Date: 2/25/26 9:26 am From: Jean Brocklebank <jeanbean...> Subject: Re: [MBBIRDS] NYTimes.com: Hoping for a Lively Spring? Welcome the Woodpeckers.
Maybe we shouldn't be williy nilly removing all "dead" and "dying" trees in the name of FireWise. Dead and dying is a human resource social term. The epitome of hubris. All trees are habitat for non-human species.
Want to live rurally? Harden your human home; don't take away (destroy) the homes of other species.
Jean
On Feb 25, 2026, at 8:55 AM, larry corridon wrote:
> I usually think about bluebirds when I think about bird boxes, volunteering with the bluebird box project at Quail Hollow. Maybe we should start considering more woodpecker boxes since a lot of their habitat has been lost as dead and dying trees are removed from the habitat.
>
> Larry
>
> Hoping for a Lively Spring? Welcome the Woodpeckers.
>
> The males of the species prepare for mating season by excavating nests for the approval of the females — and even other birds and animals.
>
> https://www.nytimes.com/2026/02/24/realestate/hoping-for-a-lively-spring-welcome-the-woodpeckers.html?<unlocked_article_code...>&smid=em-share
Date: 2/25/26 8:55 am From: larry corridon <larry961357...> Subject: [MBBIRDS] NYTimes.com: Hoping for a Lively Spring? Welcome the Woodpeckers.
I usually think about bluebirds when I think about bird boxes, volunteering with the bluebird box project at Quail Hollow. Maybe we should start considering more woodpecker boxes since a lot of their habitat has been lost as dead and dying trees are removed from the habitat.
Larry
Hoping for a Lively Spring? Welcome the Woodpeckers.
The males of the species prepare for mating season by excavating nests for the approval of the females — and even other birds and animals.
Date: 2/22/26 11:47 pm From: Alexander Gaguine <alexandergaguine...> Subject: [MBBIRDS] Shrike in Davenport
This evening at 5:15 a Loggerhead Shrike was catching the sunset from power lines off Highway 1, at the northern end of Cement Plant Rd. Breast looked almost peachy in that light, but soon returned to white.
I highly recommend visiting nearby Cotoni-Coast Dairies, “National Conservation Lands” within the California Coastal National Monument. The trail system is brand new and well thought out, with very consistent and easy gradients, and therefore an interesting windy layout. Designed to withstand bikes - we shall see. Cattle are grazing, but fenced out of the creek bottoms. Trails push beyond the pasture lands and up into redwood canyons.
Alexander
I was an officer at the time with Todd, Barry McGlaughlin, and Clay Kempf.
We wanted to develop a website and post the newsletter on it. There was
going to be pushback from some of the longtime officers who thought if
people could get the newsletter for free then they would not become
members. It was our opinion that getting our organization out there would
attract more members*. Todd was the new Prez and at dinner before we
discussed it.
We were frustrated by the resistance to creating an online presence and a
little concerned that a vote might stall or end the move to create the
website. Todd said to just do it and talk about it after it was done. The
facts on the ground are often hard to argue with. Once it was up and
running it was quite popular and a non-issue.
I think Todd was also a majordomo of the listserve MMB in the beginning. He
also led lots of trips.
Todd had been a birder in his youth, birding with some of the early giants
in ornithology including Ludlow Grisham and others. He stopped birding when
he became a founding professor at UCSC then took it back up when he was
close to retirement. Being such an old hand at birding along with his
career teaching he was an excellent birder and mentor to many beginning
birders.He taught invertebrate biology and used to tell me. with his dry
sense of humour, that he had made a career out of teaching people the
mundane.
He was such an intelligent and multi-faceted person, playing the cello and
traveling to Europe. His wit and wisdom will be missed. I once told him I
would like to go to Madagascar. His response was to do it soon. His take on
life and travel was that you are really buying memories that last well
beyond the actual trip so the sooner you take that trip the longer you have
the memories and the better the investment.
A truly unique, erudite man, and a good friend.
Cliff Bixler
On Sun, Feb 22, 2026 at 12:51 AM Alexander Gaguine <
<alexandergaguine...> wrote:
> Hi
>
> During the Elkhorn Ranch SCBC trip today, the group stopped and talked a
> few minutes, remembering Todd Newberry.
>
> Do I remember correctly that, as the local phone-based Rare Bird Alert
> system was waning, and long before e-bird, Todd was the one who led the
> development of this here MBB communication system?
>
> Alexander
>
> --
> You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups
> "mbbirds" group.
> To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an
> email to mbbirds+<unsubscribe...>
> To view this discussion visit
> https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/mbbirds/<30D2E314-2449-479B-8BAE-001823FF229C...> > .
>
Date: 2/22/26 9:27 am From: Joseph Morlan <jmorlan...> Subject: Re: [MBBIRDS] more Todd Newberry
Yes. I have an archive going back to March of 1998 with an email titled "MBB - list owner's message." Before Google Groups, Todd hosted this mailing list on <majordomo...>
On Sun, 22 Feb 2026 00:51:17 -0800, Alexander Gaguine <alexandergaguine...> wrote:
>Hi > >During the Elkhorn Ranch SCBC trip today, the group stopped and talked a few minutes, remembering Todd Newberry. > >Do I remember correctly that, as the local phone-based Rare Bird Alert system was waning, and long before e-bird, Todd was the one who led the development of this here MBB communication system? > >Alexander -- Joseph Morlan, Pacifica, CA
Date: 2/22/26 12:51 am From: Alexander Gaguine <alexandergaguine...> Subject: [MBBIRDS] more Todd Newberry
Hi
During the Elkhorn Ranch SCBC trip today, the group stopped and talked a few minutes, remembering Todd Newberry.
