Author Archives: John Vanderpoel

Making me look like Carnac the Magnificent, last Saturday (Feb 18, 2012) Brian Patteson, the Admiral of the Atlantic,  had a Black-browed Albatross only one mile out from Hatteras Inlet that  stayed with his boat for forty-five minutes!  It was … Continue reading →

Wes Hatch asked if I would advise trying for Great Skua in February or wait till December like I did last year.  I would strongly recommend going on one of Brian Patteson’s February trips.  This is the traditional and your … Continue reading →

If I were to have attempted a full-blown ABA Big Year in 2012, I would be off to a strong start.  My year would have begun in Anchorage and I’d remain there until I saw the Dusky Thrush. It was … Continue reading →

There were some truly exciting birds in the ABA area this January that would have impressively launched someones Big Year.  I’ve been keeping taps on these birds and noting whether they’re chasable or not.  I’ll publish a hypothetical list in … Continue reading →

Just wondering if anyone is attempting a “Full Blown” ABA Big Year in 2012?  This January has started out with a bang, certainly more rarities than last January.  The Common Chaffinch and LaSagra’s Flycatcher on the East coast are exciting.  Texas … Continue reading →

Folks, I’ve been negligent in approving comments until just now. Sorry about that.  I was slammed with a nasty cold that hit just before year end. Can’t complain though as it was my first cold or illness of 2011.  Anyway … Continue reading →

The Big Year is finished. Soon I’ll slip back into relative anonymity. But while I still have your attention, I would like to reflect on this very special year.  It’s been one huge wild, crazy ride.  Day one provided a … Continue reading →

I suppose it was meant to end this way.  One last chase accompanied by my brother Bill.  Bill was with me on the first chase of the year and now was along my side here in Arizona for the last … Continue reading →

Today was a long day which began in Norfolk, VA at 4:30 AM Eastern Time and ended at 11:55 AM Rocky Mountain time in Phoenix.  In between I visited Whitby Harbor to try for the Smew.  Jean Iron and Ron … Continue reading →