On the day before the Birdathon, I have a single goal; get into camp in the Pepperbox Wilderness backcountry in a timely manner. When doing so, the ample daylight remaining allows for accomplishing all the necessary chores, packing up for the next day and making it to bed early enough so I get plenty
Birdathon 2016: Journey to Fourth of Four Ponds
When the daylight hours begin to overtake those of darkness and spring enters its middle-age, it is once again time for my annual birding/bushwhacking ritual, the Birdathon. This contest requires searching for as many bird species as possible within a 24-hour period on the third Saturday in May. This year, as it has for the
Birdathon 2015: Exiting the Backcountry from Cropsey Pond
The morning after the Birdathon is typically filled with regret, disappointment and self-recrimination. This year is no different, especially given missing my target by a single species. A single darn species! Making matters worse, today is historically where fairly common species missed during the day before make an appearance, seemingly mocking my efforts. This year
Birdathon 2015: Picking Up Species on Way to Cropsey Pond
After spending a good portion of the day birding and bushwhacking through the Pepperbox Wilderness, it is inevitable that lunch and replenishing my water supply becomes an imperative at some point. Mid-afternoon is an ideal time to do so, as most birds are taking a siesta by then. In addition, this gives me a chance
