This afternoon, I checked my email and I had a message from the Refuge Manager at Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge. The second week in February, I'll be moving there to volunteer until the beginning of May. As you may recall, I volunteered there last spring as well.
Anyway, Deborah was asking if I'd be willing to lead their most popular bird tour during the Songbird Festival that takes place the last weekend in April. It is quite an affair and is attended by hundreds of people. Balcones Canyonlands NWR is located in the hill country west of Austin, TX, and the refuge is most well known for having two endangered bird species that nest there...golden-cheeked warblers and black-capped vireos. When birders come to Balcones, these are the two species that they are most interested in seeing.
The Sunday morning bird tour (the one I've been asked to lead) is specifically designed to showcase these two species, and attendees expect the tour leader to produce them. Hmmm, don't birds have wings for a reason? No pressure there! In addition, Deborah said that there have been complaints that the Sunday morning tour has been boring. Alrighty then, I'll just find both these endangered species and be fun and entertaining while doing so. A piece of cake, right? ;)
In addition, she asked that I write up a snappy description of the tour that will entice droves of people to want to sign up and journey with me on this avian safari. Also, include an impressive biography that will just WOW the public. So, I've got a literary challenge that she wants ASAP. I think I'll just mull it over for a few days in the back of my mind. Any suggestions?
The best part of this assignment is that I will have to spend considerable time scouting out the best places to view these two species while I prepare for the tour during March and April. With an assignment like that (for me) is it any wonder that I am returning to this refuge? Hot diggety dog!!!
Thanks for stopping by....talk to you later, Judy
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2 hours ago
What a great assignment! You will do well I'm sure, as I can tell from reading your blog. You know your stuff, and you are enthusiastic. GO GIRL!
ReplyDeleteThat sounds like a super job, Judy. Congrats! Just listing your previous experiences at refuges should be enough to wow most birders. I also think if you mention you are a fulltimer/workcamper, that would intrigue a lot of people, as well. You are a good writer, so I'm sure it will read well!
ReplyDeleteDeanna