Wednesday, February 17, 2010

Walking the Island..a few more memories!

It was a nice day for photos. The sun was out. The birds were cooperative. What more could one ask for while in Florida? This little Yellow-Crowned Night Heron was not the least bit upset that my camera was snapping away as it stalked the little fish swimming near the shore.
The Blue-Winged Teal is a shy bird and we usually see them as they are flying away..probably being spooked by the crunch of our feet on the path. This time, however, we came upon them as they were feeding and we were given a few moments to appreciate the amazing display of colors and textures..
before they became airborne. Can you see the the blue/teal color on this one's wing?? Quite a vibrant blue when you get a glimpse of it!!
Sanibel has two pairs of nesting eagles!!! That is amazing for such a small island. This immature eagle flew over us as we walked the Bailey Tract. I guess all the osprey on the island, being that they are such great fishermen...help to keep those lazy eagles supplied with food. More than once we saw an eagle pursuing an osprey for it's catch..and more than once we saw the osprey give up it's prize!
The Common Moorhen also adds a splash of color to Sanibel's lakes and ponds...


It is always a treat to see the White Pelicans fly over..


I caught this immature white ibis during one of our back water walks. I love the brown and white feathers on this young bird...soon, though, it will turn snowy white like its parents... and speaking of snowy white..the snow, here, just keeps on coming...and the number of birds at our feeders keeps increasing.

..my favorite visitor, though, has found a nice safe retreat from the snow and wind. We have two Carolina Wrens wintering in our backyard and they really keep me busy.. filling up these domed feeders with crushed peanuts and dried meal worms!

14 comments:

Chris said...

Hi Tina,
I'm still stunned by the changes it should have been for you, going from this nice sunny shots and nice pictures of beautiful birds to your snowy garden... I love the picture of the robin inside your feeders ;-) But the blue-winged teals and the night heron are beautiful and you got awesome pictures of them!

Shelley said...

Those blue winged teals are such beauties! Great captures!!!

FAB said...

Hi Tina. That YC Night Heron is a stunner. FAB.

Gail said...

I am amazed at all your wonderful shots, then I wonder why I am amazed because your shots are always good.

BRRRR, could you not have stayed until your snow melted?

Ruth's Photo Blog said...

What a contrast from the birds in warmer climate to the heavy layer of snow.Both have beauty,hmm,which would I prefer?
Blessings,Ruth

Janice K said...

That is one smart little wren!

Your Florida pictures makes me thing of Spring. Could we be so luckly to be rid of the snow and start having some 50 degree days in March?....Looks like you had a wonderful vacation.

Betsy Banks Adams said...

Hi Tina, I almost missed this post... Being out-of-town has put me behind. Glad I just checked!!!!

You saw some amazing birds while at Sanibel. Love the Blue-winged Teal.. Gorgeous bird.

Hope your snow goes AWAY soon!!! Ours is almost gone in TWO days.. Of course we only have 8 inches..
Hugs,
Betsy

troutbirder said...

I'm ready to go birding on that island. Staying in Fort Myers. Can't wait!!!!

Eve said...

More beautiful photos Tina. But the snow....oh I don't envy the snow!

Eve said...

More beautiful photos Tina. But the snow....oh I don't envy the snow!

jalynn01 said...

Hi Tina,
What a contrast between the Island picts and home. Gee! But the snow is pretty in it's own sense too.. I'm starting to long for warmer temperatures myself. Love that little Wren sheltering in the feeder..but really enjoyed the summer look of the Island and the night heron and like you ..the brown of the immature ibis.
Have a great day Tina
Jalynn

George said...

You got wonderful pictures of the birds on the island. Unfortunately it looks as if the birds in your yard may have to put up with more snow.

This Is My Blog - fishing guy said...

Tina: What great photos you got in Florida, it was a neat trip to the south with you. I think we are all getting blasted with more snow today.

Peggy said...

You really got some nice photos on Sanibel! Loved the teals in the very colorful waters!

would like to hear your thoughts..