The Ornithological Newsletter On-Line

ORGANIZATION NEWS

NOMINATIONS FOR AOU OFFICERS AND ELECTIVE COUNCILORS must be received by the Secretary three months before the Stated Meeting, i.e. by 5 Jul 2006. Consult the AOU website (URL: http://www.aou.org/nominations.php3) or Ornithological Newsletter 170 (Feb 2006) or contact Secretary M. ROSS LEIN (EM: aousecretary@aou.org) for more information.

NEW EDITOR OF THE WILSON JOURNAL OF ORNITHOLOGY- Clait Braun will be the new editor of The Wilson Journal of Ornithology beginning with the Mar 2007 issue. As of 1 Jul 2006, please send all new submissions, and revisions of previously submitted manuscripts, to: CLAIT E. BRAUN, Editor, The Wilson Journal of Ornithology, 5572 North Ventana Vista Road, Tucson, Arizona 85750-7204 (PH: 520-529-0365 (Office and Fax), EM: TwilsonJO@comcast.net). Until 1 Jul, continue sending submissions and revisions to the current editor, Dr. JAMES A. SEDGWICK, Research Wildlife Biologist (EM: Jim_Sedgwick@usgs.gov), Editor, The Wilson Journal of Ornithology (EM: wjo@usgs.gov), U.S. Geological Survey, Fort Collins Science Center, 2150 Centre Avenue, Bldg C, Fort Collins, CO 80526-8118 (PH: 970-226-9376).

THE WILSON ORNITHOLOGICAL SOCIETY is pleased to announce the recipients of its 2006 research awards. The Louis Agassiz Fuertes Award has been awarded to CHRIS MERKORD of the University of Missouri-Columbia for his study, "Altitudinal migration in the Andes of southeastern Peru." The Hall/Mayfield Award has been given to KARLA KINSTLER of Houston, MN, for her study, "Vocal Repertoire of the Great Horned Owl." Paul A. Stewart Awards have been given to KATHLEEN COATES of Purdue University for her study, "Swamp Sparrow (Melospiza georgiana) population dynamics and breeding bird communities at restored and natural marshes," KRISTEN M. COVINO of the University of Maine - Orono for her study, "The influence of an ecological barrier on directional decisions of nocturnal migrants," ANA MARIA GABELA of the University of Massachusetts - Amherst for her study, "Site fidelity and human impact on the Medium Ground Finch (Geospiza fortis) on Santa Cruz, Galapagos Islands," HARRY R. JAGEMAN of the University of Idaho for his study, "Habitat use and ecology of Northern Pygmy Owls (Glaucidium gnoma)," ALEX JAHN of the University of Florida for his study, "Testing proximate hypotheses of bird migration in a forgotten migratory system," and JASON TOWNSEND of SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry for his study, "The role of sexual segregation in the winter ecology of the Bicknell's Thrush."

AOU FELLOWS AND ELECTIVE MEMBERS ARE REMINDED that ballots for election of new Elective Members will be distributed in Jul 2006, and must be returned by mail to the Secretariat by 14 Sep 2006. The deadline for nominations for EMs and Fellows has already passed. Names of newly-elected ELECTIVE MEMBERS will be announced at the Business Meeting of Members on 5 Oct 2006 at the World Trade Center in Veracruz, México. In Sep 2006, FELLOWS will be sent balloting and other information related to their upcoming meeting (3 Oct 2006 at the World Trade Center in Veracruz, México), during which they will elect new Fellows and conduct other business. Contact Secretary M. Ross Lein (EM: aousecretary@aou.org) for more information.

Return to Top

Return to Issue Index

NEWS AND ANNOUNCEMENTS

A ROUND-TABLE DISCUSSION as part of the International Ornithological Congress in Hamburg, Germany, 13-19 Aug 2006 will focus on the Impact of Brominated Flame Retardants in Birds. Anyone interested in participating should contact DAVID M. BIRD, Avian Science and Conservation Center of McGill University, 21,111 Lakeshore Road, Ste. Anne de Bellevue, Quebec H9X 3V9 (PH: 514-398-7760; FX: 514-398-7990; EM: david.bird@mcgill.ca).

DISTANCE SAMPLING WORKSHOPS, St. Andrews, Aug 2006. The Center for Research into Ecological and Environmental Modelling (CREEM) is hosting three linked workshops in the summer of 2006 in our purpose-built facilities at the University of St Andrews, Scotland. The aim of these workshops is to train participants in the latest methods for design and analysis of distance sampling surveys, including line and point transects. The workshops are taught by leading researchers in the field, using industry-standard software. The first workshop (3 days, 23-25 Aug) will run at an introductory level, and will focus on "conventional" distance sampling methods, as described in the standard reference book Introduction to Distance Sampling. The workshop will be a blend of theory and practice and participants will learn how to use the program Distance. Participants will gain a solid grounding in both survey design and methods of analysis for distance sampling surveys. The second workshop (2.5 days, 28-30 Aug) will cover recent advances in distance sampling research and software, as described in the book Advanced Distance Sampling. It is intended for those already familiar with conventional distance sampling methods (e.g., those who have attended an introductory workshop). Participants will learn the use of covariates for modeling the detection function, double-platform methods for when detection at the line or point is not certain, automated survey design and adaptive sampling. Participants will also learn the more advanced features of Distance. The third workshop (2.5 days, 30 Aug.-1 Sep.) will focus on methods of predicting abundance or density of biological data using the "count" method of Hedley and Buckland (2004, Chapter 4 of the Advanced Distance Sampling book). In these situations variation in animal density/abundance is modeled as functions of covariates such as land cover type, bathymetry, altitude or depth, or other characteristics collected during a distance sampling survey. General additive models (GAMs) or general linear models (GLMs) will be fitted to estimated densities along transects using a new analytical engine inside program Distance. This is an advanced workshop for those already familiar with distance sampling. For all three workshops, participants are encouraged to bring their own data sets, and can expect to do some preliminary analyses with their data. Participants intending to model their own data in the third workshop will be required to have it formatted according to precise specifications prior to arrival at St. Andrews. Computer sessions take place in our modern PC-classroom (attached to the seminar room); participants can use our computers or bring their own PC laptops. Further details, including registration forms and tariff, are available at http://www.ruwpa.st-and.ac.uk/distance.workshops/.

