Here in the US it is a long holiday weekend, and I have already set my 3 day weekend metal detecting plan in action by chilling out with my girls ice skating at the local rink.
No doubt the weekend warriors were out in force searching the beaches this morning, but I was not one of them.
I have written a little about the subject of weekend hunting and the way I pace my weekend treasure hunting in a previous blog.
I always like to wait to go metal detecting until after at least one full busy weekend day has passed.
Many beach and shallow water hunters time their long weekend hunts incorrectly.
In my opinion, you are always better off waiting until the second or third day before going treasure hunting on a long holiday weekend.
I believe patience is a virtue when it comes to treasure hunting.
Just like you have to wait for a passing storm to erode beaches, you have to wait until a beach has seen plenty of activity before searching for lost jewelry.
The worst times to go out metal detecting on a long holiday weekend is on the very first morning of the weekend and the morning after the last day.
Every beach hunter for miles around has the same idea to go out metal detecting after the last day.
Try to beat the crowd by going out metal detecting after a full day of beach activity, or on the very last day.
Good luck!
Sabtu, 31 Agustus 2013
Bluff Point fencing removal completed
On Thursday, August 29 the Audubon Alliance for Coastal Waterbirds and CT DEEP completed the string fencing removal at Bluff Point State Park with the help of always wonderful volunteers. Bluff Point has a very long stretch of beach. Even driving to the shore in CT DEEP vehicles means this is a long hike carrying very heavy equipment. This is all what makes it such great habitat for our coastal waterbirds in every season. Once again here are some photos taken by Patrick Comins in between walking and hauling stakes.
That beetle just goes to show how much is out there in these rare or specialized habitats and why we need to protect them on levels even beyond our birds. Thanks to the volunteers who were able to make it out to Bluff Point to help save some walking, carrying and time. We could not do any of this work without you!
Audubon Alliance for Coastal Waterbirds, Audubon Connecticut and the Connecticut Audubon Society partnering to improve conditions for coastal waterbirds in Connecticut.
Beautiful Bluff Point
Quite a stretch of beach - great habitat for Piping Plovers, Least Terns, and more
Our team beginning the long walk out
A gray day but still quite a sight - note the Piping Plover exclosure on the left
The crew heading back with some of the materials
You never know what you'll find on a Connecticut beach like this Special Concern species Hairy-necked Tiger Beetle, Cicindela hirticollis
That beetle just goes to show how much is out there in these rare or specialized habitats and why we need to protect them on levels even beyond our birds. Thanks to the volunteers who were able to make it out to Bluff Point to help save some walking, carrying and time. We could not do any of this work without you!
Audubon Alliance for Coastal Waterbirds, Audubon Connecticut and the Connecticut Audubon Society partnering to improve conditions for coastal waterbirds in Connecticut.
Jumat, 30 Agustus 2013
that orange county "ginger jar"
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| That jar is kind of cute! |
What caught my attention on the OC Housewives reunion was not Briana, Brooks and Vicki going at it, but the background décor (typical for me hahaha). I have the same white ginger jars that I got at TJ Maxx!
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| Over the shoulder of Andy |
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| Ok, so the set designers must shop at TJ Maxx too! |
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| This is one of a pair I got at TJ Maxx! |
Ciao! Fabiana
Recon for beach and shallow water hunters
It is always best to have a good idea of what the beaches look like, especially if you are a part time beach and shallow water hunter.
This helps you to be more prepared when you do get the chance to go metal detecting, with your metal detector and search coil choices.
I use 3 different ways of keeping up with the beach conditions so I am always more prepared and have a good idea what to expect when I arrive at the beach to metal detect.
When I do not have time to treasure hunt, I try to make the time to visit a few of my favorite beach sites, even if it is just for a quick look up and down the beach after hours.
If it is not possible to check the beaches first hand, I do it every day from the comfort of my own home.
I rely on two useful tools on my computer, beach webcams and surf projection sites, closest to my favorite metal detecting spots.
These two methods of beach recon I check daily, so without ever having to leave my home I see present beach conditions and projected future beach conditions.
I guess you could say I take my treasure hunting seriously lol! I like to stay on top of things and know before I go.
You can also increase you chances of a successful treasure hunt when you know a beach has recently been detected.
Other beach and water hunters on popular tourist beaches are easy to spot on beach webcams, seeing two or three other hunters on a Friday afternoon detecting on a beach may save you from going home empty handed on a Saturday morning.
Choose a different beach because you already know which ones have been recently searched.
Seeing where sunbathers and swimmers are using the beach on a webcam for several days, allows you to go straight to the potential hot spots for lost jewelry when you do finally get a chance to go detecting.
Internet surf sites will allow you to make water hunting plans ahead of time.
A part time treasure hunter can hang with the full time competition for metal detecting finds by keeping up to date on their local beach conditions.
This helps you to be more prepared when you do get the chance to go metal detecting, with your metal detector and search coil choices.
I use 3 different ways of keeping up with the beach conditions so I am always more prepared and have a good idea what to expect when I arrive at the beach to metal detect.
When I do not have time to treasure hunt, I try to make the time to visit a few of my favorite beach sites, even if it is just for a quick look up and down the beach after hours.
