Volume 15 Issue 2 Fall/Winter Kingfisher. Edinburg Scenic Wetlands & World Birding Center Programs & Events

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1 Volume 15 Issue 2 Fall/Winter 2018 Kingfisher Edinburg Scenic Wetlands & World Birding Center Programs & Events

Page 1 CENTER NEWS Vol. 15, Issue 2 Vol. 15, Issue 2 Message from the Manager It is hard to imagine that a little over 15 years ago, the main grounds of EWBC were a barren former farm field.

5 acre pocket of native landscape provides a home for wildlife and an invaluable respite and recreational spot for our visitors.

Every home, school and business with access to a small patch of dirt can grow a native plant in their very own outdoor landscape.

2 Page 1 CENTER NEWS Vol. 15, Issue 2 Vol. 15, Issue 2 Message from the Manager It is hard to imagine that a little over 15 years ago, the main grounds of EWBC were a barren former farm field. Today, with lush vegetation at every turn, shady paths and a plethora of blooms, the grounds have become an oasis for humans and wildlife alike. This tiny 3.5 acre pocket of native landscape provides a home for wildlife and an invaluable respite and recreational spot for our visitors. However, the nature experience does not have to end when you leave our park. Every home, school and business with access to a small patch of dirt can grow a native plant in their very own outdoor landscape. From small ground covers to large shade trees, everyone can bring a little nature home. ~ Marisa Oliva ~ If incorporating wildlife friendly plants in your living or work environment is something you are ready to embrace, EWBC is here to help. Not only are we offering wonderful plant based programs such as the Kid s Gardening Program, Pumpkin Planter and a Tour of Rancho Lomitas, but we also offer educator workshops, tours and outreach opportunities on a variety of topics, including native plants and landscape design. In addition, EWBC is pleased to announce that we have partnered with Learning Landscapes to help schools incorporate outdoor learning environments. Planting season is here. What better way to begin than to start with a native plant. Nature Notes: 2018 Purple Martin Nesting Season In February 2015, the EWBC installed a Purple Martin house near the front entrance. Desiring to provide refuge for a species that has become dependent on human supplied nesting cavities, we hoped that the Purple Martins would roost that spring season. It was not to be. Each spring we held our breaths, waiting for the martins to settle in. However, it was not until this past spring that the EWBC welcomed its first nestlings. Every Tuesday and Saturday from April through July, the house was lowered to conduct nest checks as part of Project Martin Watch. Staff monitored the nests, counting the number of eggs that were laid or hatched, and the number of young that fledged from the nest. The data collected is included in a nation-wide survey of purple martin nests. In this first year, the EWBC had six nesting pairs which fledged 23 Purple Martin young. We look forward to the birds return in February and another successful nesting season in 2019! Creature Feature: Huisache Girdler ( (Oncideres pustulata) If you notice your tree seems to have been trimmed and you find branches littered along the garden, take a close look and you may find that the Huisache Girdler (Oncideres pustulatus) has been giving your trees a trim. Huisache Girdlers are 11/16 to 1-1/8 inches long, and are brown with a light brown band going across the wing covers. Their body is also peppered with small shiny black dots. They have a long antennae, and are in the long-horned beetle family, Cerembycidae. The adults appear from late August to October, across South Texas and the Gulf Coast Prairie. Females select a small living branch on a deciduous tree and chew a groove around the circumference. Being careful to not sever the branch, she walks its length, makes a small cut in the branch, and lays her eggs. Eventually, the limb falls from the tree, and the larvae emerges. Normally, the process is not harmful to healthy trees, so go out and explore your gardens, or here at the EWBC, and search for these fascinating insect landscapers.

3 Page 2 UPCOMING EVENTS Trick or Treat Trail Vol. 15, Issue 2 Lighted pumpkin trail Scarecrow trail walks Campfire stories Dance party Vote for your favorite scarecrow! See how microscopes make the ordinary look extraordinary! December a.m. - 4 p.m. Wednesday: Insects Thursday: Rocks, Soil, and Plants Activities are free with reg- Saturday, January p.m. Join EWBC in counting all things wild as we begin this fresh New Year. We'll observe and record sightings of everything from birds and insects to reptiles and plants. Program is free with regular paid admission.

