Signs of Spring
Spring has been in the air recently with temperatures reaching the 70s, flocks of geese and cranes seen moving north, and Rufous Hummingbirds spotted at local feeders. A special overwintering favorite for many of us in Yolo County has been the Vermilion Flycatcher at Wild Wings Golf Course west of Woodland. He’s now showing more red feathers on his body and head, and is spending a lot of time singing. We’ll see if he decides to head south soon–it’s been fun having him here.
Vermilion Flycatcher ©Ann Brice
Yolo Bypass Wildlife Area news
The Yolo Bypass Wildlife Area is currently still closed due to flooding, and Manager Garrett Spaan thinks it may be early April before it opens if the Fremont Weir doesn’t overflow again. He pointed out that there’s always maintenance to be done once the water is gone before it’s safe to open to the public. Check the Yolo Basin Foundation’s website for updates on the Wildlife Area reopening, and stay tuned for the planned hiking trail map due out this spring. Also, check out details about CA Duck Days on April 26th.
Volunteers needed at Bobcat Ranch
Meanwhile at Bobcat Ranch, YBA continues to conduct phenology surveys there every other week throughout the year. We are always looking for volunteers to join us on these surveys. Some birding experience is helpful, but we’re happy to train anyone interested. The next survey is March 6th, and then March 22nd, just in time for spring wildflowers. If you’d like to participate or want more information, please contact Sonjia Shelly.
Join the Spring Thing!
Finally, Tuleyome is holding its 4th annual Spring Thing, co-hosted with the City of Woodland on March 22nd from 10am to 4pm. It’s being held at the Woodland Regional Park Preserve and will feature outdoor activities throughout the day, including a bird walk led by YBA’s Autumn Turner. Click here for more information.
–Genevieve Colborn and Ann Brice