GREAT SALT LAKE BIRD FESTIVAL 2018 - FIELD GUIDE 20TH ANNIVERSARY - Davis County
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GREAT SALT LAKE
BIRD FESTIVAL
2018
20TH ANNIVERSARY
FIELD GUIDE
Table of Contents 2018 Keynote Speaker
2017 Keynote Speaker 3 George Archibald, Ph.D.
Art Contest & Spotlight Bird 4 Co-Founder of the International Crane Foundattion
Welcome 5 The future of many crane species was once as
fragile as the delicate and graceful birds themselves.
George Archibald’s visionary leadership in
Directions 6 international conservation efforts over the past
40 years has given flight to crane conservation
Sponsors 7 worldwide. In 1973, when cranes were in a perilous
situation and many were on the brink of extinction,
Archibald, along with Cornell University colleague,
Birds Spotted in 2017 8 Ronald Sauey, Ph.D., established the International
Crane Foundation (ICF) in Baraboo, Wisconsin
Lodging 9 as the world center for the study and preservation
of cranes. Today, ICF has over 50 employees and
supports conservation projects in 45 countries.
Registration & Community Sponsors 10
Archibald is a true conservation ambassador
who uses his unique brand of crane diplomacy to
work in sensitive places. He leverages the charisma
of cranes to unite people from diverse cultures
and countries to work together to preserve the
landscapes necessary for the survival of both cranes
Great Salt Lake Bird Festival and people. He focuses on programs in Bhutan,
China, India, Mongolia, North Korea, South
Africa, South Korea, Russia, and the United States.
Program Activities Born in New Glasgow, Nova Scotia, Canada, Zoological Society of San Diego, the Lilly Medal
Archibald received his undergraduate degree from presented by the Indianapolis Zoo, and the Douglas
Dalhousie University in Halifax, Nova Scotia, H. Pimlott Award from Nature Canada. In 2013,
Thursday, May 17th 11 in 1968, and completed his Ph.D. at Cornell Archibald was awarded the Order of Canada on
University in 1977. In recognition of his many behalf of Queen Elizabeth II, and received the
accomplishments, Archibald has received four inaugural Dan W. Lufkin Prize for Environmental
Friday, May 18th 13 honorary doctorates and many awards including Leadership from the National Audubon Society.
the Gold Medal from the World Wildlife Fund, a He and his wife, Kyoko, live in the countryside near
Saturday, May 19th 14 Fellows Award from the MacArthur Foundation, the International Crane Foundation headquarters
the Wildlife Conservation Medal from the where they enjoy gardening and aviculture.
Sunday, May 20th 17
Monday, May 21st 18 Join George on these activities:
Friday May 18 7:00 am – 11:00 am Fieldtrip #13 Swaner EcoCenter
Field Trip Chart 20 3:30 pm – 5:00 pm Workshop: Crane Behavior and Vocalizations
5:00 pm Book Signing
Workshops 21
Saturday May 19 7 am – 1 pm Fieldtrip #25 Antelope Island
6pm Keynote Address and Dinner: My Life
with Cranes
Workshop is FREE. Fieldtrips and Dinner require a ticket.
Dinner is sponsored by Utah Wetlands Foundation and Tracy Aviary
3
Art Contest & Spotlight Bird Welcome
Come see the Student Art Contest in Building #3: Viewing hours are Friday, May 18th 12 pm – 7 pm and Saturday, Welcome to the 20th Annual Great Salt Lake Bird Festival!
May 19th 9 am – 5 pm. Come to the Student Art Contest award ceremony on Saturday, May 19th at 5:45 pm and stay
for the Family Program - Parade of Raptors offered by HawkWatch International and featuring live birds. Farmington, Utah
What a great year to Celebrate the Year of the Bird! nineteen workshops, youth programs, and two off-
American This is the centennial year of America’s Migratory site events. Our field trips include the best guides in
Bird Treaty Act’s ratification and the 20th year for Utah (and one from Ohio), boats, kayaks, horses,
the Great Salt Lake Bird Festival. The partners for buses, vans, drive yourself, and BIRDS. We bring in
Avocet the Year of the Bird are National Audubon, BirdLife
International, The Cornell Lab of Ornithology,
and National Geographic. Look for things you can
keynote speakers who are prominent in the birding
world and for many this is their first time to Utah.
This year’s Keynote Speaker, George Archibald,
Text by Ella Sorensen | Art by Sabrina Allen do to celebrate at #BirdYourWorld. This celebration author and co-founder of the International Crane
fits right in with the field trips and workshops we Foundation is well known in many international
are offering this year. birding circles.
The American Avocet, a strikingly elegant
shorebird, is a noisy bird whose sharp wheet call At our first Festival, Governor Michael O. Leavitt, One of the Saturday workshops will include a
regularly pierces the air of a wetland already alive said this Festival would continue and grow- and it ‘history’ of Great Salt Lake Bird Festival including
with sound. This bird seldom goes unnoticed. has. We started with six field trips, sixteen workshops, pictures and stories of our journey. We hope you
youth programs, a musical concert, and two off-site will join us to celebrate the 20th Great Salt Lake
The allure of avocets spans the world. The charm some vegetable matter. events. This year we are offering fifty field trips, Bird Festival!
of the four species scattered about the planet often Avocets nest semi-colonially on mudflats. The nest
invites iconic status. In Australia, the red-necked may be a simple depression in the ground or lined We hope you will join us to celebrate the 20th Great Salt Lake Bird Festival!
avocet appeared on a postage stamp in 1966. In with mud flakes or vegetation. Four splotched eggs
the British Isles, the pied avocet became the logo per nest is usual. Within hours of hatching, avocet Thanks to our Festival Committee: Neka Roundy- Chair, John Bellmon, Yae Bryner, Jaimi Butler, Valerie
for the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds in chicks are off and running, capable of feeding Frokjer, Amy Haran, Dallin Henderson, Heidi Hoven, Ann Neville, Jolene Rose, Jerry Thompson, Nikki
1947. In Utah the avocet seems to be the “shorebird themselves. These ungainly balls of downy fluff have Wayment, Deserie Werritt.
of choice” for it far outnumbers all shorebirds short bills and legs that look too long for their tiny
combined when a single species image is chosen to bodies. Parental care continues for about a month SAVE THE DATE: 21st Great Salt Lake Bird Festival May 16-20, 2019
appear on report covers, presentations and license until the chicks can fly.
plate choices. The non-migratory Andean avocet www.GreatSaltLakeBirdFest.com
nesting high in the Andes Mountains of South Later in the summer, avocets start moving from
America is lesser known. individual pairs or families into large feeding flocks.
