Chirps and Cheeps

Only four days after I added the Black-bellied Whistling Duck to my life list in South Carolina, one showed up in Wilson, New York!  I couldn't believe it - I've been wanting to see that bird for years and, after finding one far from home, doesn't one show up right here in Western New York?!  It was very ironic to me..

Of course, I went right out to see the soon-to-be-famous duck the morning after it was found. It was very easy to find, sitting right where Willie D'Anna's directions pointed. The unusual looking duck slept for most of the time I was there, but occasionally, it would rouse, preen, walk around, and then go back to sleep. I was able to enjoy those large, white eye-rings and its bright orange bill. There was a dark stripe that went down its crown that I failed to notice in South Carolina - but then this was a much closer view.  I was thrilled to get to know this duck a little better!

Since I was out in Wilson, I thought I'd run over to Krull Park to find a Clay-colored Sparrow where they are known to breed. It didn't take long to hear one as I made my way around the paths enjoying some Bobolinks and Savannah Sparrows along the way.  If one didn't know better, one might think the Clay-colored Sparrow's buzzy song was coming from an insect. Fortunately, I had refreshed my memory with his song on the drive over and, directed by the song, I spotted the sparrow quickly. What a fun morning in Wilson!