"BRINGING CONSERVATION RESEARCH AND TECHNOLOGY TO EDUCATION" - Professional Development Workshop. This course, developed by Earthspan, will engage participants in research projects that combine field-based methods with the advanced technologies used in wildlife conservation research, such as radio and satellite tracking technologies, GPS, remote sensing, and Geographic Information Systems (GIS). Now in its second year, the course is designed for secondary school teachers, environmental educators, university professors, and wildlife professionals with an educational mission. Participants will develop mini-research projects under the guidance of our team of wildlife biologists, education specialists, and geospatial technology experts. They will conduct research projects using satellite tracking data from Earthspan's web-based GIS maps, environmental data from other web sites, and data collected in the field. Seminars offered by Earthspan and collaborating scientists will deepen participants' knowledge of ecology, animal behavior, conservation biology, and the advanced technologies used in these fields. Teachers participating in the workshop will also learn how to apply the Eye of the Falcon Environmental Science Curriculum to different learning environments. The Eye of the Falcon, developed by Earthspan, is a standards-based curriculum for secondary schools that utilizes GIS, remote sensing, and satellite tracking of wildlife to teach core concepts in the life sciences and to involve students in cutting-edge scientific research and technology. Date: 28-30 Aug 2006 Time: 9:00am-5:00pm each day; Tacoma School of the Arts, 1950 Pacific Avenue, Tacoma, WA 98402. Registration is free of charge for successful applicants; breakfast and all materials included. Applications may be downloaded from our web site (URL: http://www.earthspan.org). Accommodations for Out-of-Town Participants: There are a range of accommodation options available in Tacoma. Contact Earthspan for more information. College Credit Available. To register or for more information contact: DR. MICHELLE FRANKEL, Education Director, Earthspan, (PH: 845-893-0776, EM: michellefrankel@earthlink.net).

VIIIth NEOTROPICAL ORNITHOLOGICAL CONGRESS, Maturín, Venezuela, 13-19 May 2007. The Neotropical Ornithological Society (NOS) and the Venezuelan Ornithologists' Union (UVO) (the local host), are pleased to announce the VIIIth Neotropical Ornithological Congress (NOC). The Congress will be held in Maturín, Estado Monagas, Venezuela, and will honor the memory of William H. Phelps and William H. Phelps Jr., pioneers of Venezuelan Ornithology. The Co-chairs of the Scientific Program Committee (SPC) invite ornithologists working in the Neotropics to submit proposals (in English or Spanish) for plenary speakers, symposia, workshops and round-tables. Suggestions for plenary speakers should include a brief statement of support emphasizing the relevance of the proposed speaker's research to the shaping of current Neotropical ornithological knowledge. Five plenary speakers will be selected. Presentations may be given in either Spanish or English. Suggestions for symposia should address new topics or significant syntheses of major avian research fields conducted in the Neotropics. Symposia will be chaired by one convener and one coconvener and will be organized in 2-h blocks. Each symposium will consist of a 10-min introduction, five presentations of 20 min each, and a 10-min conclusion. Each speaker will have 15 min for presenting and 5 min for questions. A total of 18 symposia will be accepted. Proposals for one- or one and a half hour workshops and round-tables will also be considered. Workshops should concentrate on discussions of new concepts or methods. Round-tables should cover new or controversial issues. The deadline for suggestions of plenary speakers is 15 Jun 2006. The deadline for submission of proposed symposia, workshops, and round-tables is 15 Jul 2006. Symposium, workshop and round-table organizers will be notified by 31 Jul 2006 of whether their proposal is accepted. The full texts of Plenary and Symposium presentations (excluding introductory and concluding remarks), properly peer-reviewed and delivered on due time, will be published in the Proceedings of the VIIIth Neotropical Ornithological Congress, as a supplement to Volume 19 (2008) of Ornitología Neotropical, the quarterly journal of NOS. For further information, see http://www.nocvenezuela.org or http://www.neotropicalornithology.org

MAPMUSE.COM has added nationwide maps of Birding Clubs, and Birding Hotspots to its services. The Birding Clubs map has over 250 clubs located already, but can be added to, and enhanced by visitors. The Birding Hotspots Map has just been added today at the request of a MapMuse visitor. MapMuse has not attempted to populate this map, but has provided the structure for birders to identify and add their favorite hotspots. Following, are links to the pages for the birding topics: Birding Clubs: (URL: http://find.mapmuse.com/re1/interest.php?brandID=BIRDING_CLUBS) Birding Hotspots: (URL: http://find.mapmuse.com/re1/interest.php?brandID=BIRDING_HOTSPOTS). The idea is for birders to build upon what has been started by adding information about their clubs, and their favorite hotspots. Through this kind of community effort, we hope to have the most comprehensive, and descriptive maps for birders to use at home, and on their travels. Please note that descriptive information, as well as photos can be added directly to the profiles by our visitors. There is an ADD and EDIT feature on the site (you can refer to http://find.mapmuse.com/re1/mmFAQ.htm#A4 if you have questions about making changes).

Return to Top

Return to Issue Index

NEWS FROM THE ORNITHOLOGICAL COUNCIL

Provided by DAVID E. BLOCKSTEIN, Chair (EM: oc@cnie.org), and ELLEN PAUL, Executive Director (EM: ellen.paul@verizon.net), The Ornithological Council. Major funding for the Ornithological Council is provided by its eleven member societies: American Ornithologists' Union, Association of Field Ornithologists, CIPAMEX, Cooper Ornithological Society, Neotropical Ornithological Society, Pacific Seabird Group, Raptor Research Foundation, Society of Canadian Ornithologists, Society for the Conservation and Study of Caribbean Birds, Waterbird Society, and Wilson Ornithological Society. We also appreciate the support of individual ornithologists.

ONE-STOP SHOPPING FOR ORNITHOLOGISTS LOOKING FOR OPPORTUNITIES TO PARTICIPATE IN DEVELOPMENT OF PUBLIC POLICY - The Ornithological Council provides ornithologists with the tools and opportunities to participate in the development of public policy that affects birds. One of the tools we offer is OCNET - a listserv where notices about bird conservation and management can be posted and issues can be discussed. Although OCNET has been dormant in recent years, the Ornithological Council is now putting the listserv into high gear. Members can post notices, comments, and questions. The Ornithological Council will also post information, with background information and analysis on occasion. The analysis does not represent the views of the Ornithological Council, which does not engage in advocacy on conservation and management issues. It is provided to aid readers, and we will strive for strict neutrality and balance in our analysis. We will not advocate that readers take a particular position or action. We will, however, provide tools for members to take such actions as they see fit. Members are also encouraged to submit information and, of course, may express their personal views or exhort others to take certain action. Examples of subjects that are appropriate for this listserv include: proposed legislation or regulation (federal or state/provincial) from any country, that pertains to bird conservation or management; policies that pertain to biodiversity issues; alerts and notices from other organizations, including sign-on letters; questions and general information about policy issues of interest to members, whether or not there is a pending proposal before a legislative or regulatory body; international policy issues pertaining to bird conservation and management and to biodiversity issues. You can join OCNET via the archives website (URL: https://listserv.umd.edu/archives/ocnet-l.html). If you do not intend to post messages, and do not wish to receive OCNET e-mail, you may want to read messages via the archives (URL: https://listserv.umd.edu/archives/ocnet-l.html) rather than subscribing. Note that we will continue posting notices about ornithology on Ornith-L, the excellent listserv owned and maintained by JEANETTE BIDER (URL: http://listserv.uark.edu/archives/ornith-l.html).

