Although there are a lot of things to like about the home we moved to last February, one of the things I miss is the proximity to the Shingle Creek Nature Trail where I have spent a lot of hours both with and without the dogs. So, I've spent a little time finding places where I can photograph native wildlife somewhat close to the new place. Yesterday, I had a pretty tight schedule but was driving past a small community park near us where there is a Nature Trail. I stopped just to see what was out at 10 in the morning.
First up, I spotted a Tri-colored Heron hunting for breakfast on the edge of a relatively small retention pond.
I turned to walk back up the bank and spotted a Wood Stork in an old dead tree on the edge of the woods.
He stayed in that tree while I walked almost totally under him so I took a few close-ups of Mr. Stork.
On the pond were a gaggle of ducks I don't usually see in Central Florida -- Hooded Mergansers. They are very aware and didn't let me get very close -- plus I only had the 28-135 with me at the time. But here's a shot of what I was able to get.
And then I noticed our foliage. Fall comes to the rest of the US in September/October. Here in Central Florida, it arrives in January/February -- after our first (and usually last) cold spells -- and leaves us with some very colorful foliage if you know where to look. Here are some examples.
And then I went back to the car and drove home. Total excursion time: 45 minutes. Next weekend, I've been invited over to a sheep farm about 45 minutes from here to photograph bald eagles that are frequenting a pond there every morning. Should be fun.
Jim
