Unfortunate birding at Bud Mielke Reservoir. Loveland, larimer county

[Jace Wesley Brasher]

The farmers are mowing the fields north and south of  Bud Mielke Reservoir in loveland( location of eastern meadowlark, Dickcissel, and bobolink nests). Unfortunately this means any possible nests are being destroyed. 

Jace brasher 

Loveland 

Larimer county 

[Jace Wesley Brasher]

[Bryan Tarbox]

Just wanted to let people know that there is still a lot of habitat out there after the mowing and Dickcissels and Lilian's Meadowlark are still present as of this morning.

I was also wondering if anyone knows the landowners? Seasonality of pasture mowing is a big deal for grassland bird conservation and if anyone knows the landowners it would certainly be worth reaching out to them to educate on this point. Of course - maybe they already know, and are intentionally mowing in phases or only partially to address this somewhat? Hard to say from a completely outside perspective. Equipment is still in the field, so additional mowing may be coming.

Bryan Tarbox

Loveland, CO

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[Michael T]

I am sure that after the storms last week the farmer is taking advantage of a streak of hot, dry weather to get the hay cut, wind-rowed,dried and then baled.Rain on hay promotes mold, which is a bad thing. This is nice looking grass hay, so keeping rain off of it is important. If it is irrigated land then they will get water on it ASAP. Multiple cuttings in a season is important for the farmer. It is unfortunate for some wildlife, but the guy has to make a living.

Michael Tincher

Loveland