A few Roseate Spoonbills had one corner of the pond to themselves.
The white birds seemed to be getting dirtier as they splashed around on a mud bar.
And there was a lot of coming and going, with birds dropping in from the trees on the left while others exited every which way.
Cypress Wetlands, Port Royal, SC
June 5, 2026
White Ibis have taken over a large section of one of the islands at Cypress Wetlands. Two weeks ago this was full of Wood Storks. From this raucous scene you can see why they might have moved on.
Wood Duck ducklings paddling in the duck weed.
Magnolia Plantation and Gardens, Charleston, SC
May 4, 2026
White Ibis working on his nest, flying over pond covered with duck weed.
White Ibis in breeding colors, washing his face.
It’s a process
I watched this Great Blue Heron just standing around in the swamp, stock still as herons often are when they hunt.
Then a few stealthy steps through the duckweed followed by a big wing flap!
One good downstroke and he was off with a clean exit from the water.
His legs got into the action, almost like running on water.
Then he glided to a landing just out of my view, where presumably the hunting would better.
Magnolia Plantation and Gardens, Charleston, SC
May 4, 2026
Magnolia Plantation and Gardens, Charleston, SC
May 4, 2026
The pond at the bamboo garden is at the highest level I’ve seen it in a while, maybe years. Last week water was being actively pumped into the far corner.
The light made a lovely glow around this immature White Ibis as he probed the bottom.
Bamboo Garden Pond, Magnolia Plantation and Gardens, Charleston, SC
May 4, 2026