The orange head feathers of the adult drop off and Bring your family and stay an extra day to enjoy Davis County’s
Most of Utah’s 43 species of shorebirds pass float away in the water or air replaced by whitish-gray other family friendly venues!
through the state, pausing only to feed and rest feathers that give the bird a much duller appearance.
during their seasonal migration to and from
wintering and breeding territories. The avocet is one Because of the huge biomass of insects on Great Salt
of ten shorebirds that return each spring to the state Lake, avocets nesting to the north begin funneling
to nest and raise young. Hardy enough to endure the to the Lake like grains in a giant hour glass to feed,
chills of March, avocets appear early in the year on swelling the numbers to hundreds of thousands.
the marshes, ponds, and mudflats of northern Utah. On a single day in August, 252,000 avocets were
A long, thin upturned, scythe-like bill enables counted, a large percent off the world’s population.
avocets to feed quite differently than other Sometimes flocks preparing for migration can cover
shorebirds. The head swings back and forth with the miles of Lake bed, packed so tightly together they Bear River Migratory Bird Refuge: fws.gov/refuge/bear_river_migratory_bird_refuge
bill stirring up anything edible from the water and appear as large drifts of snow. Boondocks Fun Center: boondocks.com/public/kaysville
mud. Avocets will pick and probe as well as swim in Cherry Hill Resort and Water Park: cherry-hill.com
deeper water to roil up food. Once sufficient fat accumulates to sustain long Farmington Bay Waterfowl Management Area: wildlife.utah.gov/habitat/farmington_bay.php
migratory flights, avocets disperse once again to Great Salt Lake beaches: stateparks.utah.gov/park/antelope-island-state-park
The dark swirling columns of mosquito-like midges winter in the coastal lowlands from northern
GSL Shorelands Preserve: nature.org/greatsaltlake
so often present in healthy wetlands of Great Salt California and southern Texas to southern Mexico.
bodes well for avocets whose diet during the nesting Lagoon Amusement Park: LagoonPark.com
season consist mainly of larvae of the midges (blood The survivors of the winter months will return and Mountain trails: daviscountyutah.gov/trails
worms) found in the water, other invertebrates, and the cycle begin once again. SeaQuest Interactive Aquariums and Birds: seaquestaquariums.com/utah
The Rush FunPlex: therushfunplex.com www.playindavis.com
4 5
Directions- How to Get Here! Sponsors
Davis County Legacy Events Center
151 South 1100 West
Farmington, UT 84025
Southbound on I-15
Take Exit 325 off Interstate 15.
Turn right onto Park Lane.
Stay on Park Lane, turn left at 1100 West. Take the round-about towards the big blue building.
Activities are in the buildings at the south end of the parking lot.
Northbound on I-15
Take Exit 324, stay in right lane.
Take Exit 395.
Turn left at Park Lane.
Stay on Park Lane, proceed through several lights and turn left on 1100 West. Take the round-about
towards the big blue building.
Activities are in the buildings at the south end of the parking lot.
The Nature Conservancy in Utah Farmington Bay WMA
JEPS Foundation Friends of Antelope Island
Antelope Island State Park Friends of Great Salt Lake
National Audubon Society HawkWatch International, Utah
Bear River MBR – U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service Linking Communities,
Bridgerland Audubon Wetlands and Migratory Birds
Country Inn & Suites by Carlson, Rockport State Park
Bountiful- Host Property Swaner EcoCenter
Davis Chamber of Commerce Utah County Birders
Davis County Commissioners’ Cup Wasatch Audubon
Golf Tournament Westminster College Great Salt Lake Institute
Davis County Legacy Events Center Wild About Birds Nature Center, Layton
Davis School District Willard Bay State Park
We offer sincere thanks and appreciation to all of our sponsors for their continued
support of Great Salt Lake Bird Festival and our mission :
“To increase awareness and conservation of the Great Salt Lake ecosystem through
education and nature tourism”.
6 7
Spotting Birds Lodging
Birds Seen at 2017 Great Salt Lake Bird Festival
Swans, Geese & Ducks Prairie Falcon Willow Flycatcher Thrashers Country Inn & Suites W. Bountiful 801-292-8100
Graylag Goose Hammond’s Flycatcher Gray Catbird 800-596-2375
Canada Goose Rails & Cranes Gray Flycatcher Northern Mockingbird www.countryinns.com/bountifulut 800-830-5222
Virginia Rail Dusky Flycatcher
Mute Swan
Sora
Sage Thrashe FESTIVAL HOST PROPERTY
Gadwall Cordilleran Flycatcher
American Wigeon American Coot Say’s Phoebe Starlings Best Western PLUS CottonTree Inn North Salt Lake 801-292-7666
Mallard Sandhill Crane Western Kingbird European Starling www.bestwesterncottontreeinn.com
Eastern Kingbird Comfort Inn & Suites North Woods Cross
Blue-winged Teal Plovers & Sandpipers Pipits 801-298-3900
Cinnamon Teal http://www.comfortinn.com/hotel-woods_cross-utah-UT080
Black-bellied Plover Shrikes Waxwings &
Northern Shoveler Black-necked Stilt Loggerhead Shrike Hampton Inn North Woods Cross 801-296-1211
Northern Pintail American Avocet Phainopepla www.hamptoninn.com/hi/saltlake-north
Green-winged Teal Black-bellied Plover Vireos Cedar Waxwing
Redhead Snowy Plover
Motel 6 Woods Cross 801-298-0289
Gray Vireo Warblers www.motel6.com
Ring-necked Duck Killdeer Plumbeous Vireo Orange-crowned Warbler InTown Suites
Greater Scaup Long-billed Curlew Warbling Vireo Woods Cross 801-296-6400
Lesser Scaup Virginia’s Warbler www.intownsuites.com
Stilt Sandpiper
Bufflehead Jays & Crows Yellow Warbler
Sanderling
Yellow-rumped Warbler Hampton Inn & Suites Farmington 801-451-7999
Common Goldeneye Long-billed Dowitcher Stellar’s Jay
Black-throated Gray Warbler www.hamptoninn.com
Common Merganser Wilson’s Snipe Pinyon Jay
Red-breasted Merganser Wilson’s Phalarope Woodhourse’s Scrub-Jay MacGillivray’s Warbler Hyatt Place at Station Park Farmington 801-683-4444
Ruddy Duck Black-billed Magpie Common Yellowthroat www.hyattplace.com
Red-necked Phalarope
Clark’s Nutcracker Wilson’s Warbler
Pheasants, Grouse & Spotted Sandpiper
Yellow-breasted Chat Hilton Garden Inn Layton 801-416-8899
Willet American Crow
Quail Common Raven www.layton.gardeninn.com
Tanagers
California Quail Gulls, Terns & Alcids Western Tanager La Quinta Layton 800-776-6700
Chukar Franklin’s Gull Larks www.laquinta.com
Ring-necked Pheasant Ring-billed Gull Horned Lark Sparrows
California Gull
Holiday Inn Express Layton 801-773-3773
Loons Green-tailed Towhee
Caspian Tern Swallows Spotted Towhee
www.hiexpress.com/laytonut
Common Loon
Forster’s Tern Purple Martin Chipping Sparrow Home 2 Suites Layton 801-820-9220
Tree Swallow
Grebes Black Tern
Violet-green Swallow
Brewer’s Sparrow www.home2suites.hilton.com
Pied-billed Grebe Common Tern Vesper Sparrow Layton
No. Rough-winged Swallow Hampton Inn 801-775-8800
Eared Grebe Lark Sparrow
Western Grebe
Doves & Pigeons Bank Swallow Savannah Sparrow
www.LaytonHampton.com
Clark’s Grebe
Rock Pigeon Cliff Swallow Grasshopper Sparrow Fairfield Inn by Marriott Layton 801-444-1600
Eurasian Collared-Dove Barn Swallow www.marriott.com/slcly
