Rufous Hummingbird; © Ann Brice

In this epoch of COVID-19, we’ve all spent more time at home than we’re used to.  My friends and I have been sharing photos from our yards. This has been a great spring for Rufous Hummingbirds. Too bad they don’t stay for long, although the Anna’s Hummingbirds aren’t sad to see them move on north!  Be sure to check out the Yolo Audubon Facebook page for more photos and consider sending in some of your own.

Among the places you can still visit to see birds is the Yolo Bypass Wildlife Area.  The manager, Joe Hobbs, says that it will stay open as long as people keep the appropriate social distancing.  Joe also said to be aware of the 40 goats that have been brought in to keep the weeds down in the ditches and roads, and please don’t approach the guard dogs with the flock.  They should all be fenced in, but…

In addition, Joe wants people to know that there will be construction at the Wildlife Area this summer as part of the infrastructure and drainage project that is underway.  This may result in some areas being closed, and it also may mean that there will only be one shorebird pond this summer instead of two.  It’s all temporary and should result in better wildlife habitat.  Meanwhile we have to be patient!

The slate of YAS board candidates follows. We would normally vote on the slate at the May general meeting, but since we won’t be having a meeting, please contact me if you have any comments on the candidates.

Ann Brice, President, YAS