Do I remember correctly that, as the local phone-based Rare Bird Alert system was waning, and long before e-bird, Todd was the one who led the development of this here MBB communication system?
Thank you to everyone for sharing their experiences with Todd. Mine were
somewhat different though equally impactful. I knew Todd as a teacher - he
was a world renowned invertebrate biologist and I got to take several field
classes from him including invertebrate biology while at UCSC as well as
several other fantastic courses. I recall him writing in large letters
across the black board in preparation for a visit to the intertidal at
Natural Bridges "ESCHEW VISTAS" He wanted us on our knees with faces up
close to really see the little critters attached to the rocks. But I
realize that this is the same approach he took to birding, that everyone
has shared so eloquently on this listserv - something along the lines of
pay attention and spend time actually seeing what you are seeing. I am a
better, more observant birder because of what he taught me about viewing
the intertidal and will be forever in his debt for how he helped me see our
natural world.
Brad Keitt
On Mon, Feb 16, 2026 at 12:19 PM Shantanu Phukan <phukan...>
wrote:
> My fondest memory of Todd was during a mid-spring day (I forget which
> year) when I attended a walk he was leading at Waddell Creek. Olive Sided
> Flycatchers had just returned for the summer and were singing up a storm on
> the high cliffs above us. It's a pretty distinctive song, and everyone
> could hear it and understand its mnemonic (quick-THREE-beers); but Todd
> stopped the group to tell us about what we were NOT hearing--the urgent
> pip-pip-pip call, and another call that I think I have never heard to this
> day. This, then, served as a springboard for a foray into bird names and
> why seemingly invisible traits (like the olive sides, or the red belly of
> the woodpecker) make it into bird names but other, more visible traits, do
> not. And so on. I was utterly charmed by the asides. It was an illustration
> of how bird identification could (and should) serve as a springboard for a
> whole host of other queries which make our lives richer. It was birding in
> its most expansive--and most human--sense. I have never experienced a bird
> walk like that again--ever.
> Shantanu Phukan
>
> --
> You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups
> "mbbirds" group.
> To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an
> email to mbbirds+<unsubscribe...>
> To view this discussion visit
> https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/mbbirds/<82c278a7-6f77-bc2e-f673-0d41c064cc2d...> > .
>
I had a similar experience to Gary’s more than 15 years ago. I joined a hike with Todd at the Arboretum and Todd soon advised us that a song we were hearing belonged to a California Thrasher. We waited quietly until the thrasher appeared and then disappeared back into the shrubbery. Then the moment that I have remembered ever since happened. Todd pulled out his Sony Walkman and played a slowed down version of a California Thrasher’s song that he had recorded in the past. I was astonished by the nuances that we hadn’t been able to hear. What a wonderful teacher he was, ready to enrich the moment we were experiencing. It has become a powerful reminder to me ever since about the power of slowing down and listening. Rest in peace dear Todd!
Barbara Riverwoman
> On Feb 16, 2026, at 10:43 AM, Gary Martindale <garymartindale6621...> wrote:
>
> I count myself lucky to have crossed paths with Todd Newberry. Circa 2010 my introduction to Todd was through Watsonville Wetlands Watch docent training where he taught a Thursday evening class on Birding. It was my initiation into a journey of learning both the science and the art of observing our avian friends. One fond memory of Todd happened just over a year later when my wife and I signed up for a bird walk around Watsonville's wetlands as part of the Monterey Bay Birding Festival. During the walk Todd was calling out birds he was hearing along the Struve Slough trail. I was in awe of his ability to identify birds from their songs and calls. When I commented on his expertise, he pulled out a Sony Walkman and proceeded to playback a Song Sparrow song he had produced. He discussed the intricacies and importance of bird songs and calls. He then played a slowed down playback of the same Song Sparrow song, to demonstrate the complexity of the notes and cadence that are unique to that species; each song and call communicating information that is essential to the survival of that species. All the while Song Sparrows popped up surrounding us with these curious sparrows. These were formative experiences under the thoughtful mentoring of an Ardent Birder.
>
> Thank you Todd Newberry for the lasting legacy that lives on in our community of ardent birders.
>
> Good birding,
> Gary Martindale
>
>
> On Mon, Feb 16, 2026 at 8:15 AM 'Richard Griffith' via mbbirds <mbbirds...> <mailto:<mbbirds...>> wrote:
>> We too are saddened to hear of Todd's passing. We have cherished memories of joining him on many birding outings be they to Jetty Road, Moonglow, Waddell Creek, and especially the UCSC Arboretum where we were regulars at his Saturday morning walks. We never tired of his stories even if we had heard them many times. He would always encourage participants to take away one key memory of the walk even if it wasn't of a bird. One memory at the Arboretum stands out: A rising sun shining through the fog backlighting a dew covered spider web. Don't remember what birds we saw that day, but we'll always remember that spider web. We will miss the Ardent Birder. Thanks Todd for all the times we shared together.
