Sanibel Gardens

After finishing my turtle patrol, I decided to take the time to revisit Sanibel Gardens and see what has been going on there. As soon as I set foot on the trail, a family of Otters crossed the path in front of me - I was so mesmerized by their appearance that I failed to capture the moment with my camera. Soon I was covered in mosquitoes so I had to retreat to my car and use some repellent before proceeding further.

The Great Crested Flycatchers could be heard in several locations - here they are spotted in their nesting box....soon there will be chirping going on.

Past the box I spot the Swallow-tailed Kites

Simply magnificent.

I reached the bend with gratitude in my heart for the jogger behind me who decided to take the loop less traveled and therefore not spook the birds away before I got to see them.

This was one rich fish soup and the birds were happily feasting.

I see the STKI took flight - how peaceful and fluid they are with their movements.

HA! Look at you! This is the Roseate Spoonbill that has been seen around here for the past couple of months - I gather that he likes the place as much as I do. Funny though, to see him perched and to watch him adjust his balance, I thought for sure he was going to take flight but instead kept on practicing to stay put.

Sweet personality too.

The Black Racer found a nice bed to use while warming up.

I made my way to the bench, sat and took the scenery in when I heard some small chirping as soon as the Red-bellied Woodpecker landed on top of the nesting box...

Dad must have told him to be quiet for the time being

Under the watchful eye of Dad - the little one retreated to the safety of the box

There's no place like the Sanibel Garden Preserves - a free hidden treasure that is priceless. My E-Bird list http://ebird.org/ebird/view/checklist?subID=S18596054