Unforgettable Encounters: Amazing Bird Sightings Both Wild and Unexpected

As a nature enthusiast, the thrill of encountering rare and unexpected bird species can be a highlight of any bird-watching journey. Whether it's a drive through scenic landscapes or a count in a remote area, these encounters often leave a lasting impression. In this article, we'll explore three fascinating bird sightings shared by avid birders and bird lovers alike, each offering a unique and surprising experience.

Spring Migration Count in East Kansas: A Rare Sight of White-faced Ibises

During a spring migration count in East Kansas, my friend and I, who recently began taking Prozac, set out to document the various shore birds visiting the mini ponds that had formed following a period of rain. Our task was straightforward, yet as we were about to move on, a series of events unfolded that left us in awe.

Five birds the size of Great Blue Herons descended upon us. However, these were no ordinary birds. They possessed long curved bills and an outlined face, with a pinkish tinge to their feathers in the sunlight. Referring to them as "tropical escapees," we recognized them as White-faced Ibis, a species that rarely ventures east of the central Kansas region. The coincidence of their presence in that exact spot at the same time as ours was remarkable. This experience, which I liken to a National Geographic moment, was a testament to the unpredictability and wonder of nature.

A Home Bird Sight: A Goshawk’s Audacious Attack

A thrilling and somewhat disturbing encounter occurred in my own back yard in Hyogo Prefecture, Japan. While lounging on my sofa, a sudden noise at my doorstep alerted me to the presence of a goshawk. Swiftly, I captured a series of photos, though my hands were visibly trembling with excitement and fright. The scene before me, a goshawk mid-feed on a bulbul, was both awe-inspiring and intensely personal.

The encounter began as I observed my first goshawk, one of the most formidable and rare birds of prey, attacking and consuming a bulbul. Just as the goshawk was in the midst of its meal, a crow swooped in to take a piece, causing the goshawk to fly away with its prey still clawed in its talons. This encounter, while not the most picturesque, is one of the most memorable bird sightings I have ever experienced, and it happened in the very spot where I reside.

Unpredictable Encounters on the Road: Flying Red-tailed Hawks

While driving, especially in New England, there is always the potential for unexpected and thrilling encounters with wild birds. Two instances of such encounters stand out, both involving red-tailed hawks.

The first occurred while driving south on I-95 between Boston and Providence. A red-tailed hawk suddenly flown out of some bushes and collided with the driver-side window of the car in front of me. This encounters put the driver in a state of shock, a stark reminder of the unpredictability of nature.

A few years later, while driving on Route 26 in Maine with a motorcycle following, a red-tailed hawk appeared, brushing the shoulder of the motorcyclist. Astonishingly, the hawk evaded injury and the motorcyclist managed to stay on course at a speed of about 60 mph. These encounters serve as a cautionary tale for drivers, highlighting the need to be vigilant and cautious when sharing the road with wildlife.

These memorable bird sightings not only enrich our daily lives but also offer a window into the vast and intricate web of nature. Whether in the comfort of home or out on the road, every encounter with birds can provide a moment of wonder and reconnection with the natural world.

References

Prozac impact: National Geographic: Red-tailed hawk attack: