Seward, Alaska
I received a fragmented report this morning followed by scant details of an incredible and unmistakable NORTHERN CARDINAL sighting. The handsome male, perched like a glowing red ruby amidst snowy branches, was photographed by local resident Maja Watson on December 30, 2020 on Old Exit Glacier Road.
This bird is so rare in Alaska only its family, Cardinalidae, is listed in the 2020 Checklist of Alaska Birds. It has NEVER been documented in Alaska.
Thunderstruck birders responded with incredulity, debate, and action.
Dave S noted the species is non-migratory, with a number of records for Washington and California that are considered escapees from captivity. Sulli G countered with the fact keeping a Cardinal in captivity is very illegal, that birds do weird things, and most extralimital records in Canada are winter, so the timing at least seems right. Add to that the number of strong winter storms that may have helped relocate the Cardinal to Seward. Only the Cardinal knows, and he’s not talking.
Several birding parties shot down the highway from Anchorage and patrolled Old Exit Glacier Road and environs all day without success. Their dedicated effort is greatly appreciated!
We can only hope that this mega-rarity will settle down at an accessible bird feeder and let us enjoy the marvel.
The BREWER’S BLACKBIRD and DOVEKIE also remain at large and unsubstantiated, ie no photograph, audio recording, or specimen, throwing down the gauntlet to tease and challenge us to find and photograph them. The BRAMBLING, RUSTY BLACKBIRDS, and female RED-WING BLACKBIRD remain cooperative. Yay!
The New Year in Seward got a head start with a bang bigger than any fireworks!
Happy Birding!
Carol Griswold
Seward Sporadic Bird Report Reporter
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