Black Swan

Richard Garrigus

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Dec 23, 2019, 12:45:53 PM12/23/19

to Maine Birds List

Hi everyone,

The Black Swan (I concur with the ID for the time being) reported by Jonah Levy continues. Last seen from Portland Head Light but very far out. Scope would be essential I'm guessing, and even then it is hard to pick up on given the distance. When I left it, it seemed to be in a holding pattern roughly in line with (and between) the two red channel markers to the southeast, from the position of the lighthouse itself. Let yourself be gullible and thoroughly investigate every buoy!

The refrain in my head the last few days has been "all I want for Christmas is a Dovekie". But, ok, I'll settle for a Black Swan!

Richard Garrigus

Thanks Jonah for the prompt report! I left home without any device, so made a beeline back to get the word out.

Kristen Lindquist

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Dec 23, 2019, 1:16:59 PM12/23/19

to Richard Garrigus, Maine Birds List

For people who might not realize, Black Swans found in North America are always escapees (the bird is native to Australia). This is not to diminish how cool it would be to see one "in the wild," but if this IS a Black Swan, don't start lighting up eBird with your sightings...

For more info on exotic waterfowl vs. wild birds, this is a useful article by (bird guide author) Kenn Kaufman from Audubon a few years ago that actually mentions Black Swans specifically: https://www.audubon.org/news/is-exotic-waterfowl-you-just-found-wild-or-escapee#

Kristen

Richard Garrigus

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Dec 23, 2019, 1:43:08 PM12/23/19

to Kristen Lindquist, Maine Birds List

Wow.

I am well aware of the overwhelming likelihood of this as an escapee, and assumed others on this list would also be aware of that likelihood. However, the chance of finding one on the ocean in late December in Maine is nevertheless pretty damn slim and therefore warrants putting out the word. Contrary to your stated purpose, your response is PRECISELY to diminish this sighting and frankly uncalled for. And you're too late I already "lit up" eBird.

I really am weary of people jumping down my throat on this forum. Back off!!!

Dave Cowan

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Dec 23, 2019, 1:55:50 PM12/23/19

to Kristen Lindquist, Richard Garrigus, Maine Birds List

Is there no escapeeBird?

Sent from my iPhone

On Dec 23, 2019, at 1:16 PM, Kristen Lindquist <kelin...@gmail.com> wrote:

For people who might not realize, Black Swans found in North America are always escapees (the bird is native to Australia). This is not to diminish how cool it would be to see one "in the wild," but if this IS a Black Swan, don't start lighting up eBird with your sightings...

For more info on exotic waterfowl vs. wild birds, this is a useful article by (bird guide author) Kenn Kaufman from Audubon a few years ago that actually mentions Black Swans specifically: https://www.audubon.org/news/is-exotic-waterfowl-you-just-found-wild-or-escapee#

Kristen

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Aletha Boyle

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Dec 27, 2019, 9:19:23 AM12/27/19

to Maine birds

I think your post is very cool....

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