USFWS PROPOSES REVISIONS TO CITES REGULATIONS - The USFWS is proposing to revise the CITES regulations. The agency originally proposed a revision in 2000. After the comment period closed, and the USFWS developed the final rule, that final rule went to the Department of Interior for approval. Unfortunately, the process went awry and the regulations languished uncompleted for several years. Now that original proposed revision - which was intended to incorporate recent CITES decisions up to and including the 10th Conference of the Parties - is outdated. Rather than try to revive it, the USFWS decided to start again, incorporating decisions from the 11th, 12th, and 13th Conferences of the Parties. The USFWS will consider the comments submitted on the previous revision, but there is also an opportunity to comment on this new revision until 19 Jun (must be received by). The Ornithological Council, in consultation with the AOU Committee on Collections, whose members routinely import and export scientific specimens, is reviewing the proposed changes and will prepare comments. At first review, it appears that the USFWS has been very responsive to concerns expressed by ornithologists and the Ornithological Council with regard to the use of a special kind of procedure, known as a Certificate of Scientific Exchange, for the transfer of genetic material and "subsamples" between registered scientific institutions. The Ornithological Council welcomes input from all ornithologists; please contact Ellen Paul (EM: ellen.paul@verizon.net) to obtain a copy of the notice or to offer your observations. Note that this particular notice does not involve future listings of species on the CITES Appendices. It only incorporates decisions that have already been made by parties to the Convention. Prospective listings, or changes to existing listings will be considered at the next Conference of the Parties (COP), which will be held in Jun 2007.

OC SUBMITS COMMENTS ON PROPOSED REVISION TO GUIDE FOR THE CARE AND USE OF LABORATORY ANIMALS - The National Institutes of Health (NIH) is exploring the need to update the laboratory animal welfare standards of the Guide for the Care and Use of Laboratory Animals (Guide) . This Guide is "the bible" for the Institutional Animal Care and Use Committees (IACUCs) that implement the Animal Welfare Act at research institutions. Despite the title, the Guide actually applies to all research involving live vertebrates, in both the laboratory and in the field. The Guide was initially published in 1963, and revised in 1965, 1968, 1972, 1978, 1985, and 1996. The purpose of the Guide is to assist institutions in caring for and using animals in ways judged to be scientifically, technically, and humanely appropriate. Federal research funding agencies, including the NIH and the National Science Foundation, require adherence to the Public Health Service Policy on Humane Care and Use of Laboratory Animals (PHS Policy, http://grants.nih.gov/grants/olaw/references/PHSPolicyLabAnimals.pdf), which incorporates by reference the latest edition of the Guide for the Care and Use of Laboratory Animals (URL: http://www.nap.edu/readingroom/books/labrats/). Institutions are further required by PHS Policy to use the Guide as a basis for developing an institutional animal care and use program for activities involving animals. At least once every six months the Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC) must evaluate the institution's program for care and use of animals and animal facilities using the Guide . In reviewing research projects the IACUC is required to determine that the project is consistent with the Guide unless acceptable justification for a departure is presented. Serious deviation from the provisions of the Guide must be promptly reported to OLAW. The current edition was written, edited, and reviewed under the aegis of the Institute of Laboratory Animal Resources of the National Research Council (National Academy of Sciences). In deciding whether to sponsor a revision, the NIH intent solicited new scientifically valid information, methods or practices, published data or other advances in the humane care and use of laboratory animals. The Ornithological Council noted that, "It would be impractical, if not impossible, to revise the guide to incorporate "new scientific information" pertaining to the many different research methods and species studied in biomedical research and wildlife biology. Each subdiscipline of wildlife biology, for instance, has its own guidance for ethical and humane treatment of animals in research." We suggested that IACUCs rely on the taxon-specific reference materials, such as Guidelines to the Use of Wild Birds in Research, which are developed by expert practitioners with decades of experience. Our comments also stressed that any revision include wildlife biologists in the writing, editing, and review processes and offered to recommend ornithologists to serve in these roles.

U.S. BIRD BANDING LABORATORY ISSUES NEW MEMORANDUM TO ALL BANDERS - The U.S. Bird Banding Laboratory periodically issues memoranda to banders. The BBL used to send these memoranda by mail; now they are posted on the BBL website. The Apr MTAB has now been posted (URL: http://www.pwrc.usgs.gov/BBL/mtab/mtab89.htm). Among the changes you will want to note if you are a bander are: extension of permit duration from 2 years to 3 years; changes in the manner of permit renewal; and reporting encounters.

ORNITHOLOGISTS ON CAPITOL HILL - The Ornithological Council on 7 Jun 2006 will participate in an exhibit and reception on Capitol Hill to demonstrate to members of Congress the value of funding for the National Science Foundation. This annual event is sponsored by the Coalition for National Science Funding, which comprises more than 100 scientific organizations and universities united by a concern for the future vitality of the national science, mathematics, and engineering enterprise. CNSF supports the goal of increasing the national investment in the National Science Foundation's research and education programs in response to the unprecedented scientific, technological, and economic opportunities facing the United States. The Ornithological Council exhibit will spotlight two NSF-funded projects underway at the Cornell Laboratory of Ornithology: the work of the Dhondt lab on the spread of a new strain of Mycoplasma gallisepticum (MG), a bacterium common in poultry, that appeared and spread very rapidly through the house finches of eastern North America and across the continent, looking at the modes of transmission, to develop and validate general predictive models that can be applied to similar systems. Understanding which factors are responsible for the emergence of new diseases, which factors favor their spread, and how they affect their hosts is essential to the control of new diseases. The Urban Bird Studies program, a group of projects that bring under-served populations and especially designed for children and teenagers, into citizen science, by studying urban birds, will also be showcased.