>>
>> Rich Griffith and Margaret Perham
>>> On 02/15/2026 2:25 PM PST 'Elizabeth Van Dyke' via mbbirds <mbbirds...> <mailto:<mbbirds...>> wrote:
>>>
>>>
>>> If you have not heard yet, Todd Newberry, a legend in the birding and other communities, passed away on Monday, February 9, 2026.
>>>
>>> I had the honor of being the Conservation Officer way back when Todd was President of the Santa Cruz Bird Club. He kindly and generously shared his time, knowledge and philosophy with many in the community. As I write this and hear the birdsong in my yard, I thank Todd for opening the doors to understanding each of these voices.
>>>
>>> He was a founding faculty member in biology when UC Santa Cruz opened in 1965.
>>>
>>> If anyone has a Todd story I’m sure others will appreciate hearing about it.
>>>
>>> Here is a link to the UC Santa Cruz Regional History Project titled "Todd Newberry: Professor of Biology”. It is an oral history by Randall Jerrell with contributions by Irene Reti.
>>>
>>>
>>> escholarship.org <https://escholarship.org/uc/item/79k9m51b> <https://escholarship.org/uc/item/79k9m51b> >>>
>>> ==
>>>
>>> This is a link to one of his books titled "The Ardent Birder".

>>> The Ardent Birder: On the Craft of Birdwatching <https://www.amazon.com/Ardent-Birder-Craft-Birdwatching/dp/1580087159/ref=sr_1_1?crid=OYX0WDER6XEZ&<dib...>&dib_tag=se&keywords=the+ardent+birder&qid=1771191970&sprefix=the+arsent+bird%2Caps%2C221&sr=8-1> >>> amazon.com <https://www.amazon.com/Ardent-Birder-Craft-Birdwatching/dp/1580087159/ref=sr_1_1?crid=OYX0WDER6XEZ&<dib...>&dib_tag=se&keywords=the+ardent+birder&qid=1771191970&sprefix=the+arsent+bird%2Caps%2C221&sr=8-1> >>>
>>> Sincerely,
>>>
>>> Elizabeth Van Dyke
>>> Santa Cruz
>>>
>>>
>>> --
>>> You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "mbbirds" group.
>>> To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to mbbirds+<unsubscribe...> <mailto:mbbirds+<unsubscribe...>.
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>>
>>
>> --
>> You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "mbbirds" group.
>> To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to mbbirds+<unsubscribe...> <mailto:mbbirds+<unsubscribe...>.
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>
>
> --
> You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "mbbirds" group.
> To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to mbbirds+<unsubscribe...> <mailto:mbbirds+<unsubscribe...>.
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My fondest memory of Todd was during a mid-spring day (I forget which year) when I attended a walk he was leading at Waddell Creek. Olive Sided Flycatchers had just returned for the summer and were singing up a storm on the high cliffs above us. It's a pretty distinctive song, and everyone could hear it and understand its mnemonic (quick-THREE-beers); but Todd stopped the group to tell us about what we were NOT hearing--the urgent pip-pip-pip call, and another call that I think I have never heard to this day. This, then, served as a springboard for a foray into bird names and why seemingly invisible traits (like the olive sides, or the red belly of the woodpecker) make it into bird names but other, more visible traits, do not. And so on. I was utterly charmed by the asides. It was an illustration of how bird identification could (and should) serve as a springboard for a whole host of other queries which make our lives richer. It was birding in its most expansive--and most human--sense. I have never experienced a bird walk like that again--ever.
Shantanu Phukan
Date: 2/16/26 10:44 am From: Gary Martindale <garymartindale6621...> Subject: Re: [MBBIRDS] Todd Newberry
I count myself lucky to have crossed paths with Todd Newberry. Circa 2010
my introduction to Todd was through Watsonville Wetlands Watch docent
training where he taught a Thursday evening class on Birding. It was my
initiation into a journey of learning both the science and the art of
observing our avian friends. One fond memory of Todd happened just over a
year later when my wife and I signed up for a bird walk around
Watsonville's wetlands as part of the Monterey Bay Birding Festival. During
the walk Todd was calling out birds he was hearing along the Struve Slough
trail. I was in awe of his ability to identify birds from their songs and
calls. When I commented on his expertise, he pulled out a Sony Walkman and
proceeded to playback a Song Sparrow song he had produced. He discussed
the intricacies and importance of bird songs and calls. He then played a
slowed down playback of the same Song Sparrow song, to demonstrate the
complexity of the notes and cadence that are unique to that species; each
song and call communicating information that is essential to the survival
of that species. All the while Song Sparrows popped up surrounding us with
these curious sparrows. These were formative experiences under the
thoughtful mentoring of an Ardent Birder.
Thank you Todd Newberry for the lasting legacy that lives on in our
community of ardent birders.
Good birding,
Gary Martindale
On Mon, Feb 16, 2026 at 8:15 AM 'Richard Griffith' via mbbirds <
<mbbirds...> wrote:
Date: 2/16/26 10:43 am From: 'Nancy Collins' via mbbirds <mbbirds...> Subject: [MBBIRDS] Local sources for Todd's book, The Ardent Birder
Hello everyone,
The Santa Cruz Public Library system has The Ardent Birder and while shopping for winter holiday presents, I recall seeing the book in gift shops at the Santa Cruz Natural History Museum, UCSC Arboretum, Natural Bridges and SeaCliff State Parks.