Fox Sparrow
Pelicans & Mourning Dove
Titmice, Verdin & Song Sparrow Towneplace Suites by Marriott Layton 801-779-2422
Cormorants Owls Bushtit Lincoln’s Sparrow www.towneplacesuites.com/slctl
American White Pelican White-crowned Sparrow
Double-crested Cormorant
Barn Owl Black-capped Chickadee Courtyard by Marriott Layton 801-217-2300
Flammulated Owl Mountain Chickadee Black-throated Sparrow www.marriott.com/slccl
Neotropic Cormorant Great Horned Owl Sagebrush Sparrow
Juniper Titmouse
Dark-eyed Junco Comfort Inn Layton 801-544-5577
Bitterns, Egrets & Northern Pygmy-Own Bushtite www.choicehotels.com
Herons Burrowing Owl
Nuthatches & Grosbeaks & Buntings Best Western PLUS Layton Park Layton 801-896-0271
Great Blue Heron Northern Saw-Whet Owl
Black-headed Grosbeak
Great Egret
Creepers www.bestwestern.com
Goatsuckers Lazuli Bunting
Charin Motel Clearfield 801-825-2221
Snowy Egret Common Poorwill Wrens Blackbirds & Orioles
Cattle Egret Rock Wren Days Inn Clearfield 801-825-8000
Black-crowned Night-Heron Swifts Canyon Wren
Bobolink
www.daysinn.com
White-throated Swift Red-winged Blackbird
House Wren
Ibises & Spoonbills Marsh Wren
Western Meadowlark Econo Lodge Sunset 801-825-9500
Glossy Ibis Hummingbirds Yellow-headed Blackbird Www.econolodge.com/hotel-clearfield-utah-UT154
Black-chinned Hummingbird ABewick’s Wren
White-faced Ibis Brewer’s Blackbird
Broad-tailed Hummingbird Dippers Common Crackle
Vultures Calliope Hummingbird American Dipper Great-tailed Grackle Camping
Turkey Vulture Brown-headed Cowbird
Kingfishers Kinglets Bullock’s Oriole
Hawks & Falcons Belted Kingfisher Ruby-crowned Kinglet
Antelope Island State Park Syracuse 800-322-3770
Osprey Finches www.stateparks.utah.gov
Golden Eagle Woodpeckers Gnatcatchers Cherry Hill Fruit Heights
Northern Harrier Red-naped Sapsucker
Black Rosy-Finch 801-451-5379
Blue-gray Gnatcatcher Cassin’s Finch www.cherry-hill.com
Cooper’s Hawk Downy Woodpecker
House Finch Lagoon RV Park & Campground
Bald Eagle Lewis’ Woodpecker Thrushes Pine Siskin
Farmington 801-451-8100
Swainson’s Hawk Northern Flicke Mountain Bluebird www.lagoonpark.com
Lesser Goldfinch
Red-tailed Hawk
Flycatchers
Hermit Thrush
American Goldfinch Pony Express RV Park North Salt Lake 801-355-1550
Ferruginous Hawk American Robin www.ponyexpressrvresort.com
Olive-sided Flycatcher
American Kestrel Weaver Finches
Peregrine Falcon Western Wood-Pewee
House Sparrow
8 9
Registration Great Salt Lake Bird Festival
On-Line Registration is Easy! 2018 Program
All registration begins on February 26, 2018 at 9 am MST. On-line registration is the preferred method Field Trips **Unless otherwise noted, participants should bring
of registering, however, our team will do the best we can to accommodate all forms of registration. binoculars, water, snacks, and lunch depending
Workshops and Presentations on length of trip, camera, sunscreen, hat, and
Options: Likely to see American Avocet appropriate clothing.**
1. On-line registration is preferred: link from www.GreatSaltLakeBirdFest.com
2. By phone with your credit card. Call 801-451-3286.
3. By mail with payment. Make checks payable to Great Salt Lake Bird Festival.
Mail to: Great Salt Lake Bird Festival, P.O. Box 618, Farmington, UT 84025
Registration packets: Tickets ordered on-line will be e-mailed to the email address you list. Tickets Thursday May 17th
ordered by mail or phone will be e-mailed to the address you give or arrangements can be made to pick
up tickets at the Information booth at the Davis County Legacy Events Center on Friday, May 18, 2018 #1 4 Mile Ranch 5:15am-10am
at 12 noon to 6 pm or Saturday, May 19, 2018 at 6:30 am to 5 pm. Tickets or photo ID will be checked Val Grant, Bret Selman, Jolene Rose, Bryant Olsen
by field trip leaders. Tour the Aldo Leopold Conservation Award-winning 4-Mile Ranch. This is a working ranch that practices beneficial wildlife stewardship
and is owned and operated by the Selman Family. Here you will have an opportunity to see the Columbian Sharp-tailed Grouse and,
with a little luck, their breeding dance. Other species that are often seen at the Ranch include: Sandhill Crane, Red-tailed Hawk, Golden
Cancellation & Refunds: If you cancel your registration, either by phone or in writing, a ticket refund Eagle, Northern Goshawk, Northern Harrier, Grasshopper, Sage, Vesper, and Brewer’s Sparrows, Wild Turkey, Dusky and Ruffed
minus the on-line charges will be given if notice is given on or before April 27, 2018 at 4:30 pm MST. After Grouse, Mountain Bluebird, and Hairy Woodpecker. Meet at the McDonald’s in Hyrum at 5:15 am. It is a moderate hike to the site.
this time, no refunds will be issued. Tickets must be included in refund request. Accommodations will be arranged for those unable to hike. Bring water and snacks. Limit 20. Own vehicles. Cost $15
Great Salt Lake Bird Festival reserves the right to cancel an activity or substitute qualified presenters #2 Deseret Ranch 6am-6pm
when necessary. If the Festival cancels an event for any reason, a ticket refund will be issued minus the Billy Fenimore
on-line charges. In case of inclement weather, workshops, booths, food, and art will be indoors. Field trips Enjoy a birding adventure on Deseret Land & Livestock, the largest ranch in Utah. This working ranch encompasses over 250,000 acres
of diverse habitats including sub-alpine meadow, mountain forest, sage-steppe, wet meadow, wetland marsh, ponds, lakes and streams,
will still be outside, please bring appropriate clothing. and has a bird list of 260 species. Expect a day list of 100 species or more including: Ferruginous Hawk, Sandhill Crane, Sage grouse,
Sage Thrasher, Brewer’s and Sage sparrow, Hammond’s, Gray, Dusky, Olive-sided and Cordilleran Flycatchers, American Dipper, Lazuli
Bunting, Caspian Tern, and migrant warblers. Meet at the Park-N-Ride lot on the NW corner of South Weber Drive & Hwy 89.
Take Exit #405 off Utah Hwy 89, go west. The lot is just south of the Hwy 89 and I-84 junction on the west side of UT Hwy 89.
For more information: Limit 25. Mini-bus. Cost $80
Great Salt Lake Bird Festival - P.O. Box 618 - Farmington, Utah 84025
#3 Raptor Roadtrip 6am-6pm
801-451-3286, Fax: 801-451-3281, E-mail: tour@co.davis.ut.us Don Paul & Randy Chatelain
Spend a day exploring the ecology of some of Utah’s most charismatic birds including a nesting pair of osprey. We will investigate Summit
and Rich county landscapes including Deseret Ranch, that are the breeding and foraging habitats of large diurnal raptors. Golden Eagles,
Red-tailed, Swainson’s and Ferruginous Hawks, Northern Harriers, Prairie and Peregrine falcons, Cooper’s and Sharp-shinned hawks
and Northern Goshawk make their home in these same mountain forests. We will be watchful for Great Horned Owl, Turkey Vulture,
Osprey and the ubiquitous American Kestrel. Don will help with identification of these magnificent birds of prey, as well as describe the
various color morphs we encounter. He will discuss and show nesting strategies and behavior, as well as predator/prey relationships. Meet
Linking Communities Update: at the Davis County Legacy Events Center. Bring water and food for the day.
