No Ivorybills were seen but for that short opportunity to be in the range of the bird and in the habitat was very exciting. It was mystical at some points, especially high on the mountain. It was very humid and clouds on a couple of occasions engulfed the forest. The strong sun became a faded pale yellow haze and the jungle-like atmosphere reminded me of something primeval - something I had never seen before. I felt as though this would be as close to the Ivorybill as I might ever get. The scene was perfect. I thought of organizing a proper search at some point, something as complex and cumbersome as the expeditions of the 1930s - because that would be the only way to succeed. This habitat is as difficult to explore as that in Louisiana.
I spent time visiting the local libraries in Holguin and Baracoa. Old field guides did exist and showed the former range of the Ivorybill. One bird expert in the Baracoa library was very familiar with the research that had been done recently. She also believed that as many as a few pairs could exist in either mountain range in eastern Cuba. She said more research is needed.
Overall, people seem to believe the bird could still exist. Hope for some is still there. Whether it be in Cuba or in the US, the persuit for Ivorybills continues to this day in the most serious manner. |
