Thursday 29th.
Local information is essential when knowing where and when to find the birds. I have previously mentioned the Great Florida Birding and Wildlife Trail and the details posted by the Calhoosa Bird Club have been very useful and accurate. This morning we took them at their word and went to San Carlos Bay Bunche Beach Preserve to look for waders and seabirds. It is opposite Bowditch Point and with the tide low there were numerous birds around. In the space of only a few yards we had three firsts for our all time list. Marbled Godwits were easily seen and numbered about a dozen. Then with the help of two Canadian Birders we saw and identified Wilson's Plover and Piping Plover. Some of them were so close we did not need even binoculars with the Piping Plovers being only feet away. This was birding at its best. As we were walking back at least two hundred Black Skimmers flew in giving us a good show as they flew around, landed and took off again. Also there was a good number of Royal Terns. Due to the weather being ten degrees colder than the average this week and winds causing the water to be very choppy our chances of viewing sea birds was not good.
We were delighted with these sightings, but we were again on our way to Ding Darling and Sanibel. The wildlife drive was our intention and the focus would be to locate and photograph the Short-billed Dowitchers. They were easy to see and after a good examination of about twelve of them we knew we had added another one to our list. Here we also saw Least Sandpipers and some Semi-palmated Plovers.
A quick shopping trip to Tarpon Bay gave us another surprise. As we were about to leave I heard a bird call and in the top of the Mangroves were two Scissor-tailed Flycatchers. They flew away quickly but one returned for us to check the identification. There was no doubt what we had seen as there is no other birds like them. Michelle was able to take a record shot.
On this trip we purchased The Sibley Guide To Birds - Second Edition. It has been written and illustrated by David Allen Sibley. There is no doubt that he is an authority on birds and he has been acclaimed by birding societies. It has to be the most informative and detailed bird book that we have bought.
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Friday, 30 January 2015
Thursday, 29 January 2015
Fort Myers Beach
Wednesday 28th
After four days of having to drive we decided to pay attention to The Great Florida Birding and Wildlife Trail, but remain local to where we are staying on Estero Boulevard at Fort Myers Beach. A short distance away is the Little Estero Critical Endangered Area that lies between the apartment blocks and the ocean. It has sheltered lagoons, but only one of any size and on this water we saw a female Red-breasted Merganser. It was a first for this trip. There was nothing unusual here except that we saw four Sanderling fly.
Beach access is only possible in some places and the easiest is through the Wyndham Hotel where parking is a mere $5 all of which is refundable is you spend over $25 dollars in the bar on the beach.
In the afternoon we visited Bowditch Point at the northern end of the island. On the edge of the surf Sanderling were feeding within feet of ours. There was a solitary Willet, a Black-bellied Plover and one Dunlin. Pelicans, Laughing Gulls and Ring-billed were around as usual. It is a joy to be so close to the birds that you don't even need binoculars.
I think both these locations must be exceptional places during the spring and fall. If you intend coming to Florida it is advisable to study the web site of GFBWT
After four days of having to drive we decided to pay attention to The Great Florida Birding and Wildlife Trail, but remain local to where we are staying on Estero Boulevard at Fort Myers Beach. A short distance away is the Little Estero Critical Endangered Area that lies between the apartment blocks and the ocean. It has sheltered lagoons, but only one of any size and on this water we saw a female Red-breasted Merganser. It was a first for this trip. There was nothing unusual here except that we saw four Sanderling fly.
Beach access is only possible in some places and the easiest is through the Wyndham Hotel where parking is a mere $5 all of which is refundable is you spend over $25 dollars in the bar on the beach.
In the afternoon we visited Bowditch Point at the northern end of the island. On the edge of the surf Sanderling were feeding within feet of ours. There was a solitary Willet, a Black-bellied Plover and one Dunlin. Pelicans, Laughing Gulls and Ring-billed were around as usual. It is a joy to be so close to the birds that you don't even need binoculars.
I think both these locations must be exceptional places during the spring and fall. If you intend coming to Florida it is advisable to study the web site of GFBWT
Wednesday, 28 January 2015
Tuesday 27th - Corkscrew Swamp Again
Today we returned to Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary for the birds and to spend more time with the warblers and other small birds. There is so much to see here as study of the trees and plant life would be an education all on its own. The Bald Cypress are magnificent to look at and admire. There are specimen trees here and the biggest ones have been shown all due respect by Audobon by giving them names after famous people who have given so many things to our world. Some of these trees are over 500 years old and one of them is 98 feet tall. A true survivor of many hurricanes. It was a privilege to be able to walk by them.
We had very good views of Yellow-rumped and Black and White Warblers, Blue Gray Gnatcatchers and Great Crested Flycatchers. Once again Carolina Wrens were noisy and we had two good views of them. Our last major spot of the day was an Eastern Phoebe and before that a Blue-headed Vireo.
This morning we did not have the help of resident advice, but I think that we did very well without them. As we walked Red-shouldered Hawks were continually calling and we saw a pair mating. Our guide, yesterday, Murray told us that the Red Shouldered Hawk makes up for about 90% of the Hawks seen at the preserve and told us that a Coopers Hawk is seen occasionally.
Near the end we witnessed an Anhinga with a Cat Fish. It bashed it, and kept on bashing it before juggling with it until it struggled less and the head was in the correct place. It was a tussle with at least one correction in the positioning of it. Then, it swallowed it very quickly and you could see the bulge as it slid down the bird's long neck. Nearby, beached and in the sun was a big alligator which must have been at least 13 feet in length. A magnificent specimen that sits on top of the food chain. In adjacent waters we saw two large turtles sunning themselves and we also located a water moccasin in the sunny spot as yesterday.
This morning on the way into the sanctuary we saw about 15 White-tailed Deer and with one Grey Squirrel and that was all the mammals that we saw.
We had very good views of Yellow-rumped and Black and White Warblers, Blue Gray Gnatcatchers and Great Crested Flycatchers. Once again Carolina Wrens were noisy and we had two good views of them. Our last major spot of the day was an Eastern Phoebe and before that a Blue-headed Vireo.
This morning we did not have the help of resident advice, but I think that we did very well without them. As we walked Red-shouldered Hawks were continually calling and we saw a pair mating. Our guide, yesterday, Murray told us that the Red Shouldered Hawk makes up for about 90% of the Hawks seen at the preserve and told us that a Coopers Hawk is seen occasionally.
Near the end we witnessed an Anhinga with a Cat Fish. It bashed it, and kept on bashing it before juggling with it until it struggled less and the head was in the correct place. It was a tussle with at least one correction in the positioning of it. Then, it swallowed it very quickly and you could see the bulge as it slid down the bird's long neck. Nearby, beached and in the sun was a big alligator which must have been at least 13 feet in length. A magnificent specimen that sits on top of the food chain. In adjacent waters we saw two large turtles sunning themselves and we also located a water moccasin in the sunny spot as yesterday.
This morning on the way into the sanctuary we saw about 15 White-tailed Deer and with one Grey Squirrel and that was all the mammals that we saw.
Tuesday, 27 January 2015
Corkscrew Swamp & Blair Audobon Centre
Monday 26th
It was chilly yesterday, it was raining this morning but we have had a terrific day in Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary. I have been very impressed with all the wildlife sites that we have been to, but this one has to rank with the best. It has a boardwalk of 2.25 miles which takes you through a mixture of habitants including trees that are called Bald Cypress. They are several hundred years old and were saved by Audobon from the loggers.The volunteers are very helpful and before we were half round we found two of them walking with an intern from The Big Cypress who had majored in Biology and with a specific interest in snakes. We learnt a lot from all three that added to the enjoyment of our day.
Before we even got into the car a flock of American Crows flew overhead being vociferous as they did so.
It rained heavily on the way, but I still checked the roadside for my first sighting of a Crested Cara Cara. I am still searching.
