So I’m walking near the west bank light rail station, and against the odds I notice a dead bird on the ground. I can’t believe how tiny it is. Looking up I see, as expected, a big glassy walkway where the bird struck, probably during overnight migration.
I am sure it is a Nashville warbler in non-breeding plumage. I’ve never positively identified one in the field, though they are common. Birding is about the joy of small discoveries so it is sad that the first one I see should be dead due to a glass collision that could be avoided with better design.
That is the unfortunate pattern of many people who study nature: you’re thrilled to see a new species or habitat, only to feel grim forebodings about their future. This is especially true of scientists that study amphibians.
The owners of the new Vikings stadium have refused to adopt bird-friendly glass design despite the reasonable cost. Yet another reason for me to hate football.
pseudoisaac 