|
What You'll Find in this Newsletter | |
Advocacy: Endangered Species Act Threatened
Conservation: What good is a coyote?
Education: Kansas Lek Treks Prairie-Chicken Festival Recap
Upcoming Events: Big Kansas Road Trip, Achterberg Work Day, Johnson Wildlife Preserve Celebration
Philanthropy Corner: Double Your Impact in Honor of Earth Day by May 10
Chapter Spotlight: Southeast Kansas Audubon Society
Welcome New AOK Staff: Sam Richards & Brittney Squire
| |
Endangered Species Act Threatened
The Endangered Species Act (ESA) is the single most important piece of legislation for protecting the rarest species in the United States. Because of ESA protections, species like the Bald Eagle, Peregrine Falcon, and Gray Wolf are back from the brink of extinction.
Now, there is a threat to the Endangered Species Act itself.
The ESA prohibits “take” of endangered species by individuals, government entities, or companies. The ESA defines “take” as “to harass, harm, pursue, hunt, shoot, wound, kill, trap, capture, or collect, or to attempt to engage in any such conduct.” To clarify this regulation, “harass” and “harm” are also defined. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) and the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) (collectively referred to as the Services) are proposing to rescind the regulatory definition of “harm” in ESA regulations. The definition of “harm” aligns habitat modification or degradation as having the same consequences as killing, shooting, or any of the other activities listed as “take.” By rescinding the definition of harm, the Services are essentially decoupling protections for the species with its habitat. This will open the door for industries of all kinds to destroy habitat of the rarest species.
Habitat destruction is the leading cause of extinction. Without protecting the places where they live, we can’t save the rarest plants and animals from extinction. Changing the stipulations of the ESA will do irreparable harm to habitats that not only protect rare species, but they harm areas we all enjoy and many of us call home.
Consider being the voice for wildlife by submitting a comment. The open comment period on this proposed change closes May 19. Your own words are best, but here are some suggestions of what to say:
- You oppose removing the definition of “harm.”
- Habitat protection is critical to saving the species listed under the ESA because most species are listed because of habitat destruction.
- The creators of the ESA understood the link between habitat and species protection and explicitly included that definition in the text.
- Why you care about endangered species or their habitats. Some ideas include visiting intact habitats supports your favorite hobby like hiking, bird watching, or other recreation; that humans also need intact habitat to provide ecological services like clean air and water; or that all species have a moral right to exist or that we have a moral obligation to future generations to provide opportunities to admire these rare species and habitats.
| Photo: Endangered Black-footed Ferret by Ron Klataske | | |
What good is a coyote?
Story and Photo by
Dr. Jackie Augustine
I was sitting on a prairie-chicken lek this spring when a coyote flushed all the birds. Some people might think I’d be horrified with the prospect of losing one of my beloved prairie-chickens to this predator. No, on the contrary - I sat in awe, not moving a muscle to keep from scaring the animal away. The animal had a thick coat that made me jealous on that cold morning. I was also enamored at the prospect of a National Geographic-worthy nature battle happening mere feet in front of me. Like the Wile E Coyote vs Road Runner cartoons we used to watch, the chickens close to the coyote escaped with little effort with many birds continuing to display on the opposite side of the lek.
My reaction to the coyote is on the benevolent end of the spectrum of possible reactions. Popular media focuses on conflicts between people and coyotes. People may be afraid for the safety of their children and pets. Coyotes are considered a nuisance without any evidence of damage, simply by being seen. Although a few coyote attacks have been documented, the Urban Coyote Research Project reports that in Cook County, Illinois, there are no documented cases of a coyote biting a human, but 2,000 to 3,000 dog bites each year.
Even many conservation-minded folks despise coyotes. Coyotes are blamed for low populations of prairie-chickens, pheasants, and other gamebirds because they prey on nests. However, when coyotes are removed, there is little observable increase in gamebird populations. These gamebirds evolved with coyotes, and readily renest if their nest is depredated. Additionally, the hunting of coyotes allows other mesopredators like raccoons, badgers, and skunks to flourish and their depredation of nests increases. Another unintuitive consequence of coyote hunting is that populations may actually INCREASE because younger coyotes move in and produce larger litters.
