LAFAYETTE, Ind. (WLFI)-Lafayette residents had the chance to do some rare bird watching. A rare breed of goose was spotted at 3510 U.S. Highway 52 South. The bird is called a Brant according to Purdue Wildlife Professor Barny Dunning.
This species is known for migrating around large bodies of water and the Arctic Tundra. They aren't normally found in Indiana due to their migrating patterns. However, Dunning says they do fly down here every once in a while.
"When they are found in Indiana, they are commonly found on Lake Michigan or large bodies like Lake Monroe," said Purdue Wildlife Professor Barny Dunning. " They're not usually found in a patch of grass along Route 52."
Dunning says Brants are known for eating in grass patches like the one it was found at along U.S. 52. It might explain why it found its way to Tippecanoe county. Additionally, Dunning says he's not surprised by the turnout he's seeing of people eager to get a look at the rare bird.
"The number of people who consider themselves bird watchers in the United States is second only to the number of people who garden in terms of outdoor activities," added Dunning.
Dunning says when a rare species like this shows up. People naturally want to see it for themselves. The Department of Natural Resources came out to check on the bird and make sure it wasn't sick. People who have been closely watching the bird say they saw it fly, so DNR will likely just leave it be until it decided to move on. Dunning added that our colder than normal temperatures could be another reason the Brant migrated this far south. The owners of Total Home By DJ LLC, the business the bird was found in front of says it's been there for four days.
