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Posted by jnrosenthal on 21:22:50 10/18/07
I had the pleasure of meeting Wil Domke this morning at Barnes Park, where we compared notes-photographic, avian and otherwise, and actually peered into the bushes and up into the trees to see what was about. The most active area we observed seemed to be the area near the feeders and behind the trailer-where we saw assorted buntings, grosbeak, warblers and a tanager or two--see photo. A pair of black vultures made some lazy low circles, and raptors of all sorts were lurking, circling and otherwise making their presence known. Nothing super unusual, but the place was very birdy.
I returned briefly after work this evening and was immediately drawn to a commotion above the parking lot by the feeders.As I stepped out of my car I observed a moderate sized red blur being pursued by a large raptor. After a quick turn around the parking lot out of my sight, the two birds appeared again and I realized that the intended victim was apparently the eclectus parrot that has been seen there.. The raptor was now inches behind and had substantially closed the gap between them as they whistled by overhead before I could even think about raising my camera. The pair disappeared over the canopy towards the wooden platform area, to the accompaniment of the Aflac duck's squawks. I followed as quickly as I could but lost sight of the pair and have no idea if the raptor completely closed the distance and acquired his intended meal. I saw no signs of a struggle, nor any sight or sound of the pair after they flew into the platform area.
If anyone finds a pile of red or purple feathers at Barnes, I would appreciate one for our roadkill feather collection, or alternatively, if someone sees the parrot(not nailed to his perch a la Monty Python), please report it to me, or here, so that I can know the ending to today's drama...
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