Between clouds and rain showers, I was able to visit my three go-to spots for birding – Orlando Wetlands, Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge and Lake Apopka Wildlife Drive – in the first two weeks of January.
My big year of birding: 160 species photographed in 2023
When I visited the Orlando Wetlands on the first day of 2023, I didn’t know that spur-of-the-moment trip would launch me into a new hobby. But seeing all the different birds at the Wetlands that sunny and gorgeous New Year’s Day got me to start paying closer attention the the…
Nothing could be finer than these Carolina birds
Winter birding: A quick trip to western North Carolina gave me a handful of new-to-me birds plus some other familiar ones.
New birds, old birds on Christmas Eve at Lake Apopka
I came across two new-to-me birds: A Grey-headed Swamphen and a Ring-necked Duck. Plus, I got to photograph some others I have photographed before.
Pre-Christmas trips to Merritt Island net some favorite pics
In addition to seeing some new birds, I also came across some regulars who became part of some of my favorite photos of 2023.
Birds are definitely back at Black Point
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.
Bald Eagles have epic battle over downtown Orlando lake
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.
Flamingos in Indian River?! Yes, but pretty far off
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.
Hooded Mergansers return for the winter
Hooded Mergansers, very colorful members of the duck family, have joined the flock of “snowbirds” coming back to Florida for the winter.
Black and White Warbler is an unexpected Thanksgiving guest
While out in the backyard deep-frying our Thanksgiving turkey (which was incredible, by the way), I looked up and saw a Black and White Warbler.