NSF RE-ESTABLISHES FEDERAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE ON ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND EDUCATION - NATIONAL SCIENCE FOUNDATION - In Aug 1998, the National Science Board established the Task Force on the Environment within its Committee on Programs and Plans. The Task Force was created to provide guidance to the National Science Foundation (NSF) in defining the scope of its role with respect to environmental research, education, and scientific assessment and in determining the best means of implementing related activities. The report, Environmental Science and Engineering for the 21st Century: The Role of the National Science Foundation was issued in Feb 2000. It presents the findings and recommendations developed by the Task Force on the Environment and approved unanimously by the National Science Board. One result of this report was the establishment of the NSF Working Group on Biocomplexity in the Environment, later renamed the Working Group on Environmental Research and Education. This group serves both as an internal advisory group and an investment design team whose primary responsibilities are to provide communication support for the broad ERE Portfolio and to identify areas of opportunity for future investment (e.g., the Biocomplexity in the Environment Initiative). Members are drawn from each NSF directorate as well as from the budget office, the international programs office, and the NSB Task Force. In 2000, NSF established the Advisory Committee for Environmental Research and Education (AC-ERE). NSF's Director, AC-ERE is to: provide advice, recommendations and oversight concerning support for the NSF's environmental research and education portfolio; be a base of contact with the scientific community to inform NSF of the impact of its research support and NSF-wide policies on the scientific community; serve as a forum for consideration of interdisciplinary environmental topics as well as environmental activities in a wide range of disciplines; provide broad input into long-range plans and partnership opportunities; and perform oversight of program management, overall program balance, and other aspects of program performance for environmental research and education activities. When these committees are renewed, the agency generally seeks nominations for new members. The Ornithological Council will post notices on OCNET and Ornith-L if/when a call for nominations is issued by the NSF. If you are interested in serving, you may nominate yourself or institution, a colleague, or the OC can nominate you. To learn more about the "virtual" directorate on Environmental Research and Education, visit http://www.nsf.gov/dir/index.jsp?org=ERE. To learn more about the ERE Advisory Committee, visit: http://www.nsf.gov/geo/ere/ereweb/advisory.cfm

NEWS ABOUT THE ORNITHOLOGICAL COUNCIL - Susan Elbin has joined the Ornithological Council Board of Directors, representing the Waterbird Society. She replaces Jim Kushlan, who was serving his second (little) stint on the OC Board. Dan Klem has also joined the Board, replacing long-time member Jed Burtt as a representative of the Wilson Ornithological Society. Alicia Craig has joined Greg Butcher in representing the Association of Field Ornithologists. She replaces Betty Ann Schreiber. The Ornithological Council is also sad to note the passing of Toby Gaunt, husband of long-time board member Sandy Gaunt, and co-editor of Guidelines to the Use of Wild Birds in Research.

Return to Top

Return toIssue Index

REQUESTS FOR ASSISTANCE

REQUEST FOR INFORMATION: The Birds of Kazakhstan - Arend Wassink and Gerald Oreel are compiling a book on the birds of Kazakhstan. This will be the first comprehensive work in English on the rich avifauna of this large Central Asian country. It is planned for publication in 2007. In order to make the book as complete and up-to-date as possible, the authors are happy to receive the relevant details of unpublished or difficult-to-locate records of rare and interesting birds. They also welcome trip reports. The deadline for submission is 1 Jul 2006. All contributors will be acknowledged in the book. The information should be sent to: GERALD OREEL, Deurganck 15, 1902 AN Castricum, Netherlands (EM: gerald.oreel@planet.nl).

REQUEST FOR BONE AND EGGSHELL SAMPLES - We are examining the potential physiologic and ecologic significance of isotopic signatures found in the bones, teeth, and eggshell of fossil archosaurs and seek modern comparative samples. Ideally we are looking to sample an adult, her eggshell and embryos for several modern taxa. Appropriate groups include but are not limited to: ratites, tinamous, galliforms, anseriforms, falconiforms, strigiforms, and corvids. In the best of all worlds, we would like to have a sample of the water and food (if captive) the organism is eating and associated temperature data. Samples are not needed until summer of 2007. If you can help, please contact DAVID VARRICCHIO (EM: djv@montana.edu).

LARRY, MICHIGAN'S AMATEUR BIRDMAN OF THE WORLD--Birding interests of Dr. Lawrence "Larry" Harvey Walkinshaw (1904-1993) emerged early in life. By age 12, ten of his one-room schoolmates joined his new Junior Audubon Society in rural Calhoun County, Michigan. Upon earning, with honors in 1929, the D.D.S. degree from the University of Michigan he had been published 13 articles. His 80-years of 'amateur' birding concluded with 350 other publications including The Sandhill Cranes (1949), Cranes of the World (1973) and Kirtland's Warbler: The Natural History of an Endangered Species (1983). Twice he served as the Wilson Society President, was an AOU Fellow and secretary, for two decades shared responsibility as first co-editor of the Jack-Pine Warbler, served on three national Whooping Crane committees, the IUCN Species Survival Commission plus numerous others. His leadership resulted in establishment of six sanctuaries to include the Walkinshaw Wetlands of the Huron-Manistee National Forest, the National Mississippi Wildlife Refuge plus one each in Japan and in the DMZ of Korea. Today special Walkinshaw collections reside with Cornell University, Nest Record Library; Smithsonian Institution Archives; Texas A&M University Cushing Library, and University of Michigan Bentley Historical Library and the Museum of Zoology, Bird Division. The North American Crane Working Group acknowledge him as their "Father of Crane International Research" when presenting the Walkinshaw Crane Conservation Award - the highest honor attainable by the world's 1,000 or so crane researchers. Dr. George Archibald as co-founder of the International Crane Foundation said, "He inspired me and he has inspired many others." Today his son-in-law is two-years into the process of compiling his biography. To appropriately represent his life's work, I seek input from those who considered him among their birding friends, their dentist, Boy Scout Leader, fellow dental professional, or a fellow member of the Battle Creek Lions Club? all 40-year commitments. Please contact Dr. LOWELL M. SCHAKE, 142 Five Dove Circle, Port Aransas, Texas 78373 (EM: wschake1@centurytel.net, PH: 361-749-2315) to share your experiences with him for his biography due out in two years.