If it is not possible to check the beaches first hand, I do it every day from the comfort of my own home.
I rely on two useful tools on my computer, beach webcams and surf projection sites, closest to my favorite metal detecting spots.
These two methods of beach recon I check daily, so without ever having to leave my home I see present beach conditions and projected future beach conditions.
I guess you could say I take my treasure hunting seriously lol! I like to stay on top of things and know before I go.
You can also increase you chances of a successful treasure hunt when you know a beach has recently been detected.
Other beach and water hunters on popular tourist beaches are easy to spot on beach webcams, seeing two or three other hunters on a Friday afternoon detecting on a beach may save you from going home empty handed on a Saturday morning.
Choose a different beach because you already know which ones have been recently searched.
Seeing where sunbathers and swimmers are using the beach on a webcam for several days, allows you to go straight to the potential hot spots for lost jewelry when you do finally get a chance to go detecting.
Internet surf sites will allow you to make water hunting plans ahead of time.
A part time treasure hunter can hang with the full time competition for metal detecting finds by keeping up to date on their local beach conditions.
Kamis, 29 Agustus 2013
new succulent garden and path
In the short time that I was in South Carolina, my husband surprised me by having our friend David Pedersen redesign our front sideyard with a curvy flagstone path and loads of succulents.
I am so happy my vintage urn was used in the design.
ciao! Fabiana
Ch9 News - Essential beach ramp to re-open
August 29, 2013 - 6:56pm
And it is one good result for concerned residents.
Click on the following link to view the news video
http://www.ch9.co.nz/content/essential-beach-ramp-re-open
A beach ramp St Clair lifesavers say is essential to save lives will be re-opened by late October.
That information came after a passionate public meeting on the issue of the battered seawall last night.
Click on the following link to view the news video
http://www.ch9.co.nz/content/essential-beach-ramp-re-open
Search patterns and local beach hunting
It is always best to use some form of search pattern when beach hunting.
Just like it is always best to go home with a sore shoulder from digging lots of targets, than tired feet from doing too much walking along the beach.
Using a search pattern means you have a plan, you are not just meandering around aimlessly hoping to stumble across something good.
No amount of beach reading skills will help if you do not fully cover the areas you search on the beach.
The search pattern used should be one that allows you to leave the beach knowing that if anything worth finding was there, you would have found it.
Covering search areas methodically is always a better strategy than covering more ground.
Saturday mornings on my local beaches resemble a metal detecting horse race, as solo or pairs of beach and shallow water hunters try to cover the entire beach as fast as possible.
Most speedy beach or shallow water hunters search up and down the beach moving either north or south.
I prefer to metal detect the same area using a slower more methodical east / west directional search pattern.
I am normally still searching in the same general area I started metal detecting as the local beach and shallow water hunters leave the beach.
Sometimes it is better to try changing search patterns, instead of changing beaches.
Cover less ground correctly than more ground incorrectly, especially if you predominantly search one local beach most of the time.
Long handled scoop drag marks left behind in the sand by a methodical beach hunter, can be just as discouraging to speedy local beach hunters as going home empty handed.
Nothing is more of a compliment to your beach hunting skills than another local beach hunter walking off the beach because they know you have just searched an area.
Just like it is always best to go home with a sore shoulder from digging lots of targets, than tired feet from doing too much walking along the beach.
Using a search pattern means you have a plan, you are not just meandering around aimlessly hoping to stumble across something good.
No amount of beach reading skills will help if you do not fully cover the areas you search on the beach.
The search pattern used should be one that allows you to leave the beach knowing that if anything worth finding was there, you would have found it.
Covering search areas methodically is always a better strategy than covering more ground.
Saturday mornings on my local beaches resemble a metal detecting horse race, as solo or pairs of beach and shallow water hunters try to cover the entire beach as fast as possible.
Most speedy beach or shallow water hunters search up and down the beach moving either north or south.
I prefer to metal detect the same area using a slower more methodical east / west directional search pattern.
I am normally still searching in the same general area I started metal detecting as the local beach and shallow water hunters leave the beach.
Sometimes it is better to try changing search patterns, instead of changing beaches.
Cover less ground correctly than more ground incorrectly, especially if you predominantly search one local beach most of the time.
Long handled scoop drag marks left behind in the sand by a methodical beach hunter, can be just as discouraging to speedy local beach hunters as going home empty handed.
Nothing is more of a compliment to your beach hunting skills than another local beach hunter walking off the beach because they know you have just searched an area.
Rabu, 28 Agustus 2013
Heated debate over sea wall problem | Otago Daily Times
Heated debate over sea wall problem | Otago Daily Times Online News : Otago, South Island, New Zealand & International News
A public forum on the battered St Clair sea wall led to some heated debate at the Forbury Park Raceway hall in Dunedin last night.
A public forum on the battered St Clair sea wall led to some heated debate at the Forbury Park Raceway hall in Dunedin last night.
''This is not a design-by-committee or about beating up the council,'' meeting chairman Cr Andrew Noone said.
''Council is committed to finding a long-term solution but, ultimately, we are going to be relying on the best technical advice.''
