Carl and Bert's roadsky-trip around our beautiful state is winding down. The majestic North Carolina Mountains mark the duo’s final destination on their journey to raise awareness of Audubon North Carolina’s monthly giving program, the Cardinal Club. Take a look back on his adventures on the eastern and central parts of our state by visiting the “Carl the Traveling Cardinal” tag on Audubon’s blog.
To begin their mountain escapade, Carl and Bert sought out the travel and birdwatching advice of the local experts at the Elisha Mitchell Audubon Society (EMAS). The folks at EMAS are responsible for planning, executing and monitoring the conservation efforts across much of western North Carolina. As part of the society’s mission to preserve and protect wildlife and natural ecosystems, EMAS is involved in the care and maintenance of three Important Bird Areas — Plott Balsam Mountains, Black and Great Craggy Mountains and Bull Creek. Although each noteworthy in their own way, Bert has always been drawn toward fellow blue-hued birds. So off they went to Bull Creek - home to one of the most significant populations of Cerulean Warblers in the state!
Bull Creek is a short 5-mile, 5,000 acre section of the Blue Ridge Parkway near Asheville. NC Birding Trail describes this portion of the Parkway as one of the best mid-elevation places to bird near Asheville. Loss of important habitats to logging and residential or commercial development is a primary threat and key issue to Bull Creek.
The local Cerulean Warblers are of high concern for conservationists due to their small total population size and significant declines in the past several years. The species has been actively considered for protection under the Endangered Species Act. Carl & Bert met with Elisha Mitchell Audubon Society volunteer and former Audubon Volunteer of the Year, Charlotte Goedsche, who has been tirelessly monitoring the local population of Cerulean Warblers since 2000. Audubon North Carolina also established point count locations within the Important Bird Area in 2006. This area is included in a portion of the Buncombe County Christmas Bird Count circle.
Carl loves all his new friends! They speak for the birds (when no one can understand all their chirping).
Carl & Bert are so grateful for your support and for encouraging them on their journey to help conserve their beloved bird friends on the coast, in the piedmont and here in the mountains. No need to fret about the end of their journey! If you join Audubon’s Cardinal Club by December 31st, you’ll receive your very own plush cardinal as well as ensure NC birds can continue brightening your backyard and trails with their presence year-round!
With the Cardinal Club, your contribution will be deducted monthly -- no further work on your part. Membership starts as low as $5 a month! Supporting local conservation and protecting North Carolina wildlife has never been easier.
