Thoughts on Patrick McManus' "Letter From a Kingfisher"

The piece is a personal reflection on the humor writer Patrick McManus and his story “Letter From a Kingfisher.” The author recalls how McManus became a long-running “undisputed king” of outdoor comedy and describes McManus’ account of trying to photograph a kingfisher that would not cooperate, staying on its perch only to dart away at the last second with its signature rattling cry. The writer connects that anecdote to the broader hunting experience—enjoying nature and observing wildlife beyond game species. He also describes years of kingfishers in front of his camp and retreat, noting they have been absent earlier this year.