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2026 Learning about Pinyon Jays in Central Oregon Continues
The East Cascades Bird Alliance (ECBA) Pinyon Jay Survey in Central Oregon (March–May 2026) focused on documenting the presence, numbers, and reproduction of pinyon jay (Gymnorhinus cyanocephalus). This species is under review for Endangered Species Act (ESA) listing and identified as a Species of Greatest Conservation Need in Oregon’s 2025 State Wildlife Action Plan.Pinyon Jay Adult Sentinel, photo by Laurel Collins
Garden for Birds
Birds need our help. Habitat loss is the #1 threat facing birds and we can do something about it in our outdoor spaces, gardens, and landscapes. Learn about the GARDEN FOR BIRDS PROJECT from Cornell Lab of Ornithology
May’s Malheur Musings
Greetings! Putting together this monthly newsletter is one of the great joys of my job. I place a pretty high value on the role it plays in keeping you connected to Malheur National Wildlife Refuge. Sometimes this means that in order to give it the attention I feel it deserves while also being fully involved in the work of FOMR on the ground, it gets delayed.
March 21, 2026 Update Report from our Brothers Sage-Grouse Project
In 2025 we were experimenting with different types of crop cover to enhance native seed germination and growth. We put out a black plastic crop cover and plastic perforated trays to see which was more effective for seed germination and growth. Photo by Harry Johnson
Birding by Ear Weekly Walk Returns
It must be spring! To the delight of many local birders, Dave Tracy has once again kicked-off spring by leading the weekly bird walk, BIRDING BY EAR. Learn to identify the birds you hear, practice your ear-birding skills, or share your talents with others during this weekly walk in the riverside park. Photo courtesy of Chuck Gates.
Golden Eagle Camera on Whychus Creek
Updates: With our camera running all winter, it was so interesting to see that Rocky and Petra returned to their nest as often as they did. Following both the faithful and new observers’ comments, feel free to ask questions and learn about these amazing birds.
April’s Malheur Musings
Harney County Migratory Bird Festival is a mere two weeks away! While we are excited about spring arrivals on the Refuge we never forget that the entirety of Harney County is coming alive all around us.
City of Redmond Wetlands Complex Update
The City of Redmond has significantly grown and changed since it installed its first wastewater treatment facility in 1978. The projected population in Redmond by the end of 2045 is 54,000. The current system can process and treat 2.8 million gallons per day; the current system will need to be expanded to treat the 4.6 million gallons per day required for the projected population growth.
Intermountain West Shorebird Surveys
Dear Shorebirders, It’s that time of year again! Spring migration is just around the corner, and the Intermountain West Shorebird Survey returns April 24th-30th! You are part of a regional shorebird conservation network with more than 300 participants surveying more than 200 survey sites in 11 states. 2026 is our last planned year of full-scale regional surveys so help us finish strong!
2026 Summer Lake Shorebird Survey SATURDAY & SUNDAY, MAY 30 AND 31, 2026
Volunteers conduct counts of all shorebirds and other waterbirds (excluding waterfowl and American coots) across the entire Summer Lake Wildlife Area.