Our list for today is as follows:-
American Kestrels
Anhinga both male and female
Black-crowned Night Heron
Black and white Warbler
Blue-gray Gnatcatcher
Blue-headed Vireo
Carolina Wren - stupendous after hearing so many times its very loud call
Cattle Egret
Common Yellow-throat
Eastern Pheobe
European Starling
Gray Catbird
Great-crested Flycatcher
Great White Egret
Large Blue Heron
Little Blue Heron
Loggerhead Shrike
Mourning Dove
Northern Cardinals both female and male.
Northern Mockingbird
Painted Buntings - two females and two males
Pileated Woodpecker - female
Red winged Blackbirds
Red-bellied Woodpecker - both sexes
Red -shouldered Hawks - both sexes seen mating.
Tricoloured Heron
Yellow-crowned Night Heron
White Ibis
Wild Turkeys
Woodstorks both juvenile and adult.
Upon examination of the photos we possibly have added one more to our all time list. We may have seen a female Indigo Bunting and we will endeavor to clarify this ID tomorrow morning.
All this identification would not have been possible without some of these species being located and identified by the volunteers. This also includes a Red-bellied Turtle and a Cotton Mouth/Water Moccasin warming itself up on a log. We were told that this was a regular spot for it. It was our first live snake on trip. Also the biggest Alligator so far - it was very broad and it was huge. Thought to be the second biggest one on the reserve.
There is so much to see here not just the wildlife, but also all the flora and fauna. The people here had set a scope on a Ghost Orchid in flower. This was the fifth time this winter it has flowered which is surprising as it normally flowers during the summer months.There are many species to see and study. Butterflies were scarce with only a Zebra Longwing to show.
In addition to the Painted Buntings there are also Indigo Buntings - which we hope to see on site as well as nesting Barred Owls.
Our all American bird list has now increased by a total of seven (possibly eight) new ones. A excellent day and we are going again tomorrow.
It was chilly yesterday, it was raining this morning but we have had a terrific day in Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary. I have been very impressed with all the wildlife sites that we have been to, but this one has to rank with the best. It has a boardwalk of 2.25 miles which takes you through a mixture of habitants including trees that are called Bald Cypress. They are several hundred years old and were saved by Audobon from the loggers.The volunteers are very helpful and before we were half round we found two of them walking with an intern from The Big Cypress who had majored in Biology and with a specific interest in snakes. We learnt a lot from all three that added to the enjoyment of our day.
Before we even got into the car a flock of American Crows flew overhead being vociferous as they did so.
It rained heavily on the way, but I still checked the roadside for my first sighting of a Crested Cara Cara. I am still searching.
Our list for today is as follows:-
American Kestrels
Anhinga both male and female
Black-crowned Night Heron
Black and white Warbler
Blue-gray Gnatcatcher
Blue-headed Vireo
Carolina Wren - stupendous after hearing so many times its very loud call
Cattle Egret
Common Yellow-throat
Eastern Pheobe
European Starling
Gray Catbird
Great-crested Flycatcher
Great White Egret
Large Blue Heron
Little Blue Heron
Loggerhead Shrike
Mourning Dove
Northern Cardinals both female and male.
Northern Mockingbird
Painted Buntings - two females and two males
Pileated Woodpecker - female
Red winged Blackbirds
Red-bellied Woodpecker - both sexes
Red -shouldered Hawks - both sexes seen mating.
Tricoloured Heron
Yellow-crowned Night Heron
White Ibis
Wild Turkeys
Woodstorks both juvenile and adult.
Upon examination of the photos we possibly have added one more to our all time list. We may have seen a female Indigo Bunting and we will endeavor to clarify this ID tomorrow morning.
All this identification would not have been possible without some of these species being located and identified by the volunteers. This also includes a Red-bellied Turtle and a Cotton Mouth/Water Moccasin warming itself up on a log. We were told that this was a regular spot for it. It was our first live snake on trip. Also the biggest Alligator so far - it was very broad and it was huge. Thought to be the second biggest one on the reserve.
There is so much to see here not just the wildlife, but also all the flora and fauna. The people here had set a scope on a Ghost Orchid in flower. This was the fifth time this winter it has flowered which is surprising as it normally flowers during the summer months.There are many species to see and study. Butterflies were scarce with only a Zebra Longwing to show.
In addition to the Painted Buntings there are also Indigo Buntings - which we hope to see on site as well as nesting Barred Owls.
Our all American bird list has now increased by a total of seven (possibly eight) new ones. A excellent day and we are going again tomorrow.
Monday, 26 January 2015
Sanibel Wildlife Drive
Sunday 25th
A chilly Sunday morning beach walk took me past a European Starling, two Collared Doves, Boat-tailed Grackles and a pair of House Sparrows. On the beach a flock of Laughing Gulls with a few Ring-billed Gulls among them. The Willet were still there and the Brown Pelicans are always a joy to watch.
We then did the Wildlife Drive at Ding Darling on Sanibel. The weather was clear, full sun and in the high sixties. The breeze was either very light or non-existent.
We saw a lot of birds with some that we had not seen before on this trip.
American Crow - flew over,called which is the only way of telling it from a Fish Crow
American White Pelicans
Anninga
Black-bellied Plover
Black Vultures
Brown Pelican
Cattle Egret
Dunlin
Eastern Screech Owl (as before in the same tree)
Gray Catbird
Great Blue Heron
Great White Egret
Hooded Merganser
Little Blue Heron
Osprey
Pied-billed Grebe
Reddish Egret
Roseate Spoonbill
Ruddy Turnstone
Semipalmated Plover
Snowy Egret
Spotted Sandpiper
Tree Swallows
Tri-coloured Heron
Turkey Vultures
Willet
Yellow Crowned Night Heron
We searched for a Short-billed Dowitchers but without success.
We saw no mammals, but there were small black Tree Frogs.
The forecast for tomorrow is cloudy with some rain, but nevertheless we are going to Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary for the day.
A chilly Sunday morning beach walk took me past a European Starling, two Collared Doves, Boat-tailed Grackles and a pair of House Sparrows. On the beach a flock of Laughing Gulls with a few Ring-billed Gulls among them. The Willet were still there and the Brown Pelicans are always a joy to watch.
We then did the Wildlife Drive at Ding Darling on Sanibel. The weather was clear, full sun and in the high sixties. The breeze was either very light or non-existent.
We saw a lot of birds with some that we had not seen before on this trip.
American Crow - flew over,called which is the only way of telling it from a Fish Crow
American White Pelicans
Anninga
Black-bellied Plover
Black Vultures
Brown Pelican
Cattle Egret
Dunlin
Eastern Screech Owl (as before in the same tree)
Gray Catbird
Great Blue Heron
Great White Egret
Hooded Merganser
Little Blue Heron
Osprey
Pied-billed Grebe
Reddish Egret
Roseate Spoonbill
Ruddy Turnstone
Semipalmated Plover
Snowy Egret
Spotted Sandpiper
Tree Swallows
Tri-coloured Heron
Turkey Vultures
Willet
Yellow Crowned Night Heron
We searched for a Short-billed Dowitchers but without success.
We saw no mammals, but there were small black Tree Frogs.
The forecast for tomorrow is cloudy with some rain, but nevertheless we are going to Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary for the day.
Sunday, 25 January 2015
Lovers Key and Fort Myers Beach
We travelled on a wet and windy morning from Fort Myers to Fort Myers Beach, a mere 15 miles. We drove the length of the Island and at Lovers Key we found a bird scratching around under the Mangroves, a lone Common Ground Dove, not that common as it was the only one around. Apart from the usual circling Vultures, calling Ospreys and Brown Pelicans we had a poor morning for birds.
Once we had unpacked at our new home we walked along the shoreline and as the sun started to go down we saw a resting Mourning Dove and more than thirty Willet untroubled by people.
