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Historic Sighting of South American Stork

On July 31, a routine shorebird survey at the Sherburne Wildlife Management Area South Farm Complex turned into an historic event. Among the great blue herons, little blue herons, roseate spoonbills, snowy egrets, great egrets and ibises. Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries Ornithologist Michael Seymour and LDWF technician Joshua Sylvest spotted a Jabiru, the tallest flying bird in Central and South America. They photographed and videotape the bird for 45 minutes before it took flight and has been seen since.

Adult Jabirus are approximately five feet tall with a wingspan over seven feet and weigh about 17 pounds. The massive, black beak is up to a foot long. Body and flight feathers are mostly white, but the head and upper neck are featherless and black with a bare, red stretchable pouch at the base of the neck.

"When Josh and I parked the truck to start our shorebird survey, we immediately saw the Jabiru; it towered over all the other wading birds. We were speechless at what we saw, instead quietly, high-fiving to celebrate the discovery," Seymour says. "Finding a first state record bird is a dream of all birders, and Josh and I didn't think twice about creeping through a mud-filled impoundment to get documentary proof. I hope other birders are lucky enough to see this rare bird."

Katrina Commemoration in New Orleans

The Humane Society of Louisiana is hosting a commemorative weekend in New Orleans to honor the volunteers from across the nation who responded to the plight of animals during hurricanes Katrina and Rita.

On Aug. 29, the Humane Society will unveil the nation's first memorial statue honoring animals lost during hurricanes Katrina and Rita and honor Garo Alexanian and Amanda and Marty St. John of MuttShack for their work during the 2005 storm season and beyond.

A vegetarian luncheon at the Astor Crowne Plaza hotel includes a panel discussion with Animal Fair magazine founder Wendy Diamond, Amigo Foundation founder Frances Hayward and Animal Services for the American Humane Association Director Debrah Schnackenberg. After an afternoon caravan tour of the city, the evening concludes with a musical benefit at Tipitina's with all friendly, leashed dogs welcome.

On Aug. 30, the city's shelters host open houses followed by Yappy Hour/Puppy Love, a benefit at the Ritz-Carlton Hotel with Greatest American Dog judge Wendy Diamond.

For more information contact, the Humane Society of Louisiana.

Night Hikes at the Bluebonnet Swamp

On Aug. 15 and 22, BREC's Bluebonnet Swamp and Nature Center offers an educational hikes for nature lovers age 7 and older. When the sun goes down, the nightlife really heats up in the swamp. With lightening bugs and flashlights to illuminate the sights, hikers will explore the facts and fiction about owls, bats and other creatures of the night. Registration is required to attend the event. For more information, call 757-8905.