Page 3 FAMILY PROGRAMS Vol. 15 Issue 2 Learn about cardinal points and navigate your way through our gardens by using a compass in this fun and challenging program.

Learn how animals unique characteristics help them to survive, and then join us on an exploratory walk of the grounds in search of these creatures.

Learn basic fishing skills, master fishing knots, and practice casting with a spin-cast rod-and-reel. Learn to identify various game fish as well as which baits and lures to use.

4 Page 3 FAMILY PROGRAMS Vol. 15 Issue 2 Learn about cardinal points and navigate your way through our gardens by using a compass in this fun and challenging program. We'll search for various items, all while learning about navigation and using compasses to help guide our way. RR. Date: Saturday, September 15 Time: 9-10:30 a.m. Orienteering Scavenger Hunt Regular admission, members free Nature is full of interesting creatures. Learn how animals unique characteristics help them to survive, and then join us on an exploratory walk of the grounds in search of these creatures. Afterward, get creative and make your own curious creature to take home with you. RR. Date: Saturday, September 22 Time: 10-11:30 a.m. Beginning anglers ages 7 and up will enjoy this fun, handson training course. Learn basic fishing skills, master fishing knots, and practice casting with a spin-cast rod-and-reel. Learn to identify various game fish as well as which baits and lures to use. Upon completion of the course, students will receive a Basic Angler Certification and fish recognition pin. Registration is required at least one week prior to course. Date: Saturdays, September 29 and February 16 Time: Beginner Fishing Workshops 9 a.m p.m. Free Creative Creatures $2 members, $4 non-members Boy Scout Bird Study Merit Badge Scouts, learn the basics of birding, like how to use binoculars and field guides, and discover local birds as you fulfill the requirements for your Bird Study Merit Badge. Badges are not included, but scouts will receive a certificate of completion. Scouts must be accompanied by a guardian. Registration and payment required by October 11. Date: Saturday, October 13 Time: 9 a.m p.m. $6 per scout Give your Halloween decorations a final touch by adding a pumpkin planter containing beautiful plants. Create a pumpkin planter that is sure to add a spooky, yet beautiful, spark to your decorations just in time for Halloween. Bring your pumpkin and we'll supply the rest. Registration is required by October 11. Date: Saturday, October 13 Time: 2 3:30 p.m. Pumpkin Planter $6 per pumpkin planter and identify. RR. Date: Saturday, November 3 Fall is a spectacular season for butterfly viewing in the RGV. Learn how to view butterflies up close without causing them harm with a simple technique and then walk the gardens to see how many species you can find Time: 10 a.m p.m. and 2-4 p.m. Butterfly Baiting Regular admission, members free

FAMILY PROGRAMS Page 4 Where in the Wetlands Wetlands are rich with wildlife.

RR Date: Saturday, November 17 Time: 10-11:30 a.m. Regular admission, members free Nutty about Knots The craft of knot tying is an essential outdoor skill and fun to learn.

15 Issue 2 DIY Birdseed Ornaments Add some holiday cheer to your yard with a beautiful cookie cutter bird feeder ornament created by you.