Once we had unpacked at our new home we walked along the shoreline and as the sun started to go down we saw a resting Mourning Dove and more than thirty Willet untroubled by people.
Saturday, 24 January 2015
Sanibel, Florida
Thursday 22nd
This morning as we prepared to leave a Yellow-rumped Warbler in winter plumage played around in the car park. We had a tedious journey to Fort Myers but on the way Michelle spotted a Crested Cara Cara on the grass at the side of the road. A first for her and hopefully we will see one again.
Today, Friday, we did the tourist bit with two friends on Sanibel at the Ding Darling National Wildlife Refuge. We have been here before and it wasn't long before we added another new one to our list. A Eastern Screech Owl was in a hole in a hollow tree just feet away from the boardwalk. He looked great with wonderful face markings.
A Royal Tern flew past.
On the refuge and for another day for us we are told that a White-crowned Pigeon has been here for weeks. It is an uncommon one to see in Ding Darling.
In the afternoon we went to Tarpon Bay where we watched Brown Pelicans both adult and sub-adult fish and rest and be harassed by Ospreys. We will be there again tomorrow for a sunset boat trip. More of the same I hope.
This morning as we prepared to leave a Yellow-rumped Warbler in winter plumage played around in the car park. We had a tedious journey to Fort Myers but on the way Michelle spotted a Crested Cara Cara on the grass at the side of the road. A first for her and hopefully we will see one again.
Today, Friday, we did the tourist bit with two friends on Sanibel at the Ding Darling National Wildlife Refuge. We have been here before and it wasn't long before we added another new one to our list. A Eastern Screech Owl was in a hole in a hollow tree just feet away from the boardwalk. He looked great with wonderful face markings.
A Royal Tern flew past.
On the refuge and for another day for us we are told that a White-crowned Pigeon has been here for weeks. It is an uncommon one to see in Ding Darling.
In the afternoon we went to Tarpon Bay where we watched Brown Pelicans both adult and sub-adult fish and rest and be harassed by Ospreys. We will be there again tomorrow for a sunset boat trip. More of the same I hope.
Wednesday, 21 January 2015
Wednesday 21st January
This morning was an unusually late start for us as we needed time to 'draw breath' as they say.
This was important as in the previous evening we went to Universal for 'some shopping' and another visit to Margaritaville for another 'cheeseburger in paradise'. It wasn't the best choice, but hey ho, it had to be done.
It is a time for some reflection and to pass some information to those who may be able to do what we have done. December and January are the months to visit. Although the weather cannot be guaranteed, as we found out, generally speaking it is dry and the temperatures reasonable if not hot. The other advantages are that the Mosquitos (only 82 species of them) seem to be absent. We were told that in the previous two years they had had very little rain and because of this the salinity had risen too high for many varieties of birds. However last October they had two days of heavy rain with over 10 inches in a day. Consequently the levels were high which was good. If you are planning a trip all this needs checking out. A good point is that we there is fresh water area there as well as brackish water ones.
Kissimmee is very good for accommodation and attractions but it is 57 miles to Merritt Island and my recommendation would be to book accommodation in the Titusville, Viera and Melbourne areas.
Consideration must be given to the Space Coast Birding & Wildlife Festival which is on from 21st - 26th January this year.
You can check this out on www.SpaceCoastBirdingAndWildlifeFestival.org
The importance of this there is a lot of people in the area both for hotels and vehicles out on the refuge roads. It would be preferable to be there in a less busy period.
VieraWetlandsBirding.com is a useful site for Ritch Grissom which is also on GrissomWetlands.org.
At this location they say you could find the Crested Cara Cara and the Bittern - next time maybe?
Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge is easy to find and provides excellent information.
This area was only going to be a barrier area for the launch site at Cape Canaveral. NASA were persuaded to let it become a refuge. It is run by volunteers and they are good. I could stay there for days!
We saw four species of butterflies, which Michelle recorded on camera and we will look at these and other photos when we get home.
Tomorrow we go south via Myakka to stay at Fort Myers Beach where we will be visiting Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary, Big Cypress National Preserve and Ding Darling on Sanibel Island. We will have good views of the Gulf of Mexico at Fort Myers Beach and hopefully some good sightings of seabirds, shorebirds and waders.
This was important as in the previous evening we went to Universal for 'some shopping' and another visit to Margaritaville for another 'cheeseburger in paradise'. It wasn't the best choice, but hey ho, it had to be done.
It is a time for some reflection and to pass some information to those who may be able to do what we have done. December and January are the months to visit. Although the weather cannot be guaranteed, as we found out, generally speaking it is dry and the temperatures reasonable if not hot. The other advantages are that the Mosquitos (only 82 species of them) seem to be absent. We were told that in the previous two years they had had very little rain and because of this the salinity had risen too high for many varieties of birds. However last October they had two days of heavy rain with over 10 inches in a day. Consequently the levels were high which was good. If you are planning a trip all this needs checking out. A good point is that we there is fresh water area there as well as brackish water ones.
Kissimmee is very good for accommodation and attractions but it is 57 miles to Merritt Island and my recommendation would be to book accommodation in the Titusville, Viera and Melbourne areas.
Consideration must be given to the Space Coast Birding & Wildlife Festival which is on from 21st - 26th January this year.
You can check this out on www.SpaceCoastBirdingAndWildlifeFestival.org
The importance of this there is a lot of people in the area both for hotels and vehicles out on the refuge roads. It would be preferable to be there in a less busy period.
VieraWetlandsBirding.com is a useful site for Ritch Grissom which is also on GrissomWetlands.org.
At this location they say you could find the Crested Cara Cara and the Bittern - next time maybe?
Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge is easy to find and provides excellent information.
This area was only going to be a barrier area for the launch site at Cape Canaveral. NASA were persuaded to let it become a refuge. It is run by volunteers and they are good. I could stay there for days!
We saw four species of butterflies, which Michelle recorded on camera and we will look at these and other photos when we get home.
Tomorrow we go south via Myakka to stay at Fort Myers Beach where we will be visiting Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary, Big Cypress National Preserve and Ding Darling on Sanibel Island. We will have good views of the Gulf of Mexico at Fort Myers Beach and hopefully some good sightings of seabirds, shorebirds and waders.
Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge - Day Two
The morning of Tuesday 21st saw get up early and go again. We had placed ourself on standby for the three hour guided tour. We were lucky and we had the last two available seats. It was worth every minute as our guide, a volunteer and former biography teacher, who carried the name Ned Steel knew what was what and just as importantly where. Betty, the driver and another local knew her stuff, but not just the birds but butterflies too.
Our list for the day:-
Wild Turkeys
Mourning Doves
Belted Kingfishers
Ospreys
Red-shouldered Hawks
Greater Black-backed Gulls x 2
Painted Buntings
Yellow Rumped Warblers
Palm Warbler
Common Yellow Throat
Red-winged Blackbirds
Red-bellied Woodpecker
Catbird & Carolina Wren were heard calling.
On the tour:-
We added Reddish Egret and a Green Heron to this trip's list,
as well as a multitude of all three other egrets and with some excellent views of Tri-coloured Herons.
Roseate Spoonbills - feeding and flying.
Yellow Legs both Greater and Lesser
Willet
Least Sandpiper
Western Sandpiper
Ruddy Turnstones
Hooded Mergansers
American Blue-winged Teal
American Widgeon
Ring-necked Duck (Ring-billed?)
Scaup
American Avocet
Northern Shovellers
Pied-billed Grebes
Moorhens
Coots
White Pelicans
Forster's Tern (confirmation for Ritch Grissam at Viera)
Royal Tern
Caspian Tern
Ring-billed Gulls
Laughing Gull
Mockingbird
Tree Swallows
A total of 47
As always both Turkey and Black Vultures were flying and perched. At one time I counted at least seven Ospreys flying over a lake. On reflection a very good number of species and some firsts for us. However, there are still some more to add to our list. Scoters have been seen and American Bitterns were seen yesterday at Rich Grissom. Our only mammals were a feral hog, grey squirrel and a dead Armadillo on the road in.
