ML644903170

Observation details

Originally found Friday by Ken Reiker. Today was first chance I had to chase. After a half hour my non-birding wife brought a bird to my attention. I eventually got on it and alerted all other birders by doing an awkward clapping exercise as to avoid frightening the bird. Large “Virginia” type rail. Orange chest, long bill. Photos and video obtained. Everyone present ~ 15 birders got on it, at one point went in middle of waterway with sun just rising out of cloud cover for perfect light! Have heard this bird multiple times in my life but this is my first visual. Bird stayed in view for at least 10 min before crossing, swimming at one point to the other side which presented much thicker cover with cattails giving into phragmites. Bird first spotted at ~7:36 AM on right side of boardwalk as if coming to boardwalk entry from parking lot.