Date: 2/16/26 10:39 am From: Jean Brocklebank <jeanbean...> Subject: Re: [MBBIRDS] Todd Newberry
Fortunately, The Ardent Birder is current at the Downtown brach of our public library system!! It can be reserved to be sent to any branch.
Jean
On Feb 16, 2026, at 9:33 AM, Kimberly Butts wrote:
> Hi all,
>
> I did not know Todd, but from reading all of your lovely notes I really wish I had.
> I reached out to Bookshop Santa Cruz when I didn't find his book on their website. They responded with the explanation that the publisher is out of stock and it is no longer in print. They gave an alternative website to use should you not want to use Amazon.
>
> <9781580087155_l.jpg>
> The Ardent Birder: On the Craft of Birdwatching
> alibris.com
>
> Cheers,
> -Kim Butts
Date: 2/16/26 8:15 am From: 'Richard Griffith' via mbbirds <mbbirds...> Subject: Re: [MBBIRDS] Todd Newberry
We too are saddened to hear of Todd's passing. We have cherished memories of joining him on many birding outings be they to Jetty Road, Moonglow, Waddell Creek, and especially the UCSC Arboretum where we were regulars at his Saturday morning walks. We never tired of his stories even if we had heard them many times. He would always encourage participants to take away one key memory of the walk even if it wasn't of a bird. One memory at the Arboretum stands out: A rising sun shining through the fog backlighting a dew covered spider web. Don't remember what birds we saw that day, but we'll always remember that spider web. We will miss the Ardent Birder. Thanks Todd for all the times we shared together.
I too am saddened to hear of Todd's passing. And as others have expressed, Todd was my birding mentor. I was fortunate to join many of his bird trips and to listen to his wonderful stories. Todd always said it takes just one bird to make a birders day, still holds true today. His book The Ardent Birder brings so many memories to mind. Time to pick it back up and read anew...
Thank you Todd for sharing your birding knowledge.
Anna Kopitov
AMK17
AMK17
-----Original Message-----
From: Lois Goldfrank <loisg...>
Sent: Feb 15, 2026 3:34 PM
To: Mbb Google Groups <mbbirds...>
Subject: Re: [MBBIRDS] Todd Newberry
Wally and I arrived at Merrill College in 1968, and Todd and Louise were among our first friends here. We were not birders then, and I don’t know even if Todd was actively birding . But we went on one of our first bird walks with him about 20 years later at the Arboretum and were quickly hooked. He showed us many of his favorite places and patiently answered our questions, often by posing others, as the wonderful teacher he was.
My favorite memory took place at the Arboretum years later.Early one morning I was walking down a path, partly hidden by trees. As I came around a corner, there stood Todd - with a strip of red felt on the top of his head. He looked a little surprised to see me, and I was very surprised by the red fabric he was sporting. What was he doing? Imitating a Ruby -crowned Kingletto see if he could get it to show its crown! Apparently once he’d seen this happen to a redheaded student so, always the scientist, he was conducting his own experiment.
Here’s to Todd, an Ardent Birder indeed!
On Feb 15, 2026, at 2:56 PM, Lorrie Klosterman <loklosterman...> wrote:
About 10 years ago, Todd was leading a bird walk for docents at Año Nuevo State Park. I was delighted at the opportunity to learn from a master, eager to learn which birds we might see while guiding a tour. He was surprisingly (to me at that time) casual about needing to identify everything. "You can always figure that out," he counseled, and instead encouraged us to enjoy the ecosystem and it's greater ecology. I think of that periodically, and sometimes give myself permission to not identify whatever flits by when I'm on a walk (you know how tempting/addictive that is). "It's a bird," I declare, and let it disappear into the landscape.Thanks for posting,
Lorrie Klosterman
Berkeley and Santa Cruz
On Sun, Feb 15, 2026, 14:25 'Elizabeth Van Dyke' via mbbirds <mbbirds...> (mailto:<mbbirds...>)> wrote:
If you have not heard yet, Todd Newberry, a legend in the birding and other communities, passed away on Monday, February 9, 2026.
I had the honor of being the Conservation Officer way back when Todd was President of the Santa Cruz Bird Club. He kindly and generously shared his time, knowledge and philosophy with many in the community. As I write this and hear the birdsong in my yard, I thank Todd for opening the doors to understanding each of these voices.
He was a founding faculty member in biology when UC Santa Cruz opened in 1965.
If anyone has a Todd story I’m sure others will appreciate hearing about it.
Here is a link to the UC Santa Cruz Regional History Project titled "Todd Newberry: Professor of Biology”. It is an oral history by Randall Jerrell with contributions by Irene Reti.
I just learned of Todd’s passing and I am very sad about it.
I loved birding with Todd and absolutely loved his sense of humor. More
often than not, the stories he would share with us on one of his walks had
tasty nougat of birding information buried in them.
He was an excellent instructor and really brought some extra fun to the
sport.
