An Unfortunate Gannet–pat morss

Posted on by patmorss

We had a stressful weekend following a Gannet that landed on the Audubon Sanctuary next to our house. Seabirds come ashore just to rookeries to nest, so it must have had a health issue. Professional help was delayed due to multiple emergencies, and it wasn’t confirmed until this morning that it died, apparently without a predator encounter.

First spotted Thursday afternoon in the rain
Little movement, and sleeping by nightfall
Up and alert Friday morning, and preening (still molting)
Tried flying, but inadequate flat space to aid takeoff
Many unsuccessful attempts
Followed by some rest
Then, as we’ve seen before, the crows came in and harassed the larger bird
They drove him toward the bushes
Another attempt to fly
Last time visible. Body recovered on Sunday. Lost a beautiful bird

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Published by patmorss

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