Limit 8. Vans. Cost $75
Great Salt Lake Bird Festival is “linked” to communities in Saskatchewan, Canada and San Blas, Mexico #4 Photography at Farmington Bay 8am-12pm
in an effort to protect an important shorebird migration route that passes through these areas. This Tom Matthewson
tri-national effort, Linking Communities, has become a model for trying to conserve birds and habitat This is a guided “drive-your-own-car” tour of specific spots at Farmington Bay, with an emphasis on serious bird photography. We’ll have
throughout the entire range of migratory birds. hands-on sessions at each stop for photographing birds with a tripod as well as hand-held shooting and shooting from a car. We will
cover equipment tips, camera settings and shooting techniques for getting the best pictures possible in nearly any conditions. Bring your
camera, lens, tripod etc. Meet at Davis County Legacy Events Center 151 S. 1100 W. Farmington UT 84025.
Limit 15. Own Vehicles. Cost $20
#5 Willard Bay State Park 8am-1pm
Valerie Frokjer, Dickson Smith
Possible species include Gray Catbird, Bullock’s Oriole, Western Tanager, Downy Woodpecker, Willow Flycatcher, Black-headed
Grosbeak, swallows, and various warblers. Bring water and snacks. Meet outside the north entrance gate at 900 W. 650 N. Willard
UT 84340. Ticket includes park entry.
Limit 15. Own Vehicles. Cost $25
10 11
Great Salt Lake Bird Festival Friday May 18th
2018 Program (cont.) #13 Swaner EcoCenter 7am-11am
George Archibald, Ella Sorensen, Heidi Hoven, Vivian Schneggenburger
#6 Birding Rockport Reservoir Canoe/Kayak* 8:30am-3pm Come visit high altitude wet meadows, marshes, riparian areas and uplands here in search of Sandhill Cranes with Keynote, George
Archibald. Program also includes Question/Answer time with George at the EcoCenter after the field trip. Sandhill Cranes have
Kathy Donnell, Tony Santora, Vivian Schneggenburger successfully nested and reared their young in the Preserve in years past and are typically very visible during the spring. Surrounded by a
*(Please arrive at 8am for instructions. Allow for travel time) scenic backdrop of the Wasatch Mountains, walk along trails normally closed to the public. These high altitude wetlands and adjacent
Rockport Reservoir’s nearby springs host many ducks, grebes, herons, and raptors (including nesting Osprey) with the smaller birds uplands are home to more than 70 species of birds, including Mountain Bluebirds, Yellow-headed and Red-winged Blackbirds, swallows,
occupying the adjacent trees and shrubs. You will have a grand birding experience at the reservoir using their canoes and kayaks. Meet various raptors and Yellow Warblers. Meet in front of the Swaner EcoCenter 1258 Center Dr. Park City, UT 84098. Plan to
at Rockport State Park at 9040 N. Hwy 302 Peoa, UT 84061. Trip is 1 hour from Sugar House Park in SLC. Take I-80 east explore the exhibits at the conclusion of the tour. Visit www.swanerecocenter.org for more information.
to the Wanship exit #155. Turn right and take Highway 32 to mile marker 24 (approx. 4 miles). Turn left into the state park. Limit 15. Own Vehicles. Cost $30
Follow that road 3 miles to the main marina. (435-336-2241) Bring water and snacks. Weather permitting.
Limit 12. Own Vehicles. Cost $40 #14 Birding Diamond Fork Canyon Area, Utah County 7am-2pm
Keeli Marvel, Terri Pope
#7 Lunch Cruise on Great Salt Lake 11am-2pm Diamond Fork Canyon encompasses a wide diversity of habitats including montane forest, sagebrush, scrub oak, juniper forest, wetland
marsh, stream, and pond riparian areas and cliff habitat in which a wide diversity of bird species may be found. Possible bird sightings
Dave Ghizzone, Gonzo Tours include: Western Tanager, Lazuli Bunting, Western Bluebird, Belted Kingfisher, Western Scrub-jay, Golden Eagle (possibly on a nest),
Tour the South end of the Great Salt Lake on the 54 foot motor yacht “Sunset”. Departs from the Great Salt Lake State Park Marina
Canyon, Marsh, Pacific wrens, Sage Thrasher, Red-naped Sapsucker, Fox Sparrow. Meet at Springville Wal-Mart 660 S. 1750 W.,
at 11 AM, BOARDING AT 10:30 AM. Box style lunch served. For vegetarian or vegan options and/or questions call Dave at 801-698-
Springville UT 84663. Limit 15. Own Vehicles. Cost $25
6288. Meet at the Great Salt Lake State Park Marina at 13312 West 1075 South, Magna UT 84044. Trip is weather and water
level dependent. Water level will be determined on April 28, 2017.
Limit 20. Own vehicles. Cost $75 #15 Bear River MBR: “Behind-the-Gates” Field Trip 7am-3pm
Janice Gardner and Bear River Staff
#8 Research Boat Tour on Great Salt Lake 1pm-3pm Bear River Refuge with its 78,000 acres of developed wetlands, and is world famous as one of the premier birding marshes. About 50
John Luft, Jim Van Leeuwen, Kyle Stone species of birds are normally seen including: Black Terns, Franklin Gulls, Virginia Rails, Caspian Terns, several species of sparrows. Meet
Why is there such an abundant suite of wildlife, particularly birds on Great Salt Lake? Take a ride with the wildlife biologist who is At Davis County Legacy Events Center. Limit 23. Mini-Bus. Cost $60
responsible for monitoring the lake’s health. Board the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources research boat and experience Great Salt
Lake’s ecosystem first hand. You will likely see Eared Grebes and various gulls, although this is not a birding trip. This excursion is
a hands-on learning experience about GSL ecology and current research projects. The geology and history of the islands and other
#16 Morgan County: Backyard Birding in Two Habitats 7:30am-2:30pm
landscapes will be discussed. Meet at the Great Salt Lake State Park Marina at 13312 West 1075 South, Magna UT 84044. Arnold Smith, Weston Smith
Trip is weather and water level dependent. Water level will be determined on April 27, 2018. Some of the best birding in Morgan County is found in the backyards of the houses in the quaint small towns of Morgan and Croydon
Limit 8. Own Vehicles. Cost $40 in Weber Canyon. Cavity-nesting Tree Swallows, House Wrens, and American Kestrel will be target birds. Bird feeders will be attracting
Black-headed Grosbeaks, Bullock’s Orioles, Cassin’s Finches, Lazuli Buntings and hummingbirds. This trip has averaged approx. 65
#9 Birds & Spurs 5pm-7pm species per year and surprises are always possible. We will also bird along the Weber River in Henefer looking for large nesting birds such
as raptors and herons. Meet at the north side of 7-Eleven at 404 E. 300 N. Morgan 84050 at 7 am. Take I-84 east to exit 103. The
Wrangler Ginger Brown, R & G Horse and Wagon 7-Eleven is on the south side of the railroad tracks. Limit 20. Own Vehicles. Cost $25
Cowboy up! You are in the West, so let’s go birding by horseback along the east side of Antelope Island. This two-hour guided tour
features birds in the wetland, sage and grassland habitats near the historic Fielding Garr Ranch and the south-side of the Island. There
are an amazing number of migratory shorebirds that use Antelope Island as a resting, nesting and feeding area. Experienced wranglers
#17 Birds & Spurs 8am-10am
who are intimately familiar with the Island’s history, flora and fauna will be our guides. Enjoy a leisurely ride, spectacular scenery and Wrangler Ginger Brown, R & G Horse and Wagon
birds. Possible species include Long-billed Curlew, Burrowing Owl, Peregrine Falcon, Grasshopper Sparrow, and aquatic birds. Bring Cowboy up! You are in the West, so let’s go birding by horseback along the east side of Antelope Island. This two-hour guided tour
binoculars, water, and snacks. Meet at the historic Fielding Garr Ranch at Antelope Island State Park (I-15 exit #332, go west to features birds in the wetland, sage and grassland habitats, near the historic Fielding Garr Ranch and the south side of the Island. There
Antelope Island). are an amazing number of migratory shorebirds that use Antelope Island as a resting, nesting and feeding area. Experienced wranglers
Limit 6. Own vehicles. Cost $120 who are intimately familiar with the Island’s history, flora and fauna will be our guides. Enjoy a leisurely ride, spectacular scenery and
birds. Possible species include Long-billed Curlew, Burrowing Owl, Peregrine Falcon, Grasshopper Sparrow, and aquatic birds. Meet at
#10 Owl Prowl, Antelope Island State Park 5pm-9:30pm the historic Fielding Garr Ranch at Antelope Island State Park, I-15 exit #332, go west to Antelope Island).