5 FAMILY PROGRAMS Page 4 Where in the Wetlands Wetlands are rich with wildlife. Bring your family for a fun and friendly scavenger hunt competition to see what kinds of wildlife you can find at the EWBC. The winning family will receive a small prize. RR. RR Date: Saturday, November 17 Time: 10-11:30 a.m. Regular admission, members free Nutty about Knots The craft of knot tying is an essential outdoor skill and fun to learn. Come and learn a range of knots for different outdoor uses and try tying them. This program is recommended for ages 8 and up. Registration is required by November 14. Vol. 15 Issue 2 DIY Birdseed Ornaments Add some holiday cheer to your yard with a beautiful cookie cutter bird feeder ornament created by you. You ll provide birds with a little snack, and they in turn will add even more beauty to your garden. Attendees will take home their very own bird seed ornament along with the instrument to make more at home. RR. RR Date: Saturday, December 15 Time: 10 a.m p.m. $3 package (for cookie cutter ornament)* $5 package (for bundt mold ornament)* * Price does not include admission fee. Date: Saturday, November 17 Time: 2-3:30 p.m. $3 members, $5 non-members Recycled Ornament Craft Day Any time of the year is the time for recycling. Instead of buying new ornaments and decorations this holiday season, make fun and creative ornaments out of recycled and natural materials. RR. RR Date: Saturday, December 8 Time: 2-4 p.m. $2 members, $4 non-members Kids, learn how to grow your own food in this four-part series just for you! Learnwhattoplantandwhen,theimportanceof soilandwater,andhowtocontrolinsectsand diseases.participantscanalsoplanttheirown vegetablegardeninanewbccommunitygarden bedforanadditionalfee. Forkidsages7andup. (Mustbeaccompaniedbyaguardian.) 10a.m.-12p.m.onthefollowingdates: January5January19 January12January26 $24members,$32non-members OptionalGardenBedrental:$25 A source for outdoor happenings in the RGV RegistrationisrequiredbyJan.1

Page 5 FAMILY & ADULT PROGRAMS Vol. 15, Issue 2 Scarecrow Trail Hikes Take a walk in the gardens with us as we explore the area at night fall.

It's a great opportunity to enjoy the crisp fall weather while taking advantage of being on the grounds past closing time. RR.

Haveyoufoundan interestingrockorsnakeshed?bringinyour collectednaturalitemsandexchangethemfor othercoolnatureitems. TheTradeCounterwillbeopen 10a.m.-1p.m.onthelastSaturdayof September,December&February.

Spectacular Saturdays On the last Saturday of the month, our doors will open for FREE to the public.

Binoculars, Children s Garden Play Sets and Junior Ranger Field Pack rentals are available free of charge with a valid ID.

Dates and Themes September 29 October 27 Outdoor Nature Play* Creature Masks November 24 Puzzles and Games December 29 January 26 February 23 Time: Puppet Play 9

Member price is for EWBC family members only. Help us plant gardens for birds, butterflies and bugs, or help with other maintenance projects.

6 Page 5 FAMILY & ADULT PROGRAMS Vol. 15, Issue 2 Scarecrow Trail Hikes Take a walk in the gardens with us as we explore the area at night fall. Help us look for nocturnal critters and take a closer look at the scarecrows that were created for our Scarecrow Trail. It's a great opportunity to enjoy the crisp fall weather while taking advantage of being on the grounds past closing time. RR. Date: Tuesdays, October 30 and November 6 Time: 7-8:30 p.m. (Oct. 30) 6-7:30 p.m. (Nov. 6) Regular admission, members free Doyouliketocollectthings?Haveyoufoundan interestingrockorsnakeshed?bringinyour collectednaturalitemsandexchangethemfor othercoolnatureitems. TheTradeCounterwillbeopen 10a.m.-1p.m.onthelastSaturdayof September,December&February. Formoreinformationaboutthekindsofitems thatcanbetraded,pleasecallusat (956) Spectacular Saturdays On the last Saturday of the month, our doors will open for FREE to the public. Throughout the day there will be puzzles, crafts, games, or other activities to enjoy. Binoculars, Children s Garden Play Sets and Junior Ranger Field Pack rentals are available free of charge with a valid ID. NOTE: Free entry does not include fee for concurring programs and activities. Dates and Themes September 29 October 27 Outdoor Nature Play* Creature Masks November 24 Puzzles and Games December 29 January 26 February 23 Time: Puppet Play 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. Puzzles and Games Outdoor Nature Play* *Outdoor Nature Play from 2-4 p.m. Free RR = Reservations Required Please make reservations at least two days in advance, unless otherwise noted, by calling us at (956) Member price is for EWBC family members only. Help us plant gardens for birds, butterflies and bugs, or help with other maintenance projects. Gloves and shovels will be provided, but volunteers are encouraged to bring their own. Please call Monica at (956) for more information or to sign up. Date: Saturday, October 6 Time: 8:30-11:30 a.m. Free Volunteer Day Date: Saturday, December 8 Time: 10 11:30 a.m. Ducks and Donuts Join EWBC Naturalist staff at our North Pond Overlook as we snack on some donuts while birding the north pond overlook area. We'll bird, share stories, and keep a list of species we see. $3 members, $4 non-members

