We often take the phrase “birds of a feather flock together” as a truism that people and critters often hang out with those with similar characteristics and interests. Yet this photo challenges that saying. From left to right you see a snowy egret, immature white ibis, Northern shoveler, and mature white ibis apparently enjoying each other’s company. Maybe we humans could learn something from this avian quartet?



River Otters
At Jan’s hunch we stopped at 6 Bobber Bridge and were delighted and entertained by this pair of river otters diving, splashing, and feasting on shad. I couldn’t decide which one or two photos I liked best, so I put in six!













Nature Hikes
Jan and I are having a hoot leading nature hikes on the refuge. An abundance of natural beauty, fascinating history, and interesting participants makes our job easy and fun.



Flying Flamingo
While participating on Matt and Cyndi’s wildlife tour, I was fortunate to observe two way-cool events, one right after another. Looking out from the observation deck at East River Pool, our group viewed Pinky the Flamingo leisurely feeding way off in the distance. Seemingly out of nowhere we saw a bald eagle fly over Pinky and grab smack a tri-colored heron in flight! Amazing! The excitement must have been too much for Pinky as she quickly launched and flew almost directly over us heading for less hectic, safer waters. I was fortunate enough to capture this photo.



Sunrises
Often on our morning walks we are rewarded with sunrises that range from nice to beautiful to magnificent.



This and That
Here are a variety of recent photos taken at the refuge, an American alligator, anhinga, avocet, bittern, black skimmers, boat-tailed trio, Eastern phoebe, female boat-talked grackle, immature bald eagle, immature ibis, night heron, pied-billed grebe, raft of coots, sandhill cranes in flight, and tri-colored heron.































Old Trucks
Meet Zelda



Check out www.onceuponatruck.com to see more sweet old gals.

See you next time.