SaddleBrooke Ranch Birdathon: Cuckoos Raise Funds
The SaddleBrooke Ranch (SBR) Cuckoos had another successful Birdathon, raising over $9,000 for the Tucson Bird Alliance (TBA). Over five years, the team has raised nearly $40,000, supporting TBA’s mission.
The Cuckoos chose a 24-hour “Big Day, Free Style” format. Four teams of two to three birders visited several local hotspots. Participants included Laurie McCoy, Deb and Gary Sandin, Gerry and Claire Tietje, Ben and Nancy Eisenstein, Tim DeJonghe, Carrie Gelsey, Rick and Sheree Gillispie, Michelle Jenning, and leader Jim Hoagland.
Starting late afternoon, several Cuckoos birded at Peppersauce Campground, with Tim and Jim staying late for owling. Others watched for nighthawks at the SaddleBrooke Ranch pond.
Birding Highlights
Early the next morning, Gerry and Claire birded Mount Lemmon, spotting 46 species, including two lifers. Laurie, Ben, and Nancy recorded 55 species at Sweetwater Wetlands before visiting Marana, Red Rock, the Santa Cruz River, and Park Link Drive.
Deb’s team stopped at Queen Valley on their way to Boyce Thompson Arboretum. A staff member led them to a wastewater treatment area rich with bird species. Boyce Thompson and Cross Creek Dairy were quieter, but the team still counted 67 species.
Jim and Michelle began near the SBR pond and visited Winkelman Flats Park, Keary Lake, Oracle State Park, and Mammoth Sewer Ponds, totaling 104 species. Overall, the Cuckoos set a new record with 145 species, surpassing last year’s 127.
Fundraising and Community Spirit
The Cuckoos raised over $9,000 this year for the Tucson Bird Alliance. Over five years, they have contributed nearly $40,000 to bird conservation efforts. This fundraising success is thanks to the strong support from friends, family, and the SaddleBrooke Ranch community. The team looks forward to building on this success in future Birdathons.
Honoring a Team Member
This year’s SaddleBrooke Ranch Birdathon was dedicated to Rick Gillispie, who is battling brain cancer. Although Rick and Sheree were unable to participate, they remained in the thoughts of the entire team. Their spirit inspired the Cuckoos throughout the event.
Contributions by Jim Hoagland
About SaddleBrooke Ranch
SaddleBrooke Ranch is a premier 55+ community beautifully nestled in the scenic foothills near Tucson, Arizona. This active adult neighborhood offers resort-style amenities, including a golf course, fitness centers, walking trails, and a variety of social clubs and activities designed to enrich your lifestyle.
Residents enjoy the perfect blend of natural beauty and modern convenience, creating a welcoming environment to relax, explore, and connect with neighbors. Whether you’re looking for an active lifestyle or peaceful surroundings, SaddleBrooke Ranch provides a balanced living experience.
Visit SaddleBrooke Ranch to tour new homes and discover firsthand the welcoming community and lifestyle that make it a special place to call home.