Probably not a good idea to lean over and look down either.
American Alligator (tail)
Monochrome Monday, No Swimming Allowed
Yellow-crowned Night Heron
One of the first opportunities this year. He didn’t give me much time. But he did let us know where they were. They do love dark swamps and Spanish Moss.
Yellow-crowned at Port Royal, South Carolina.
Heading Back With A Stick, Great Egret
Absolutely beautiful, one of the most stunning animals there is.
Each year at this time they arrive at this swamp to build nests, breed, and raise the next generation.
The big island at the far end of the Ravenswood pond seems to be the hot spot this season. The islands trees are thick, nests more hidden than other years. However the birds also fly low near the trails giving us opportunities for in flight photographs.
Tricolored Heron, At A Rookery
Perched at the edge of some deep, thick, brush. This is one of the spots the Tricolors have nested in previous years.
I think they are one of the last wading birds to nest. There were few of them here so that would make sense. Most all the other wading birds were in a nesting frenzy.
Found On A Walk, Middleton Plantation
Found walking around the gardens and hedge rows at the Middleton Plantation, Charleston, South Carolina.
Found On A Walk, Middleton Plantation
Found On A Walk, Middleton Plantation
Found On A Walk, Middleton Plantation
At The Nest Egret
A very convenient nest, for photographers. Sitting just about eye level.
Port Royal, South Carolina.
Wood Stork Near A Rookery
One of the most impressive birds around here. On a quiet morning you can hear their massive wings long before you see them.
Egret Dancing, Sepia
A Great Egret displaying her bridal feathers.
She was up top a Cypress, mixed in with the small branches.