-President Guy Babineau opened the meeting with a big thank-you to all for the myriad ways members support the club’s many activities and initiatives. He welcomed guests and newcomers; there were forty-five present at the meeting. He also reminded everyone that now is the time to sign up for the PVCC Field Ornithology Class, which the club’s vice-president Dan Bieker instructs.
-Lou Tanner offered praise to Jenny Gaden for the many years she has organized the Charlottesville area Christmas Bird Count.
-Susan Babineau reported on upcoming field trips. January 5 is the First Saturday Bird Walk at Ivy Creek Natural Area. The January 12 trip goes to Greenspring Historic District to see the Short-eared Owls. The day-long trip to Highland County takes place January 19 with Doug Rogers leading. From January 25-27, members are invited to travel to Virginia Beach for the Winter Wildlife Festival (registration required).
Guy reported that the December meeting with the YMCA to find solutions for preventing bird collisions on the building’s windows was productive. More information is forthcoming.
Recent bird sightings were shared. Nancy Newman recommended a site for watching Mergansers and Ring-necked Ducks at a pond off 250 going toward Zion Crossroads. Nancy also gave away issues of Birds & Blooms magazine.