The major advantage of taking this three hour guided tour was that both of them knew what to look for and where to find it. They gladly shared their knowledge in a friendly manner. I would visit this refuge again ensuring that I had adequate time to enjoy the wildlife.
Our list for the day:-
Wild Turkeys
Mourning Doves
Belted Kingfishers
Ospreys
Red-shouldered Hawks
Greater Black-backed Gulls x 2
Painted Buntings
Yellow Rumped Warblers
Palm Warbler
Common Yellow Throat
Red-winged Blackbirds
Red-bellied Woodpecker
Catbird & Carolina Wren were heard calling.
On the tour:-
We added Reddish Egret and a Green Heron to this trip's list,
as well as a multitude of all three other egrets and with some excellent views of Tri-coloured Herons.
Roseate Spoonbills - feeding and flying.
Yellow Legs both Greater and Lesser
Willet
Least Sandpiper
Western Sandpiper
Ruddy Turnstones
Hooded Mergansers
American Blue-winged Teal
American Widgeon
Ring-necked Duck (Ring-billed?)
Scaup
American Avocet
Northern Shovellers
Pied-billed Grebes
Moorhens
Coots
White Pelicans
Forster's Tern (confirmation for Ritch Grissam at Viera)
Royal Tern
Caspian Tern
Ring-billed Gulls
Laughing Gull
Mockingbird
Tree Swallows
A total of 47
As always both Turkey and Black Vultures were flying and perched. At one time I counted at least seven Ospreys flying over a lake. On reflection a very good number of species and some firsts for us. However, there are still some more to add to our list. Scoters have been seen and American Bitterns were seen yesterday at Rich Grissom. Our only mammals were a feral hog, grey squirrel and a dead Armadillo on the road in.
The major advantage of taking this three hour guided tour was that both of them knew what to look for and where to find it. They gladly shared their knowledge in a friendly manner. I would visit this refuge again ensuring that I had adequate time to enjoy the wildlife.
Tuesday, 20 January 2015
Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge, Florida
After a cold start at Orange Lake Country Club where the 7.15am Wildlife Walk was cancelled we looked at a small area of water where there were four Large Whites, a Snowy and an immature Blue in the company of three Woodstorks. It was a good start for the day, but after a quick breakfast we decided to go east again.
Merritt Island National Wildlife Reserve had been recommended. We arrived just after 10 am at the Reception Centre merely to find out as much as possible about the area. The staff were incredibly helpful and this has to be the best place to start.
The feeders situated only feet away from the verandah was one location where the birds were very close for the watchers and the cameras. Painted Buntings were to be the star attractions. After a short wait Michelle photographed two males and at least three females. The former are colourful and the females a smart light green. Another first for us.
At the same feeder were a flock of Red-winged Blackbirds and they are an interesting bird to see that close up. A Chipping Sparrow appeared in an adjacent shrub and showed enough of itself to be captured for the record. Another first for Michelle.
While these were being observed Michelle was also watching for butterflies and she was able to capture four different species.
There is conservancy work being carried on here and this does include work for the threatened (but not endangered) Florida Panther. We rested our feet for about half-an-hour and listened and watched a presentation on this animal. We would love to see one and also the Bobcat. We digressed to talk about the Florida Scrub Jay. The simple question was 'Where could we find them?' It was easy. I watched a perched bird for about five minutes before it flew. Then there was one on the track only yards away and another one in the bush looking on. People walked past and they showed no fear. We had some superb views and they have been recorded.
One of the best moments of the day for me was to see a feeding Nine-Banded Armadillo in the vegetation by the road closely followed by another one. Photographed, of course.
A Red-shouldered Hawk and one Bald Eagle perched for good views.
On the way we saw four Belted Kingfishers, five Ospreys, and about a dozen Wild Turkey.
We will be there again in the morning as we know that we have much more to see.
Merritt Island National Wildlife Reserve had been recommended. We arrived just after 10 am at the Reception Centre merely to find out as much as possible about the area. The staff were incredibly helpful and this has to be the best place to start.
The feeders situated only feet away from the verandah was one location where the birds were very close for the watchers and the cameras. Painted Buntings were to be the star attractions. After a short wait Michelle photographed two males and at least three females. The former are colourful and the females a smart light green. Another first for us.
At the same feeder were a flock of Red-winged Blackbirds and they are an interesting bird to see that close up. A Chipping Sparrow appeared in an adjacent shrub and showed enough of itself to be captured for the record. Another first for Michelle.
While these were being observed Michelle was also watching for butterflies and she was able to capture four different species.
There is conservancy work being carried on here and this does include work for the threatened (but not endangered) Florida Panther. We rested our feet for about half-an-hour and listened and watched a presentation on this animal. We would love to see one and also the Bobcat. We digressed to talk about the Florida Scrub Jay. The simple question was 'Where could we find them?' It was easy. I watched a perched bird for about five minutes before it flew. Then there was one on the track only yards away and another one in the bush looking on. People walked past and they showed no fear. We had some superb views and they have been recorded.
One of the best moments of the day for me was to see a feeding Nine-Banded Armadillo in the vegetation by the road closely followed by another one. Photographed, of course.
A Red-shouldered Hawk and one Bald Eagle perched for good views.
On the way we saw four Belted Kingfishers, five Ospreys, and about a dozen Wild Turkey.
We will be there again in the morning as we know that we have much more to see.
Monday, 19 January 2015
Ritch Grissom Memorial Wetlands
Sunday 18th January
Today was my first full birding day and we decided to go to the Ritch Grissom Memorial Wetlands at Viera, near Melbourne in the state of Florida. We had a brilliant day with some clouds, a light breeze, a good light with a warming sun and plenty of birds.
This area consists of four shallow, man-made marshes surrounding a deep lake, with earthen berms that allow access. The function of these wetlands is to polish reclaimed water from a nearby treatment plant. The access roads allow freedom of movement between the lagoons which is ideal for walkers, runners, and also allows good viewing from cars. It is very user friendly and it has to be a must for anyone enjoying birdlife.
Our all time American bird list is not that great and was only enhanced by a few digits in this wonderful location.
We spotted a Killdeer on the way to the gate and vultures both Turkey and Black were always around. It was interesting to see the Turkey Vultures flying low over the reeds much as a Harrier would do. We even saw one land and walk around. We also had a very good view of a Black Vulture as it was perched on a fence post.
Limpkin- this one walked along the road.
Some egrets and herons were easy, but there were several of the species that we did not see.
So the list is :-
Large Blue (Grey to us)
Little Blue
Little Blue - immature in all white
Tri-coloured
Egrets were:-
Large
Snowy
Cattle.
White Ibis - adult and immature
Glossy Ibis
On the water there was hundreds of Coot with some Moorhen
Ring-necke Ducks in good numbers with both male and female present.
Northern Shovellers - two females
Pied-billed Grebe
But the stars of the day were a pair of Hooded Mergansers that we watched for a long time and came close enough for Michelle to photograph. What a smart looking pair these were.
Belted Kingfisher
Fish Crow
Loggerhead Shrike was also viewed easily, close up and often.
Red-winged Blackbirds - both female and male
Red-bellied Woodpecker
Great-crested Cormorants
Anhingas
Two Red-shouldered Hawks were perched in the distance.
(An absence of other raptors was disappointing, but maybe another day as we intend to go to nearby Merritt Island).
We watched two very active Terns- photo is on FB for an identification, we hope. They could be Forster's.
On the way home several groups of Wild Turkey and five Sandhill Cranes.
