A Bird Named Miracle

This is a testament to human compassion and the power of community. When Jaun De Los Santos, an army veteran, stumbled upon a weakened bird that was drowning on Rockaway Beach in late September, he sprang into action, rescuing it and administering CPR and seeking guidance from a local group chat on how to provide after care for the bird. Theresa M Racine, a local animal lover and photographer, and Lonni Kehoe, also a resident of the Rockaways, joined forces to make sure the bird had the best possible care going forward, as De Los Santos was leaving the following day. Despite their efforts, the bird succumbed to his injuries after holding on the whole night. But its legacy will live on.

Dubbed “Miracle,” the semipalmated sandpiper inspires hope and highlights the profound collective action. Miracle’s journey will continue to educate and inspire as it now will become part of the American Museum of Natural History collection, contributing to scientific research and exhibitions.

Shai Mitra, who Lonni and Theresa met at the Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge on Cross Bay Blvd., who facilitated the birds transfer to the museum, reminds us of the critical role we play in protecting our planet’s creatures and the importance of seeking guidance from resources like the NYC Wild Bird Fund and NYC Bird Alliance to help us learn what to do when we see an injured bird. Miracle’s story is a poignant reminder that even in loss, there is potential for growth, learning and positive change. Please visit https://www.nycbirdalliance.org/our-work/conservation/project-safe-flight to read about NYC Bird Alliance’s efforts to make migration safe for NYC’s birds.

For more info on what to do if you find a distressed bird, see: www.wildbirdfund.org. If the bird is injured, call them at 646-306-2862. The Wild Bird Fund helps and rehabilitates injured wild birds. They are located at 565 Columbus Ave. in Manhattan.