So, in my opinion, coyotes are not the problem. Lack of quality habitat is the problem, especially nesting habitat for gamebirds. The birds are forced to nest in patches of marginal habitat where the nests are easily found by predators. We should stop villainizing coyotes, and focus on habitat protection and restoration.
On April 24, Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks (KDWP) Commission voted 5-2 in favor of expanding the night-vision hunting season from the current three months to seven. Coyotes can also be hunted during the day year-round, and there is no bag limit. This sounds like an eradication policy, not a policy aimed at sustainable management. The Commission did not heed KDWP Secretary Chris Kennedy’s request to get more information on coyote population data “to make sure we’re not hunting any wildlife population in the state to extinction.”
In listening to the meeting, the public in attendance were primarily made up of hunters. The Commission needs to hear from people who enjoy wildlife in diverse ways including hiking, bird watching, biking, pleasure boating, and the many other forms of nature appreciation. Perhaps, then, we can get policy aimed more at conservation instead of eradication. I know I'm not the only one rooting for the coyotes. I encourage you to stay informed of upcoming KDWP Commission meetings, and attend them if at all possible. The next meeting is June 26 in Russell, KS. You can also register, watch them online, and contribute questions and comments virtually and in real time.
| | |
May 2: Plants for Birds
Stevens County Public Library
500 S Monroe, Hugoton, KS 67951
4:30pm
Birds are declining in part due to habitat loss. Dr. Jackie Augustine, Audubon of Kansas Executive Director, will describe how you can make your backyard a wildlife haven by planting native trees, shrubs, and wildflowers.
| |
May 3: Big Kansas Road Trip
Bird Watching at the Birdiest Site in Morton County
North St. and Lagoon Lane, Elkhart (37.012213, -101.892218)
6:30am & 8am
More bird species have been seen in the area including and surrounding Elkhart's Cemetery and wastewater treatment plant than in any other location in Morton County - over 300 species in total! More bird species have only been reported at one other location in Kansas (Cheyenne Bottoms), making Elkhart the second birdiest location in the entire state.
Don't forget your binoculars if you have them, but there will also be several pairs to share. No restroom facilities are available at this location.
Bird Watching at Middle Springs
Meet in the parking lot at Middle Springs (37.113256, -101.926817) in Cimarron National Grasslands
1:00pm
Experienced birders know three things: 1) birds are attracted to water, especially in the dry parts of western Kansas, 2) songbirds are migrating during the month of May, and 3) because of its westernmost location and unique habitats, Morton County attracts species found nowhere else in the state. Luckily, you don't have to be an experienced birder to enjoy this search for birds. Be prepared for a 1 or 2 mile walk through the prairie with scattered trees (comfortable shoes, water, sun protection, bug spray).
Child-Friendly Beginning Bird Watching
Meet in the parking lot at Middle Springs (37.113256, -101.926817) in Cimarron National Grasslands
3:00pm
Children love being outside, and this program will help them learn a little more about what they are seeing. We will begin by playing a migration game, where they will learn about the challenges birds face when they migrate. Then, we will read 'Ruby's Birds,' a book about a child learning how to notice and watch birds in her neighborhood. Finally, we will learn how to use binoculars and walk around Middle Springs looking for birds. Bring binoculars (if you have them) and be prepared for a 0.5 mile walk through prairie with scattered trees (comfortable shoes, water, sun protection, bug spray).
Sunset at Point of Rocks
Meet at Point of Rocks (37.103767, -101.938535) in Cimarron National Grasslands
8:30pm
Point of Rocks is the third highest site in Kansas and offers scenic views of the Cimarron River. As day turns to night, Audubon of Kansas Executive Director Jackie Augustine will be on hand to identify night sounds we are likely to hear including the calls of coyotes and owls. After dark, we will enjoy the dark night sky.
| |
May 10: Smoky Hills Audubon Society Spring Open House
Lakewood Discovery Center
250 Lakewood Dr., Salina, KS, 67401
9:00am-12:00pm
Take a look around the Discovery Center, learn about Smoky Hill Audubon's history through scrapbooks, and join Dr. Jackie Augustine, Audubon of Kansas Executive Director, for a bird walk and "plants for birds" origami wildlife activity. Kid-friendly event with lots to see and learn!