Today was my first full birding day and we decided to go to the Ritch Grissom Memorial Wetlands at Viera, near Melbourne in the state of Florida. We had a brilliant day with some clouds, a light breeze, a good light with a warming sun and plenty of birds.
This area consists of four shallow, man-made marshes surrounding a deep lake, with earthen berms that allow access. The function of these wetlands is to polish reclaimed water from a nearby treatment plant. The access roads allow freedom of movement between the lagoons which is ideal for walkers, runners, and also allows good viewing from cars. It is very user friendly and it has to be a must for anyone enjoying birdlife.
Our all time American bird list is not that great and was only enhanced by a few digits in this wonderful location.
We spotted a Killdeer on the way to the gate and vultures both Turkey and Black were always around. It was interesting to see the Turkey Vultures flying low over the reeds much as a Harrier would do. We even saw one land and walk around. We also had a very good view of a Black Vulture as it was perched on a fence post.
Limpkin- this one walked along the road.
Some egrets and herons were easy, but there were several of the species that we did not see.
So the list is :-
Large Blue (Grey to us)
Little Blue
Little Blue - immature in all white
Tri-coloured
Egrets were:-
Large
Snowy
Cattle.
White Ibis - adult and immature
Glossy Ibis
On the water there was hundreds of Coot with some Moorhen
Ring-necke Ducks in good numbers with both male and female present.
Northern Shovellers - two females
Pied-billed Grebe
But the stars of the day were a pair of Hooded Mergansers that we watched for a long time and came close enough for Michelle to photograph. What a smart looking pair these were.
Belted Kingfisher
Fish Crow
Loggerhead Shrike was also viewed easily, close up and often.
Red-winged Blackbirds - both female and male
Red-bellied Woodpecker
Great-crested Cormorants
Anhingas
Two Red-shouldered Hawks were perched in the distance.
(An absence of other raptors was disappointing, but maybe another day as we intend to go to nearby Merritt Island).
We watched two very active Terns- photo is on FB for an identification, we hope. They could be Forster's.
On the way home several groups of Wild Turkey and five Sandhill Cranes.
Thursday, 15 January 2015
MARATHON DAY - SUNDAY 11th JANUARY
DOPEY CHALLENGE COMPLETED
Sunday morning came in very fast as we had another 3.15am alarm call. This was the fourth day of the challenge. Our two marathon runners having survived three events so far totaling 15 kilometres and 13.1 miles (yes, they still have imperial distances still!), colds and some tiredness were ready for the full marathon to complete their very own DOPEY CHALLENGE. All the events should be viewed as challenges and not races although some entrants will have run some or all of them without walking being an option.
In the car park I met a man from Sheffield who had completed the half the previous day and was now running the marathon. I did see him during the race with his 'Union Jack' vest. I think that it is good to fly the flag. I am of the opinion that it would be good idea if there had been a meeting point on the previous Wednesday for us 'Brits' just to say hello.
Any evidence of nationalism or signs of patriotism were few. There was the American National Anthem before each race, there were some with the name of their country on their vests and only a few carrying the 'Stars & Stripes'.
For this day we were better organised. We knew where we could be close to the runners and enjoy the occasion more. An Epcot Mono Rail took us effortlessly to the four mile mark where there was refreshments and toilets. The race track is narrow here. There was supportive applause and noise as the runners came past. There were moments of celebration even at this early stage. Our two came by and they looked very good.
The next viewing point was at mile nineteen conveyed there by the fantastic mono rail and then by bus. Some roads were blocked off to facilitate the race route and the movements of spectators. Our driver, who according to the Americans on board, could not speak English, but we understood his every word! He drove down an almost deserted free way and decided it was the wrong way to go voicing his concerns before deciding what to do. He reversed. Well, it was the obvious thing even if one or two vehicles were going in the opposite direction. Consternation for some but we got there.
We were again close to the runners and now some walkers. As I have said that for many this, and the previous 'races', are challenges. Encouragement was loud and frequent.
You're looking good.
You got it.
This was all the guy next to me was shouting. There was applause for the more sedate and we just joined in with the local vernacular! I enjoyed it. We participated as much as we could while we waited. Then they were there still looking good and at the finishing line they crossed over it together - well almost as Howard needed a slightly bigger bra! Well done to Julia who beat him, or so she says!
Julia was presented with a rose. Love is so good to see.
Dopey Challenge Completed and now they have six medals to hang around their necks.
They are AWESOME!
We all came here for ourselves, the challenges were undertaken on any personal basis and we were all there to support. At the same time we have raised money for TEENAGE CANCER TRUST(www.teenagecancertrust.org) and for MAKE A WISH FOUNDATION at make-a-wish.org.uk. It is good to give and we, ourselves and our friends have done that. We had fun doing so, but I think that all six of us had the greater experience. It was very good to be there.
Sunday morning came in very fast as we had another 3.15am alarm call. This was the fourth day of the challenge. Our two marathon runners having survived three events so far totaling 15 kilometres and 13.1 miles (yes, they still have imperial distances still!), colds and some tiredness were ready for the full marathon to complete their very own DOPEY CHALLENGE. All the events should be viewed as challenges and not races although some entrants will have run some or all of them without walking being an option.
In the car park I met a man from Sheffield who had completed the half the previous day and was now running the marathon. I did see him during the race with his 'Union Jack' vest. I think that it is good to fly the flag. I am of the opinion that it would be good idea if there had been a meeting point on the previous Wednesday for us 'Brits' just to say hello.
Any evidence of nationalism or signs of patriotism were few. There was the American National Anthem before each race, there were some with the name of their country on their vests and only a few carrying the 'Stars & Stripes'.
For this day we were better organised. We knew where we could be close to the runners and enjoy the occasion more. An Epcot Mono Rail took us effortlessly to the four mile mark where there was refreshments and toilets. The race track is narrow here. There was supportive applause and noise as the runners came past. There were moments of celebration even at this early stage. Our two came by and they looked very good.
The next viewing point was at mile nineteen conveyed there by the fantastic mono rail and then by bus. Some roads were blocked off to facilitate the race route and the movements of spectators. Our driver, who according to the Americans on board, could not speak English, but we understood his every word! He drove down an almost deserted free way and decided it was the wrong way to go voicing his concerns before deciding what to do. He reversed. Well, it was the obvious thing even if one or two vehicles were going in the opposite direction. Consternation for some but we got there.
We were again close to the runners and now some walkers. As I have said that for many this, and the previous 'races', are challenges. Encouragement was loud and frequent.
You're looking good.
You got it.
This was all the guy next to me was shouting. There was applause for the more sedate and we just joined in with the local vernacular! I enjoyed it. We participated as much as we could while we waited. Then they were there still looking good and at the finishing line they crossed over it together - well almost as Howard needed a slightly bigger bra! Well done to Julia who beat him, or so she says!
Julia was presented with a rose. Love is so good to see.
Dopey Challenge Completed and now they have six medals to hang around their necks.
They are AWESOME!
We all came here for ourselves, the challenges were undertaken on any personal basis and we were all there to support. At the same time we have raised money for TEENAGE CANCER TRUST(www.teenagecancertrust.org) and for MAKE A WISH FOUNDATION at make-a-wish.org.uk. It is good to give and we, ourselves and our friends have done that. We had fun doing so, but I think that all six of us had the greater experience. It was very good to be there.
Saturday, 10 January 2015
HALF MARATHON DAY
SATURDAY 10th JANUARY
We are all up at 3.15am and on our way just after 4. An easy drive into Epcot saw us all in the parking lot within 25 minutes. The temperature was 47F with only a light breeze, but still cold enough. We kissed 'good bye' our runners and headed for the nearest viewing place and waited, and waited, and waited. Everybody has to wait. The runners in their pens to be released at intervals while we waited hoping to get a glimpse of any one of them. Howard went by and he was recorded at 5k in 34.22 and then 10k in 1.07.09 which does mean that he is going very well. Now as I write this he has gone through in 1.38.27at 15k. His estimated time will mean that he will finish at 8.20am. We could not even glimpse Julia or Michelle as there were so many competitors.