REQUEST FOR OBSERVATIONS FROM PALENQUE, CHIAPAS, MEXICO-In the late 1950s the famous Mayan ruins at Palenque sat amid a vast, contiguous band of rainforest extending south through La Selva Lacandón and adjacent Guatemala. Today the site sits on an island of forest amid a sea of clearings for farming, cattle, or housing. We are attempting to conduct a qualitative analysis of avian species loss and species turnover over the past half century at and around Palenque. Similar studies have been conducted in Central and South America, but little such work has been attempted in Mexico. Yet we feel a careful compilation and statistical analyses of field notes could well provide a basis for understanding which species persevere and which disappear, particularly when viewed in conjunction with the aforementioned studies from other tropical sites. Accordingly, we would appreciate copies of any and all field notes, even partial species lists, for trips to Palenque (be sure to include dates). All contributors will be acknowledged gratefully. Please send hardcopies to MICHAEL A. PATTEN at the Sutton Avian Research Center, University of Oklahoma, P.O. Box 2007, Bartlesville, Oklahoma 74005 USA, or electronic copies either to Patten (EM: mpatten@ou.edu) or to HÉCTOR GÓMEZ DE SILVA GARZA (EM: hgomez@miranda.ecologia.unam.mx).

LOOKING FOR OBSERVATIONS of cooperatively feeding American Crows all-year round. I define cooperative feeding in this species as a mutual foraging behavior where sentinels watch crows feed on the ground, then they switch places. Anecdotal or quantified observations. Detail if possible, please. GRANT STEVENSON (EM: surnia_ulula_caparoch@verizon.net).

Return to Top

Return to Issue Index

GRANTS AND AWARDS

FOR INFORMATION ON CONTINUING GRANTS PROGRAMS relevant to ornithological research, visit: http://www.nmnh.si.edu/BIRDNET/Grants/index.html.

FUNDING OPPORTUNITIES FOR CANADIAN GRADUATE STUDENTS AND POST-DOCTORAL FELLOWS. The NSERC-funded Research Network on Avian Reproduction and Environmental Change: integrating ecology and physiology (URL: http://www.sfu.ca/biology/faculty/williams/ebird/) has funding available (up to $1800 per person) to support laboratory exchange visits, and participation in technical meetings. Exchange visits between physiologists and ecologists aimed at the development of collaborative projects or grant proposals, or integration and learning of new approaches or techniques will be encouraged, and preference will be given for exchanges with USA or European research labs. Applicants must provide (a) a short description of the proposed project (about 250 words) and the aim of the visit; (b) start dates, number of days, estimated travel costs and full contact details for the applicant and host; and (c) a two-page curriculum vitae. Funding is currently available for 2006-07, i.e. for travel up to 31 Mar 2007. For further details contact: Dr. TONY D. WILLIAMS, Centre for Wildlife Ecology, Department of Biological Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, BC, V5A 1S6 (EM: tdwillia@sfu.ca).

D.H. SPEIRS AWARD for outstanding lifetime contributions by amateurs or professionals to Canadian ornithology is given annually by the Society of Canadian Ornithologists (see URL: http://www.sco-soc.ca/speirs_ award.htm). Nominations of candidates for the 2006 award will be accepted until 1 Sep, and the award will be presented by the Society at the North American Ornithological Conference in Veracruz in Oct

DENNIS RAVELING SCHOLARSHIP--The Dennis Raveling Scholarship for Waterfowl Research is awarded annually to a student(s) with a desire to pursue a career in waterfowl or wetlands ecology. Awards are based on the candidate's resolve, high academic achievement, and project merit. Candidates must be pursuing an advanced university degree in: Wildlife, Zoology, Botany, Ecology, or other pertinent biological science. Applicants should submit a ONE page proposal summary description on an original research or management project. Applicants should be prepared to submit a detailed project proposal if requested. The Scholarship is intended to provide field experience and training in the tools, methods, and concepts of waterfowl and wetlands research and management. A committee composed of previous students and professional colleagues of Dennis Raveling will select the winning candidates. There will be 2 Awards given this year. 1st Place will be $2000 paid in quarterly installments; 2nd Place will be $1,000 paid in quarterly installments. Applicants should submit a resume and a brief (one page) study proposal or statement explaining the course of study for which they need support. This material must be accompanied by a letter from a faculty member indicating willingness to sponsor the candidate and detailing any requirements (e.g. provision for a final report or thesis) for receiving university credit. Names and phone numbers of two references are also required (include at least one University instructor and/or previous employment supervisor). All materials should be submitted by 31 Oct 2006. Complete package should include: One page, single-spaced Proposal Summary, Resume, Statement of Interest, Letter of Support from faculty member, Names and phone numbers of two references. Mail or email to: California Waterfowl Association, ATTN: NICOLE BERSET, 4630 Northgate Blvd., Suite 150, Sacramento, CA 95834 (EM: Nicole_berset@calwaterfowl.org).

Return to Top

Return to Issue Index

PUBLICATIONS AVAILABLE

TANAGERS, CARDINALS, AND FINCHES OF THE UNITED STATES AND CANADA: The Photographic Guide, by David Beadle & J.D. Rising, 2006. Princeton University Press. 210 pp., 200 color plates, 3 halftones, i line illus., 4 maps, 5 1/2" x 8 1/2", paper. ISBN: 0-691-11858-2, $29.95. This volume is the first comprehensive photographic identification guide to tanagers, cardinals, and finches. Many of North America's finest bird and wildlife photographers have supplied a stunning collection of images, some of which depict plumages rarely available in other publications. The 200 photographs have been selected to illustrate age, seasonal, and sexual variation in all of the species found north of Mexico, including introduced species and vagrants. The text is designed to introduce the reader to the biology, identification, molts, vocalization, and distribution of the forty-six species covered. Original range maps illustrate the distribution of all the species that regularly occur north of Mexico. Princeton University Press (URL: http://www.nathist.princeton.edu).

HANDBOOK OF AVIAN HYBRIDS OF THE WORLD, by Eugene M. McCarthy, 2006. Oxford University Press. 608 pp., 20 maps; 6-1/8 x 9-1/4; ISBN13: 978-0-19-518323-8, ISBN10: 0-19-518323-1. This catalog of more than 4000 entries, is the most comprehensive work on hybridization available. Worldwide in scope, this book is intended to provide basic information about each of the reported avian crosses and to provide access to documenting literature. Although not all documented crosses contain all the data, as much as possible, information is given on the viability and fertility of the hybrids, what they look like, and whether the cross occurs in a natural setting, in captivity, or both. An introductory chapter presents information on why hybridization occurs, identifying hybrids, hybrid zones, and causes of hybrid infertility.This volume will be of interest to workers in a wide variety of fields, ranging from animal behavior to genetics, ecology, zoology, and systematics. Oxford University Press, (URL: http://www.oup.com/academic/).

