YA Eco Mysteries, Memoirs, Novels & Travel
Writing Eco Mysteries 5
On The Trail of Red-cockaded Woodpecker
We bump through the tall grass and brush to the nesting site of a male. As the sun drifts lower, we hear the raspy chirp, chirp of the woodpecker. Eric and Mark train powerful binoculars on the nests, easily detected by streaks of sap running down the bark. With net at the ready, Eric waits patiently, ready to spring into action.
Looking around I can imaging the magnificent old-growth forests of gnarled longleaf pines, set in a carpet of golden prairie grasses and green ferns, which once stretched away in all directions. As we rock our way out of the forest, a magnificent wash of pastel colors flames in the west, bidding us farewell and good luck on our next adventure.
A Bright Future.
In less than ten years the future of the red-cockaded woodpecker on private land was towards extinction. Today, with the cooperation of biologists, land managers, and landowners, the species is recovering.
Outdoor lovers have applauded the Lanier family's ownership, citing meticulous cultivation of wildlife habitats and the generous donation of almost 20,000 acres to the Alabama Forest Resources Center. Donations of such "easements" keep the land under the ownership of the donor, but bar any future development of the property, thereby maintaining natural habitat in perpetuity. Lanier's donation was the largest in Alabama history and one of the 30 largest in the Union.
How to weave this experience into my eco-mystery, The Return of The Red-cockaded Woodpecker?
The Sizzling Six, protagonists of my story, will observe how dedicated and patient field ecologist need to be in their efforts to conserve threatened species—they are often the unsung heroes. The girls will also absorb the curiosity and dedication and the scientific expertise needed to solve complex ecological problems.
Links to explore:
The Red-cockaded Woodpecker
Red-cockaded Woodpecker Survey Protocol
Birmingham Audubon Society