As each pen were released the leading runners ran at a good pace catching up the stragglers of the group in front. There is no doubt that some entrants should have been in a lower pen and not with a faster one.
I was under the impression that these were 'races', but clearly with some entrants walking the challenge was to complete the course or in some cases all the events that they had entered for. Whatever their intentions are the essential point is that have decided to do it and finish what they came to do.
All three runners home safely and well done. Just the marathon for Julia and Howard tomorrow.
We are all up at 3.15am and on our way just after 4. An easy drive into Epcot saw us all in the parking lot within 25 minutes. The temperature was 47F with only a light breeze, but still cold enough. We kissed 'good bye' our runners and headed for the nearest viewing place and waited, and waited, and waited. Everybody has to wait. The runners in their pens to be released at intervals while we waited hoping to get a glimpse of any one of them. Howard went by and he was recorded at 5k in 34.22 and then 10k in 1.07.09 which does mean that he is going very well. Now as I write this he has gone through in 1.38.27at 15k. His estimated time will mean that he will finish at 8.20am. We could not even glimpse Julia or Michelle as there were so many competitors.
As each pen were released the leading runners ran at a good pace catching up the stragglers of the group in front. There is no doubt that some entrants should have been in a lower pen and not with a faster one.
I was under the impression that these were 'races', but clearly with some entrants walking the challenge was to complete the course or in some cases all the events that they had entered for. Whatever their intentions are the essential point is that have decided to do it and finish what they came to do.
All three runners home safely and well done. Just the marathon for Julia and Howard tomorrow.
A Ten K Day
Friday January 9th.
A 5.30 start for the 10K runners with less wind than yesterday and a temperature of 47F.
It was warmer in bed! That is where the non-runners stayed, but for tomorrow we will all be there for the third race, for the half-marathon.
Howard went round in 1:06 with only slight twinges on his hamstring with Julia making it with a head cold. Michelle said that she was going to run all the way, and she did, in 1:15.59. All three of them ran with the next race in mind and for Julia and Howard the full marathon as well. This is a challenge that requires courage and determination not only for the running, but to be able to battle with the waiting around, the cold and the wind.
BIRD LIST
it was a grey morning with some wind and low temperatures. The grey skies threatened rain and it did for a while. There were no vultures in the air this morning as it was too cold for them with no rising thermals to get them up economically.
Pied-Bill Grebes
Little Blue Heron
Large White Egret
Ducks with yellow bills and orange legs could be Mottled, although they did have the small blue flash like a Mallard. Maybe hybrids? Photographs later
Juvenile White Ibis
On another water, four Large Whites, Little Egret, two Wood Storks and two Moorhens.
Northern Cardinals are frequently seen
Blue Jays too.
Maybe a Yellow-rumped Warbler?
Not a dove or pigeon in sight! I want some sun.
The runners wanted an easy afternoon and because of this an airboat ride had previously been booked at Boggy Creek. Michelle and I have done a similar trip before but the other four had never experienced it. It was a good one and the captain was attentive, knew his stretch of water and took us to the spots that alligators were, but he had to work at it. For me it was birds and I was scanning the sky and trees. The birds of the day have to be SNAIL KITES that only feed on APPLE SNAILS. They are endangered, but at this location we saw at least three perched and flying over us. The best and closest views I have ever had. Such a wonderful sight. Red-tailed Hawks were easily seen.
Our boat captain knew about the bigger birds and he pointed out an immature Bald Eagle perched in a tree and then it kindly flew for us. There were no Ospreys to be seen and it maybe that the Bald Eagles had driven them elsewhere.
Purple Gallinule, Moorhen and Coot were obvious. It will require another trip to view the smaller birds and this we can do.
However Sandhills Cranes were strolling around the car park and and two Mourning Doves were perched on a lamp-post.
A 5.30 start for the 10K runners with less wind than yesterday and a temperature of 47F.
It was warmer in bed! That is where the non-runners stayed, but for tomorrow we will all be there for the third race, for the half-marathon.
Howard went round in 1:06 with only slight twinges on his hamstring with Julia making it with a head cold. Michelle said that she was going to run all the way, and she did, in 1:15.59. All three of them ran with the next race in mind and for Julia and Howard the full marathon as well. This is a challenge that requires courage and determination not only for the running, but to be able to battle with the waiting around, the cold and the wind.
BIRD LIST
it was a grey morning with some wind and low temperatures. The grey skies threatened rain and it did for a while. There were no vultures in the air this morning as it was too cold for them with no rising thermals to get them up economically.
Pied-Bill Grebes
Little Blue Heron
Large White Egret
Ducks with yellow bills and orange legs could be Mottled, although they did have the small blue flash like a Mallard. Maybe hybrids? Photographs later
Juvenile White Ibis
On another water, four Large Whites, Little Egret, two Wood Storks and two Moorhens.
Northern Cardinals are frequently seen
Blue Jays too.
Maybe a Yellow-rumped Warbler?
Not a dove or pigeon in sight! I want some sun.
The runners wanted an easy afternoon and because of this an airboat ride had previously been booked at Boggy Creek. Michelle and I have done a similar trip before but the other four had never experienced it. It was a good one and the captain was attentive, knew his stretch of water and took us to the spots that alligators were, but he had to work at it. For me it was birds and I was scanning the sky and trees. The birds of the day have to be SNAIL KITES that only feed on APPLE SNAILS. They are endangered, but at this location we saw at least three perched and flying over us. The best and closest views I have ever had. Such a wonderful sight. Red-tailed Hawks were easily seen.
Our boat captain knew about the bigger birds and he pointed out an immature Bald Eagle perched in a tree and then it kindly flew for us. There were no Ospreys to be seen and it maybe that the Bald Eagles had driven them elsewhere.
Purple Gallinule, Moorhen and Coot were obvious. It will require another trip to view the smaller birds and this we can do.
However Sandhills Cranes were strolling around the car park and and two Mourning Doves were perched on a lamp-post.
THE RACING DAYS
Wednesday 7th January this was the day that the racing implications kicked in. We all went to ESPN Wide World of sport to collect our racing packages, bibs with our race number and our name. The merchandise was viewed and all essential items bought.
For those who have entered all four races they should give a self congratulatory hug for even considering to run these races. In American terms the challenge is awesome. This is not to be underestimated.
Thursday 8th January. We arose at 3.15am and we were at Epcot in ample time for the initial batch of runners to cross the start line at 6.16. Tutus were adjusted and tightened around our waists. All of which had been created in green and purple by Michelle. We ran in style in Dopey's colours. Each corral of runners waited 8 minutes before they could follow and cross the start line. The temperature was a measly 43 degrees F with a wind chill factor reducing this down. It was cold and we waited in it for only one and half hours. We were all concerned about finishing within the minimum time, but there was no need to be concerned as there were children 'in arms', youngsters of a variety of ages together with the more mature and rotund entrants. This was a fun 'run' or even a walk for some. I ran and walked for the first two miles as I wanted to ensure that I could finish. There was no need for any anxiety. We sprinted across the finishing line together with Tony claiming that he edged it my a nipple. It was an experience and the regret that I have is that I can no longer run as my knees are older than I want them to be. I can console myself that I have run the London Marathon. The challenge for tomorrow is that Julia, Michelle and Howard complete the 10k without any injury or damage.
For those who have entered all four races they should give a self congratulatory hug for even considering to run these races. In American terms the challenge is awesome. This is not to be underestimated.
