Author: Roger Simmons

Roger Simmons is a longtime Florida journalist and Sunshine State native. He started RogerSimmons.com in 2001 as an outlet for his personal interests including the history of Orlando TV news and Central Florida sports. Now his focus is on learning more about Florida birds and photography. His Orlando TV content can still be found on this site under the Orlando TV category.

All

Focusing on Barn Swallows at Lake Apopka

Roger Simmons, July 11, 2024July 11, 2024

The Barn Swallows at Lake Apopka usually hang out around a bridge where they nest. Sometimes they might sit on a railing or a nearby bush.

All

Watching Florida Scrub-Jays in Brevard County

Roger Simmons, July 10, 2024July 10, 2024

This protected area of Florida scrub land is nestled between some subdivisions and a self-storage business, but it’s the perfect habitat for Florida Scrub-Jays.

All

Peacocks, peahens and little peachicks at Magnolia Park

Roger Simmons, July 9, 2024July 9, 2024

Peafowl is the name for birds that I grew up calling peacocks – but only the male peafowl are called that. The females are called peahens, and their babies are called peachicks.

All

Visiting Newton Park in Winter Garden

Roger Simmons, July 8, 2024July 21, 2024

Named after A. B. Newton, Winter Garden’s first mayor, the park sits on the north shore of Lake Apopka.

All

Summertime along Lake Apopka Wildlife Drive

Roger Simmons, July 8, 2024July 8, 2024

The 11-mile drive is a great place for birding, and that includes during the dog days of summer.

All

Birds are definitely back at Black Point

Roger Simmons, December 13, 2023December 13, 2023

An early morning visit to Merritt Island delivered Roseate Spoonbills Wood Storks, Reddish Egrets, Great Herons, Osprey, Scrub-Jays and lots and lots of different ducks.

All

Bald Eagles have epic battle over downtown Orlando lake

Roger Simmons, December 12, 2023January 18, 2024

I was getting ready to photograph some Mallards, when an adult male Bald Eagle swooped in to do some hunting. Suddenly, a second Bald Eagle appeared. Then the battle started.

All

Flamingos in Indian River?! Yes, but pretty far off

Roger Simmons, December 10, 2023January 18, 2024

There have been flamingos in the Indian River before, but it is pretty rare. I got up very early on a Saturday morning to try to get some pictures of them.

All