It was around 08.30 on New Year’s morning. Still slightly groggy, I was determined not to miss my first daylight in The Bahamas. With a handful of target birds to choose from, one species was placed clearly at the top of my “wanted” list.
A movement between the palm stalks caught my attention and there he was. A Red-legged Thrush. It turned out to be my first bird of the year and when asked to contemplate my Best Bird of the Year, it was the first to spring to mind.
They are said to be reasonably common around Nassau, but thankfully my visit was very short and I didn’t have time to resent the familiarity that might otherwise have built up.
Redgannet worked for more than 35 years as a flight attendant for an international airline. He came to birding late in his career but, considering the distractions, doesn't regret the missed opportunities. He was paid to visit six continents and took full advantage of the chance to bird the world. He adopted the nom de blog, Redgannet, to avoid remonstrations from his overbearing employer, but secretly hoped that the air of mystery would make him more attractive to women. Now grounded, he is looking forward to seeing the seasons turn from a fixed point.
My visit was only a few days as well, and I think the bird is awesome! Not sure right now what I could call my BBOTY, but there is no reason why this wouldn’t be very high in the running.