He will be sorely missed,
Nickie
On Sun, Feb 15, 2026 at 3:33 PM Linda Brodman <redwdrn...> wrote:
Thank you, Elizabeth, for letting the bird community about gentle-spirited Todd.
I like to take you up on the story telling:
A long time ago I went to one of his talks @ the UCSC Arboretum. I was early - so I meandered around the Botanic Garden ~ just watching birds ~ when I saw a man starring @ a bush. I walked up to him & asked what he was watching & he’s said "Birds”. I admitted I love doing that, too. So we had this delightful exchange of quirky bird behavior stories, peppered w/lots of laughter. I told him that I was excited to hear Todd Newberry's talk, although I was a lousy birder, because I tend to get lost in just observing their behaviors. His replied that my observation trend made me a good birder. We parted ways. Encouraged by his remark, I went to the talk & almost keeled over when the speaker was introduced: He was the man with whom I had just exchanged funny feather vignettes & his talk was excellent.
Many years later I got to tell him how grateful I was for his gift of setting me free to be a ‘quirky’ birder. He belly-laughed & said ”Good for you”. He was a Mensch through & through, gifting us so much of his bird passion.
A Chirpy Thank You, Todd, for sharing so generously with us.
jane mio
> On Feb 15, 2026, at 2:25 PM, 'Elizabeth Van Dyke' via mbbirds <mbbirds...> wrote:
>
> If anyone has a Todd story I’m sure others will appreciate hearing about it.
Like many others, I'm very sorry to hear the news.
Todd was one of my first birding mentors. As David noted, he was also a
phenomenal teacher. Here are paraphrased, four birding wisdoms that I
learned from Todd:
* It's not just a name with wings or feathers. Make a little bit of
effort to really observe and maybe learn a little about the bird's
life history. At minimum, note what it's doing, you may be in for a
fun surprise.
* Birds live in the moment. Most have a very short life. Keep in mind
that small perching birds (passarines), can complete a full life
cycle in 12 months. That includes, birth, growing to reproductive
maturity, breeding, and then passing on like Todd.
* There's nothing wrong with going outside (chasing) to see X bird
species. And when you miss X species and instead see Y species,
enjoy it. Every time you go birding, be open to an "Audubon Moment",
whatever it may be.
* As Lorrie and Larry recalled, Todd would tell us: When you first
arrive at a birding destination; Stop, look around, and listen.
Settle in for a few minutes to just absorb where you are, and what
the natural environment around you looks, smells, and sounds like.
As some point in your birding walk, stop in one place again. Listen
and observe unobtrusively to the side for some 15 or 20 minutes.
Give the birds a chance to grace you with that amazing "Audubon Moment".
And one story because Todd also had a great sense of humor. Less folks
think that Todd not particularly grounded...
At one point we were chasing a bird with Todd, trying to look into some
thicket or reeds, and the skulky bird would not appear. After a few
minutes, Todd muttered something about throwing a firecracker into the
bush to flush the bird! Never mind that this came from a man with
doctorate in marine biology from Stanford University. A full professor
of biology at UCSC, that for decades would routinely win teaching awards
from students. As the gentleman that he was, Todd would never have
thrown a firecracker, but his saying it in the moment, broke the
tension, and reminded us of the fun craziness of what we were doing.
Rest in peace Todd, many of us have wonderful memories of you.
Wally and I arrived at Merrill College in 1968, and Todd and Louise were among our first friends here. We were not birders then, and I don’t know even if Todd was actively birding . But we went on one of our first bird walks with him about 20 years later at the Arboretum and were quickly hooked. He showed us many of his favorite places and patiently answered our questions, often by posing others, as the wonderful teacher he was.
My favorite memory took place at the Arboretum years later.Early one morning I was walking down a path, partly hidden by trees. As I came around a corner, there stood Todd - with a strip of red felt on the top of his head. He looked a little surprised to see me, and I was very surprised by the red fabric he was sporting. What was he doing? Imitating a Ruby -crowned Kinglet
to see if he could get it to show its crown! Apparently once he’d seen this happen to a redheaded student so, always the scientist, he was conducting his own experiment.
Elizabeth, and all,
Thank you for sharing about Todd's passing.
He was a wonderful friend, and I will cherish my memories with him on bird walks, especially up at the UCSC Arboretum and Botanic Garden.
With caring regards,Linda Brodman
On Sunday, February 15, 2026 at 03:08:16 PM PST, larry corridon <larry961357...> wrote:
I was lucky enough to go on one of the last walks I believe that Todd lead for the bird club.. It was at Waddell Creek and it was a listening walk. Although I had my binoculars Todd did not have any and I barely used mine as he pointed out the songs of the birds along that walk. It stands out to this day as one of the best walks I’ve taken as I learned to listen and not just look. I bought the Ardent Birder after that walk. I got it on Amazon and felt guilty because Todd didn't receive any royalty from buying a used book. I contacted him and offered to pay him and he said it didn't matter. It was reading the book and enjoying and learning about birds that counted.
Larry Corridon
On Feb 15, 2026, at 14:45, David Suddjian <dsuddjian...> wrote:
I am very sorry to learn of Todd's passing. I have fond memories of him, and a great respect for his natural history and biology knowledge. I loved his keen curiosity to learn more and his desire to help others learn, too. Todd was a past president of the SCBC and led many Club field trips over a number of years. I recall his regular Father's Day field trips, when every bird was an honorary father. And his field trips on Super Bowl Sunday when the bird species tally sought to beat the game score. I heartily recommend his book "The Arden Birder." It has so many great insights and is a fun read.
