The Orlando Wetlands can be a dangerous place for mammals, reptiles, bugs and other birds when you have so many raptors flying around. But that makes it a good place for bird photographers.
That’s especially true this time of year. On a recent weekend visit I spotted five different types of raptors on the same day.
Peregrine Falcons, Bald Eagles, American Kestrels and Northern Harriers returning to the area for winter have joined the year-round raptor residents, the Red-shouldered Hawks.
I was particularly happy to see the Peregrine Falcon again. I first photographed this bird in November 2023 at the wetlands but wanted to try to get some better shots of it. With a new lens, I think I completed my mission.
It was also great to find that the American Kestrels are back, and I am looking forward to more photo opportunities with American’s smallest falcon.
I actually saw four different Bald Eagles during this trip, including two who were camped out in the cypress trees along the boardwalk area. There’s one nesting pair in the wetlands and another close by who visit the park.
Unfortunately for me, the Northern Harrier I spotted flew away as I was trying to photograph it, but this bird should be around for several months.
Since there are so many Red-shouldered Hawks, I was pleased to get a shot of one flying over the wetlands, showing off its signature red shoulders.