City operations manager Tony Avery said it was still not clear what the best solution was.
''We don't actually know what needs to be done. We need to understand why it has failed, the dynamics of the beach and what to do to ensure it stays there for another 50, 60 or 100 years.''
Opus International Consultants, working with the Danish Hydraulic Institute, had been selected from 11 applicants to resolve the problem.
''We have quite a complex engineering problem in front of us,'' Opus senior project manager Steve Rollason said.
''The beach changes all the time.''
Council network maintenance engineer Peter Standring said remedial work had, so far, cost ratepayers $500,000.
''There's a lot to consider and there's too much at risk to do nothing. But, we have to balance that with the safety of the beach, its amenity value and its value to surfers. It has to tick all the boxes.''
However, many at the 200-strong forum expressed frustration at the remedial response to date.
St Clair resident James Dignan said the council had been ''treating the symptom, rather than the problem itself''' and suggested an artificial reef was needed to reduce the effects of wave action.
Dunedin resident Dave Ross said he was ''angry at the ongoing financial cost to ratepayers''.
''What is the guarantee this won't happen again?'' he asked.
Surfers Tony Ryder and Peter Haslemore said the sand erosion had led to the quality of the surf deteriorating in recent years.
''The wave levels haven't changed. The problem is the sand level is so low that the waves are hitting the sea wall for longer,'' Mr Haslemore said.
Graeme Newton, a St Clair Surf Lifesaving Club member for 47 years, said the damage was also endangering lives, as it prevented the club from launching a rescue on the beach.
''If we have a call-out, we can't respond. By the time we get there, someone will drown. It's as simple as that.''
Cr Noone said it was hoped a solution could be found before the surf club season opened at the end of October.
The council has set until the middle of next month for public submissions, with an Opus report due by mid-October.
-nigel.benson@odt.co.nz
Kidman Shaping In The US
I shape boards that I’m interested in riding. Be it channel bottoms, single fins, traditional fish or prototypes that are combinations of these designs.
I believe in customizing equipment for the individual. I grew up with access to this kind of one-on- one experience, for me it has been one of the most enjoyable parts of the surfing journey. I’d like to continue to make that experience available for other surfers.
It seems that if you're US based, there's a window where you can get a board shaped by Andrew Kidman without the hassle of retrieving it or shipping it from Australia. The lad is going to be making a stop in New York during October, and plans on shaping a very limited number of boards while he's there. To get the details, just email nachtville@gmail.com. It's a pretty good excuse to order up a new board......
Twin optical scanners
Sometimes you do not need a metal detector to find good stuff on the beach, all you need is good observational skills.
Early morning beach hunters, especially wet sanders, have the most to gain from keeping a sharp high above the high tide line.
This is one of the reasons why I like to use a headlamp when night hunting, not to see where I am going but with the light angled to the side to pick out potentially valuable objects laying in the towel line.
Many night time courting couples or skinny dippers on tourist beaches leave valuables behind.
An early morning beach hunter should investigate any towel or scattered alcohol containers left behind above the previous high tide line.
It is possible to find everything, from cell phones, cameras, wallets, pocket books, to watches, jewelry or paper money.
I have returned 3 cell phones, 1 camera and two wallets this year to grateful owners
Lifeguard tower steps are another place you can find valuable items just waiting to be picked up by the first person passing by.
Obvious signs of activity should be the first place you search in the dry sand on heavily hunted beach that see many dry sanders.
Look for flattened outlines in the dry sand, left behind by people laying on towels.
Even a single beer can sitting upright in the dry sand should be a sign to to go over and investigate.
One of my favorite dry sand watch finds was found sitting on top of a tin can on Fort Lauderdale beach.
The $500.00 dive watch is still a good find for having the good sense to go over and check the area out.
One of the best times for eyeballing good finds is after a large crowded event has taken place on a beach.
Of course the beach will be heavily detected as soon as the event has finished but that is not the best time to use your twin optical scanners.
The early morning hours are much more productive after people in the area have partied all night and the effects of alcohol have kicked in.
Do not be surprised if the wet sand after the next high tide is also good for eyeballing valuable finds, as well as metal detecting.
Early morning beach hunters, especially wet sanders, have the most to gain from keeping a sharp high above the high tide line.
This is one of the reasons why I like to use a headlamp when night hunting, not to see where I am going but with the light angled to the side to pick out potentially valuable objects laying in the towel line.
Many night time courting couples or skinny dippers on tourist beaches leave valuables behind.
An early morning beach hunter should investigate any towel or scattered alcohol containers left behind above the previous high tide line.
It is possible to find everything, from cell phones, cameras, wallets, pocket books, to watches, jewelry or paper money.
I have returned 3 cell phones, 1 camera and two wallets this year to grateful owners
Lifeguard tower steps are another place you can find valuable items just waiting to be picked up by the first person passing by.
Obvious signs of activity should be the first place you search in the dry sand on heavily hunted beach that see many dry sanders.
Look for flattened outlines in the dry sand, left behind by people laying on towels.
Even a single beer can sitting upright in the dry sand should be a sign to to go over and investigate.
One of my favorite dry sand watch finds was found sitting on top of a tin can on Fort Lauderdale beach.
