Where the Crawdads Sing
by Delia Owens
Contents
56. The Night Heron
Overview
After Scupper’s death, Tate grieves and receives a marsh-born sign—a night heron feather—that draws him to Kya. They finally voice lifelong love, resolve their fear of abandonment, and recommit to each other, marking a turning point from isolation toward lasting partnership.
Summary
In 1970, Tate visits the Barkley Cove cemetery the day after Scupper’s burial to say a private good-bye. Wracked with guilt for neglecting time with his father while consumed by Kya and the trial, he sets up a small record player at the grave and plays an aria, remembering Scupper’s values and forgiving guidance.
Leaving the cemetery for the docks, Tate accepts awkward condolences. On his boat he discovers a soft breast feather from a female night heron—an elusive marsh bird—lying on the seat where it does not belong. Recognizing it as a deliberate sign from Kya, Tate immediately heads into the marsh.
Tate speeds through the channels to Kya’s lagoon and calls out. Kya steps onto the porch, and they embrace. Tate declares he will never leave again and asks Kya directly if she loves him.
Kya admits she has always loved Tate but feared abandonment. When Tate asks if the running and hiding are over, Kya meets his eyes, signaling trust. She leads him to the oak grove of feathers, sealing their reconciliation and commitment.
Who Appears
- TateGrieves Scupper at the cemetery, finds a night heron feather, rushes to Kya, declares enduring love.
- KyaSignals Tate with a night heron feather, meets him, admits she has always loved him, commits to trust.
- ScupperTate’s father, newly deceased; his values and memory guide Tate during a final graveside farewell.