Page 6 ADULT PROGRAMS Vol. 15, Issue 2 Join EWBC Naturalist Staff on guided bird and butterfly walks.

m. Can t make the tour date or time? Call to schedule a tour for your group, Tuesday - Friday, 8:30 a.m. - 4 p.m. (dependent on Naturalist availability).

Join an outdoor cooking enthusiast as he demonstrates the special skills of Dutch Oven cooking.

Participants will also enjoy some traditional dishes. Registration is required by Nov. 28.

helped local people survive our harsh environment. Reservations are required at least two days in advance.

7 Page 6 ADULT PROGRAMS Vol. 15, Issue 2 Join EWBC Naturalist Staff on guided bird and butterfly walks. Bird Walks Every Tuesday, September - May 7 8:30 a.m a.m. Butterfly Walks Every Thursday, October - November 1 10 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. Can t make the tour date or time? Call to schedule a tour for your group, Tuesday - Friday, 8:30 a.m. - 4 p.m. (dependent on Naturalist availability). Tours available in English or Spanish. RR. Regular admission, members free. Join an outdoor cooking enthusiast as he demonstrates the special skills of Dutch Oven cooking. Participants will learn tips and techniques for the maintenance of a Dutch Oven and the different dishes that can be created. Participants will also enjoy some traditional dishes. Registration is required by Nov. 28. Date: Saturday, January 12 Time: 10-11:30 a.m. Outdoor Cooking $10 members, $12 non-members Rancho Lomitas Tour Travel with the EWBC staff to the Rio Grande City area and tour the brushland of Rancho Lomitas. Ranch owner and ethnobotanist Benito Trevino will lead the group around the ranch and discuss how native plants have historically helped local people survive our harsh environment. Reservations are required at least two days in advance. Please bring a sack lunch to enjoy at the ranch. Useful techniques, tips, and identification skills are the focus of this birding series for adults. Led by area experts, the individual sessions will offer something new and interesting for birdwatchers of all skill levels. Whether you attend one session or all of them, your knowledge of the avian world is sure to improve. RR. Upcoming Programs Jan. 23 Feb. 27 Mar. 20 Introduction to Bird ID Wetland Birds Time: 9:30-11 a.m. Adult Birding Series Wintering Birds in the RGV $2 members, $4 non-members Date: Thursday, January 17 Time: 7:30 a.m. - 3 p.m. $20 members, $25 non-members

8 MEMBERSHIPS AND PASSES Page 7 Vol. 15, Issue 2 Visit us often? Consider becoming a member of the Edinburg Scenic Wetlands and World Birding Center. Receive great benefits as you support EWBC educational programs and habitat conservation efforts. The Membership year runs from June 2018 through July Benefits include: Lesser Goldfinch Patch Discounts on programs Free entrance for up to 8 family members Biannual newsletter mailed to you 10% to 20% discount on most merchandise Free binocular use while on grounds Artwork courtesy of Stephanie Galla Cost for Family Membership is $25 per year The EWBC offers a special pass for Winter Texans (55 years of age and older), good from October 2018 through April Bene'its include: Free entrance for a spouse and up to two guests 10% to 20% discount on most merchandise Our biannual newsletter mailed to you Free binocular use while on grounds Greater Roadrunner Patch Purchase your Winter Pass for $15! PASS INCLUDES: Access to our grounds for photography sessions anytime during the membership year (12 months) during regular business hours. Free entry for the photographer and up to 15 clients per photo session. No limit on number of photo shoots per year. Opportunity of reserving our site for an after-hours photo shoot (TuesSat), up to two hours after closing (dependent on staff availability). Reservations for photo sessions during regular business hours are recommended two weeks in advance.