The $500.00 dive watch is still a good find for having the good sense to go over and check the area out.
One of the best times for eyeballing good finds is after a large crowded event has taken place on a beach.
Of course the beach will be heavily detected as soon as the event has finished but that is not the best time to use your twin optical scanners.
The early morning hours are much more productive after people in the area have partied all night and the effects of alcohol have kicked in.
Do not be surprised if the wet sand after the next high tide is also good for eyeballing valuable finds, as well as metal detecting.
Joint Shorebird Identification Workshop
The Audubon Alliance for Coastal Waterbirds recently teamed up with the Connecticut Ornithological Association for a shorebird identification workshop at the Connecticut Audubon Society Coastal Center at Milford Point. It was a beautiful morning at one of the best sites in the state to see shorebirds. Apart from the many attendees there were many, many shorebirds to pick through plus dozens of long-legged waders hanging around. Here are some shots from the event by Patrick Comins.
Can you pick out all the shorebird species in the above photos? Sessions like this one really help both new and veteran birders sharpen their skills as the birds are lined up almost as they would be in a field guide. Observing them with spotting scopes is a superb way to get "up close" looks without disturbing them in the slightest. Note that everyone was on the beaches of Milford Point and did not even have to walk down to the bar and risk flushing any to enjoy their views. Our thanks to everyone who came out to learn more about these often rapidly declining species. We will keep on doing our best to help them during every season of the year.
Audubon Alliance for Coastal Waterbirds, Audubon Connecticut and the Connecticut Audubon Society partnering to improve conditions for coastal waterbirds in Connecticut.
Can you pick out all the shorebird species in the above photos? Sessions like this one really help both new and veteran birders sharpen their skills as the birds are lined up almost as they would be in a field guide. Observing them with spotting scopes is a superb way to get "up close" looks without disturbing them in the slightest. Note that everyone was on the beaches of Milford Point and did not even have to walk down to the bar and risk flushing any to enjoy their views. Our thanks to everyone who came out to learn more about these often rapidly declining species. We will keep on doing our best to help them during every season of the year.
Audubon Alliance for Coastal Waterbirds, Audubon Connecticut and the Connecticut Audubon Society partnering to improve conditions for coastal waterbirds in Connecticut.
Selasa, 27 Agustus 2013
CH9 News - St Clair beach and seawall topic of local forum
August 28, 2013 - 6:57pm
http://www.ch9.co.nz/content/st-clair-beach-and-seawall-topic-local-forum
The public gets the chance to have its say on the future of the St Clair beach and seawall this evening.
Click on the following link to view the news video
http://www.ch9.co.nz/content/st-clair-beach-and-seawall-topic-local-forum
Senin, 26 Agustus 2013
Search coil cable security
Many beach and shallow water hunters complain about noisy metal detectors down in the wet sand splash zone or just inside the waters edge.
Often it is not the metal detector, if it is multiple frequency or pulse induction metal detector.
It is a common mistake I see many beach and shallow water hunters doing, not securing search coil cables to metal detector shafts correctly.
Securing your search coil cable, either too loose or too tight can lead to false signals or worse!
Loose search coil cable flapping around leads to false signals every time it is bumped, hit or moved around by the water.
You have to securely wind and then fasten your cable wire to your metal detector shaft using electrical tape, NOT plastic zip ties!
Plastic ties can cut into your search coil cable and you run the risk of cutting into your cable every time you have to cut the plastic ties off when breaking down your metal detector.
Wind your cable around the shaft and use electrical tape every 6 to 8 inches along the shaft to secure your search coil cable.
Pay close attention to the first and last taped areas of your search coil cable.
The first taping should be about 6 inches away from the point where your cable connects into the main metal detector control housing.
This taping prevent your search coil from being tugged or yanked out of your control box, acting like a cable strain relief.
It can happen easier than you think, a long handled scoop falling against your metal detector or your cable getting snagged on a dive belt or finds pouch.
The last taping towards the bottom of the search coil should have just enough slack to allow your search coil to tilt back and forth without straining or tugging at the search coil connection point.
You may be surprised at how much stress you put on your metal detector shaft when stopping to scoop targets, you often lean on your metal detector.
If you do not have a little play to allow your detector shaft to move over your search coil, you could end up pulling your cable out of your search coil.
Experiment with the last taping, use a temporary wrap and stand your metal detector upright to see if it allows you to lean your detector shaft forward over your search coil.
This closely mirrors shallow water hunting in chest deep water, scooping while holding onto your metal detector.
Securely fastening your search coil cable to your metal detector will help to cut down on false signal issues and trips to the metal detector service department.
Often it is not the metal detector, if it is multiple frequency or pulse induction metal detector.
It is a common mistake I see many beach and shallow water hunters doing, not securing search coil cables to metal detector shafts correctly.
Securing your search coil cable, either too loose or too tight can lead to false signals or worse!
Loose search coil cable flapping around leads to false signals every time it is bumped, hit or moved around by the water.
You have to securely wind and then fasten your cable wire to your metal detector shaft using electrical tape, NOT plastic zip ties!
