[TN-Bird] Standifer Gap Marsh, Rails
- From: "David & Gloria Patterson" <dgpatterson@xxxxxxxxxxx>
- To: <tn-bird@xxxxxxxxxxxxx>
- Date: Fri, 1 Nov 2002 17:08:15 -0000
October 28, 2002
Standifer Gap Marsh, Chattanooga
I check the rails (Virginia Rail and Sora) at the marsh 4 or more times per
week, interested in determining the day they leave or if perhaps they will
overwinter.
Most days I hear them while I'm looking around the area for other birds. They
are fairly vocal; usually the Soras sound first, then a Virginia Rail or two
will join in, then they'll all be quiet for perhaps 10 minutes. They seem to
be most vocal from about 9 to 10 A.
If I get ready to leave and haven't heard them, especially if I just stop by
around noon, I'll attempt to call them. Usually they respond to a double hand
clap (Soras respond first) or to my imitation of a Virginia Rail double note
(Virginias respond first).
If all else fails I play a short recording of Virginia Rail sounds. Weeks ago I
discovered something that amazes me. As soon as the woman on the recording
says "Virginia Rail" the Virginia Rails sound off vigorously, and the Soras
join in, before the recorded calls begin. I soon learned to turn off the
player as soon as the words are out, without ever playing the rail sounds.
This has happened far too many times to be just a coincidence; it happens every
time; I demonstrate it to others who happen to be there.
The woman is a strong alto-contralto, speaks slowly and clearly, sounds nothing
like a Virginia Rail, but she has greater success at getting a response than I
do with my imitation of a Virginia Rail.
I would love to hear a theory which explains this (Don't say the rails know
their name; when I say "Virginia Rail" they pay no attention.)
David Patterson
Chattanooga
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