OPPORTUNITIES Page 8 Providing education and fun for Vol. 15, Issue 2 Can t make it to us? We will come to you and deliver a program to a single class or your whole school! PrePre-K - 12th grades.

PROGRAMS INCLUDE: Birds/Wildlife of the RGV Native Trees Nature Puppet Shows Wild Watershed Nature Careers Classroom Gardens Minimum fee is $50 for a one hour program.

*Maximum number of students per trip is 100 The EWBC is seeking energetic, earth loving citizens to help with gardening and construction projects, garden maintenance, events and more.

9 OPPORTUNITIES Page 8 Providing education and fun for Vol. 15, Issue 2 Can t make it to us? We will come to you and deliver a program to a single class or your whole school! PrePre-K - 12th grades. Topics include: Whose Habitat Insect Investigations Soil Sense Wetland Explorations Birding Mania Reptile Mania And more! PROGRAMS INCLUDE: Birds/Wildlife of the RGV Native Trees Nature Puppet Shows Wild Watershed Nature Careers Classroom Gardens Minimum fee is $50 for a one hour program. Price will vary depending on program length, supplies needed, and travel distance. Call us today. Program length & prices vary. Please call us in advance at (956) to schedule your school. *Maximum number of students per trip is 100 The EWBC is seeking energetic, earth loving citizens to help with gardening and construction projects, garden maintenance, events and more. We welcome school clubs or groups, civic groups, and individuals. (Age restrictions may apply.) Personal satisfaction. Gain valuable skills. Help the environment. Meet new people. Make a difference! CONTACT MONICA FOR VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES. Looking for a way to gain real-world experience in the job market? The EWBC offers an internship program for college students and career explorers. Develop your skills in:

ANNOUNCEMENTS Page 9 Field Guides LIBERTY GRAPHICS T-Shirts 15% OFF BUY

15, Issue 2 EWBC Members receive an additional 10% off most merchandise.

Discount applies to shirts of equal or lesser value.

For more information, visit us at www.edinburgwbc.

The birthday boy or girl and their guests will be treated to a one hour

Program activities can include nature scavenger hunts, puppet shows, show

To reserve your next birthday bash, call (956) 381-9922.

10 ANNOUNCEMENTS Page 9 Field Guides LIBERTY GRAPHICS T-Shirts 15% OFF BUY ONE, GET ONE Vol. 15, Issue 2 EWBC Members receive an additional 10% off most merchandise. 50% OFF! Excludes Member Price. Discount applies to shirts of equal or lesser value. Have a Host your next business meeting, party, or wedding ceremony at the Edinburg World Birding Center. We have a variety of options available both indoors and out. For more information, visit us at or call (956) The birthday boy or girl and their guests will be treated to a one hour program of their choice followed by a party in the classroom. Program activities can include nature scavenger hunts, puppet shows, show and tell, nature crafts, and more. To reserve your next birthday bash, call (956) HOLIDAY CLOSINGS The EWBC will be closed for the following staff days and national holidays: Sept. 3 Nov. 12 Nov Dec Jan. 1 Feb. 9 Labor Day Veteran s Day Thanksgiving Christmas New Year s Day Staff Day EWBC FALL/WINTER HOURS OFFICE: 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. (Mon.(Mon.-Sat.) GROUNDS: 7 a.m. - 5 p.m. (Mon.) 7 a.m. - 6 p.m. (Tues.(Tues.-Sat) CLOSED SUNDAYS **South Pond Open Sunrise to Sunset**

ANNOUNCEMENTS Page 10 Vol. 15, Issue 2 Let us help you earn your badges!

needs. Call us to schedule your individualized program. Looking to become an Eagle Scout?

Toddler Play Sets Gardening Music Makers Fairies & Gnomes Digging & Trucks Kitchen & Cooking Explorers & Dinosaurs Rentals

Have a PLAY-DATE at our Children s Garden while exploring your surroundings through imaginative play.

Limited to one play set per family. Visit us online at: If you love exploring nature, then this field pack is for you!