Plastic ties can cut into your search coil cable and you run the risk of cutting into your cable every time you have to cut the plastic ties off when breaking down your metal detector.
Wind your cable around the shaft and use electrical tape every 6 to 8 inches along the shaft to secure your search coil cable.
Pay close attention to the first and last taped areas of your search coil cable.
The first taping should be about 6 inches away from the point where your cable connects into the main metal detector control housing.
This taping prevent your search coil from being tugged or yanked out of your control box, acting like a cable strain relief.
It can happen easier than you think, a long handled scoop falling against your metal detector or your cable getting snagged on a dive belt or finds pouch.
The last taping towards the bottom of the search coil should have just enough slack to allow your search coil to tilt back and forth without straining or tugging at the search coil connection point.
You may be surprised at how much stress you put on your metal detector shaft when stopping to scoop targets, you often lean on your metal detector.
If you do not have a little play to allow your detector shaft to move over your search coil, you could end up pulling your cable out of your search coil.
Experiment with the last taping, use a temporary wrap and stand your metal detector upright to see if it allows you to lean your detector shaft forward over your search coil.
This closely mirrors shallow water hunting in chest deep water, scooping while holding onto your metal detector.
Securely fastening your search coil cable to your metal detector will help to cut down on false signal issues and trips to the metal detector service department.
AAfCW 2013 Volunteer Update #22
This is the twenty-second weekly update by the Audubon Alliance for Coastal Waterbirds (AAfCW) for the 2013 season. Today's update includes reports of Piping Plover, American Oystercatcher, and Common Tern from August 19 through 4:00 p.m. on August 26 with sightings of birds by volunteers and staff spanning that period.
Informational updates:
Thank you to everyone who joined us at Sandy/Morse Points for string fencing removal last week! Two fencing removal dates are coming up this week:
Thursday, August 29th at 10:00AM - Bluff Point in Groton
Friday, August 30th at 9:30AM - Griswold Point in Old Lyme (meet at exit 70 park and ride and carpool to beach)
It will be rain or shine, but any thunderstorms will postpone them. Assisting not only helps AAfCW but it also greatly aids those at CT DEEP and The Nature Conservancy who have extremely limited time, and it limits the stress on the birds. Please remember that taking down fencing in August can be physically demanding because of the heat and humidity, and those who join us should remember a few things:
-wear sunscreen
-drink plenty of water or sports drink
-do not attempt to carry too many stakes, there are enough volunteers so that no one should overexert themselves
-anyone who needs to limit physical exertion should stick to winding up string rolls
-take as many breaks as needed
If you are planning to go and haven't told us yet please email us, thank you! Finally, as indicated above there were no sightings of Least Tern in the last week.
Survey and monitoring updates:
Piping Plover
2 fledglings at Sandy/Morse Points on 8/17
1 fledgling at Sandy/Morse Points on 8/19
1 juvenile at Bluff Point on 8/20
2 fledglings at Sandy/Morse Points on 8/20
3 juveniles at Milford Point on 8/21
3 juveniles at Milford Point on 8/21
3 juveniles at Milford Point on 8/21
1 juvenile at Sandy/Morse Points on 8/24
7 juveniles at Sandy/Morse Points on 8/26
American Oystercatcher
1 pair, 1 juvenile at Salt Island on 8/19
3 pairs, 1 juvenile at Menunketesuck Island on 8/19
1 pair, 1 adult, 1 juvenile at Duck Island on 8/19
2 pairs, 2 juveniles at Milford Point on 8/19
1 adult at Griswold Point on 8/19
2 adults at Bluff Point on 8/20
5 adults at Sixpenny Island on 8/20
1 adult at Griswold Point on 8/20
1 pair at Umbrella Island on 8/21
1 pair at Kelsey Island on 8/21
1 pair at Green Island Branford on 8/21
2 adults at Milford Point on 8/21
1 pair at Milford Point on 8/21
1 pair at Sandy/Morse Points on 8/25
1 pair at Griswold Point on 8/25
Common Tern
1 adult at Griswold Point on 8/18
This concludes update #22 through 8/26/13 as of 4:00 p.m.
Audubon Alliance for Coastal Waterbirds, Audubon Connecticut and the Connecticut Audubon Society partnering to improve conditions for coastal waterbirds in Connecticut.
Informational updates:
Thank you to everyone who joined us at Sandy/Morse Points for string fencing removal last week! Two fencing removal dates are coming up this week:
Thursday, August 29th at 10:00AM - Bluff Point in Groton
Friday, August 30th at 9:30AM - Griswold Point in Old Lyme (meet at exit 70 park and ride and carpool to beach)
It will be rain or shine, but any thunderstorms will postpone them. Assisting not only helps AAfCW but it also greatly aids those at CT DEEP and The Nature Conservancy who have extremely limited time, and it limits the stress on the birds. Please remember that taking down fencing in August can be physically demanding because of the heat and humidity, and those who join us should remember a few things:
-wear sunscreen
-drink plenty of water or sports drink
-do not attempt to carry too many stakes, there are enough volunteers so that no one should overexert themselves
-anyone who needs to limit physical exertion should stick to winding up string rolls
-take as many breaks as needed
If you are planning to go and haven't told us yet please email us, thank you! Finally, as indicated above there were no sightings of Least Tern in the last week.
