Judd Patterson
12-06-2009, 12:45 PM
Well, despite the clouds I wandered over to Anhinga Trail this morning. The temperature sure was pleasant with a light jacket. Water levels were quite a bit higher than November...these recent rains have reflooded portions of the glades. There were waders around (American Bittern, Snowy Egret, Great Egret, Tricolored, Little Blue, Green and Great Blue Heron), but not even a Great Blue Heron was cooperating up close.
A couple Double-crested Cormorants had taken up their standard position on the trail hand-rail. Several Anhinga's are already on nest, and more nests were being built. One of the nests is in a wonderful spot for photographers...right where the paved trail starts to wrap around and turns to boardwalk. Once the chicks hatch it should provide very nice views!
I noticed that there were lots of wading birds not far away, stalking some of the reflooded solution holes. These will provide food for a time, but as soon as the water drops, the birds will move back to Anhinga Trail. A number of alligators and the standard vulture bonanza were also seen. I'll let you know what else I find, and I hope you'll do the same!
A couple Double-crested Cormorants had taken up their standard position on the trail hand-rail. Several Anhinga's are already on nest, and more nests were being built. One of the nests is in a wonderful spot for photographers...right where the paved trail starts to wrap around and turns to boardwalk. Once the chicks hatch it should provide very nice views!
I noticed that there were lots of wading birds not far away, stalking some of the reflooded solution holes. These will provide food for a time, but as soon as the water drops, the birds will move back to Anhinga Trail. A number of alligators and the standard vulture bonanza were also seen. I'll let you know what else I find, and I hope you'll do the same!