The Audubon Observer, March 2024
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CROSBY SANCTUARY NATIVE PLANT GARDEN EXPANSION
A grant from the National Audubon Society is funding the project as part of its Plants for Birds initiative. Plants native to our area are much better suited for local home landscapes since they are both drought and deluge resistant, pest resistant, and can tolerate the heat of our summers and occasional freezes in winter. They support the native insect population, which in turn supports the native birds, especially when they are nesting and have growing chicks to feed. Native plants also grow the seeds and berries that our local and migrating birds need. A yard full of beautiful exotic plants has none of these qualities and requires extensive watering and chemical support, so a native garden can save money, reduce water use, and minimize or eliminate the need for polluting pesticides, fertilizers, and weed killers. Learn more about making your yard bird-friendly with our article, “Creating Bird-Friendly Habitat.” Come see our native plant garden at Crosby as we work to expand and improve it! Crosby is open to the public from 8 am until noon on the third and fourth Saturday of every month (except June, July, and December). Find us at 427 Aquarius Concourse, Orange Park, FL. VOLUNTEERS NEEDED!
The Spring 2024 monitoring session (March 15 - May 15) is coming up fast, and we could use your help! Volunteering for Lights Out Northeast Florida involves walking an assigned route in downtown Jacksonville once a week during the monitoring session in search of dead or injured birds. All supplies and training will be provided. Learn more and apply here. CHAPTER TREASURER: Our current treasurer Helen Kehrt is resigning from Duval Audubon’s Board of Directors at the end of June 2024 after four years of dedicated service to the organization, and we are looking for a new treasurer to join our board and support the chapter in achieving our mission, “Connecting people with nature, conserving and restoring natural ecosystems, focusing on birds and other wildlife.”
“The Treasurer is the custodian of the Chapter’s funds and is responsible for keeping accounts, depositing receipts, and disbursing funds in accordance with the Board’s direction and Chapter policy. Also, the position is responsible for filing required forms and reporting with regulatory agencies such as the State of Florida and the Internal Revenue Service. The number of volunteer hours can range from 15-25 hours per month.” Experience with bookkeeping or accounting is helpful but not required. If you would like to support our organization and help us continue to provide expert-led field trips, fascinating informational programs, community outreach, and involvement in important conservation initiatives, please complete our online application, and we will get back with you soon. Thank you! BIRD STEWARDING: Like to hang out at the beach? Do you have a few hours to spend at the beach and a willingness to learn and share information about our nesting birds? You can help beach-nesting birds raise their young in safety by becoming a Bird Steward! Attend our training from 10 am until noon on Friday, April 12th at the Ribault Club. RSVP to Chris Farrell at chris.farrell@audubon.org for details. MARCH BIRDING EVENTS The month of March brings the first signs of spring, with warmer weather and the start of songbird migration season. Spring is also a great time to participate in nature-focused festivals and events. Here are some upcoming events in our general area celebrating all things birds and nature:
Raptor Run 3K, 8 – 10 am, Sunday, March 10, 2024. Hosted by the St. Augustine Alligator Farm, participants can run or walk to help save native wildlife species in Florida! Proceeds from this all-ages race will go to benefit the Audubon Center for Birds of Prey, which focuses on the rescue, medical treatment, rehabilitation, and release of Florida’s raptors. Register to participate.
FLORIDA FIDDLE FEST FUNDRAISER
After the benefit concert, many audience members stayed for some fun and easy Contra Dancing accompanied by the Acacia musicians. We are deeply grateful to Acacia Arts Academy for hosting this fundraiser, and also to everyone who attended. All donations will support our educational outreach, conservation initiatives, and engagement with our Northeast Florida community. You can learn more about Duval Audubon Society on our website, and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube. UPCOMING ACTIVITIES Here's what's happening this month:
Hope to see you soon! All content by editor Carol Bailey-White unless otherwise noted. Duval Audubon Society, Inc.
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Exciting developments at our 
The expanded native garden will include a walking path as well as an entrance arbor featuring 
The treasurer is a critical member of the Board of Directors and has an essential role in our ability to continue to provide the 
7 Creeks Fest
Woodstork Festival
Last month, musicians from 
Bird Walk for Beginners @ Fort Caroline National Memorial