Packs include ID guides, magnifying lenses, Rentals are free of charge with a valid ID.

activity sheets, collection The EWBC, Texas Parks & Wildlife, and the City of Edinburg are pleased to present the 2019 Rio

11 ANNOUNCEMENTS Page 10 Vol. 15, Issue 2 Let us help you earn your badges! From outdoor survival skills to conservation, we are flexible in our ability to customize a variety of programs to meet your needs. Call us to schedule your individualized program. Looking to become an Eagle Scout? We have many opportunities to complete your service project at the EWBC. Toddler Play Sets Gardening Music Makers Fairies & Gnomes Digging & Trucks Kitchen & Cooking Explorers & Dinosaurs Rentals can be checked out in our Gift Shop. Have a PLAY-DATE at our Children s Garden while exploring your surroundings through imaginative play. Ten play sets available, along with a chair, wagon & backpack. Rentals are FREE with a valid ID. Limited to one play set per family. Visit us online at: If you love exploring nature, then this field pack is for you! Go on a wild adventure and discover amazing wildlife around every corner. Packs include ID guides, magnifying lenses, Rentals are free of charge with a valid ID. Limited to one field pack rental per family. Visit the city s website at: Calling all volunteers! activity sheets, collection The EWBC, Texas Parks & Wildlife, and the City of Edinburg are pleased to present the 2019 Rio Grande Valley Coastal Expo February 7 & 8 9 a.m. - 2 p.m. Edinburg Municipal Park The RGV Coastal Expo is a free, educational, & fun hands-on event that teaches children, grades 1-6, about coastal ecosystems, South Texas wildlife, and outdoor adventure. Register your class or school. Contact Veronica at vguzman@cityofedinburg.com Space is limited, so register today! The EWBC is seeking volunteers to help with the event, event prep, set-up and more. For more details, contact Monica at mbarrera@cityofedinburg.com

SEPTEMBER 15 Orienteering Scavenger Hunt 22 Creative Creatures 29 Beginner Fishing Workshop 29 Nature Exchange 29 Spectacular Saturday OCTOBER 6 Volunteer Day 13 Bird Study Merit Badge 13 Pumpkin

12 SEPTEMBER 15 Orienteering Scavenger Hunt 22 Creative Creatures 29 Beginner Fishing Workshop 29 Nature Exchange 29 Spectacular Saturday OCTOBER 6 Volunteer Day 13 Bird Study Merit Badge 13 Pumpkin Planter 27 Scarecrow Trail Fest 27 Spectacular Saturday 30 Scarecrow Trail Hike NOVEMBER 3 Butterfly Baiting 6 Scarecrow Trail Hike 17 Where in the Wetlands 17 Nutty about Knots 24 Spectacular Saturday Bird Walks Every Tuesday, Sept. 4 - May 7 DECEMBER 1 Outdoor Cooking 8 Ducks and Donuts 8 Recycled Ornament Craft Day 15 DIY Birdseed Ornament Magical Microscopes 29 Nature Exchange 29 Spectacular Saturday JANUARY 5 EWBC Big Count 5 Kids Gardening Series 12 Kids Gardening Series 16 Rancho Lomitas Tour 19 Kids Gardening Series 23 Adult Birding Series 26 Kids Gardening Series 26 Spectacular Saturday FEBRUARY 7-8 Coastal Expo 16 Beginner Fishing Workshop 23 Spectacular Saturday 23 Nature Exchange 27 Adult Birding Series Butterfly Walks Every Thursday Oct. - Nov. 1 Fall/Winter 2018 Programs & Events Edinburg Scenic Wetlands & World Birding Center 714 Raul Longoria RD PO BOX 1079 Edinburg, TX Parks & Recreation Department

Volume 14 Issue 2 Fall/Winter Kingfisher. Edinburg Scenic Wetlands & World Birding Center Programs & Events

Volume 14 Issue 2 Fall/Winter 2017 Kingfisher Edinburg Scenic Wetlands & World Birding Center Programs & Events Page 1 CENTER NEWS Vol. 14, Issue 2 Message from the Manager The slower, quieter and hotter