Limit 6. Own Vehicles. Cost $120
Jesse Watson, Bryce King, Ellen Labotka, Brian Ferguson
Who, Who should go? Owl lovers that’s WHO! Antelope Island is prime habitat for several species of owl: Great Horned, Barn,
Burrowing, Long-eared and Short-eared owls. Great opportunity to see other wildlife on the park. Picturesque views of the Lake and
#18 American Kestrel 9am-1pm
timing of this evening trip will be great for photographing the island’s famous sunsets. Meet at the Davis County Legacy Events Jesse Watson, Nikki Wayment, Janet Nelson
Center 151 S. 1100 W. Farmington, UT 84025. Learn about American Kestrel behavior. You will visit active American Kestrel nests to observe and monitor. Limit 15. Vans. Cost $40
Limit 20. Vans. Cost $35
#11 FAMILY PROGRAM Amazing Raptors 7pm-9pm Artists, Vendors, Food 12pm-7pm
Wildlife Rehabilitation Center of Northern Utah Student Art Display & Vendor Booths OPEN
WRCNU invites you and your family to discover the amazing raptors and their superpowers of sight, hearing, strength, and flight. Come
meet our wonderful education ambassadors and learn about their incredible adaptations. Meet owls, hawks, and falcons. Meet at
WRCNU 1490 Park Blvd, Ogden UT 84401. #19 Burrowing Owl Field Trip 2pm-5pm
Limit 40 Own Vehicles. Cost $5 Neil Paprocki, Jesse Watson, Nikki Wayment, Jolen Rose
Think you know everything about owls? Well not these little hoots. Come see the underground-dwelling, awake in the day, sentinels of
#12 Mountain Owls 7:30pm-12 midnight the grasslands – burrowing owls. This is a field trip to Antelope island State Park to look for Burrowing owl sites. Meet at the Davis
County Legacy Events Center. Limit 20. Vans. Cost $35
Mike Hearell, Taylor Abbot
Join us as we search local mountain areas for some of Utah’s many owl species. The main target bird will be the Flammulated Owl, but
other owls including Northern Saw-whet Owl, Western Screech Owl, Great Horned Owl, and Northern Pygmy Owl may be seen also.
#20 Creativity of Photography | Workshop:1pm-3pm *FT: 4pm-9pm
Other possible species include Common Poorwill, Common Nighthawk, Swainson’s Thrush, and Hermit Thrush. Be sure to bring Lisa Langell
a drink, flashlight, and appropriate clothing. Meet at Davis County Legacy Events Center 151 S. 1100 W. Farmington, UT Enjoy this FREE two hour workshop. Be Creative and shoot differently. Think about where your images will go and what you will do
84025. Limit 10. Vans. Cost $40 with them. Field trip: Meet at Antelope Island Gate House, 4528 West 1700 South, Syracuse UT 84075. Weather permitting.
Limit 15. Own Vehicles. *Cost $60 for field trip
12 13Great Salt Lake Bird Festival #25 Antelope Island: Causeway & Garr Ranch
George Archibald, Mike Hearell, Taylor Abbott, Jolene Rose
7am-1pm
2018 Program (cont.) Bird a popular migrant stopover at Fielding Garr Ranch on Antelope Island. Birds crossing the west desert drop into the Ranch’s grove
of giant cottonwood trees as the first green spot they see. The area offers several springs and trees with plenty of insects. This trip
provides a rare early morning opportunity to visit this area before it opens to the public. Possible species: migrating warblers, vireos,
flycatchers; also owls, falcons, hawks, woodpeckers, and Virginia Rail. Meet at the Davis County Legacy Events Center.
Workshop - Crane Behavior and Vocalizations 3:30pm-5pm Limit 52. Bus. Cost $50
George Archibald, Keynote Speaker #26 Bountiful Pond 7:30am-10am
George will review his research studies and his extensive travels as they relate to crane behavior.
Ian Batterman
Located on the outskirts of Farmington Bay WMA, Bountiful Pond is a lovely oasis for all kinds of birds. The large pond provides a
Book Signing 5pm-6pm stopover area for many gulls and waterfowl, and the surrounding trees and fields hide many songbirds, owls, and other birds with close
viewing opportunities. During migration, Bountiful Pond can often house rare vagrants like Eastern Wood Warblers.
George Archibald, Keynote Speaker Species to expect: Wood Duck, Mallard, Cinnamon Teal, Red-breasted Merganser, Pied-billed Grebe, Western Grebe, American
Books will be available for purchase. Or bring your own. White Pelican, Double-crested Cormorant, Great Blue Heron, Northern Harrier, Osprey, Virginia Rail, American Coot, Wilson’s Snipe,
California Gull, Caspian Tern, Forster’s Tern, Barn Owl, Belted Kingfisher, Northern Flicker, American Kestrel, Western Wood-pewee,
Dusky Flycatcher, Black-billed Magpie, Tree Swallow, Barn Swallow, Marsh Wren, Orange-crowned Warbler, Yellow Warbler, Song
Welcome for Festival Attendees, Art Contest Entries & Vendors Sparrow, White-crowned Sparrow, Western Tanager, Yellow-headed Blackbird, Great-tailed Grackle. Meet at the Legacy Events Center
151 S. 1100 W. Farmington UT 84025 to follow guide. Limit 20 Own Vehicles Cost $15
Awards Presentation 5:45pm-6pm
Presentation of Awards Davis County Legacy Events Center Building #3 #27 Morgan County: Backyard Birding in Two Habitats 7:30am-2:30pm
Student Art Contest Awards Arnold Smith, Weston Smith
Sponsored by the Commissioners’ Cup Golf Tournament Some of the best birding in Morgan County is found in the backyards of the houses in the quaint small towns of Morgan and Croydon
in Weber Canyon. Cavity-nesting Tree Swallows, House Wrens, and American Kestrel will be target birds. Bird feeders will be attracting
Black-headed Grosbeaks, Bullock’s Orioles, Cassin’s Finches, Lazuli Buntings and hummingbirds. This trip has averaged approx. 65
FAMILY PROGRAM: Parade of Raptors 6pm-7pm species per year and surprises are always possible. We will also bird along the Weber River in Henefer looking for large nesting birds such
as raptors and herons. Meet at the north side of 7-Eleven at 404 E. 300 N. Morgan 84050 at 7 am. Take I-84 east to exit 103. The
Hawkwatch International 7-Eleven is on the south side of the railroad tracks. Limit 20. Own Vehicles. Cost $25
Meet a hawk, an owl, and a falcon in this engaging raptor program. The program covers some basic information on each species,
and shares their individual stories about how they came to be in captivity and how we can help them in the wild through our own
thoughtful conservation actions. Learn about raptor threats and the conservation challenges of declining habitat, hazards of toxic
chemicals, and the role humans have played in both endangering and protecting these magnificent birds.
