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Nothing especially new to report, but did want to acknowledge the only good news I've heard this year 😉 that the Reiser Bros apparently ARE working on an independent film on the Ivory-billed Woodpecker. Their last film "Listers" was highly entertaining, and literally the best independent film I've ever seen (helps, but not necessary, to be a birder to fully enjoy it). So I have high hopes for their IBWO endeavor (no idea on the timetable though)... with that said, I DON'T expect they'll forge new evidence for the Ivory-bill, but they probably will produce a very fun/interesting bit of film-craft that will draw fresh attention to the debate and ongoing claims. Don't expect it to be a pure Ivory-bill-fest though, 'cuz I'm guessing they'll play it somewhat down the middle with a fair share of skeptics voicing their takes on the subject as well. Their one problem may be getting some of the most 'high-level' skeptics to even go on camera discussing a subject, which they wish would just go away. Many would no more want to spend time seriously discussing the IBWO, than biologists would want to give creationists a stage upon which to debate evolution. Nonetheless, there are plenty of skeptical sorts to choose from, and I anticipate a good give-and-take.
On a sidenote, will also mention that a major wildlife magazine should also be out within a couple months with an article on the IBWO, so interestingly, despite the lack of new evidence or excitement, still a surprising amount of attention being paid, over 20 years since the modern hullabaloo began.
...and, IF Ivory-bills indeed persist, hopefully they are courting or nesting as I type these very words. 😀
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ADDENDUM 4/10:
The Spring Audubon Magazine issue has a fun, extended piece on the Reiser's film effort:
https://www.audubon.org/magazine/their-birding-documentary-became-surprise-hit-reiser-brothers-are-just-getting-started
A little surprised to see no reference in the article to Matt Courtman or anyone from the Proj. Principalis group, but assume they'll be in the final cut (the article is on a more general level). The movie is due out by late spring (but I wouldn't be surprised to see it pushed 'til summer), and will again, like their previous effort, "Listers," be free on YouTube (HOORAY!). I fully expect skeptics to be tearing their hair out at what will likely be more fun, engaging, entertaining attention given to the Ivory-billed Woodpecker! ;))
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