Brave birders attended our January 20 field trip to view waterfowl at DeSoto NWR’s visitor center. Ranger Rea gave a great update on the fall and winter bird numbers along with Christmas Bird Count results. The birds on the lake were pretty well hunkered down in the -15 degree weather, but we saw around 200 Swans, lots of Canada Geese, some Goldeneyes, and Mallards. The feeders were busy with: Hairy, Downy, and Red-bellied Woodpeckers; House Finches, Gold Finches, Nuthatches; White-crowned Sparrows and Tree Sparrows – until a Sharp-Shinned hawk came and scared them away. 

Winter weather warnings prompted ASO leadership to postpone our members’ program for January 18 and EZ Birding at Towl Park on January 13. We apologize for any inconvenience and appreciate your understanding. On the bright side, the experts say heavy winter snows are necessary for healthy prairie ecosystems.

WELCOME NEW BOARD MEMBERS 
Trevor Pellerite and Conor Gearin were elected to fill vacant positions on our board of directors on February 6.

   Trevor has earned a writing degree at Michigan University, a law degree from the University of Colorado and is currently completing his Master’s degree in biology at the University of Nebraska – Omaha. He is the founder and President of Grasslands Unlimited, which is dedicated to the restoration of and advocacy for grassland ecosystems throughout Nebraska and the Great Plains. Trevor is looking forward to helping ASO with land stewardship and presenting our March program.

    Conor Gearin earned Bachelor of Arts degrees from Truman State University in writing and biology. He holds a Master of Science degree from Massachusetts Institute of Technology in science writing, and a Master of Science degree in biology from the University of Nebraska – Omaha. He is managing producer of BirdNote. Conor is already active with ASO, leading our February field trip and presenting our April program.