The rainy weather is bringing out the hummingbirds! But the humid air also exacerbates the number one problem we face at the sanctuary: NOISE!
There are times, with the bird-scaring cannon operated by local farmers 2 miles away, and the low-flying helicopters commuting to East Hampton, when it is like Apocalypse Now. For 15 years it used to be very quiet here - it's why we chose it. But in the last few years noise has greatly increased. As well as the heavy helicopter and seaplane commuter traffic, and these infernal cannon, new development has brought the "landscaping" teams with their leafblowers and other loud equipment (Capability Brown must be turning in his grave at the misuse of this term). I now nap with my Bose noise-cancelling headphones on, and the doors and windows closed, but even this does not stop the racket. I cannot understand why it does not bother more people - and it's so rude and selfish. Above all, it makes it difficult to hear the subtle buzzing and squeaking that alerts one to the presence of a yet unseen hummingbird, and it interferes with their constant communications.
We hope to open sunday afternoon 3-6, but only to those who have not yet visited this year. Please check the blog for confirmation.