Survey and monitoring updates:
Piping Plover
2 fledglings at Sandy/Morse Points on 8/17
1 fledgling at Sandy/Morse Points on 8/19
1 juvenile at Bluff Point on 8/20
2 fledglings at Sandy/Morse Points on 8/20
3 juveniles at Milford Point on 8/21
3 juveniles at Milford Point on 8/21
3 juveniles at Milford Point on 8/21
1 juvenile at Sandy/Morse Points on 8/24
7 juveniles at Sandy/Morse Points on 8/26
American Oystercatcher
1 pair, 1 juvenile at Salt Island on 8/19
3 pairs, 1 juvenile at Menunketesuck Island on 8/19
1 pair, 1 adult, 1 juvenile at Duck Island on 8/19
2 pairs, 2 juveniles at Milford Point on 8/19
1 adult at Griswold Point on 8/19
2 adults at Bluff Point on 8/20
5 adults at Sixpenny Island on 8/20
1 adult at Griswold Point on 8/20
1 pair at Umbrella Island on 8/21
1 pair at Kelsey Island on 8/21
1 pair at Green Island Branford on 8/21
2 adults at Milford Point on 8/21
1 pair at Milford Point on 8/21
1 pair at Sandy/Morse Points on 8/25
1 pair at Griswold Point on 8/25
Common Tern
1 adult at Griswold Point on 8/18
This concludes update #22 through 8/26/13 as of 4:00 p.m.
Audubon Alliance for Coastal Waterbirds, Audubon Connecticut and the Connecticut Audubon Society partnering to improve conditions for coastal waterbirds in Connecticut.
Minggu, 25 Agustus 2013
Micro searching.
I always see beach hunters walking along the beach, who says you have to go anywhere?
It may surprise you just how many metallic objects are in the sand in front of beach side parking lot or beach entrance.
Extra large search coils are all the rage now with beach hunters who mistakenly believe you have to cover more ground to find anything with the increased competition for metal detecting finds.
If you take a look at people using metal detectors on most beaches around the world, they almost always look like they are heading somewhere, often in a hurry!
Many beach hunters are covering ground but not really covering the ground.
If you use a metal detector that allows you to change search coils, install a small search coil and hang around in one spot for an hour or two and you will see what I mean.
It does not matter whether it is an 8, 6 or 5-inch search coil, I guarantee you will be digging more targets than you can handle.
Many local beach hunters do not really cover the ground correctly, they cover the area but not the ground.
Small gold & silver jewelry, old artifacts or coins can easily be masked by a bottle cap or a corroding fish hook.
Target separation is far more important than being the first person to search any prime spots on heavily or moderately hunted beaches.
You really only see how many targets you just miss when you stop to search for other targets after you find something good.
Or you decide to go over a coin line from a different direction or using a different search pattern.
I think "missed targets" is a poor choice of words, as you did not hear the targets in the first place.
Many beach and shallow water hunting sites are better searched by using a combination of search patterns with two different size search coils.
Sometimes the reason why beach hunters go home happy with a great find is because they bothered to really cover a productive area.
Be thankful that other beach hunters are passing through, it is when a beach hunter stops to search an area that you have to worry!
It may surprise you just how many metallic objects are in the sand in front of beach side parking lot or beach entrance.
Extra large search coils are all the rage now with beach hunters who mistakenly believe you have to cover more ground to find anything with the increased competition for metal detecting finds.
If you take a look at people using metal detectors on most beaches around the world, they almost always look like they are heading somewhere, often in a hurry!
Many beach hunters are covering ground but not really covering the ground.
If you use a metal detector that allows you to change search coils, install a small search coil and hang around in one spot for an hour or two and you will see what I mean.
It does not matter whether it is an 8, 6 or 5-inch search coil, I guarantee you will be digging more targets than you can handle.
Many local beach hunters do not really cover the ground correctly, they cover the area but not the ground.
Small gold & silver jewelry, old artifacts or coins can easily be masked by a bottle cap or a corroding fish hook.
Target separation is far more important than being the first person to search any prime spots on heavily or moderately hunted beaches.
You really only see how many targets you just miss when you stop to search for other targets after you find something good.
Or you decide to go over a coin line from a different direction or using a different search pattern.
I think "missed targets" is a poor choice of words, as you did not hear the targets in the first place.
Many beach and shallow water hunting sites are better searched by using a combination of search patterns with two different size search coils.
Sometimes the reason why beach hunters go home happy with a great find is because they bothered to really cover a productive area.
Be thankful that other beach hunters are passing through, it is when a beach hunter stops to search an area that you have to worry!
Sabtu, 24 Agustus 2013
Fencing removal completed at Sandy/Morse Points
Our thanks to the latest volunteer crew who teamed up with staff to remove string fencing and exclosures from Sandy/Morse Points in West Haven last week. As always the extra hands make the work get done all the quicker. This allows for less disturbances on any lingering target species and for any migrants who have made their way to Connecticut. It also helps CT DEEP and their dedicated and tremendous but taxed staff save time for more work on Connecticut's wildlife.
