10,000 Birds

DECEMBER 23, 2014

I got to see a beautiful female and owlet on a trip to a secret nest location near Howard Prairie Lake (human-made nest structures have enhanced local breeding for these huge owls whose nest success is boosted to 83% on artificial platforms vs. 66% at natural sites). The experience, the place, and the bird combine to make this my BBOTY.

2014 183

2014 Costa Rica South Africa Birds 183

10,000 Birds

DECEMBER 31, 2012

After lazing in the heat I decided to visit the forest pools one last time, hoping for another sighting of Hartlaub’s Duck or White-bellied Kingfisher. I have chronicled the experience on my blog. 2012 was one of my best years for birding in Costa Rica. Isaac, my local guide was hesitantly following.

2012 133

2012 Ghana Ireland Birds 133

10,000 Birds

JANUARY 3, 2017

If you haven’t read the 10 Best lists of my 10,000 Birds compadres, you may also want to read about Corey’s birding achievements , Pat’s envy-inducing Costa Rica list , Tom’s Ten Best , featuring his beautiful photographs, and Clare’s wonderful British Top Ten. 5) White-winged Duck. 6) Garganey.

2016 108

2016 India Ducks Birds 108

10,000 Birds

DECEMBER 27, 2013

Hornbills are spectacular under any circumstances, but when a pair lands in a bush beside you at eye-level and begin mutual preening , it makes for a spectacular experience. This ABA Code 4 bird was found hanging out with some Wood Ducks in Missoula, conveniently enough, by Radd Icenoggle. You can read more about his experience here.

2013 167

2013 Birds Costa Rica India 167

10,000 Birds

MARCH 12, 2011

Plus, I mean, it’s a giant chicken-looking thing that’s actually related to ducks… with that kind of identity crisis going on, what’s not to love? Not to mention, its brilliantly bulbous crimson throat, bloated during breeding season must be a sight! The Magnificent Frigatebird is the bird I would want to see.

Brazil 197

Brazil 2011 Birds Wildlife 197