Before You Trim That Tree, Think About Who Might Be Living In It

A friendly guide to tree trimming, habitat loss, and the small steps that make a big difference for birds and wildlife

Tree trimming and vegetation removal are a normal part of property maintenance — but the tree you're about to cut back might be home to a family of birds, a colony of pollinators, or a host of other wildlife. Trees and dense shrubs provide nesting sites, shelter, and food sources for dozens of species. When vegetation is removed abruptly, these animals lose their homes with little warning and often no time to relocate.

Timing is everything. In most of North America, bird nesting season runs roughly from February through August, with peak activity in spring. Nests during this time may hold eggs or chicks not yet ready to fly. Before trimming, take a few minutes to slowly scan branches for nests, cavities, or parent birds coming and going. If you spot an active nest, it's best to pause work until the young have fledged — and worth knowing that most wild birds and their nests are protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act.

When in doubt, reach out to a local wildlife rehabilitator or your state fish and wildlife agency before proceeding. And for everyday landscaping, consider leaving some intentional "wild" areas — brush piles, uncut shrubs, or a dead snag — as habitat. Small, thoughtful choices add up, and the wildlife in your yard will notice.

Author: Tina Lanquist

Check with Monterey County SPCA if you find a baby bird for more info on what to do: https://www.spcamc.org/programs-resources/wildlife-rescue-rehabilitation/baby-birds.html

A Waterdance of Red-throated Loons

Did you know that a dedicated group of volunteered is continuing to count migrating seabirds at Point Pinos? You can still drop by for this informal Seawatch. The Red-throated Loons continue to stream past the Point. One of five species of loons, the Red-throated Loon, Gavia stellata,  may undoubtedly win the title of “Most Adaptive” among this group of clumsy-footed birds.   Translation of the scientific name describes a starry (stellata) Sea Mew (Gavia), a reflection of the nonbreeding appearance of the Red-throated Loon.  

The Red-throated Loon's adaptability is well recognized through the diversity of aquatic ecosystems it inhabits.  During the winter months, these loons can be seen in west coast waters from the Aleutians to Baha, and eastern coasts from Nova Scotia to Florida.   Flexing their “Most Adaptive” title, Red-throated Loons move north in warmer weather to small, freshwater Arctic ponds to breed, nest and raise young.  Small ponds provide safety for the loons and their new offspring with a quick getaway.  The smallest of the loon species, the Red-throated Loon has dense bones and a long smooth body with legs set further back that allows for precise and effective hunting from both the air and water surface.  Look for them at the Seawatch and notice that they have more white on their face and neck than other loons. 

In breeding season, this loon displays a distinct red triangle throat patch and a plain gray head.  The reddish-brown triangular patch is put on display, standing out from the gray head above and a white front neck area below.  Red-throated Loons have an adaptive advantage blending with the marsh-like areas where they breed and forage for food.  

Text by Tina Lanquist and Carol Greenstreet

December 11 & 12

We're sorry! We are no longer in chronological order!

We also don't have narratives for Dec 11 & 12, but here are the checklists:

December 11: https://ebird.org/tripreport/443415

December 12: https://ebird.org/tripreport/443414