The PURPLE
GALLINULE found by John Haas at the DEC Bashakill
Wildlife Management Area on Thursday, 10/17 and relocated
on 10/18 was seen throughout the day on Saturday October
19. The bird was last reported seen on October
23. It
was not found on October 24th. This is not the same
bird that was at Montezuma NWR for several weeks. The
bird stays hidden for long periods at times, so patience
may be required. John Haas has posted some photos
of the Bashakill Purple Gallinule on his website.
The
bird is near the bridge on Haven Road. At the bridge
look south and on the right hand side of the channel,
barely in the reeds and grasses, there is a small
Muskrat lodge. The bird has been hanging around
the area to the right of that mound since it was
discovered. Visibility
is best before noon, when you will not be looking
into the sun; however, on 10/22 the bird was most
active in the afternoon. This is a first record
for Sullivan County.
Directions: Take
NY Rte 17 west to Exit 113. Take on Rt 209 west/south toward
Haven; drive about 1.5 miles to the first left turn, Haven
Rd. The bridge is a short distance on Haven Rd, in the middle
of the Bashakill.