If you can help out next week for fencing removal at Bluff Point on 8/29 at 10:00AM or Griswold Point on 8/30 at 9:30AM please email us to let us know. Thanks again to all!
Audubon Alliance for Coastal Waterbirds, Audubon Connecticut and the Connecticut Audubon Society partnering to improve conditions for coastal waterbirds in Connecticut.
If you can help out next week for fencing removal at Bluff Point on 8/29 at 10:00AM or Griswold Point on 8/30 at 9:30AM please email us to let us know. Thanks again to all!
Audubon Alliance for Coastal Waterbirds, Audubon Connecticut and the Connecticut Audubon Society partnering to improve conditions for coastal waterbirds in Connecticut.
Jumat, 23 Agustus 2013
Griswold Point fencing removal
Would you like to help out The Nature Conservancy in removing string fencing and signage from Griswold Point? The Audubon Alliance for Coastal Waterbirds is looking for any volunteers to assist our combined field staffs in this work at Griswold Point on Friday, August 30. We will be meeting at 9:30AM on the I-95 exit 70 park and ride and carpooling down to the shore from there.
Please remember that taking down fencing in August can be physically demanding because of the heat and humidity, and those who join us should remember a few things:
-wear sunscreen
-drink plenty of water or sports drink
-do not attempt to carry too many stakes, there are enough volunteers so that no one should overexert themselves
-anyone who needs to limit physical exertion should stick to winding up string rolls
-take as many breaks as needed
Please email us if you can make it at ctwaterbirds@gmail.com, thank you!
Audubon Alliance for Coastal Waterbirds, Audubon Connecticut and the Connecticut Audubon Society partnering to improve conditions for coastal waterbirds in Connecticut.
Please remember that taking down fencing in August can be physically demanding because of the heat and humidity, and those who join us should remember a few things:
-wear sunscreen
-drink plenty of water or sports drink
-do not attempt to carry too many stakes, there are enough volunteers so that no one should overexert themselves
-anyone who needs to limit physical exertion should stick to winding up string rolls
-take as many breaks as needed
Please email us if you can make it at ctwaterbirds@gmail.com, thank you!
Audubon Alliance for Coastal Waterbirds, Audubon Connecticut and the Connecticut Audubon Society partnering to improve conditions for coastal waterbirds in Connecticut.
Level playing fields
I am sure you must have heard the expression "The grass is always greener", I believe this also applies to beach and shallow water treasure hunting.
I very much doubt that local Treasure Coast beach hunter's always discover the best Spanish treasure finds.
People who metal detect on famous tourist beaches do not always find the best jewelry.
No matter where you live and go treasure hunting, you still have to find the treasure, old or modern.
We are all on a level playing field when it comes to beach and shallow water hunting.
Nobody knows that better than me, I have to travel long distances to metal detect.
I have a 5 hour round trip to take on the local Treasure Coast beach hunter's for Spanish treasure finds.
If I want to duke it out for modern gold jewelry finds on some of the famous tourist beaches in Florida, I have to travel to them.
In my opinion, the best way to level the playing field is to learn how to read the beach and water effectively.
Followed by using a good metal detector and learning how to use it correctly.
A good tip is to always have a secondary treasure hunting plan
For instance, when I make the long drive in search of Spanish treasure coins, I always plan to search for modern jewelry on the way home.
Some of my best diamond rings have been consolation finds after getting skunked searching for old finds.
When I drive any distance to go modern jewelry hunting, I rely on my secondary sites if my intended first choice of beach is being heavily hunted or targets are few and far between.
Seasoned beach and shallow water hunter's have better luck when traveling to metal detect.
This is another reason why it is important to hone your detecting skills on your local beaches, before traveling to compete against other local beach or shallow water hunter's.
I very much doubt that local Treasure Coast beach hunter's always discover the best Spanish treasure finds.
People who metal detect on famous tourist beaches do not always find the best jewelry.
No matter where you live and go treasure hunting, you still have to find the treasure, old or modern.
We are all on a level playing field when it comes to beach and shallow water hunting.
Nobody knows that better than me, I have to travel long distances to metal detect.
I have a 5 hour round trip to take on the local Treasure Coast beach hunter's for Spanish treasure finds.
If I want to duke it out for modern gold jewelry finds on some of the famous tourist beaches in Florida, I have to travel to them.
In my opinion, the best way to level the playing field is to learn how to read the beach and water effectively.
Followed by using a good metal detector and learning how to use it correctly.
A good tip is to always have a secondary treasure hunting plan
For instance, when I make the long drive in search of Spanish treasure coins, I always plan to search for modern jewelry on the way home.
Some of my best diamond rings have been consolation finds after getting skunked searching for old finds.
When I drive any distance to go modern jewelry hunting, I rely on my secondary sites if my intended first choice of beach is being heavily hunted or targets are few and far between.
Seasoned beach and shallow water hunter's have better luck when traveling to metal detect.
This is another reason why it is important to hone your detecting skills on your local beaches, before traveling to compete against other local beach or shallow water hunter's.