Thursday 8th January. We arose at 3.15am and we were at Epcot in ample time for the initial batch of runners to cross the start line at 6.16. Tutus were adjusted and tightened around our waists. All of which had been created in green and purple by Michelle. We ran in style in Dopey's colours. Each corral of runners waited 8 minutes before they could follow and cross the start line. The temperature was a measly 43 degrees F with a wind chill factor reducing this down. It was cold and we waited in it for only one and half hours. We were all concerned about finishing within the minimum time, but there was no need to be concerned as there were children 'in arms', youngsters of a variety of ages together with the more mature and rotund entrants. This was a fun 'run' or even a walk for some. I ran and walked for the first two miles as I wanted to ensure that I could finish. There was no need for any anxiety. We sprinted across the finishing line together with Tony claiming that he edged it my a nipple. It was an experience and the regret that I have is that I can no longer run as my knees are older than I want them to be. I can console myself that I have run the London Marathon. The challenge for tomorrow is that Julia, Michelle and Howard complete the 10k without any injury or damage.
Thursday, 8 January 2015
MUSIC, GOOD COMPANY AND ONLY A FEW BIRDS
MUSIC, GOOD COMPANY AND A FEW BIRDS.
TUESDAY 6th January gave both Sarasota and the legendary BEACH BOYS a chance to impress.
We had booked tickets for an evening performance at the Van Wezel auditorium of this band of boys who made major contributions to the music world. Okay some of them are dead, but the skills are still there with some original members still performing. For me it started slowly and maybe the sound was not quite right. They have recorded many and for avid fans they would have known all the numbers. This was a non stop show with eight very talented musicians and vocalists. One of the drummers, John Cowsill, who would not have disgraced any rock band had an amazing voice. I will not single anyone else out because they were great. Bearing in mind the subjects chosen for the songs I can say that the old cliché write what you know comes straight to my mind. For example The Sloop John B and how can you get the words T Bird into a song? Well they did it and with a Grammy for I write the words and with other lyrics sang it was very evident that we were in then presence of a wordsmith.
SARASOTA tried to impress but failed. I think that I would have to have another good reason to go there before making the trip. However it did inspire to make some notes that could and should become a poem. It needs work.
This was a inconsequential birding day except for a mass of Vultures, both Black and Turkey, circling over head. White Pelicans flew along the beach with Terns. Seabirds are for our last week.
TUESDAY 6th January gave both Sarasota and the legendary BEACH BOYS a chance to impress.
We had booked tickets for an evening performance at the Van Wezel auditorium of this band of boys who made major contributions to the music world. Okay some of them are dead, but the skills are still there with some original members still performing. For me it started slowly and maybe the sound was not quite right. They have recorded many and for avid fans they would have known all the numbers. This was a non stop show with eight very talented musicians and vocalists. One of the drummers, John Cowsill, who would not have disgraced any rock band had an amazing voice. I will not single anyone else out because they were great. Bearing in mind the subjects chosen for the songs I can say that the old cliché write what you know comes straight to my mind. For example The Sloop John B and how can you get the words T Bird into a song? Well they did it and with a Grammy for I write the words and with other lyrics sang it was very evident that we were in then presence of a wordsmith.
SARASOTA tried to impress but failed. I think that I would have to have another good reason to go there before making the trip. However it did inspire to make some notes that could and should become a poem. It needs work.
This was a inconsequential birding day except for a mass of Vultures, both Black and Turkey, circling over head. White Pelicans flew along the beach with Terns. Seabirds are for our last week.
Wednesday, 7 January 2015
Manatees at Crystal River
MONDAY 4th January
This was the day to swim with the Manatees at Crystal River. We left at 5.30am to travel towards Florida's Gulf coast and arrived just after the sun came up. It was cold. The temperature had dropped over night from a high of 82 degrees the previous day, but the best was to come for we were to learn that the water temperature in the river is a constant 72 degrees.
The Manatees had moved on and we had to search for them. We had an early sighting but had to work hard to see a nursing mother and her calf. The river is their warm winter home and although some people do take a lot of care I am of the opinion that there are some people who will not respect them as being a wild animal.
Let them come to you was a clear instruction, but at least one broke the rule and stroked one. They will not be getting a photo or video of that.
Once out on the water and scanning the service for these wonderful, but very elusive creatures I was also looking for birds.
This is the list.
Wood ducks were plentiful
Osprey x 2
Bald Eagle
American Coots
Northern Cardinals - one male and one female flew and perched
Black & White Warbler
Belted Kingfisher
Great Blue (Gray) Herons were in several locations
Little Blue Herons were also common.
Yellow-crowned Night Heron
Snowy (Little) Egret
Large (White) Egret
White Ibis
Brown Pelicans
Cormorants (but to pay more attention next time for Great or Double-crested - but the latter is the only one that should be in Florida with the former on the east coast only)
Boat-tailed Grackles
Black Vultures flew constantly
Turkey Vultures X 2 were spotted on the roadside with three Black ones.
American Robins flew over in flocks.
Blue Jay
Ringed-neck Duck (alias 'ring-billed)
A reasonable tally considering we were on a boat and the main objective was for 'The Manatee',
but no new ones for us - yet.
Tuesday, 6 January 2015
Orange Lake Resort
At Orange Lake Resort
8505 W Irlo Bronson Memorial Highway
Kissimmee.
Sunday 3rd was a 'settling-in-day' after two days of travel. Shopping was a priority and afterwards our other four members now had an opportunity for exploration of this vast estate. It has over 8000 units built on swampland. It is well manicured with three golf courses, restaurants, bars and amusements. If you think that sounds a bit like a fairground then you would be wrong. Everything is well done here and the accommodation is the very best - that's why we have holidayed here numerous times as there is so much to see and do. There is still swamp, tracts of water, trees and vegetation all around allowing the remaining wildlife a home. They organize two birding walks and two wildlife walks each week. Apparently there are deer and we had did have a close encounter with a Racoon. Grey Squirrels are plentiful.
Our bird list, without any effort was:-
Red-shouldered Hawk (it perches opposite our apartment)
Northern Mockingbird.
Yellow-crowned Night Heron
Little Blue Herons.
Great white Egret
Snowy (little) Egrets
Black Vultures
American Robins flew over in flocks at dusk.
White Ibis
Boat-tailed Grackles
House Sparrows
Sandhill Cranes
Maybe a small return, but this was not a birding day. This is what we saw in passing!
I know that there is more to see with time and patience.
8505 W Irlo Bronson Memorial Highway
Kissimmee.
Sunday 3rd was a 'settling-in-day' after two days of travel. Shopping was a priority and afterwards our other four members now had an opportunity for exploration of this vast estate. It has over 8000 units built on swampland. It is well manicured with three golf courses, restaurants, bars and amusements. If you think that sounds a bit like a fairground then you would be wrong. Everything is well done here and the accommodation is the very best - that's why we have holidayed here numerous times as there is so much to see and do. There is still swamp, tracts of water, trees and vegetation all around allowing the remaining wildlife a home. They organize two birding walks and two wildlife walks each week. Apparently there are deer and we had did have a close encounter with a Racoon. Grey Squirrels are plentiful.
Our bird list, without any effort was:-
Red-shouldered Hawk (it perches opposite our apartment)
Northern Mockingbird.
Yellow-crowned Night Heron
Little Blue Herons.
Great white Egret
Snowy (little) Egrets
Black Vultures
American Robins flew over in flocks at dusk.
White Ibis
Boat-tailed Grackles
House Sparrows
Sandhill Cranes
Maybe a small return, but this was not a birding day. This is what we saw in passing!
I know that there is more to see with time and patience.
Sunday, 4 January 2015
To Orlando
It is a long flight and it did feel like it. It was not without incident either. We had difficulty moving away from the stand as the tow hook from the tractor to the plane needed to be replaced. That meant a short delay of 30 minutes. The route was northerly taking us up through the Midlands and across the Celtic Sea, over Donegal and eventually crossing Labrador and the northern tip of the Appalachian Mountains. It was bumpy on several occasions. However I took the opportunity to write my blog and I was able to relish the pleasure of reading an English newspaper.
