed was also an excellent teacher because he was so in-tuned with birds, especially their calls. Even during conversations, he was always aware of birds, and would interrupt a conversation to point out and identify any of our feathered friends, who happened to be in the area. Sadly, Ed Whisler passed away on July 4, 2023. His earthly remains were interred in the Davis Cemetery, alongside his parents.
Anyone interested in birds is welcome. The event is free and for all age levels. The cemetery has some uneven ground and wet grass. Recommended: binoculars. Suggested: water, hat. Heavy rain or wind cancels event.
Once you arrive at the Davis Cemetery entrance (820 Pole Line Rd, Davis, CA 95618), there will be a stone statue which has a few parking spaces adjacent. You can also park along the cemetery road.
Co-leaders and coordinators are Joshua Greenfield, Donna Jury and Ken Kemmerling. For logistical questions please contact Ryan Janke: rhjanke29@gmail.com