Workshop Bird Photography: Camera, Settings, Techniques 8am-9am
Tom Mathewson
#21 Sunset Dinner Cruise on Great Salt Lake 6pm-9pm A quick introduction to taking good bird pictures. We’ll cover basic theory as well as the best settings, storing and processing your
pictures. We’ll also look at shooting tips and techniques especially for bird photography, and how to exercise your own artistic vision
Dave Ghizzone, Gonzo Tours to capture those great bird scenes.
Dinner cruise and tour of the South end of the Great Salt Lake aboard the 54 foot motor yacht “Sunset”. Departs from the Great
Salt Lake State Park Marina at 6 PM, BOARDING AT 5:30 PM. A four course dinner served. For vegetarian or vegan options and/
or questions call Dave at 801-698-6288. Meet at the Great Salt Lake State Park Marina at 13312 West 1075 South, Magna UT #28 Boy Scout Merit Badge & Youth Program 8am-12pm
84044. Trip is weather and water level dependent. Water level will be determined on April 27, 2018. Dallin Henderson, Carol Henderson
Limit 20. Own Vehicles. Cost $95 This is an exciting opportunity for scouts ages 11-17 to earn the Bird Study Merit Badge. Learn about the Great Salt Lake and
surrounding wetlands, habitats, birds, the food chain and the important roles they each play in our environment. Program includes
Saturday May 19th an easy nature walk to view and identify birds and other cool things in nature. (Bring your own merit badge cards with the application
portion signed by your unit leader). Meet at Davis County Legacy Events Center Limit 30 youth. Cost $5 (leaders free)
#22 Glover Ponds at Sunrise 7am-9am Artists, Vendors, Food & Crafts 9am-6pm
Les Talbot
These ponds bring YOU into nature. The Great Salt Lake Nature Center deck and surrounding wetlands enhance your opportunity Make & Take Crafts, Youth Activities Vendor Booths OPEN
for close-up observation. A nearby Great Blue Heron breeding colony will be active and American Avocets and other shorebirds
and waterfowl will be building nests. Other possible species include: Cinnamon Teal, four species of grebe, Snowy Egret, Ruddy
Duck, and American White Pelican, plus other shorebirds, and other wildlife. A spotting scope will be available. Meet at the Davis #29 Farmington Bay WMA “Behind-the-Gates” (Units 1 & 2) 9am-12pm
County Legacy Events Center to follow guide to site.
Limit 15. Own Vehicles. Cost $15 John Bellmon, Yae Bryner
Great Salt Lake is a western hemisphere shorebird preserve IBA and the Bay will be alive with residents and arriving ‘new’ migrants. You
can be part of their adventure and see nest-building in action. Possible species include: Northern Shoveler, Grebes, Black-necked Stilt,
#23 Legacy Nature Preserve “Behind-the-Gates” 7am-12pm Cinnamon Teal, American White Pelican, Great Blue Heron, and maybe Virginia Rail and Sora. Meet at the Davis County Legacy
Events Center. Limit 54. Bus. Cost $25
Andrea Nelson, The Nature Conservancy in Utah
This is a rare opportunity to tour the new Legacy Nature Preserve (mitigation property for wetlands impacted by Legacy Parkway).
You will be guided along remnant oxbow features of the Jordan River to view migrant and resident waterfowl and shorebirds. You
will also be treated to views of one of only four, known, active Bald Eagle nests in northern Utah. The Bald Eagle pair that nests there
#30 Burrowing Owl Field Trip 9am-12pm
has annually produced 2-3 (a total of 38) fledgling eagles over the last eighteen years (1996-2013). Rubber boots are advised. Meet at Bonnie Messinger, Charity Owens
the Davis County Legacy Events Center. Think you know everything about owls? Well not these little hoots. Come see the underground-dwelling, awake in the day, sentinels of
Limit 10. Vans. Cost $35 the grasslands – burrowing owls. This is a field trip to Antelope island State Park to look for Burrowing owl sites. Meet at the Davis
County Legacy Events Center. Limit 10. Vans. Cost $35
#24 Birding by Ear 7am-12pm
Merrill Webb Workshop Hornbills, Kingfishers and Kookaburras 9:15pm-10:15pm
Every bird species has its own unique song. Imagine being able to identify birds that you cannot see in the canopy and dense scrub Ben Woodruff, Sky Masters
by their vocalizations. Spend the morning developing your listening skills. Likely species include a variety of warblers, vireos, Hornbills are a unique family of birds, with species from the size of a robin to an eagle. Living in Africa and Asia, these birds nevertheless
chickadees and orioles including: Yellow, MacGillivray’s Orange-crowned warblers, Warbling Vireo, Bullock’s Oriole, and Black have a worldwide effect on all life! Come find out why! Kookaburras- the world’s largest and strangest kingfisher: Find out how the Ice
capped Chickadee. Meet at Davis County Legacy Events Center 151 S. 1100 W. Farmington UT 84025. Age turned this bird into the iconic singer we know today.
Limit 10. Vans. Cost $35
14 15Great Salt Lake Bird Festival Workshop
Ben Woodruff, Sky Masters
Owls Inside and Out 2:30pm-3:30pm
2018 Program (cont.) Owls capture the hearts and imagination of people around the world. Yet we often view them as beautiful predatory stuffed animals.
This program, featuring live owls and power point will go into what really makes an owl an owl. How can they turn their head all the
way around? Are all owls nocturnal? Did you know that there are many owls that are florescent pink, purple and orange? Come see.
Workshop Butterflies and Rock n’ Roll 9:15am-10:15am Artists, Vendors, Food & Crafts 9am-6pm
Tony Jones, Todd Stout Make & Take Crafts, Youth Activities Vendor Booths OPEN
The life history of a butterfly is a remarkable phenomenon. From egg to adult, the metamorphosis is astounding. Todd Stout and
Tony Jones are experts in butterfly life histories here in Utah. They will present the life histories of several butterflies and talk about
the rich diversity of butterflies in Utah. With many references of butterflies in Rock N Roll, they will add a little twist of song from
bands that reference butterflies and how perception of these beautiful bugs may or may not be reality. Followed by a field trip locally
Movie Showing 4pm-5:30pm
(weather permitting--Butterflies do not fly in the rain or cold). No need to sign up for the field trip. ‘Wings of Thunder’ and/or ‘Into a World of Wonder’ Davis County Legacy Events Center building 1
Youth Activities: Fun and Educational Too! 10am-2pm “My Life with Cranes” George Archibald, Keynote Speaker
Westminster College Great Salt Lake Institute and Dutch oven Dinner Starts at 6pm
A lot of fun youth activities with take-home items including a birdfeeder craft. Vegetarian meals available. Ticket required. Cost $40
Workshop Dodos – Rediscovering a Lost Legend 10:30am-11:30am Sunday May 20th
Ben Woodruff, Sky Masters
The Dodo- Dodos are often portrayed in cartoons and popular fiction. They are depicted as fat, unintelligent lazy birds. But were
they? This in depth presentation will shatter what you thought you knew about dodos. Their story is as fascinating as it is tragic. This
presentation will tell their story in a unique way, and will also feature a cast of a dodo skull, as well as an accurate life sized recreation.
#34 East Canyon State Park 5am-12pm
Billy Fenimore, Weston Smith, Chris Haramoto
Workshop Owl Tales 10:30am-11:30am We will begin at the Henefer lek to look for the greater sage grouse we will leave at approximately 6:30 to return to the state park office.
