While in Texas last month we drove to the shin oaks observatory near Austin to add the black capped vireo to my year list. It's a pleasant visit made easy by the platform set up for observation.
The environment is harsh--dry and rugged--and very hot in summer. With just a little patience we sat in the shade and were able to catch some glimpses and hear some song without disturbing the nesting of the birds.
The golden cheeked warbler, another endangered species from hill country Texas, has eluded me this year, but I haven't really made a search for one.
My younger son has challenged me a bit this year with his list. He travels often and made a trip to Hawaii where he picked up quite a few that won't be on my list.
It's all casual for both of us, but makes for pleasant conversation whenever we compare lists and experiences.
It certainly looks a harsh environment for a small bird to survive in. I keep a bird-list some years - it gets me to some interesting places.
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