URBAN WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT, by Clark E. Adams, Kieran J. Lindsey, and Sara J. Ash, 2006. CRC Press. 328 pp., hardcover, ISBN: 0-8493-9645-X, $79.95.Urban Wildlife Management is the first comprehensive text to examine the issues that have led to the need for human-wildlife interface management strategies. The book focuses not only on ecological matters, but also incorporates the political, economic, and societal issues relevant to the development of proactive management planning. Synthesizing hundreds of journal articles, as well as countless other sources on urban wildlife management, the book organizes a wealth of material under five subject areas: urban landscapes, urban ecosystems, urban habitats and hazards, sociopolitical issues, and special management considerations. Urban Wildlife Management educates students in the fundamental principles of ecology required to understand how human-made environments lead to the need for urban wildlife management Exploring the changing landscape of wildlife management, the authors offer students an historical perspective, along with a look at current trends and future directions of wildlife management. They include selected lessons in ecology relevant to understanding the presence or absence of wildlife species in urban communities. These lessons look at the impacts of urbanization on ecosystem structure and function, including waterways, predation, and population dynamics. Urban habitats are discussed in terms of the unique features of green and gray spaces, urban streams, and urban soils. The book also considers both endangered species and overabundant wildlife populations. CRC Press (URL: http://www.crcpress.co.uk/).

THE ESSENTIAL ALDO LEOPOLD: QUOTATIONS AND COMMENTARIES, Edited by Curt Meine and Richard L. Knight, 2006. University of Wisconsin Press. ISBN: 0-299-16554-X, Now available in paperback, $24.95. The writings of Aldo Leopold, from conservation education to wildlife ecology, from wilderness protection to soil and water conservation, continue to have profound influence on those seeking to understand the earth and its care. Leopold biographer Curt Meine and noted conservation biologist Richard L. Knight have assembled this comprehensive collection of quotations from Leopold's extensive and diverse writings, selected and organized to capture the richness and depth of the North American conservation movement. Leading nature writers, conservationists, and environmental scholars provide introductory commentaries describing Leopold's contributions in varied fields and reflecting upon the significance of his work today.

EXPERIENCES OF AN ORNITHOLOGIST ALONG THE HIGHWAYS AND BYWAYS OF BOLIVA. Collecting Birds in an Isolated, Magnificent Land in the Nineteen Thirties. By Melbourne A. Carriker, Jr. Co-edited by his son Melbourne R. Carriker and Robert C. Dalgleish. Published by AuthorHouse. 452 pp. Many black and white photographs. Bird in color on cover. Price: softcover (ISBN 1420882901) $13.50, electronic copy (1420883526) $5.95. Available from bkorders@authorhouse.com. An extraordinarily vivid account by intrepid ornithologist Melbourne Armstrong Carriker, Jr. of his three expeditions in Bolivia collecting birds for the Philadelphia Academy of Natural Sciences, traveling from the torrid tropic jungles to the frozen mountain valleys. He collected a total of 8,705 bird specimens, including some new to science, and many new species of bird lice. These species are listed in two extensive appendices in the book. The author's flair for narration, perceptive observations, memory of detail, fondness of people, knowledge of Spanish and of South America, and ability to get along with Latin Americans, enrich his writing. His lively, colorful, descriptive, often humorous, piquant accounts make highly entertaining reading. He succeeded in transmitting to the reader his own special pleasure in exploration, especially of the high mountains, which he loved, and his keen enjoyment of congenial people. At the same time he did not minimize the disappointments and hardships that were almost daily companions, and these, too, come across vividly, sometimes poignantly. Incredibly, Carriker survived his travels without major accidents, though he did experience several close calls. He held strong opinions, which he did not hesitate to express; and was strong-minded, a characteristic that was often helpful to him in close adversarial situations. Carriker was one of the great early naturalists of Central and Northern South America. His long time colleague, Dr. K. C. Emerson of the Smithsonian Institution, once commented of him that changes in ecology, laws, and concerns for environment probably would not permit another person to duplicate his collecting efforts. He was also exceptional in that he was not only an expert in the study of tropical bird fauna, but also of bird chewing lice.

FIFTY COMMON BIRDS OF THE UPPER MIDWEST, watercolors by Dana Gardner, text by Nancy Overcott, 2006. University of Iowa Press. 124 pp., 50 watercolor paintings, hardcover. ISBN: 0-87745-983-5, $334.50. Birds that are seen more commonly than others can seem less noteworthy than species that are rarely glimpsed. In this gathering of essays and illustrations celebrating fifty of the most common birds of the Upper Midwest the authors encourage us to take a closer look at these familiar birds with renewed appreciation for their not-so-ordinary beauty and life ways. The authors combine personal field observations with anecdotes and data from other ornithologists to portray each species' life cycle, its vocalizations and appearance, and its habitat, food, and foraging methods as well as migration patterns and distribution. These fifty species of the Upper Midwest will not be seen as common again!

RAPTORS IN YOUR POCKET: A guide to Great Plains Birds of Prey, by Dana Gardner, 2006. University of Iowa Press. ISBN: 0-87745-974-6, $9.95. This newest addition to Iowa's successful series of laminated guides is a welcome aid to identifying the many challenging raptors of the Great Plains, from northern Minnesota to northern Texas. Illustrator Dana Gardner has created fourteen panels showing twenty-six species perched and in flight with complete plumage variations-dark phases, light phases, and juvenile and adult male and female forms. The text also includes length and wingspan, common and scientific names, and status. Available for sale at bookstores or directly from the University of Iowa Press by phone or online (PH: 800-621-2736, URL: http://www.uiowapress.org). Customers in the United Kingdom, Europe, the Middle East, or Africa may order from the Eurospan Group online at http://www.eurospangroup.com/bookstore

