THE JACANA
HAPPY SOUNDS IN
THE SWAMPS
Nature Watch
with
Al Ramsawack
Sunshine Magazine
March 12, 2000
Page 5
The lively sharp and loud sounds of the jacana bird lend a feeling
of freshness and space to our swamplands.
The
Jacana is possibly one of the most beautiful swamp birds in our country. As it flies down to the water surface, it
extends its feet forward. Its very long
toes glide along the water as if they were skis.
The
flapping wings show of the bright yellow of the attractive yellow. A bright orange shield covers part of its
black head just around the beak. The black
of its head extends down to the shoulders.
A rust brown covers the remainder of its body.
Many
years ago, this bird seemed a rare visitor to our swamps, but in recent years
there has been a growth in their numbers.
They have become fairly common in our rice lagoons in South Oropouche,
Rousillac, Caroni and in the Laventille swamp, among other swamp areas.
It is
said that their nesting period extends from April in the dry season, to August
in the rainy season. These graceful
beauties are also found in the marshes of Mexico through Central America,
Guyana, Venezuela, Cuba and Jamaica.
It is
pleasant to know that more and more people are becoming observant and concerned
about wildlife and to see them as a true part of our natural landscape.
You
may be amazed to learn that the sounds of our birds are good for creating a
relaxed and happy mood. Keep on the
happy tracks of our environment and help to preserve our wildlife and
vegetation, for you too are a part of our beautiful country.