Photobombing Sparks Birding-Bash in NM
The culprit at the heart of all of the buzz is the Rufous-necked wood-rail. Like every good redneck, this tropical bird was in for a bit of fun at his new neighbor’s expense. The wood-rail didn’t appreciate that wildlife officials at Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge in New Mexico were intently filming a least bittern. So, like every competent photobomber, the Ruofous-necked wood-rail burst on the scene and stole the camera’s attention.
Since the initial sighting on July 7th, many birders have made the pilgrimage to New Mexico to check this bird off their lists. This bird is from South and Central America, so it’s fair to say that it made several wrong turns AND was too proud to ask for directions. Hard-core birders appreciate the creature’s mistake and are living up the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. We at Mr. Canary would like to give a shout-out to Jeffery Gordon of the ABA for capturing this rare pic!
How timely is this story! With so many families on the road this time of year, I think there’s a lesson here for everyone: the next time you make a wrong turn, it’s better to ask for help than to end up thousands of miles from home with a bunch of people holding binoculars staring at you.
Thanks to Susan Montoya Bryan and The Miami Harold for their efforts to bring this story to the birding world!
Author: Nathan Odell
Published: January 1, 2013
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