The continuing tour will view feeders placed in the state park and look for water birds on the reservoir. We will then travel to several
Ogden Nature Center other locations within the park looking for mountain birds. We expect to see around 60 species. Possible sightings include greater sage
Meet a few of the Ogden Nature Center live owls as you learn about this birds unique adaptations and some fun facts, it’s going to grouse, common loon, grebes, swallows, different hawks, and eagles. Bring food and water. Meet: East Canyon State Park Office 5535
be a hoot! South Highway 66, Morgan, UT 84050. Limit 20. Own Vehicles. $25
Workshop 20 Years of Celebrating Birds 11:45am-12:45pm #35 Bird the West Desert & Pony Express Trail 6am-3pm
Don Paul and Neka Roundy Keeli Marvel, Samantha Phillips
We have come so far in celebrating birds around Great Salt Lake and in northern Utah! Come hear the ‘actual’ story behind Great Bird the West Desert and the Pony Express Trail. Experience the birds of the West Desert and the ruggedness of the Pony Express
Salt Lake Bird Festival from the folks who started it. The ups and downs, the great stories, our partners, and the uniqueness of our Trail first hand. We’ll bird a loop starting at Clover Springs CG in Johnson Pass, traveling over to Lookout Pass, and back around past
famous speakers. Fitzgerald WMA. Highlights could include desert specialties such as Bushtits, Juniper Titmice, Pinyon Jays, Sagebrush Sparrows, Black-
throated Gray Warblers, and Horned Larks. Meet at Davis County Legacy Events Center at 6 AM or at 7 AM at the Macey’s
#31 Farmington Bay “Behind-the-Gates” (Turpin Unit) 1pm-4pm Grocery parking lot next to the McDonalds in Tooele at 972 N. Main St. Tooele UT 84074. Limit 12. Vans. Cost $70
Nelson Holmes, Ian Batterman #36 Marathon Birding 6am-Midnight
Farmington Bay WMA is a great resource for migrating and nesting birds. Several hundred thousand birds utilize this area during
spring migration and 57 nesting species have been documented. The majority of dikes, ponds, canals, and upland areas are off-limits Tim Avery, Jeff Bilsky, Mike Hearell, Taylor Abbott
to the public during the nesting season so this “Behind-the-Gates” tour is a privilege. Meet at the Davis County Legacy Events This is a long, exciting, fast-paced day with the goal of seeing as many bird species in varied habitats as possible! Trip participants may
Center. Limit 54. Bus. Cost $25 submit a ‘species wish list.’ Every effort will be made to include locales where these birds are possible although no guarantees, of course.
Lunch will be provided. Bring water and food for the rest of the day. Meet at the Davis County Legacy Events Center. Limit 8.
#32 Burrowing Owl Field Trip 1pm-4pm Vans. Cost $95
Bonnie Messinger, Charity Owens, Ellen Labotka, Brian Ferguson
Think you know everything about owls? Well not these little hoots. Come see the underground-dwelling, awake in the day, sentinels
#37 Jordanelle Wetlands and Heber Fields 7am-12pm
of the grasslands – burrowing owls. This is a field trip to Antelope island State Park to look for Burrowing owl sites. Meet at the Terri Pope
Davis County Legacy Events Center. Limit 20. Vans. Cost $35 The wetlands below Jordanelle Dam offer excellent birding in these foothills to the Uinta Mountains. This area is an Audubon
Important Bird Area (IBA). Possible species include: American Dipper, Osprey, Black-headed Grosbeak, Warbling Vireo, Swainson’s
#33 Workshop Birding for Beginners Workshop Farmington Thrush, Common Yellowthroat and Bullock’s Oriole. We will also look for returning Bobolinks. Meet at Salt Lake City REI 3285 E.
3300 S. Salt Lake City UT 84109 and follow guide. The drive is about 40 minutes. Limit 20. Own Vehicles. Cost $25
Birding Hot Spots Fieldtrip Workshop: 1-2pm and *Fieldtrip:2-5pm #38 “Behind-the-Gates” at Bear River MBR 7am-3pm
Dallin Henderson
Enjoy this FREE one hour workshop for beginners and families. We will discuss bird identification and the common back yard birds Janice Gardner, Dr. Frank Howe, Bear River Staff
in the Farmington area. AFTER the workshop we will visit six viewing areas including Farmington Pond, Farmington Canyon (after Spend a day with expert birders on a “behind-the-gates” birding adventure at Bear River Migratory Bird Refuge. You will soon learn
the first bridge), Egg Island Viewing areas, Glover Pond, and Buffalo Ranch Pond. *Field trip tickets are on-line. and see why this area has been protected over the last 75 years. It is considered one of the top ten birding spots in the nation and one
Own vehicles. Adults $5. Children free. of Utah’s premier birding hotspots. Its 78,000 acres provide a vast wetland habitat for a phenomenal number of migrants including
waterfowl, shorebirds, raptors, White-faced Ibis, several species of blackbirds, gulls, terns, swallows, marsh wrens, and more. NOTE: This
Workshop Eggs and Environments 1:30pm-2:30pm could be the last year for “Behind-the-Gates” at Bear River. Meet at the Davis County Legacy Events Center. Limit 24. Mini-bus.
Cost $60
Tracy Aviary
Join Tracy Aviary for an egg-citing demonstration! Help our educators discover how much weight a chicken egg can really hold and
learn about the incredible adaptations of eggs. Then dive into the science of our watershed to explore the ways that birds and people
#39 Birds & Spurs 8am-10am
depend on and share our wetlands! Wrangler Ginger Brown, R & G Horse and Wagon
Cowboy up! You are in the West, so let’s go birding by horseback along the east side of Antelope Island. This two-hour guided tour
Workshop North American Model of Wildlife Conservation 2:15pm-3:15pm features birds in the wetland, sage and grassland habitats, near the historic Fielding Garr Ranch and the south side of the Island.
There are an amazing number of migratory shorebirds that use Antelope Island as a resting, nesting and feeding area. Experienced
Matt Bartley, Utah DWR wranglers who are intimately familiar with the Island’s history, flora and fauna will be our guides. Enjoy a leisurely ride, spectacular
In Utah, wildlife improves our quality of life. It is a treasured part of the state’s heritage, values and traditions. But this wealth scenery and birds. Possible species include Long-billed Curlew, Burrowing Owl, Peregrine Falcon, Grasshopper Sparrow, and aquatic
of wildlife didn’t just appear on the landscape. Learn about the world’s most successful system of policies and laws to restore and birds. Meet at the historic Fielding Garr Ranch at Antelope Island State Park. (I-15 exit #332, go west to Antelope Island).
safeguard fish and wildlife and their habitats through sound science and active management. Limit 6. Own Vehicles. Cost $120
16 17#47 City Center Bird Walk 7am-12pm
Great Salt Lake Bird Festival Bob Walters
2018 Program (cont.)
This field trip showcases Memory Grove, the Peregrine Falcon nest at the Joseph Smith building, the 6 acre roof of the LDS Church
Conference Center, and the gardens at Temple Square. All attract a variety of birds. Meet at the North Visitor’s Center at Temple
Square at 7 am (gate directly across from the Conference Center on North Temple St.). This field trip involves a 20 minute hike
through City Creek Park. Limit 20. Own Vehicles. Cost $15
#40 TNC’s Kay’s Creek 8am-10am #48 Utah County Hotspots 7am-3pm
Chris Brown, TNC Utah County Birders - Suzi and Amanda Holt, Dennis Shirley
Join The Nature Conservancy for an exclusive opportunity to see how wetlands restoration has improved habitat for birds at the Visit Rocky Mountain scrub oak and pinyon-juniper habitats. This is a highly productive trip with a variety of species including Blue
Great Salt Lake Shorelands Preserve. An expert guide will show you how Kay’s Creek was restored to its natural meander. This and Black-headed grosbeaks, Common Grackle, Lazuli Bunting, Virginia’s Warbler, Black-throated Gray Warbler, Common Bushtit,
restoration has helped control flooding and sedimentation. You will also see how historic ponds and natural depression in the Juniper Titmouse, Pinyon Jay, and Bullock’s Oriole. Approximately 90 species have been seen on this trip. Meet at the Payson Wal-
surrounding meadows were augmented to create ponds that have become prime habitat for feeding and nesting shorebirds and Mart, 1052 Turf Farm Road. Southbound I-15 take the 2nd Payson exit. Limit 25. Own Vehicles. Cost $25
waterfowl. There are many species of birds using this riparian preserve. This portion of the preserve is closed to the public, so don’t
miss this opportunity to explore “behind-the-gates.” Meet at Davis County Legacy Events Center and follow guide to site.
