Blue-winged Teal were among the ducks sheltering in the old rice field ponds on Cat Island.
A number of patrolling Bald Eagles sent groups of ducks into the air over the hour or so we were in the area.
Tom Yawkey Wildlife Center, SC
November 22, 2022
Another odd gathering of birds at the rice field pond that has been drained in preparation for repairs and a controlled burn.
Northern Shoveler and four YellowlegsMagnolia Plantation and Gardens, Charleston, SC
November 3, 2022
Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge, Florida
April 11, 2022
Black- Black-bellied Whistling Duck
Donnelley Wildlife Management Area, SC
May 15, 2022
We had been alerted to the presence of these Black-bellied Whistling Ducks by another visitor to the Wildlife Management Area. Sure enough, they were still hanging out in the same spot.
I walked by them on the dike and they were unfazed.
Their feet are quite adaptable to stand on a variety of uneven surfaces.
These wooden boxes are installed to support breeding Wood Ducks, but the Black-bellied Whistling Ducks have been taking them over the last few years.
Donnelley Wildlife Management Area, SC
May 15, 2022
A pair of Black-bellied Whistling Ducks flying by in the first morning light.
Orlando Wetlands, Florida
April 12, 2022
Black-bellied Whistling Ducks were hanging out on a series of snags in the first morning light.
Everyone had their own spot.
And they weren’t alone.
This snag stands in one of the wetland cells created as part of the city’s water reclamation process.
Orlando Wetlands, Florida
April 12, 2022
Most of the birds we saw on Bulls Island were far off, but there was a lot of variety. This fresh water pond was hosting wading birds, ducks and shore birds.
A path between two ponds had a few spots where you could peak between the underbrush for a better view.
A group of shore birds was making the rounds.
Bulls Island is a 5000 acre barrier island off the coast of South Carolina with multiple ecosystems including maritime forest, fresh and brackish water impoundments and salt marsh.
April 3, 2022
A few Blue-winged Teal were cruising close to my position on a marsh dike.
IÂ had hoped to inch a bit closer and a better angle.
The possible reason for their sudden departure:
Bear Island Wildlife Management Area, SC
October 29, 2021
A look at a big marsh scene that included a small flock of Roseate Spoonbills way off in the air, a closer raft of dabbling ducks and a single White Ibis in the foreground.
A little closer look at the White Ibis.
Usually White Ibis are in constant motion in the water, poking and prodding for food, but this one was just looking around.
Bear Island Wildlife Management Area, SC
October 29, 2021
