This marks the third Spring that I've had the privilege of observing baby birds fledge on the back island in the Wakodahatchee wetlands, near my home in south Florida. The past two years, it's been just one species - Tri's. This year, in addition to at least eight baby Tri's, there's a riot going on with several baby Glossy's, Snowies, and Cattle's.
The time of year is perfect, because Wako is not at all crowded with humans. Tourists are long gone, and the heat keeps away most of the locals. Many mornings, it's just me and maybe one or two other photographers.
I'm thankful to have been given this privilege. It's such a pleasure to be able to observe the babies' behavior so closely as they develop from chicks to flappers to accomplished aerialists. The first flights are awkward, unsteady, and understandably fraught with fear, if I'm not anthropomorphizing too much.
This activity doesn't last very long. In about a month, the entire island will probably be empty, based upon prior years' behavior.
This shot is of a baby Tri coming in for a landing, with a look of terror on its face.
Thank you Wakodahatchee for a wonderful, awe-filled way to start the day.
Rite of Spring
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