ML644966800

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Crested Caracara (Caracara plancus). A striking individual observed soaring low over King Ranch—my first encounter with the species since my earliest year of birding. Unlike that original roadside bird, head buried in fresh roadkill and offering only awkward, partial views, this one gave exactly the kind of look I’d hoped for ever since. The bird passed overhead on broad, paddle-shaped wings, wingtips slightly upturned, the crisp black cap, white neck, and bold underpattern all sharply visible. The orange facial skin and heavy pale bill flashed as it banked, moving with the buoyant, powerful flight that makes this species so distinctive on the South Texas landscape. And this was only the beginning—I would go on to see many more Crested Caracaras throughout the festival, a privilege I absolutely did not take for granted.