We had an headwind that kept on adding time to the journey. One of the passengers was 'poorly', required oxygen and she was superbly and competently dealt with by the crew. An announcement for a practicing nurse or doctor resulted in an injection being given. We wished the patient a speedy recovery and we were very grateful that we did not have to land anywhere except our destination.
In two hours time we should have landed and we did.
Orlando International Airport is much better than it used to be. We were last away from the plane, last through immigration where only a few of the staff are even close to 'smiley'. However no problems until...... The normal baggage collect was slow but our two cases came all the way from Alicante and found us. It was so easy being able to do that. Then, having collecting our cases they then go onto another transportation system while we take a shuttle. So far so good. Then this baggage collect could not move as it was full of uncollected cases and stopped. None of the staff would or were allowed to remove them and to restart the carousel. By this time I had dealt with the car hire and waited for Michelle to catch me up. She eventually arrived and retrieved the cases, but only after four burly traveller's remove some cases. It is stupid that the obvious is not allowed to happen!
Now off to Orange Lake Country Club where we met our four fellow runners/holiday makers/fun seekers and drinkers.
We had an headwind that kept on adding time to the journey. One of the passengers was 'poorly', required oxygen and she was superbly and competently dealt with by the crew. An announcement for a practicing nurse or doctor resulted in an injection being given. We wished the patient a speedy recovery and we were very grateful that we did not have to land anywhere except our destination.
In two hours time we should have landed and we did.
Orlando International Airport is much better than it used to be. We were last away from the plane, last through immigration where only a few of the staff are even close to 'smiley'. However no problems until...... The normal baggage collect was slow but our two cases came all the way from Alicante and found us. It was so easy being able to do that. Then, having collecting our cases they then go onto another transportation system while we take a shuttle. So far so good. Then this baggage collect could not move as it was full of uncollected cases and stopped. None of the staff would or were allowed to remove them and to restart the carousel. By this time I had dealt with the car hire and waited for Michelle to catch me up. She eventually arrived and retrieved the cases, but only after four burly traveller's remove some cases. It is stupid that the obvious is not allowed to happen!
Now off to Orange Lake Country Club where we met our four fellow runners/holiday makers/fun seekers and drinkers.
The start of our journey to Florida
From Home via Alicante and British Airways to London Gatwick.
Airports are very often tedious places to be in. We were delayed by two hours yesterday morning at Alicante because our incoming British Airways flight had a technical problem at Gatwick. So be it! If you want to travel then these really are very minor events that have to be dealt with. It is simple to deal with, just a question of 'mind over matter' and get on with it.
Our over night stop at Gatwick's Sofitel Hotel allowed time for the evening showing of Agatha Christie's, The Mousetrap, now running continuously for sixty-three years and over twenty-five thousand performances. It is showing at St Martin's Theatre which is just off Shaftsbury Avenue in the midst of theatre land. It is small, but it makes a good attempt at using every square inch, but it is showing its age. We sat in the front row of the Dress Circle in seats designed for narrower hips and with all four sets of knees aching from the lack of leg room. Those Victorians must have been of smaller stature or was the design intended to get as many customers as possible in the venue?
If you love the theatre and all that goes on in 'theatre land' as we do then some discomfort has to be tolerated! The story and the plot is an old fashioned one, but we knew that. Yes, it is dated but so am I after sixty odd years! I enjoyed the feel of it, the way it was contrived to increase uncertainty of 'who-dun it'. It is a simple plot making use of only one set with many exits and entrances through as many doors as could be fitted into the stage. It was well acted and so credit to the actors. The culprit is not revealed until the last but the whole story gives adequate time to consider who it could be. I could say I did so. As always it was demanded that you did not reveal the murderer. If you hear it was the butler that's okay, but you can discard that because there is not one in the play. I saw it many years ago and I am very pleased to have done it again.
We had a great time with two good friends and a very friendly cabbie who picked us up in a cold Victoria Street. It is good to meet and talk.
Airports are very often tedious places to be in. We were delayed by two hours yesterday morning at Alicante because our incoming British Airways flight had a technical problem at Gatwick. So be it! If you want to travel then these really are very minor events that have to be dealt with. It is simple to deal with, just a question of 'mind over matter' and get on with it.
Our over night stop at Gatwick's Sofitel Hotel allowed time for the evening showing of Agatha Christie's, The Mousetrap, now running continuously for sixty-three years and over twenty-five thousand performances. It is showing at St Martin's Theatre which is just off Shaftsbury Avenue in the midst of theatre land. It is small, but it makes a good attempt at using every square inch, but it is showing its age. We sat in the front row of the Dress Circle in seats designed for narrower hips and with all four sets of knees aching from the lack of leg room. Those Victorians must have been of smaller stature or was the design intended to get as many customers as possible in the venue?
If you love the theatre and all that goes on in 'theatre land' as we do then some discomfort has to be tolerated! The story and the plot is an old fashioned one, but we knew that. Yes, it is dated but so am I after sixty odd years! I enjoyed the feel of it, the way it was contrived to increase uncertainty of 'who-dun it'. It is a simple plot making use of only one set with many exits and entrances through as many doors as could be fitted into the stage. It was well acted and so credit to the actors. The culprit is not revealed until the last but the whole story gives adequate time to consider who it could be. I could say I did so. As always it was demanded that you did not reveal the murderer. If you hear it was the butler that's okay, but you can discard that because there is not one in the play. I saw it many years ago and I am very pleased to have done it again.
We had a great time with two good friends and a very friendly cabbie who picked us up in a cold Victoria Street. It is good to meet and talk.
Azure-winged Magpies
In December I searched a local area for Azure-winged Magpies without success. I had never realised that they were in the coastal area as I had always seen them in Sierra de Segura in the vicinity of Pontones and Hornos or even further south in Andalucia. They have been photographed previously and very recently a few miles north of where I had been looking. I know that they have been where I had looked. They are birds that congregate in family groups and are not difficult to see - normally! The exercise in itself was good as it familiarized me with an area that I had never paid any attention to before and I now know that with the very mixed habitat it could be a good location to visit regularly. I am also told that Siskins flock there.
I did see a Darford Warbler, Serin were feeding on low bushes, Collared Doves and Starlings were there in numbers with Chiffchaff feeding in the Eucalyptus trees. Flying over the reeds on the edge of the salinas I saw a dark morph Booted Eagle fly just over head.
The quest for the Magpies and Eagles are of importance because there is a Scottish birder who wishes to add to his lifetime list. It is a good challenge for me.
I did see a Darford Warbler, Serin were feeding on low bushes, Collared Doves and Starlings were there in numbers with Chiffchaff feeding in the Eucalyptus trees. Flying over the reeds on the edge of the salinas I saw a dark morph Booted Eagle fly just over head.
The quest for the Magpies and Eagles are of importance because there is a Scottish birder who wishes to add to his lifetime list. It is a good challenge for me.
Thursday, 1 January 2015
First Blog of The Year!
A very happy new year for everyone that has viewed any of my pages almost 12000 in all.
I have been trying hard to find any Azure-winged Magpies close to where we live, only to find that they have been seen only a few miles away. They will appear if only to please a Scotsman who has yet to see one.
Today we saw four lightly attired women run into the sea at La Zenia. The aim was simply to raise money for the two charities of Teenage Cancer Trust and Make a Wish Foundation. On this day people were generous to give €360. We are close to our target of 2000 English pounds, but why not surpass that total?
I have been trying hard to find any Azure-winged Magpies close to where we live, only to find that they have been seen only a few miles away. They will appear if only to please a Scotsman who has yet to see one.
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