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January 3rd through the 5th contained an adventure I am glad I took. One of the last species I collected during that week is the Red-cockaded Woodpecker. I had not planned to hunt for that bird this year. My urge to collect more species (hopefully new) rose to great heights after this chance encounter.
30 second video
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I realize I don’t have the “Raptor Rich” environment that Appy or FunForrest has, but I did see my first ever Merlin on the way back home. No photo available because I was filming a large group of ducks when it buzzed by. It flew toward the direction of this Red-tail. I think they have had a few disputes for territory.
“Worn” Red-tail Hawk hunting over a small lake.
I’ll just show some of the photos and one more video. I hope you enjoy the variety.
Eastern Phoebe with extra coloration (no post editing for color, lighting, etc)
Anhinga (non-breeding plumage)
The male Anhinga was “hunkered down” and low to the water on his perch. The cold wind and scant sunshine left him no choice but to nap.
25 second video
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The next photo was taken Thursday morning, January 4th. I’ll be writing a diary to explain that day of wonder.
Antigone candensis pratensis (Florida sub-species) of Sandhill Crane
male Muscovy Duck
His mate.
female Muscovy Duck
Laughing Gull (non-breeding)
I spotted a different Phoebe hunting from some reeds, but when I downloaded the image I found another bird. I’ll show the original shot and a close up of the other bird.
Phoebe on the left
Looks like a Vireo but it disappeared before I could enjoy (or identify) it.
Boat-tail Grackles
Short-billed Dowitcher
Black-necked Stilts
I think I’ll stop this article here and finish compiling the diary of the Sandhill Cranes I observed. They were the reason for the trip and should get their own story told.
Let’s have an open thread and chat about all things Natural.