Cibola National Wildlife Refuge 
Jan 13, 2001
0715-1215, Sunny, 45-70 

A morning Audubon trip to see raptors, geese, and Sandhill Cranes.  We didn't let them down!
68 species total


As we drove down into the Colorado River Valley, a dreamy fog was lying on the agricultural fields and over the water.  It was just starting to lift as we crossed the bridge leading over the river, when Al, Helga and I spotted a foraging Crissal Thrasher.  Unfortunately, the vehicles behind us missed it--next time we'll take radios for everyone.

Northern Shoveler	Our first stop was at one of the hunting clubs north of the refuge; a pond in front of the ranch house provided a safe haven for Ring-necked Ducks, Ruddy Ducks, several Wood Ducks, and this Northern Shoveler.
Once on the refuge we met Brenda Zaun, who served as our tour guide and interpreter.  On the Goose Loop we located numerous sparrows:  Lincoln's, Song, White-crowned, Brewer's, Vesper, Savannah, and Dark-eyed Juncos.	Female Wood Duck

Female Wood Duck

A small herd of Mule Deer ran over the road in front of us and through the corn fields.  Sandhill Cranes, Snow Geese, and Pintails gave us excellent looks as we made our way around the refuge.
In an alfalfa field adjoining the Goose Loop on the se corner of Cibola, hunters had set up numerous decoys and waited impatiently.  Fortunately that didn't stop the Mountain Bluebirds from hunting there, also.	Mountain Bluebird
Close to the end of the loop road we stopped to hike along a newly created trail through a young cottonwood plantation.  Here we got excellent looks at Green-tailed, Spotted, and Abert's Towhees, along with a beautiful adult Vermillion Flycatcher and a White-tailed Kite.  At Cibola Lake we ended our trip with more waterfowl and looks at three adult Bald Eagles.  Lunch was at the Clip Mill, where we toured the Laccinoles' watershed restoration project and feasted on cold cuts and salads.