Swainson's Thrushes - Reassured by their Return

Swainson's Thrushes return each spring, having made long journeys from Central and South America. They've flown over mountains, cities, and miles of water. Their safe arrival is in no way assured. Listen in late May and early June for their exploratory call, a bright "whit!" Later, in the summer, take a walk in the woods, and you may hear their flute-like song, as it spirals upward.

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Swainson’s Thrushes - Reassured by their Return

Written by Chris Peterson

This is BirdNote.
[Rain in the clearing at Bella Tierra]
Come with me today, in the light rain, to a peaceful place, half a mile through tall cedars and firs, to a clearing. Here stands a huge big-leaf maple. Ferns cover the forest floor.
The air smells fresh. I feel connected to this place.
[Rain in the clearing at Bella Tierra – begin bringing in bird song]
The world is so tumultuous lately, too filled with grief. Deep shifts within the core of the earth have created tragedy. And people are dying as they struggle for political power. Close to home, dear friends cope with loss. Some days I’m unsure of my footing, like descending stairs in the dark.
Still, the land around this tree is called Bella Tierra.
[Song of a Swainson’s Thrush recorded at Bella Tierra]
Swainson’s Thrushes return here each spring, after long journeys from Central and South America. Their safe arrival is in no way assured.
Yet listen now for their exploratory call… a bright “whit!” [Whit!] [Whit!]
Pause…
It’s unlikely we’ll see a Swainson’s Thrush. They’re secretive. But it won’t be long before they’ll break into song.
[Song of Swainson’s from Shark Reef and Bella Tierra]
I’m glad you’re here. I’m heartened by your presence.
For BirdNote, I’m Mary McCann.
###
Bird sounds recorded by C. Peterson
BirdNote's theme music was composed and played by Nancy Rumbel and John Kessler.
Producer: John Kessler
Executive Producer: Chris Peterson
© 2014 Tune In to Nature.org May 2014 Narrator: Mary McCann