“Ramblers — let’s get ramblin’,” hundreds of birdwatchers across the state, and even beyond, cried with glee as they flocked into their cars and set out for eastern Long Island in a certified fanatical frenzy.
As reported by CBS, birders traveled from far and wide to the Vineyards Golf and Country Club in Riverhead starting Thursday, October 23rd, to feast their eyes on the “common cuckoo.” The rare visitor was first spotted by Roy William Gardner while he was riding a golf cart between holes.
Now, the Europe-originated, mostly African, wintertime-resigned cuckoo has been recorded for just the fourth time in the continental United States.
Some avid birders have explained that such a find is known as a “lifer,” meaning a species one might go their whole lifetime without seeing live and in person. “This is an amazing find,” one birder told CBS.
Online communities like “Facebook’s New York State Rare Bird Alert” have tracked more than 200 reported sightings of the coveted, not-so-common cuckoo in the week since the initial discovery.
Just weeks after the Ryder Cup lit up Nassau, tourists now pouring into Suffolk County have brought renewed energy to local businesses — a welcome boost celebrated by civic and commercial leaders alike.
Assemblywoman Jodi Giglio said in a statement to The South Shore Press: “The unexpected arrival of this rare cuckoo in Riverhead has become a wonderful moment for our community. What began as a single bird sighting has blossomed into a celebration of our natural heritage, drawing visitors from near and far who are not just here to catch a glimpse of a bird but to experience the beauty and hospitality of our region.”
Per Giglio, local farms, cafés, outfitters, and tour operators have welcomed enthusiasts “with open arms,” creating an energy “that has reminded us of the value of our scenic landscapes and small-business backbone.”
“As we continue to promote responsible ecotourism respecting private land,” she adds, “protecting wildlife and supporting our local economy, this serendipitous event underscores that when we embrace visitors and celebrate what makes our corner of Long Island unique, everyone benefits: the visitor sees something extraordinary, and our community shines even brighter.”