David SuddjianLittleton, CO
On Sun, Feb 15, 2026 at 3:25 PM 'Elizabeth Van Dyke' via mbbirds <mbbirds...> wrote:
If you have not heard yet, Todd Newberry, a legend in the birding and other communities, passed away on Monday, February 9, 2026.
I had the honor of being the Conservation Officer way back when Todd was President of the Santa Cruz Bird Club. He kindly and generously shared his time, knowledge and philosophy with many in the community. As I write this and hear the birdsong in my yard, I thank Todd for opening the doors to understanding each of these voices.
He was a founding faculty member in biology when UC Santa Cruz opened in 1965.
If anyone has a Todd story I’m sure others will appreciate hearing about it.
Here is a link to the UC Santa Cruz Regional History Project titled "Todd Newberry: Professor of Biology”. It is an oral history by Randall Jerrell with contributions by Irene Reti.
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| escholarship.org | <favicon.ico> |
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This is a link to one of his books titled "The Ardent Birder".
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| The Ardent Birder: On the Craft of Birdwatchingamazon.com |
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Sincerely,
Elizabeth Van DykeSanta Cruz
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I was lucky enough to go on one of the last walks I believe that Todd lead for the bird club.. It was at Waddell Creek and it was a listening walk. Although I had my binoculars Todd did not have any and I barely used mine as he pointed out the songs of the birds along that walk. It stands out to this day as one of the best walks I’ve taken as I learned to listen and not just look. I bought the Ardent Birder after that walk. I got it on Amazon and felt guilty because Todd didn't receive any royalty from buying a used book. I contacted him and offered to pay him and he said it didn't matter. It was reading the book and enjoying and learning about birds that counted.
About 10 years ago, Todd was leading a bird walk for docents at Año Nuevo
State Park. I was delighted at the opportunity to learn from a master,
eager to learn which birds we might see while guiding a tour. He was
surprisingly (to me at that time) casual about needing to identify
everything. "You can always figure that out," he counseled, and instead
encouraged us to enjoy the ecosystem and it's greater ecology. I think of
that periodically, and sometimes give myself permission to not identify
whatever flits by when I'm on a walk (you know how tempting/addictive that
is). "It's a bird," I declare, and let it disappear into the landscape.
Thanks for posting,
Lorrie Klosterman
Berkeley and Santa Cruz
On Sun, Feb 15, 2026, 14:25 'Elizabeth Van Dyke' via mbbirds <
<mbbirds...> wrote:
Date: 2/15/26 2:53 pm From: Phil Brown <pdpbrown...> Subject: Re: [MBBIRDS] Todd Newberry
I too am sad to hear this news, I knew Todd from his trip leading and
learnt much from him. In addition to all the above I would like to mention
that this listserver was created, managed and hosted by Todd for many
years. Everyone who can read this owes him a debt of gratitude, MBB
(Monterey Bay Birds) has been not only a source of bird information and
bird news, but it has helped create the wonderful and inclusive birding
community that flourishes in our counties.
Phil Brown
On Sun, Feb 15, 2026 at 2:46 PM David Suddjian <dsuddjian...> wrote:
I am very sorry to learn of Todd's passing. I have fond memories of him,
and a great respect for his natural history and biology knowledge. I loved
his keen curiosity to learn more and his desire to help others learn, too.
Todd was a past president of the SCBC and led many Club field trips over a
number of years. I recall his regular Father's Day field trips, when every
bird was an honorary father. And his field trips on Super Bowl Sunday when
the bird species tally sought to beat the game score. I heartily recommend
his book "The Arden Birder." It has so many great insights and is a fun
read.
David Suddjian
Littleton, CO
On Sun, Feb 15, 2026 at 3:25 PM 'Elizabeth Van Dyke' via mbbirds <
<mbbirds...> wrote:
Date: 2/15/26 2:25 pm From: 'Elizabeth Van Dyke' via mbbirds <mbbirds...> Subject: [MBBIRDS] Todd Newberry
If you have not heard yet, Todd Newberry, a legend in the birding and other communities, passed away on Monday, February 9, 2026.
I had the honor of being the Conservation Officer way back when Todd was President of the Santa Cruz Bird Club. He kindly and generously shared his time, knowledge and philosophy with many in the community. As I write this and hear the birdsong in my yard, I thank Todd for opening the doors to understanding each of these voices.
He was a founding faculty member in biology when UC Santa Cruz opened in 1965.
If anyone has a Todd story I’m sure others will appreciate hearing about it.
Here is a link to the UC Santa Cruz Regional History Project titled "Todd Newberry: Professor of Biology”. It is an oral history by Randall Jerrell with contributions by Irene Reti.
This afternoon between 3:00 and 4:30, about a dozen people were greatly entertained by what I assume is the same mated pair from last year? They were both so cooperative and after a time moved from way over in the Euchs nearer the beach to right across the lagoon from us. The male flying directly over, and then to the back of lagoon to fish. Although I didn't see him, he did procure dinner, which he appeared unwilling to share with the begging female and flew off with what looked like part of a large fish.
