Category Archives: Nature

Bird Chaos at Bird Key

Hundreds of birds nested on Bird Key this summer and the land and sky were full of activity on this July day.

Bird Key Stono Heritage Preserve
Bird Key Stono Heritage Preserve

Most of the birds on land seen here are Brown Pelicans, the smaller white ones are chicks. The chicks were awkwardly walking, but not yet flying.  There were lots of Laughing Gulls that provided constant noise, and a few White Ibis mixed in.

Bird Key Stono Heritage Preserve
Bird Key Stono Heritage Preserve

On the outer edge of the island, the open Atlantic Ocean beyond, a sand bar has formed that was popular spot for preening.

Bird Key Stono Heritage Preserve
Bird Key Stono Heritage Preserve

Taken from a boat at Bird Key Stono Heritage Preserve
Between Kiawah Island and Folly Beach, SC

July 12, 2021

Alligators at Mill House Pond

After visiting the sheep one day last week I continued across Middleton Place to the Mill Pond where two Alligators were taking advantage of the afternoon sun.

Alligators at Mill House
Alligators at Mill House

The smaller one plopped down after a short walk across the berm.

Alligators at Mill House
Alligators at Mill House

I had intended to go past the Mill building, but diverted to the left on an Alligator-free route, stopping for a different view of the big fellow.

Alligators at Mill House
Alligator at Mill House Pond

Jumping Fish

Every time I’ve been to the pond where I’ve been photographing the damselflies and purple Iris this month the fish have been jumping. Of course every time I try to capture the action. Finally on April 17th I got one.

Jumping Fish
Jumping Fish

I have no idea what kind of fish, but they are large, at least a foot (30cm) long.

Splash of Jumping Fish
Splash of Jumping Fish

And they make a pretty good splash.

Splash of Jumping Fish
Splash of Jumping Fish

The Alligators don’t appear to follow them, but you can be sure they know where to look when they are hungry.

Alligator
Alligator