WINGED INVADERS: PEST BIRDS OF THE ASIA-PACIFIC, Navjot S. Sodhi and Ilsa Sharp, 2006. SNP-International, Singapore. 208 pp, 152 mm x 227 mm, 24 pp color illustrations. ISBN: 981-248-065-X. Singapore$45.00 (before GST). Pest bird species, or perceived pest birds, have been a topic of public discussion for a few decades now in Asian cities. Increasing urbanization and the clearance of natural habitats in such cities have changed the balance between humans and nature, creating new space and opportunity for invasive bird species, both exotic new arrivals and natives. Some of these are perceived as a nuisance because they threaten indigenous species, are seen as 'dirty', or because they are suspected of carrying and spreading disease among humans. The latter suspicion has grown in the wake of the SARS crisis of early 2003 and, more recently, the Bird Flu virus outbreaks in Asia. What is the reality of the role played by so-called pest birds in urban ecology in the Asia Pacific? What factors promote their increase and spread in distribution? Do they need to be managed; if so, how? Is part of the desired management actually management of ourselves, of our lifestyles and environments? Or should these 'pests' be accepted and tolerated as part of nature? Perhaps even admired for their skill in adapting to human-dominated environments and their ability to survive? Can we learn any lessons for the future from their stories? Importantly, what role do they really play in the spread of disease? The authors give a lively snapshot of these feisty species - their place in history, their biology and life cycles, and what, if anything, can or should be done about them. It is important to teach ourselves how to distinguish between the 'pest' birds and their indigenous or less offensive counterparts, and to know when birds are indigenous or introduced/exotic. The book discusses general issues, management and control techniques, and also features detailed profiles of nine selected species: House Crow (Corvus splendens), Javan Myna (Acridotheres javanicus), Common Myna (Acridotheres tristis), Rock Pigeon (Columba livia), Eurasian Tree Sparrow (Passer montanus), Java Sparrow (Padda oryzivora), Barn Swallows (Hirundo rustica), and Cockatoo (Cacatua sulphurea) as well as capsules on - Asian Koel, Asian Glossy Starling, Barn Owl, Laughingthrush, Hwamei, Sooty-headed Bulbul, Red-whiskered Bulbul, Red Avadavat, Spotted Dove, Peaceful Dove, Mustached Parakeet, Rainbow Lorikeet, Scaly-breasted Munia, and Daurian Partridge. The information in this book will be of practical use to disease specialists, biologists, government agencies, environmental managers, town council managers, town planners and architects, students, and concerned and enquiring laymen and the general public. Available via SNP·INTERNATIONAL A SUBSIDIARY OF SNP CORPORATION LTD, 1 Kim Seng Promenade, #18-01 Great World City East Tower, Singapore 237994, (PH: (65) 6826 9600, FX: (65) 6820 3341, EM: snpinternational@snpcorp.com, URL: http://www.snpcorp.com, and On-line bookstore: http://www.myepb.com).

PARROTS OF THE WORLD: An Identification Guide, by Joseph M. Foreshaw, illustrated by Frank Knight, 2006. Princeton University Press. 400 pp., 120 color plates, 8 1/2" x 12", cloth, ISBN: 0-691-09251-6, $65.00. This volume covers parrots in homes, zoos, and in the wild, providing detailed descriptions of their identifying features, habitats and status, calls, habits, and distribution. It also addresses threats to the world's parrots from predators, international pet trade, hunting, disease, and conflicts with agriculture and development. More than 120 color plates provide the reader with detailed illustrations of a variety of parrots and their subspecies alongside maps of their worldwide distribution. Key features are: easy-to-use geographic guide; treats some 350 species; color distribution maps for all species; includes behavioral and ecological information. Princeton University Press (URL: http://www.nathist.princeton.edu).

ALDERNEY'S PUFFINS AND STORM Petrels, including Minority Report on Burhou, by Jeremy G. Sanders, 2006. 33 pp. It is the author's hope that this small booklet will publicize the plight of Burhou, promote proper action to save Burhou's seabirds, and to restore that small island at least to some extent to what it once was. JEREMY SANDERS (EM: jeremy.sanders@cwgsy.net).

Return to Top

Return to Issue Index

MEETINGS

A 'permanent' meeting list is maintained on BIRDNET (http://www.nmnh.si.edu/BIRDNET/BIRDMEET.html) that focuses mainly on meetings of the Societies that are members of the OC, showing the planned sites and dates of ornithological meetings as far into the future as possible. Note that BIRDNET also maintains a site for the International Ornithological Committee, which includes links to past and future Congresses, at http://www.i-o-c.org/IOComm/index.htm.

* in this section indicates new or revised entry

*XIV CONGRESSO BRASILEIRO DE ORNITOLOGIA, 2 - 6 Jul 2006, Ouro Preto, MG. O tema do XIV CBO é "Ornitologia e Economia: Desafios e Oportunidades Para a Ciência, a Conservação e a Geração de Riquezas" For further information visit the website (URL: http://www.ararajuba.org.br/xivcbo/).

GENETICS OF SPECIATION, American Genetics Association Annual Symposium, Co-sponsored by Molecular Ecology, 21-24 Jul 2006, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada. Conference organizer is LOREN RIESEBERG (EM: lriesebe@indiana.edu). The last decade has witnessed a transformation in our understanding of speciation genetics. This conference will attempt to synthesize what we already know and to suggest promising avenues for further research. The meeting will include invited and contributed talks, as well as poster and discussion sessions to encourage greater involvement of symposium participants. Funds will be made available for student travel and registration to promote broad participation: application deadline is 15 Apr 2006. . The symposium will be held at the University of British Columbia, Vancouver, which is next to the Pacific Ocean and the coastal mountains. Please visit the website for more information (URL: http://www.theaga.org/agasymposium/index.html).

The ANIMAL BEHAVIOR SOCIETY's 43rd annual meeting will be held 12-16 Aug 2006 in Snowbird, Utah, USA. We have an exciting schedule planned, including a Keynote Address by Tim Clutton-Brock (Cambridge University), a Distinguished Animal Behaviorist Address by Robert Trivers (Rutgers University), and a Fellow's Address by Carl Gerhardt (University of Missouri). Symposia include "Behavioral Syndromes" (organized by Andy Sih and Alison Bell) and "Sensory Ecology" (Tim Wright, Jenny Boughmann and Paige Warren), and there will be a workshop on Data Collection Software (organized by Sue Margulis). For further information see http://www.animalbehavior.org/ABS/Meetings/Snowbird06/, or contact the designated host JEFF GALEF (EM: galef@mcmaster.ca). Contact JILL MATEO, Acting Chair of the ABS Public Affairs Committee, for a press pass (EM: jmateo@uchicago.edu).

24TH INTERNATIONAL ORNITHOLOGICAL CONGRESS 2006, 13-19 Aug 2006, Hamburg, Germany. Call for contributions is closed. Website (URL: http://www.i-o-c.org).

4TH NORTH AMERICAN DUCK SYMPOSIUM, Ramkota Hotel, Bismarck, North Dakota, 23-26 Aug 2006. Organized by North Dakota Game and Fish Department, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Delta Waterfowl, Ducks Unlimited, Inc., USGS Northern Prairie Wildlife Research Center, North Dakota Chapter of The Wildlife Society, and Bureau of Reclamation. The conference theme is "Integrating Science and Duck Management." For more information and to register visit http://www.4nads.com, or contact MIKE JOHNSON (PH: 701-328-6319; EM: mjohnson@state.nd.us).

