The ‘Lottery’ Holds the Same Worth as an Ivory-Billed Woodpecker, But Only for Him

Bobby Harrison believes that to win the lottery, you must first buy a ticket. In his case, winning the lottery means spotting an ivory-billed woodpecker. And buying the ticket means venturing into the swamps of eastern Arkansas on his canoe, a journey he has embarked upon over 2,000 times in the past four decades. Lindsey Liles sheds light on the 68-year-old Harrison and his relentless pursuit in an enlightening profile featured in Garden & Gun. Liles emphasizes that searching for the ivorybill is akin to purchasing a lottery ticket. Although you understand that the chances of success may be slim, the allure of the unknown and the mysteries hidden within the deep woods keep your heart racing and your eyes scanning the landscape.

This story serves as a reminder that the ivory-billed woodpecker has not been officially sighted since 1944, and federal wildlife officials are expected to declare it extinct in the near future. Consequently, the bird’s previously known habitat may lose its protected status. However, it is noted that this declassification may not have a significant impact as other protected species also inhabit the swamps. Nevertheless, Harrison remains determined to obtain irrefutable evidence of an ivorybill before the official declaration. The term “irrefutable” holds great importance here, as Harrison is one of the persistent birdwatchers who claim to have glimpsed the elusive creature. Unfortunately, the resulting low-quality photographs and videos have failed to provide convincing proof. Even if Harrison fails to capture a photo before the declaration, he vows to continue his search for as long as he is physically capable. Read the full story to delve deeper into this captivating narrative. (Alternatively, explore other intriguing longform stories.)