If I'm remembering correctly, last year folks reported that what at first was just identified as a juvenile, turned out to be his new young mate. Today it was easy to see the full white head and tail of the adult male, while the female still had some brown streaks on the back of her head and very tip of her tail.
A love-ly ending to the second day of the GBBcount! Great birding everyone, Cindy
Date: 2/12/26 6:57 am From: 'Lisa Sheridan' via mbbirds <mbbirds...> Subject: [MBBIRDS] NYTimes: Looking at ‘The Goldfinch,’ and Thinking About Extinction
Date: 2/9/26 5:33 pm From: larry corridon <larry961357...> Subject: [MBBIRDS] NYTimes.com: These Birds Are of Different Feathers, but They Flock Together
This is a pretty interesting article. I wonder if anybody on MBB might've seen something like this. I suspect most of us have seen one species of bird feeding the young of another species. I see that at my feeders quite often.
These Birds Are of Different Feathers, but They Flock Together
Researchers and volunteers in Texas documented birds of different species preening one another. Experts say the behavior may be more common than documented.
Today's Santa Cruz Bird Club trip to Panoche Valley was embraced by 38 enthusiastic birders, and it did not disappoint. Our first stop of the day at Red Rock seemed fairly routine, with no birds of prey, but scope views of singing CALIFORNIA THRASHERS, and heard-only WRENTITS. A couple people spotted a CHIPPING SPARROW, but better views were desired. Shortly afterwards, a pair of cooperative PHAINOPEPLA were spotted, providing a few birders with their first lifers of the day. Two BALD EAGLES lost their status for "birds of the day" when an AMERICAN BADGER was spotted nearby, and prematurely declared "the guaranteed best bird of the day". Good sightings continued, including a skulking RUFOUS-CROWNED SPARROW in the expected spot, and a bit later, a dark-morph FERRUGINOUS HAWK, offering some potential bird of the day competition. Early morning requests for a PRAIRIE FALCON sighting were granted when the Ferrugie chased one off of a nearby power pole. LARK SPARROWS were spotted along the way shortly before we stopped for lunch at the Panoche Inn. At the Inn and surrounding area, a RED-BREASTED SAPSUCKER, a GOLDEN EAGLE, and another PRAIRIE FALCON were spotted. After lunch, we had our first MOUNTAIN BLUEBIRDS of the day, and light morph FERRUGINOUS HAWKS seemed to start appearing everywhere. One field alone held SIX "Ferrugies" along with a couple NORTHERN HARRIERS and more PRAIRIE FALCONS. LOGGERHEAD SHRIKES were being spotted, and a couple cars had looks at a GREATER ROADRUNNER. We spotted another endangered mammal with several NELSON'S ANTELOPE SQUIRRELS, but efforts to find Mountain Plovers were in vain. However, scanning for the plovers led to seeing a KIT FOX duo soaking up the afternoon sun, and entering into the 'bird of the day" candidacy. HORNED LARKS and a MERLIN were an added bonus.
Photos of the dark (rufous)-morph Ferrugie and the Badger can be seen here https://pbase.com/ternvomitthief/recent_photos, along with some photos taken last week of other birds we saw today.
Thanks to everyone who joined in, helped find birds and mammals, and contributed to a fun and productive day in the field. I'm looking forward to our next trip already.
Just in case any of you on E-bird get an alert about a Barred Owl , it was a Barn Owl that we saw at College Lake, not, unfortunately, a Barred. But you probably knew that…my bad because I made the list.
Date: 2/6/26 7:26 pm From: Phil Brown <pdpbrown...> Subject: Re: [MBBIRDS] Myrtle subspecies?
Hi Bethany,
Sorry but no. there does appear to be yellow on the throat, which would
eliminate Myrtle immediately, and there is no trace of a pale supercilium,
so Audubon's,
Phil
On Fri, Feb 6, 2026, 19:10 Bethany Kilzer <storytel...> wrote:
> Hi All,
>
> This season a yellow-rumped warbler that has been visiting my feeder is
> different from other years; usually I get grayer ones that I think are
> Audubon’s. Might this be the myrtle subspecies?
>
> Thanks,
> Bethany
>
>
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This season a yellow-rumped warbler that has been visiting my feeder is different from other years; usually I get grayer ones that I think are Audubon’s. Might this be the myrtle subspecies?
It has been a treat lately with 3 owl species calling: Great Horned, Northern Saw-whet, and Western Screech. I looked at my perpetual calendar (where I write down arrivals and happenings for years on one calendar), and it noted a 3 owl night at the same time in 2022. It makes for a lovely late night chorus!
Male hooded oriole seen and heard at Aptos Creek. North side of Aptos Creek above second bridge at end of private road. Staccato call, unmistakable bird. Commonly nest in proximity.
