Whereas visiting town of Corpus Christi in Texas in November 2023, we had been informed a couple of uncommon hen within the coronary heart of the downtown. We went to the realm the place it had been reported. We had been standing in entrance of a restaurant. On the opposite corners had been a parking zone, an workplace constructing, and a barren, cement-covered lot. Different birders joined us on the stakeout, as we wandered across the space. We had been all questioning if the hen would present up. There have been false sightings, with a warbler and a Home Sparrow being mistaken for the goal hen. Then, one among our group was waving to us to come back to her. We hurried again to the nook to see a Cattle Tyrant operating across the lot, snapping up flies. This uncommon, terrestrial flycatcher is a resident of Panama and South America. It has by no means been seen north of there. This go to was a primary for North America as outlined by the American Birding Affiliation. Some folks theorized that it hitched a journey on a tanker, or was blown in by a hurricane, or simply flew north. Regardless of the purpose, it was a thrill for all of us to be a part of this historic occasion.
Cattle Tyrant
In contrast to most different flycatchers, these leggy birds are constructed for pursuing terrestrial bugs.
Earlier within the week, we had traveled to the Decrease Rio Grande Valley (LRGV) for a birding tour. Our information took us to the native hotspots to search out resident birds like Inexperienced Jay, Frequent Pauraque, Crimson-billed Pigeon, Plain Chachalaca, Cactus Wren, and Buff-bellied Hummingbird.
Discover the Frequent Paraque
Cactus Wren
Additionally, she had us chase some rarities. We noticed Golden-crowned Warbler, Roadside Hawk, Tropical Parula, and Rose-throated Becard. When our tour was over, she inspired us to see the Cattle Tyrant. Additionally, she informed us to search for American Flamingos. They had been displaying up at many hotspots as a result of that they had been blown into the realm by a hurricane. Considered one of our remaining, must-see birds was Aplomado Falcon.We discovered a pair sitting on their hack field. For the bug-lovers, we noticed a surprising Mexican Blue Butterfly. The LRGV and the Coastal Bend of Texas are nice birding areas. This was my third journey to each spots. I nonetheless discovered lifers and loved seeing the resident birds once more.
Mexican Blue Butterfly
Notice: All images courtesy of Joanne Brathwaite