RTPI Affiliate Sean Graesser and I were happy to hear that a Louisiana Waterthrush had already made its way to Connecticut in late March, besting early arrival records in what may be an early spring for many birds – despite this current arctic rebuke. There are even some Blue-gray Gnatcatchers and Purple Martins in the Northeast! Birds like them have a very difficult time getting through freezing conditions, and with overnight lows going deep into the 20s it is going to be a rough ride for these bold returning individuals. This particular photo by Sean is of an individual captured in Costa Rica after being banded in a previous season. It is still remarkable every time a neotropical migrant is recaptured from a previous season after traveling thousands of miles. I wonder where this bird makes its nest this spring…
Scott Kruitbosch
Conservation & Outreach Coordinator
