Roger Simmons - Birds, Words, Pics + TV

Swallow-tailed Kites in Florida are a joy to watch

Roger Simmons, July 10, 2026July 10, 2026

Audubon notes that they used to be more common across the Southeastern U.S., and their range used to extend as far north as Minnesota.

Roger Simmons, July 9, 2026July 9, 2026

Fort DeSoto is an absolute wonderful place to go birding, especially if you’re hoping to photograph birds around the shoreline.

Roger Simmons, July 7, 2026July 7, 2026

It’s not unheard of for them to be in Central Florida, but they are typically seen more often in the northern part of the state.

Roger Simmons, July 6, 2026July 6, 2026

At the start of the long Independence Day weekend, I decided to check in on the American Flamingos at Merritt Island.

Roger Simmons, June 30, 2026June 30, 2026

There were two adults and also two juveniles, who were notable for their blue and pink beaks and light brown feathers.

Roger Simmons, June 26, 2026June 26, 2026

While I enjoyed photographing them, it was also heartening to see the next generation of the birds — because the plovers have a problem.

Roger Simmons, June 24, 2026June 24, 2026

There were several newly hatched Least Tern chicks and some that were a few days older running around the beach.

Roger Simmons, June 20, 2026June 20, 2026

A great evening of birding at Fort DeSoto Park was capped by the entertaining performance of a Reddish Egret.

Roger Simmons, June 14, 2026June 14, 2026

There were 10-12 flamingos the day before until military aircraft scared them and they flew away.

Roger Simmons, June 12, 2026June 12, 2026

On a recent trip to Osceola County, I spotted two male Snail Kites in two different locations.