New Bird For Me...

[arlinescott]

On our last visit to the Ridgefield National Wildlife Refuge we saw a wider variety of animals than ever before. I don't know if we are just getting better at seeing them or if our timing was on spot but it was a great trip.

During this visit we saw the Marsh Wren singing and while we were entertained, I happened to notice a slight movement below him in the reeds. I had never seen this guy before so it was time to check the Peterson Field Guide to Western Birds and found the Sora. It is a type of rail and is supposedly very common but again, a first time for me and a real eye opener on how the coloring is a most effective form of camoflauge. (Somebody up there must have known what he was doing.)

 

[squirl033]

sora may be fairly common, but they're almost impossible to see, much less photograph, because of their extremely shy and reclusive nature. Virginia rails are much the same way. they love to hide in the tall grasses and reeds of marshy areas, and usually all you see is a glimpse of movement down in the weeds. the shots you got are pretty typical - it's quite rare to catch one of these out in the open. i've gotten shots of the rails, but never a sora... you did well to catch these!

 

[arlinescott]

Thanks Rocky,

Just reminds me to slow things down sometime and appreciate the beauty and surprise that each moment can bring us... If if hadn't been for the appreciation of the little marsh wren's song, I would still not know of this cute little guy's existence.