All posts by Ellen Jennings

Water Birds

Anhinga Dispute

3 Comments

I passed by one Anhinga perched in a Mangrove as I was looking for ducks.

Anhinga Dispute
Anhinga Dispute

Then I heard a splash.

Anhinga Dispute
Anhinga Dispute

I did not see where the second Anhinga came from–he might have been swimming by.

Anhinga Dispute
Anhinga Dispute

I don’t recall hearing any noises from the birds, but they sure moved a lot of water.

Anhinga Dispute
Anhinga Dispute

At one point they were both underwater, emerging with their necks entwined.

Anhinga Dispute
Anhinga Dispute

Their full wing spans, typically 40 inches / 109 cm, were on display.

Anhinga Dispute
Anhinga Dispute

In less than 30 seconds it was over, at least for a drying off period.

Anhinga Dispute
Anhinga Dispute

Black Point Wildlife Drive, Merritt Island, FL
February 25, 2026

Shore Birds

Wilson’s Snipe Feeding and Camo

5 Comments

A Wilson’s Snipe was feeding in a pool of clear water, showing off his gorgeous feather colors.

Wilson’s Snipe
Wilson’s Snipe

He worked the bottom methodically; I never saw any prey but suspect he was getting little squiggly things.

Wilson’s Snipe
Wilson’s Snipe

Then he calmly strolled into some stubble, blending right in with mud and dead vegetation. I looked away for a few seconds and lost sight of him.

Wilson’s Snipe
Wilson’s Snipe

Black Point Wildlife Drive, Merritt Island, FL
February 25, 2026

Reptiles

Where There is One…

1 Comment

Where there is one Alligator

American Alligator
American Alligator

there is often another…

It pays to look around, for safety and photography opportunities. These two are probably a few years old, with the camouflaging stripes they hatch with faded, but still visible.

American Alligators
American Alligators

Magnolia Plantation and Gardens, Charleston, SC
March 19, 2026