Identificaciones de gcwarbler

BioBlitzed the Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge for the 2024 City Nature Challenge!

Being a Native Austinite, I have grown up knowing how special this bird was. I have tried my luck at spotting one in the past here, but never have had any luck. Well, that has changed!

Merlin initially picked up its call when me and @isaaceastland started on this trail, but the Golden-cheeked Warbler was nowhere to be found. I could feel my heart pounding throughout the hike as we followed the calls in hopes of spotting one. We even came across a professional photographer that had been on the hunt for one for 3 years in a row! She was excited to tell us that she spotted them further up the trail. After passing the spot she said she spotted them, I had almost given up hope at spotting one when I heard some fast chirping. Merlin picked it up as the Golden-cheeked Warbler! I swear held my breath as we looked all around the junipers searching for it. @isaaceastland spotted a juvenile near the top of the canopy and the adults flew by soon after. The Juvenile observation + call can be seen in this observation: https://www.inaturalist.org/observations/210378982

Anyways, this was one of those life changing moments that I am going to cherish forever. AND I get to document it here :) :) :)