I’ve spotted this guy hanging around Coyote Island in the Oxbow on several occasions, but more frequently, I’ve heard him calling from the treetops. This afternoon, I got a really good close up look as he flew between the two islands and then along the Oxbow trail. There was no mistaking him this time, dark brown, white belly, striped head, and the now unmistakable call as he cussed me for disturbing his fishing with my pontoon boat.
Here are some photos and videos I’ve found on the web, as I’ve been unable to take any myself.
I suspect those folks living close to the canal have heard him calling recently.
The DEC have put out a bulletin regarding the status of this once endangered species. http://www.dec.ny.gov/animals/56124.html
Everyone is trying to help this bird recover from being almost wiped out by DDT chemicals which weakened the egg shells, resulting in a horrific decline. The National Grid has even made special fiberglass plates to put over poles to stop the birds from being electrocuted.
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It’s a real privilege to actually see this bird, especially in my back yard.
The Oxbow Blog 