South Florida I
For a number of years now, a small group of birding friends have joined together to visit several south Florida “hot spots” where we can find good numbers of beautiful breeding birds many of which are not common in the more centrally located environs where we spend our winters. We spent April 4 - 6 cruising around various habitats from Delray Beach down to the Everglades. Our first stop is invariably Wakodahatchee Wetlands in Delray Beach. One glance at the photo above will tell you why we make this a no-brainer as far as a must for photographers and birders alike.
Wakodahatchee Wetlands is a captivating natural habitat that spans over 50 acres. This serene environment is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including various bird species, alligators, and aquatic plants, making it a prime location for nature photography. The wetland features a network of boardwalks and observation platforms that allow visitors to explore its ecosystems while minimizing human impact. With its abundant flora and fauna, Wakodahatchee Wetlands provides a unique opportunity for photographers and nature enthusiasts to observe and capture the beauty of wildlife in their natural setting.
Photographic opportunities like this image of a Glossy ibis with her chicks are common at the wetlands. We are here in the peak of breeding season and a myriad of birds have made this their nesting site of choice. The abundance of food and fresh water and the fact that there are many small mangrove islands in which to build a nest make this an ideal spot to start a family. Being surrounded by water, the islands are oases offering protection for predators such as raccoons. Throughout the park, nesting birds and their young can be observed from close quarters as the boardwalks provide close encounters with these nesters.
Unfortunately, water is not a major deterrent for this invasive predator which has become widespread throughout the wetlands. The Green iguana is primarily a vegetarian and prefers fruits and natural foliage found in southern Florida, but they are opportunistic and will feed on fauna such as insects, other lizards and sadly baby birds when the opportunity rises. Water is no deterrent to the iguanas as they are superb swimmers. The iguanas are seen everywhere here in the wetlands and although they are not protected by law, there seems to be no limit to the numbers found each year in south Florida.
In spite of the threat to their young, thousands of birds still return to Wakodahatchee every year and the spectacle that results gives cause for thousands of birders and photographers to return as well. During this time of year, the handsome birds become even more attractive as hormones kick in and the birds develop their breeding plumage as a means of attracting a mate. The image of the Cattle egret seen above is a classic example of the extraordinary colors that develop in the feathers, the legs, the bills, the lores….virtually in all parts of the birds’ anatomies. Even the way that the enhanced feathers are presented becomes spectacular. Note the golden crown of this bird augmented by the deep purple lores. How could a female resist?
As if the numbers of birds and their vibrant colors were not enough to bring people from far and wide here to view these wonders of nature, the newborn chicks are irresistible draw as well. The little Wood stork chicks look like little “muppets” nestled in their nest begging their parents for a constant supply of regurgitated morsels. What a great time of year to be out in nature’s wonderlands enjoying all that she has to offer. Upcoming posts will feature other sites we visited during our three days in topical Florida, so stay turned!
Tech Tip - While having a beautiful powerful new mirrorless camera is an ideal choice for taking advantage of the innumerable opportunities for photography here at Wakodathatchee, you are indeed so close to many of your “subjects” that an iPhone more than suffices for many of the images you can capture. Indeed, while many expensive cameras were on display here today, there were at least as many folks grabbing pix with their iPhones. Don’t let the lack of gear deter you from getting out and enjoying nature photography.
