Geyserville Grapevine by deTraci Regula - April 2019
Regular readers of this column know that last month I mentioned our effort to save an injured red-tailed hawk found along 101 near the Independence exit. This month, I am so pleased that we were able to witness its release back into the wild by Brad Marsh of Sonoma County Bird Rescue. He contacted the kind staff at Coppola’s winery, near where the hawk was found, who granted permission for the rescued raptor to be released on their land. The release site was up well behind the winery building complex where the hawk would have a little space to get reoriented to living in the wild. Hopefully, there will no temptation to go back down toward the highway right away.
Brad let me have the honor of helping to remove its little leather hood from its head just before he set it gently down on the ground. The bird took off instantly, taking to the air with strong beats of its wings, gliding up over a stream and vineyard and landing in a nearby tree, where it gazed back at our group. It was hard for us to just walk away with a few words of blessing and farewell, but it seemed very content to take its time and survey its territory from the highest branches of its chosen tree.
This particular hawk flew off with some secrets though - by weight, once it was released, it fell neatly between the average weights for a male and female hawk. Like most birds, it is not obvious from outside examination whether it is male or female. I confess I am hoping it is a female who may continue to lay the eggs that help this species thrive in our area. But either way, I am so pleased that this story has a happy ending.
“Spike Heels” at the Redwood Theater
On Saturday, March 20th, Isis Oasis Sanctuary welcomes the return of the Curtain Call Theater who are presenting a rollicking play, “Spike Heels”. Come for the just the play or enjoy a delicious buffet dinner beforehand. Call 707 857 4747 for reservations or book online at Eventbrite: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/play-spike-heels-at-isis-oasis-redwood-theater-tickets-59306521402.
Passport to Dry Creek Valley - 30th Anniversary
It’s time for wine in the Dry Creek Valley as this long-established event put on by the Winegrowers of Dry Creek Valley celebrates its 30th anniversary . About 40 wineries in the Dry Creek Valley area are participating, with many of the wineries offering food, music, and other amenities. Tickets are required and are still available as of this writing, but the event may sell out. It’s on for Saturday, April 27th and Sunday, April 28th, from 11am to 4:30 pm. There are also some preliminary related events on Friday. More information at Eventbrite and at the Dry Creek Valley website: https://www.drycreekvalley.org/events/passport-dry-creek-valley/.
Have more Geyserville-related news? Contact me at the email above.