Date: 2/6/26 10:38 am From: Phil Brown <pdpbrown...> Subject: [MBBIRDS] Panoche valley trip
Hi All, I am going to attend the Panoche valley trip tomorrow, and am interested in carpooling, please let me know if anyone is also interested. I can drive or be a passenger, whichever suits, Phil Brown
Date: 1/31/26 7:32 pm From: Phil Brown <pdpbrown...> Subject: Re: [MBBIRDS] Painted Redstart Report
Except Redstart aft avfeeder seems unlikely, Phil Brown
On Sat, Jan 31, 2026, 16:30 Kent Johnson <kentjohnson...> wrote:
> A Painted Redstart is not impossible - they do make it to Northern > California occasionally - but I wonder if someone who is not an active > birder could think that a Spotted Towhee was one. > > Hoping he is right, Kent Johnson > ------------------------------ > *From:* <mbbirds...> <mbbirds...> on behalf of > Deborah Diersch <debbiediersch...> > *Sent:* Saturday, January 31, 2026 12:25 PM > *To:* <MBBIRDS...> <mbbirds...>; <jv...> < > <jv...> > *Subject:* [MBBIRDS] Painted Redstart Report > > Hi Everyone, > > I am posting this for Jim Vahl who sent it to me at > the scbirdclubeditor email address. Can you help him with the ID'ing of > this bird he saw at his feeder yesterday (January 30th)? Here is the > description that Jim provided to me: > > ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ > I am not an active birder, but we keep a copy of Field Guide to Western > Birds on hand to try to identify the many birds which visit our property. > which is located on N Rodeo Gulch Rd about 4 miles up from Soquel. Earlier > today we had an unusual visitor on our kitchen patio, where we had a good > look. The bird keyed out to be a *Painted Redstart,* which was listed as > ""Strays Visit s. California." I'm emailing you because I wasn't sure how > rare this is, and I didn't know how else to report it. > > Thanks, > Jim Vahl > > ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- > Thanks everyone for your assistance with this! > > Debbie > SC Bird Club Newsletter Editor > > -- > You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups > "mbbirds" group. > To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an > email to mbbirds+<unsubscribe...> > To view this discussion visit > https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/mbbirds/CAFw6txXZ838FqZzBKWHquBK5vqrL5cH637NHOgtCdt%<2Bw72-JxA...> > <https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/mbbirds/CAFw6txXZ838FqZzBKWHquBK5vqrL5cH637NHOgtCdt%<2Bw72-JxA...>?utm_medium=email&utm_source=footer> > . > > -- > You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups > "mbbirds" group. > To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an > email to mbbirds+<unsubscribe...> > To view this discussion visit > https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/mbbirds/<BL1PPFCDE88AB43B883C50D296F231FAA1AAA9DA...> > <https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/mbbirds/<BL1PPFCDE88AB43B883C50D296F231FAA1AAA9DA...>?utm_medium=email&utm_source=footer> > . >
Date: 1/31/26 5:46 pm From: Arthur Macmillan <grrrrrrrrrr8...> Subject: [MBBIRDS] Re: BAWW with map I hope
Mac, David F, saw the Black-and-White-Warbler at 12:45...Others came and
saw it too.
I really screwed up my attempt to send you a map of our location. I'm
pretty useless with phone apps. Along with David F, Sharon H, and Tom H got
to see the BAWW. I got photos of it in a couple different Cork Oaks in the
group of trees between the bowling green and the bike path. Tom got photos
of it in a third tree in the same grove. Luckily David passed the word
along and I am glad he got the word out. I'll put my list on ebird later
on. There was also a good looking young Coyote in the benchlands.
Date: 1/31/26 4:30 pm From: Kent Johnson <kentjohnson...> Subject: Re: [MBBIRDS] Painted Redstart Report
A Painted Redstart is not impossible - they do make it to Northern California occasionally - but I wonder if someone who is not an active birder could think that a Spotted Towhee was one.
Hoping he is right, Kent Johnson
________________________________
From: <mbbirds...> <mbbirds...> on behalf of Deborah Diersch <debbiediersch...>
Sent: Saturday, January 31, 2026 12:25 PM
To: <MBBIRDS...> <mbbirds...>; <jv...> <jv...>
Subject: [MBBIRDS] Painted Redstart Report
Hi Everyone,
I am posting this for Jim Vahl who sent it to me at the scbirdclubeditor email address. Can you help him with the ID'ing of this bird he saw at his feeder yesterday (January 30th)? Here is the description that Jim provided to me:
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
I am not an active birder, but we keep a copy of Field Guide to Western Birds on hand to try to identify the many birds which visit our property. which is located on N Rodeo Gulch Rd about 4 miles up from Soquel. Earlier today we had an unusual visitor on our kitchen patio, where we had a good look. The bird keyed out to be a Painted Redstart, which was listed as ""Strays Visit s. California." I'm emailing you because I wasn't sure how rare this is, and I didn't know how else to report it.
Thanks,
Jim Vahl
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Thanks everyone for your assistance with this!
I am posting this for Jim Vahl who sent it to me at the scbirdclubeditor email address. Can you help him with the ID'ing of this bird he saw at his feeder yesterday (January 30th)? Here is the description that Jim provided to me: ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ I am not an active birder, but we keep a copy of Field Guide to Western Birds on hand to try to identify the many birds which visit our property. which is located on N Rodeo Gulch Rd about 4 miles up from Soquel. Earlier today we had an unusual visitor on our kitchen patio, where we had a good look. The bird keyed out to be a *Painted Redstart,* which was listed as ""Strays Visit s. California." I'm emailing you because I wasn't sure how rare this is, and I didn't know how else to report it.
Thanks, Jim Vahl ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Thanks everyone for your assistance with this!
