Birdwatchers across the province have been wowed in recent weeks by a large variety of unusual and rare sightings.
Indigo buntings, scarlet tanagers, cardinals, a painted bunting and even a turkey vulture have been caught on camera in various parts of the province and shared widely through social media.
(Photo by Randolph White // Newfoundland Birdwatching Group.)
The real rare treat, however, is a visitor from even farther away.
A Eurasian oystercatcher, a species native to the other side of the Atlantic, and spotted in Lush’s Bight, has birdwatchers all aflutter.
Jared Clarke owns and operates Bird on the Rock. He tells VOCM News the oystercatcher is very rare on this side of the Atlantic.
Clarke says while colourful birds like painted buntings are interesting to Newfoundlanders, it’s the European strays that catch the attention of birders from across North America, making this province a must-visit destination.
He says serious birders with a life-list will drop everything and catch the next flight to Newfoundland.
Jared Clarke spoke with VOCM’s Linda Swain. Listen below:
