What Bird Is That Forum

Donald Cunningham, whose photos I have posted on his behalf under the username "Bering Birder" on this forum (and the original Whatbird forum) passed today, 7/4/26.

Don became an avid photographer when he was young and became more and more interested in birds in particular by the late 1970's. He traveled extensively throughout the continental USA and Alaska photographing them until he retired from field work in the early 2000's.

His two biggest "claims to fame" were probably the 2nd American record of the Marsh Sandpiper, and the photos he took of the Yucatan Vireo, making its first (and to date, only) US appearance in Crystal Beach, TX in 1984, one of which was used for the cover of the ABA's publication, Birding.

It seems inappropriate to 'Like' your post but that's our only option. My sympathies to all his family. I hope you will continue posting his work; it seems like a fit legacy.

Charlie Spencer wrote: Sat Jul 04, 2026 9:41 pm It seems inappropriate to 'Like' your post but that's our only option. My sympathies to all his family. I hope you will continue posting his work; it seems like a fit legacy.

Thank you. (On this forum they're "thanks" and not "likes", so no need to feel awkward.)

Sorry for your loss and thanks for sharing with the clan. I've enjoyed seeing the stuff you've posted, keep it coming if possible.

I am so sorry for your loss, and thanks for letting us know. I've greatly enjoyed seeing the many photos he took, which have been posted to the forum over the past couple of years. Many of his documented rarities from the 70s and 80s probably have no other existing photo documentation. I'd say another claim to fame would probably be his photo of a Mottled Petrel that you posted to the forum collaborative life list (#578). As far as I'm aware, that is still the only living Mottled Petrel ever photographed in the state of California, despite many trips attempting to find that species.

Our condolences for your loss. We too are grieving the loss of a dear birding companion as we lost Shadow, our 17 year old dog on 7/2/26. Fond memories are bringing smiles to our faces when they are hardest to find. I'm sure that your fond memories will help you find your smile in these sad times, too.