May 14: Volunteer Work Day
Achterberg Wildlife-Fiendly Demonstration Farm
East Trailhead, 950 N 170th Rd, Lincoln, KS (38.994148, -98.188837)
2:00-5:00pm
Join the Audubon of Kansas for this spring time volunteer work day at the Connie Achterberg Wildlife-Friendly Demonstration Farm! This event will focus on trail maintenance prior to the nesting season for ground-nesting birds in Kansas (mid-May through mid-August), as well as improvements around the historic Achterberg Homestead located near the eastern parking area.
Remember to wear long pants and boots (or other sturdy, closed-toe shoes). Sunscreen and bug spray will be available to all volunteers. Bring a water bottle if you have one - snacks and refreshments will be provided. Tools and personal protective equipment will be provided from the “Trail-in-a-Box” program courtesy of the Kansas Trails Council. No restroom facilities are available at this location.
Connie Achterberg donated her family farm to Audubon of Kansas in 2013, not only with a dedication to preserve the area, but a focus on sharing the inspirational and natural values of her childhood with others. The Achterberg Farm is a both a working farm and wildlife sanctuary that exhibits how native habitat and human development can exist harmoniously. This area supports a variety of wildlife, including bobwhite quail, a favorite bird of Achterberg's.
If you plan on attending the work day at Achterberg Wildlife-Friendly Demonstration Farm, an RSVP sent to Kansas Protected Areas Manager, Sam Richards, is appreciated but not required.
May 31: Celebration of New AOK Protected Area
Howell and Carmen Johnson Wildlife Preserve
South of Auburn, KS; directions will be shared later
6:00pm
Join AOK in welcoming the Howell and Carmen Johnson Wildlife Preserve as a Legacy Protected Area. The Johnson Wildlife Preserve is a wonderful property with diverse grasslands, ponds, and old growth riparian areas which abound with birds and other wildlife. Following brief remarks by AOK and the Johnson's, guided hikes will showcase the wonderful habitat management enacted by the Johnson's and wildlife this property supports. RSVP is required.
| |
Double Your Donation
At Audubon of Kansas, we are standing up for wildlife through advocacy, conservation, and education. With your support, we’re mobilizing conservation advocates, protecting critical habitats, and championing at-risk lands and species.
Right now, there’s still time to double your impact.
Thanks to the generosity of a group of committed donors, all gifts made in honor of Earth Day will be matched, dollar-for-dollar, up to $36,000. That means your $50 becomes $100. Your $250 becomes $500. Your support today will go twice as far to defend wildlife and protect the landscapes they call home. All donations received or postmarked by May 10 are eligible for this Earth Day Matching Campaign.
Every donation strengthens our ability to advocate for strong wildlife protections, conserve vital prairie habitat, and educate future generations. Together, we are building a future where prairie-chickens, black-footed ferrets, and countless other species can thrive.
There’s still time to make a real and lasting difference. Make your matched gift today.
| | |
The Southeast Kansas Audubon has a mission to be a voice for the conservation of the earth’s natural resources, and to promote an awareness of environmental responsibility through education and example to the people of southeast Kansas.
May 6: Featured Program
Parsons Arboretum
21st St. & Briggs Ave., Parsons, KS 67357
7:00pm
Join the Southeast Kansas Audubon Society for a program by Braidy Hunt, Pittsburg State University Biology student, regarding her bat research and tracking the fall migration of Gray Bats from Pittsburg to their winter homes.
| | Sam was born and raised in Kansas and studied at Baker University where he obtained his Bachelor of Science degree in Biology, focusing on Ecology and Evolution. He gained his career experience in California, Arizona and Colorado where he led crews in trail maintenance, invasive species management, and habitat restoration. Sam returned to his hometown of Baldwin City, Kansas to continue his career in conservation and natural resource management. | | With nearly fifteen years of professional experience, Brittney has led numerous events from planning to execution and overseen marketing responsibilities such as social media management, website development and maintenance, graphic design and content creation for a variety of mediums including print and digital, and newsletter administration. Located in Hays, Kansas, she previously worked for Fort Hays State University and the Hays Convention & Visitors Bureau. She is currently the President of the Board of Directors for the Hays Arts Council, with a mission to promote the arts and provide a platform for creative expression in Hays and the surrounding area. | | | |  |
| | | |
