I thought I would be leaving Orlando Wetlands without seeing a Purple Gallinule, but finally spotted one out in the open, poking through the floating vegetation.
A half hour later another one, a bit closer, presented me with a reflection opportunity.
And then, wow–he was on the run showing off those massive feet and toes…
…and their ability to spring into the air.
Orlando Wetlands, Christmas, FL
January 18, 2023
On our April trip to Florida I got a few good looks at a Limpkin walking, first in a grassy area.
Then in the more expected pond, among the vegetation.
Orlando Wetlands, FL
April 10, 2022
There were a fair number of dragonflies about when we went to Orlando Wetlands in April, but no closeups as they were over the water or in alligator occupied grasses.
A good supply of gnats over the Coots’ heads kept a few dragonflies busy.
A wider view of the Coots, with palm tree reflections in the pond.
Orlando Wetlands, Florida
April 12, 2022
Limpkin are known for eating the freshwater apple snail, Ampullariidae. But it turns out they eat other mollusks using their specialized beak.
This water outflow is near the maintenance facility at Orlando Wetlands, and provided a buffet of choices for this diligent Limpkin.
The green kerchief on his head is a leaf that stuck when he plunged his head into the water.
Orlando Wetlands, Florida
April 12, 2022
Or…
a one
and a two
and a three
All done.
Orlando Wetlands, Florida
April 12, 2022
Two Common Gallinules were making a splash.
A little dispute ensued…
A point was made…
Face off!
Ok, it’s all over, nothing more to see…
Or not!
Orlando Wetlands, Florida
April 12, 2022
The Sandhill Crane family was on a walk when I passed by their marsh area.
The youngster, known as a colt because of their long legs, was curious about his surroundings but didn’t stray far from his parents. I didn’t see any sign that junior had started to fly, which happens around two months of age.
Sandhill Cranes are omnivores, poking around in the swamp and grasses for food.
The parents seemed to be more attentive than when I saw them two days before this.
Orlando Wetlands, Florida
April 12, 2022
This Limpkin was the first bird of the morning at Orlando Wetlands.
He had places to go.
April 12, 2022
Holding onto the lily blossom with his left foot, this Purple Gallinule demonstrated how to eat while floating on vegetation.
These iridescent beauties are occasionally seen in South Carolina but I have only seen them in Florida’s freshwater wetlands.
Purple Gallinules tend to be shy, and this giant water vegetation provides them with great cover as well as food.
April 10, 2022
A young Sandhill Crane was busy looking around in the grass as his parents were feeding in the marsh.
They weren’t far off, 20 or 30 feet (6 to 9 meters), and maybe paying more attention to him than it appeared.
As they went around the water’s edge he trailed along behind them, but I didn’t see him eat anything.
Orlando Wetlands, Florida
April 10, 2022
