So I headed back down to Kittery yesterday for yet another visit with the Western Reef-Heron (#6). However, this was actually a “business” trip. I was meeting Amy Sinclair from WGME Channel 13 to film a segment on the Heron.

Originally, the “angle” was to focus on the bird’s economic impact on the area, as I am now doing with my survey of birders who have visited the area (By the way, if you have gone to see the Heron please take a moment to fill out my survey, if you have not done so already…Thanks!). Well, that story went by the wayside as Amy and Jason (the cameraman) got completely sucked into the thrill of the chase!

We began looking for the bird in New Castle, around Goat Island. Not there. Then, it was to the bridge near the Wentworth Hotel. Not there either. However, a gentleman pulled up and said that it was seen about 20 minutes earlier. (The dreaded, “You just missed it.” Definitely, one of the worst things a birder can be told!).

So, we went to check back at Goat Island. No dice. However, the gentleman who gave us the message before was kind enough (the TV camera and big, fat WGME-13 lettering on the car didn’t hurt with our “cred” no doubt) to drive back around and tell us that the Heron was just around the corner from where we had been – and was across the street from his house! We followed him over, and were treated to a great view (perfect light) of the bird. Nice!

Our view was a bit distant, but the light was great. This photo is through my spotting scope with a 32x eyepiece on.

Two other birders then joined us for our previously-scheduled outing with Captain Neil of Captain and Patty’s Piscataqua River Tours – part of the original plan to feature the economic side of things. We thoroughly enjoyed the tour as we motored into Little Harbor hoping to get the camera a little closer to the Heron (but of course, not too close as to disturb or flush it).

Captain Neil Odom of the Sir William Pepperrell.

Amy keeps an eye out, and Jason is ready to go.

The Heron was not where we left it, but I soon spotted it feeding in a small patch of marsh with some Snowy Egrets, as usual. We enjoyed it, and it’s feeding behavior, for nearly an hour before it was time to head in.

We were much closer this time, as this photo is taken through my 7 power binoculars.

The boat ride and harbor tour, the absolutely perfect evening out on the water, and the excitement of Amy and Jason – two non-birders really – upon seeing the bird made for a great evening and yet another wonderful experience with “The Reefer.”

You can see the segment on tonight’s 5:00 News (WGME, Channel 13), or you can download it soon on the station’s website.

By the way, tomorrow at the store, we have another in our series of Maine Artist Feature Days when we will be welcoming Falmouth bird painter Sue Shane. Drop in to say hi!