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Message from the Sanctuary Director
Sanctuary Notes Feb. 11, 2009
To start off I'd like to thank all who came out to lend a hand at our Sanctuary work day last month. We got a lot of work done with some visible changes - most notably the new martin housing system near the observation tower.
Two Black-bellied Whistling-duck nest boxes were erected, one at each of the wetlands. We also did some planting at the water feature and the wetland nearest the observation tower.
I would like to plan a seasonal work day for spring, summer, fall and winter so that we and the wildlife can begin to enjoy our sanctuary more.
The wetlands are all full and there are Sandhill cranes and Wilson's snipe to be seen in the cordgrass flat. I haven't seen too many ducks lately except for a few shovelers, gadwall and a lone scaup, but I did see some canvasback earlier in the season. A couple pairs of Mottled ducks have been seen in the big wetland so may be thinking of nesting there this year. Still seeing lots of coots - or "poule d'eau" (pronounced "pool-doo") as we call them in South Louisiana.
There are at least 9 species of sparrows to be seen, and some wintering warblers.
There are some signs of spring already starting to show - the Agarito, Colima and Elbowbush are all about to bloom. With all the rain we've had this winter, our spring could prove to be very lush. Insect repellent is a must if you are planning a trip to the end of the road. As the weather warms be aware of rattlesnakes. As far as mammals are concerned the cottontails are moving around and let you get pretty close. I had the fortune of watching a gopher excavate a burrow one evening, which was pretty cool. Numbers of deer can be seen in the evening if you are quiet and patient. You might also catch a glimpse of a coyote or a bobcat if you're lucky. The sounds at dusk are interesting if you happen to be there late. The pauraques hit the trails and start calling just after dusk.
Still in the idea phase is a starparty with the local astronomy group, and I'll keep all posted as thing develop. Also on the planner is a wine and cheese social to showcase our sanctuary this spring (date TBA RSVP?)
My goal is to make our sanctuary as good a habitat as possible for wildlife and those who enjoy nature and being outdoors. It is a hope that we will start to utilize our sanctuary more in the future, because it really is a special place once you start becoming a regular visitor. If you have any questions, contact me at 361-728-8587.
John Keller, CBAS Sanctuary Director
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Anhinga
Photo courtesy Liz and David Smith |
| Mission Statement |
| The mission of the CBAS is to promote the appreciation, conservation and restoration of ecosystems, focusing on birds and other wildlife, through education, participation, stewardship and advocacy. |
| Meetings |
The CBAS meets on the first Tuesday of the month from September through May at 7 pm at the Corpus Christi Museum of Science & History, 1900 Chaparral
 VIEW MAP |
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