Wednesday, July 14, 2004

AV04/19 Big Morongo Canyon 14th July 2004

Would you believe this was a cool day - not Joe Cool type cool, but 77 degrees type cool!!
Seven of us, half hoping to shut out Phyllis, who had better things to do, spent three hours over Marsh, Mesquite, Canyon and Mesquite trails, then Meadow and Park. We saw 28 species, including Bell's Vireo, several Blue Grosebeak and a banded, eight-year-old Summer Tanager. Some of us have given up on the Yellow Billed Cuckoo, leaving only Mark Chappell and his tipster (plus of course, Mark's pictures). Water levels throughout the preserve are well down and some 'streams' now have no visible water, as in part of Mesquite below the motor car, but all in all a very pleasant morning.

Reminders for future dates
Monday 19th July for Barker Dam (in Joshua Tree). Meet at 7.30am at Big Morongo for car-pooling. We go via Park Centre to collect Margaret and perhaps others around 8am for a short bird walk, less than two miles. Lorraine and your scribe were there yesterday and there is still water and bird life - it's a very pleasant walk. Bring water, snack and we'll be back before lunch.
Thursday 29th July for Malki Museum(in Cabazon), car pooling at Denny's Palm Springs, Indian and I10 at 8.15 to be at Malki Museum for 9am (where Lois and Monte may join us). If you have not already done so, please let me know if you intend to come along. Bring water and picnic lunch or snack. We are still working on activity beyond the museum.
Tuesday August 3rd for Oak Glen Preserve (near Apple Valley/Beaumont). Car Pool at Denny's Palm Springs, Indian and I10 at 7.30am. Bring water and picnic or snack; we will return early afternoon.

No social news except to welcome Midge and Sig after lengthy absences.

Call me with queries, 328 6750 or 333 2366. Good Birding.................bb

Barry Parkes
bbparkes@ix.netcom.com