Limit 15. Own Vehicles. Cost $15 #49 Lunch Cruise on Great Salt Lake 11am-2pm
Dave Ghizzone, Gonzo Tours
#41 Research Boat Tour on Great Salt Lake 1pm-3pm Tour the South end of the Great Salt Lake on the 54 foot motor yacht “Sunset”. Departs from the Great Salt Lake State Park Marina
at 11 AM, BOARDING AT 10:30 AM. Box style lunch served. For vegetarian or vegan options and/or questions call Dave at 801-698-
John Luft, Jim Van Leeuwen, Kyle Stone 6288. Meet at the Great Salt Lake State Park Marina at 13312 West 1075 South, Magna UT 84044. Trip is weather and water
Why is there such an abundant suite of wildlife, particularly birds on Great Salt Lake? Take a ride with the wildlife biologist who is level dependent. Water level will be determined on April 28, 2018. Limit 20. Own vehicles. Cost $75
responsible for monitoring the lake’s health. Board the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources research boat and experience Great Salt
Lake’s ecosystem first-hand. You will likely see Eared Grebes and various gulls, although this is not a birding trip. This excursion is
a hands-on learning experience about GSL ecology and current research projects. The geology and history of the islands and other #50 Grassland Birds & Short-eared Owl 2pm-10pm
landscapes will be discussed. Meet at the Great Salt Lake State Park Marina at 13312 West 1075 South, Magna UT 84044. Neil Paprocki
Trip is weather and water level dependent. Water level will be determined on April 27, 2018. Limit 8. Own Vehicles. Cost $40 We will spend an afternoon and evening exploring some of Northern Utah’s unique grassland and sagebrush habitats, with an emphasis
on Short-eared Owls. The trip will begin by searching for diurnal grassland and sagebrush specialist species such as Grasshopper
#42 Owl Prowl on Antelope Island 5pm-9:30pm Sparrow, Sharp-tailed Grouse, Long-billed Curlew, Western Willet, Ferruginous Hawk, and Northern Harrier. In the evening, we will
look for Owls, with the hope that we will see the Short-eared Owl’s unique courtship display flight. Short-eared Owls are notoriously
Neil Paprocki, Nikki Wayment, Annette Hansen, Shawnee Sawyer nomadic and unpredictable to locate, and because of this, our specific trip location will be decided in the weeks leading up to the
Who, Who should go? Owl lovers that’s WHO! Antelope Island is prime habitat for several species of owl: Great Horned, Barn, festival. Meet at Davis County Legacy Events Center. Limit 8. Vans. Cost $75
Burrowing, Long-eared and Short-eared owls. Great opportunity to see other wildlife on the park. Picturesque views of the Lake and
timing of this evening trip will be great for photographing the island’s famous sunsets. Meet at the Davis County Legacy Events
Center. Limit 20. Vans. Cost $35
#51 Birds & Spurs 5pm-7pm
Wrangler Ginger Brown, R & G Horse and Wagon
#43 Sunset Dinner Cruise on Great Salt Lake 6pm-9pm Cowboy up! You are in the West, so let’s go birding by horseback along the east side of Antelope Island. This two-hour guided tour
features birds in the wetland, sage and grassland habitats near the historic Fielding Garr Ranch and the south side of the Island. There
Dave Ghizzone, Gonzo Tours are an amazing number of migratory shorebirds that use Antelope Island as a resting nesting and feeding area. Experienced wranglers
Dinner cruise and tour of the South end of the Great Salt Lake aboard the 54 foot motor yacht “Sunset”. Departs from the Great who are intimately familiar with the Island’s history, flora and fauna will be our guides. Enjoy a leisurely ride, spectacular scenery and
Salt Lake State Park Marina at 6 PM, BOARDING AT 5:30 PM. A four course dinner served. For vegetarian or vegan options and/ birds. Possible species include Long-billed Curlew, Burrowing Owl, Peregrine Falcon, Grasshopper Sparrow, and aquatic birds. Meet at
or questions call Dave at 801-698-6288. Meet at the Great Salt Lake State Park Marina at 13312 West 1075 South, Magna UT the historic Fielding Garr Ranch at Antelope Island State Park. (I-15 exit #332, go west to Antelope Island).
84044. Trip is weather and water level dependent. Water level will be determined on April 27, 2018. Limit 20. Own Vehicles. Cost $95 Limit 6. Own Vehicles. Cost $120
Monday May 21st
#44 Cache Valley Hotspots 6am-3pm
Dr. Frank Howe, Les Talbot
Cache Valley is one of the lesser known birding hot spots in the West. Our trip will reveal the area’s great diversity and wealth of
birds and other wildlife secrets. The trip will visit a variety of habitats and microclimates, ranging from sub-alpine forest to fast-
flowing trout streams and semi-desert savanna to wetlands. We will also see The Barrens, a Bridgerland Audubon Chapter sanctuary
project. Possible species include: 3 species of hummingbirds, Wood Duck, Chukar, Gray Partridge, Northern Pygmy- and Short-eared
owls. Swainson’s and Hermit thrushes, Green-tailed Towhee, Peregrine Falcon, Golden Eagle, and migrating waterfowl, shorebirds,
flycatchers, vireos, and warblers. Meet at the Davis County Legacy Events Center at 6 am. Limit 53. Bus. Cost $45
#45 Rare Bird Chase 6am-8pm
Bryant Olsen
Join us to “twitch” after any rarities. Late May if the peak of neo-tropical song bird and shorebird migration, and one of the best
times of year to find “rare” and unusual migrants and vagrants in Utah. It also just so happens that this will be on the last day of
the festival, so we can chase after any rarities found on the previous field trips. Itinerary to be determined the day of the field trip,
depending on what is being reported at that time. Meet at Davis County Legacy Events Center. Limit 8. Vans. Cost $75
#46 Deseret Ranch Field Trip 6am-6pm
Billy Fenimore, John Bellmon
Two of Utah’s birding experts will guide this adventure on Deseret Land & Livestock, the largest ranch in Utah with two of Utah’s
Birding Experts. This working ranch encompasses over 250,000 acres of diverse habitats including sub-alpine meadow, mountain
forest, sage-steppe, wet meadow, wetland marsh, ponds, lakes and streams, and has a bird list of 260 species. Expect a day list of
100 species or more including: Ferruginous Hawk, Sandhill Crane, Sage Grouse, Sage Thrasher, Brewer’s and Sage Sparrows,
Hammond’s, Gray, Dusky, Olive-sided and Cordilleran Flycatchers, American Dipper, Lazuli Bunting, Caspian Tern, and migrant
warblers. Meet at the Park-N-Ride lot on the NW corner of South Weber Drive & Hwy 89. Take Exit #405 off Utah Hwy 89,
go west. The lot is just south of the Hwy 89 and I-84 junction on the west side of UT Hwy 89. Limit 25. Mini-bus. Cost $80
18 19You can also read
