We saw very few Black Skimmers on our recent trip to Florida, and this was the only one I caught in flight.
The Glossy Ibis and Grebes paid him no attention as he performed the classic beak dip as he hunted.
He passed on by and they never even looked up.
Black Point Wildlife Drive, Merritt Island, FL
February 25, 2026
I passed by one Anhinga perched in a Mangrove as I was looking for ducks.
Then I heard a splash.
I did not see where the second Anhinga came from–he might have been swimming by.
I don’t recall hearing any noises from the birds, but they sure moved a lot of water.
At one point they were both underwater, emerging with their necks entwined.
Their full wing spans, typically 40 inches / 109 cm, were on display.
In less than 30 seconds it was over, at least for a drying off period.
Black Point Wildlife Drive, Merritt Island, FL
February 25, 2026
A Wilson’s Snipe was feeding in a pool of clear water, showing off his gorgeous feather colors.
He worked the bottom methodically; I never saw any prey but suspect he was getting little squiggly things.
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.
Black Point Wildlife Drive, Merritt Island, FL
February 25, 2026
White Ibis were scattered all around Ravenswood Pond, feeding and wandering around in every wet spot. Then as if on a secret signal, they flocked by twos and threes to the tree a Great Blue Heron pair had started a nest.
The GBH lost possession, at least temporarily.
More secret signals…
or a stretch…
Magnolia Plantation and Gardens, Charleston, SC
February 17, 2026
After leaving the Sweetgum Tree ball course a White Ibis moved to a “safer” walk in the water.
Magnolia Plantation and Gardens, Charleston, SC
February 14, 2026
(Ted’s OM 100-400mm Lens)
The male Great Blue Heron had just flown in with a stick which they placed at their feet.
They seemed indecisive about what to do next.
This nest isn’t going to build itself!
Finally he took off…
I waited at least twenty minutes hoping he’d return with more nesting material. The female did her part, keeping the spot occupied in case of interlopers.
Magnolia Plantation and Gardens, Charleston, SC
February 14, 2026
(Ted’s OM 100-400mm Lens)
If you’ve ever stepped on one of these Sweetgum Tree balls you can appreciate why the Ibis picks a careful path. Barefoot, they are sharp, and with shoes on they are like stepping on marbles.
Magnolia Plantation and Gardens, Charleston, SC
February 14, 2026
(Ted’s OM 100-400mm Lens)
This tree has been popular for GBH nest building over the years. This pair has staked a claim and I watched the male bring a stick.
The light reflecting off the leaf-less trees and Spanish Moss is harsh this time of year, and the pond was covered with bright green duckweed that reflected off the heron’s outstretched wings.
After alerting to his arrival the female watched more closely as he flew in.
From that angle he had a pretty long landing zone, and then a few hops to get to his mate.
Together they found the right spot for the stick.
Then they stood around, cozying up and him not rushing off for more nesting material. Evidently there is no urgency to get the nest ready.
Magnolia Plantation and Gardens, Charleston, SC
February 14, 2026
(Ted’s OM 100-400mm Lens)
Magnolia Plantation and Gardens, Charleston, SC
February 14, 2026
The marsh grasses were sporting their early winter, almost drab, look near the end of December.
This Great Blue Heron perched on the coveted spot on the Spoonie Tree as the sun went in and out that morning.
Donnelley Wildlife Management Area, SC
December 25, 2025
