The Beginning of the Journey: From Arizona 400-410 State Birds
I had no idea what bird #400 was about to start. In fact, the first ten of the 400 were mostly just great Arizona birds that I would pick up several more times on my quest to 500. But these journeys speak of climate change, friendships that still continue or have ended over the years. There was so much unknown. In fact, 500 seemed unattainable and for the "elite" birders only, those who have been birding since the early 1900's. For a few years, it was easy to climb the ladder to 400. Even a little after 400, it seemed pretty easy. But several events changed the game between 400 and 410. Accidental Orchard Oriole find. Photo courtesy of Bryan Holliday There is something satisfying about a number like 400. It feels substantial. It was a milestone. At the time, I was proud of it, of course, but I don't remember standing there thinking, This is the beginning of the next chapter of my life. In 2016, the political world would be rocked and frien...