NEXT ANNUAL MEETING OF THE COOPER ORNITHOLOGICAL SOCIETY will be held in conjunction with the 4th North American Ornithological Conference 3-7 Oct 2006, in Veracruz City, Mexico.

*4th NORTH AMERICAN ORNITHOLOGICAL CONFERENCE, Veracruz City, Mexico, 3-7 Oct 2006. The 4th NAOC is being organized jointly by the American Ornithologists' Union, Cooper Ornithological Society, Society of Canadian Ornithologists-Société des Ornithologistes du Canada, Association of Field Ornithologists, Wilson Ornithological Society, Waterbird Society, Raptor Research Foundation, and Sección Mexicana del Consejo Internacional para la Preservación de las Aves - CIPAMEX (local host). The conference is also endorsed by the Neotropical Ornithological Society, Pacific Seabird Group, and Society for the Conservation and Study of Caribbean Birds. The conference theme is "Wings without Borders." The 4th NAOC will feature a rich scientific program, symposia, plenary lectures, business meetings of societies, and social activities. Pre-and post-conference activities will include training workshops, and birding, culture, and nature tours. Veracruz is home to a rich avifauna, with over 700 species reported for the state, of which >230 species are Neotropical migrants and >20 species are endemic to Mexico. The conference is scheduled to coincide with the peak of the migration season in the world's largest raptor migration bottleneck. The Steering Committee is co-chaired by CHARLES M. FRANCIS (EM: charles.francis@ec.gc.ca) and JOSÉ LUIS ALCÁNTARA (EM: jlalcant@colpos.mx). The Scientific Program Committee is co-chaired by JOHN FAABORG (University of Missouri, EM: faaborgj@missouri.edu), J. FRANCISCO ORNELAS (Instituto de Ecología, EM: ornelasj@ecologia.edu.mx), and MARIA DEL CORO ARIZMENDI (FES Iztacala, UNAM, EM: coro@servidor.unam.mx). The Scientific Program Committee issued a call for symposia in the early fall 2005 and currently has accepted 24 symposia and 13 workshops. The official Circular of Information was mailed to OSNA society members in Feb 2006 (available on-line at http://www.naoc2006.org/en/default.htm and in Spanish at http://www.naoc2006.org/es/default.htm). The Local Committee is co-chaired by JUAN E. MARTÍNEZ GÓMEZ (EM: j_martinez@islandendemics.org and ERNESTO RUELAS INZUNZA (EM: er99@cornell.edu). Local Sponsors include The Universidad Veracruzana, Instituto de Ecología, A.C., The Island Endemics Foundation, and the H. Ayuntamiento de Boca del Río, Veracruz. For information, contact HELEN SCHNEIDER, Conference Manager, 5400 Bosque Blvd., Suite 680, Waco, TX 76710. (PH: 25-776-3550, FX: 254-776-3767, EM: helens@sgmeet.com) and check the NAOC website for updates on organization (URL: http://www.naoc2006.org).

10TH AMERICAN WOODCOCK SYMPOSIUM (4-6 Oct 2006), hosted by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources at the Ralph A. MacMullan Conference Center near Grayling, MI. For more information visit the symposium website (URL: http://www.michigandnr.com/woodcock-symposium/)

*33rd ANNUAL CONFERENCE ON ECOSYSTEMS RESTORATION AND CREATION AT THE Trinkle Building, Hillsborough Community College, Plant City Campus, Plant City, FL (2-3 Nov 2006-First Announcement and CALL FOR PAPERS. This annual conference provides a forum for the nationwide exchange of results of the latest scientific research on restoration, creation, and management of not only freshwater and coastal wetland systems but also ecosystems including upland and transitional areas. Those interested in presenting a paper are invited to submit a short abstract, approximately 250 words by 30 Jun 2006 Topics include, but are not limited to, freshwater and marine wetland systems; upland systems, marsh, mangrove, and seagrass restoration; upland and mixed ecosystems restoration; mitigation, permitting and regulatory policies; mine reclamation, and management techniques. Abstracts should be sent to: PATRICK CANNIZZARO, Conference Coordinator, Hillsborough Community College, Dale Mabry Campus, 4001 W. Tampa Bay Blvd., Tampa, FL 33614 (PH: 813-253-7523, EM: pcannizzaro@hccfl.edu or fwebb@hccfl.edu, FX: 813-253-7521 or 813-757-2148). For more information including how to submit an abstract, please visit our website (URL: http://hccfl.edu/depts/detp/ecoconf.html).

CARNIVORES 2006: CONFERENCE ANNOUNCEMENT & CALL FOR PAPERS-Defenders of Wildlife is pleased to announce Carnivores 2006: Habitats, Challenges, and Possibilities. The conference will be held at the Hilton Hotel in St. Petersburg, Florida, 12-15 Nov 2006, and will feature three full days of sessions on terrestrial and marine carnivore issues, plus a poster session, field trip, silent auction, banquet and ambassador wolf sessions. Please visit our official conference website (URL: http://www.carnivoreconference.org) or leave a message (PH: 202-789-2844 x315) for complete Carnivores 2006 details.

VIII NEOTROPICAL ORNITHOLOGICAL CONGRESS will be held in Jun 2007 in Maturín (Monagas, Venezuela) together with the Unión Venezolana de Ornitología and our Secretary General will be Carlos Bosque.

AUSTRALASIAN ORNITHOLOGICAL CONFERENCE (AOC) is modeled after the annual AOU meetings, and has become the major ornithological conference for the Australasian region. Co-hosted by Birds Australia and the Ornithological Society of New Zealand, the next AOC will be held in Perth, Western Australia, in Dec 2007, following the annual conference of the Ecological Society of Australia. For early information about AOC 2007, contact SUE MATHER (EM: mather@cygnus.uwa.edu.au) and watch the website (URL: http://www.birdsaustralia.com.au).

Return to Top

Return to Issue Index

Ornithological Societies of North America

The Ornithological Newsletter
On-Line

INDEX

VISIT THE ORNITHOLOGICAL SOCIETIES OF NORTH AMERICA

ORGANIZATION NEWS

NEWS AND ANNOUNCEMENTS

NEWS FROM THE ORNITHOLOGICAL COUNCIL

REQUESTS FOR ASSISTANCE

POSITIONS AND OPPORTUNITIES AVAILABLE

GRANTS AND AWARDS

PUBLICATIONS AVAILABLE

PERSONAL EXCHANGES

MEETINGS

NEWS OF MEMBERS

THE FLOCK - SPECIAL SECTION