Kamis, 22 Agustus 2013
Kustom Kulture
One for those in So-Cal- this show is up at the Huntington Beach Art Center until the end of the month, the 20th anniversary revisit of the original which was undoubtedly a game-changer for art. This Saturday the 24th at 7pm there's a panel discussion featuring Stecyk, Paul Frank, Robert Williams and D.E. Hardy amongst others which could definitely be worth a look.
Flagged Semipalmated Sandpipers found
Cynthia Ehlinger sent us the following information about a great recent sighting and then a terrific second one:
"Aug 10, 2013 10:40 - 10:50 am, near low tide
Yellow Flag PA7 Semipalmated Sandpiper feeding in a small flock of 1 Least and 2 additional Semipalmated Sandpipers at Greenwich Point Park "
Take a look!
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Cynthia had already reported the banded bird and we asked her to send us the information she received back on it. During this wait she saw the bird a couple more times:
"Aug 13, 2013 3:50 - 4:20 pm, high tide
Semipalmated Sandpiper -.Yellow Flag PA7 on upper right; metal band on upper left feeding in a flock of 1 Least, 3 Semipalmated Plover, 3 Ruddy Turnstone, 53 Semipalmated Sandpipers at Greenwich Point Park"
Cynthia also found another tagged bird before even hearing back the banding information about the first one!
"While looking for Semipalmated Sandpiper PA7 ( which I did not find), I discovered another tagged shorebird at Greenwich Point Park today, 8/18 about 11:00 am. Semipalmated Sandpiper feeding with flock of about 36 SESA plus 2 Ruddy Turnstone and 2 Semipalmated Plover. Band on upper left leg was dark blue band over yellow flag tag LYM. Metal band on right leg."
+band.jpg)
When Cynthia heard back on the band returns she found out that the Semipalmated Sandpiper with flag PA7 was banded this past spring on April 26 at Warappakreek study site, Commewijne District, Suriname. The second bird was banded in French Guiana in January 2010.
Our thanks to Cynthia for all of the hard work from the observations to the photos to the reporting, all while keeping us in the loop. Please be on the lookout for birds like hers and let us know if you see any!
Audubon Alliance for Coastal Waterbirds, Audubon Connecticut and the Connecticut Audubon Society partnering to improve conditions for coastal waterbirds in Connecticut.
"Aug 10, 2013 10:40 - 10:50 am, near low tide
Yellow Flag PA7 Semipalmated Sandpiper feeding in a small flock of 1 Least and 2 additional Semipalmated Sandpipers at Greenwich Point Park "
Take a look!
.jpg)
Cynthia had already reported the banded bird and we asked her to send us the information she received back on it. During this wait she saw the bird a couple more times:
"Aug 13, 2013 3:50 - 4:20 pm, high tide
Semipalmated Sandpiper -.Yellow Flag PA7 on upper right; metal band on upper left feeding in a flock of 1 Least, 3 Semipalmated Plover, 3 Ruddy Turnstone, 53 Semipalmated Sandpipers at Greenwich Point Park"
Cynthia also found another tagged bird before even hearing back the banding information about the first one!
"While looking for Semipalmated Sandpiper PA7 ( which I did not find), I discovered another tagged shorebird at Greenwich Point Park today, 8/18 about 11:00 am. Semipalmated Sandpiper feeding with flock of about 36 SESA plus 2 Ruddy Turnstone and 2 Semipalmated Plover. Band on upper left leg was dark blue band over yellow flag tag LYM. Metal band on right leg."
+band.jpg)
When Cynthia heard back on the band returns she found out that the Semipalmated Sandpiper with flag PA7 was banded this past spring on April 26 at Warappakreek study site, Commewijne District, Suriname. The second bird was banded in French Guiana in January 2010.
Our thanks to Cynthia for all of the hard work from the observations to the photos to the reporting, all while keeping us in the loop. Please be on the lookout for birds like hers and let us know if you see any!
Audubon Alliance for Coastal Waterbirds, Audubon Connecticut and the Connecticut Audubon Society partnering to improve conditions for coastal waterbirds in Connecticut.
Rabu, 21 Agustus 2013
Chocolate Beach
The Chain Islands run in a line out of Ganges Harbor and make a great island hopping kayak tour. All are rocky and there is neither sediment nor opportunity for beaches to form. With this notable exception. Here on Third Sister Island, shell debris has found a place to accumulate and it has formed a wonderful white beach consisting almost entirely of broken shell fragments.
From a distance, I expected it to be a tombolo, but it is actually just a low rocky area where a beach has been able to form on one side. If the process that formed it is still active, which I expect it would be, then this beach is fairly young. Otherwise I would expect the shell debris to continue to accumulate and to wash over and cover the rocky backshore. I was surprised it hadn't. I wonder if the perfect storm could actually clear the shell completely off this beach, requiring time to rebuild.Mark and I did it on our own, but this beach is the destination for guided half-day kayak trips out of Ganges and maybe it's called Chocolate Beach because it's where the chocolate bars come out of the dry bags. I was curious about how these daily visits affect the beach itself? One of the lessons of Cama Beach was that without people, the berm consists of largely intact clam shell, especially after a big storm. Once you let people back in, it is all rapidly turned to crushed shell.
AERIAL VIEW (Google Maps)
