The Wood Stork is the only stork species breeding in the United States. Its late winter breeding season coincides with the Florida dry season when its fish prey become concentrated in shrinking pools. Last week was clearly in the dry season and many Wood Storks could be seen in the Everglades. The 2.7 crop factor of the Nikon 1 V1 was really needed to capture this image.
Black Vulture Black Vultures in Everglades NP seemed quite comfortable with us humans as well as vehicles along the road. Vultures are not really common in northern Illinois so this encounter was my first with a Black Vulture. They appear to have a bit more character in their face than other vultures.
Osprey Nesting This male Osprey has just brought back to the nest, a nice fish for his new family. Earlier the female Osprey rejected his fish because it was not clean enough. He went back to a perch along the canal with the fish to clean it up. Then, he brought the fish back to the nest. The female accepted the fish and fed it to the family. How do I know these things? I don’t. But, several folks, birders, where watching and educated me.
Great Blue Heron If you have read my blog much at all, you know I really like Great Blue Herons. So, it’s fitting I start this weeks theme, Florida Outback Birds, with the Great Blue Heron. No fear, there’s more birds to come.
Afternoon Gator While warming up in the afternoon sun, this gator had to put at least his nose in the water. The soft late afternoon sun and shadow played over his head. Remember, on the Nikon 1 V1, 80mm is really 216mm; I wasn’t really too close.
Gator Party Everglades NP obviously has plenty of American Alligators. Looking down from the observation tower, they sometimes form geometric patterns.
American Alligator Hunting On a late afternoon visit to Paurotis Pond in Everglades National Park, this alligator crossed the pond in an even glide point in a singular direction. He finally glided into the bush, perhaps, in search of his next good meal. Next week, I’ll post a few images of what that next good meal might be.
Juvenile Alligator This image was captured on the fly. I happened upon a couple of juveniles and could not see their mother. So, after a couple of quick clicks, I made a hasty retreat. You just don’t want to be between a mom and her kids.
