13th Annual Smithsonian.com Photo Contest
Cardinal in McAllen, Texas
This cardinal in McAllen, Texas has migrated south to wintering grounds. A native of northern climes in North America, I found it unusual to find it in the almost semi-tropical climate of south Texas.
Birders travel to add to their life lists. In the process, this becomes a big step in incentivizing the need to conserve and protect birds and their habitats. Often referred to as "Avitourism", it provides a boost to local economies by redirecting predatory hunting and consumptive practices that lead to deforestation/desertification to endeavors that support and preserve habitat.
© Karin Leperi.
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||Nov. 20, 2015, 8:24 p.m.