Bailey Tract - Palms, Eagles and Otters - oh my

Another beautiful day in paradise and today, as a bonus, the air is a bit cooler and breezier - a perfect combo for a late morning/early afternoon stroll at the Bailey Tract.

Since it was nearing midday, I didn't expect to see too many birds, so I turned my attention to smaller details....like these dragonflies mating.

Our local butterflies made an appearance, such as this Gulf Fritillary.

The Tricolored Heron in his spot - I swear he's a stick potato and never leaves his spot. While I was watching him, I could hear eagles in the distance and I finally saw them....

The were circling way up and came closer and closer until they locked talons and began spiraling downward - which is a courtship ritual - talk about taking the plunge!

Once the Eagles were out of sight, I returned my attention to the Mangrove Pond and observed this Snowy Egret - I can tell that he's still young by the yellow stripe behind his legs.

A single Pied-billed Grebe owned the Pond and seemed to play games with me by ducking under as soon as I would raise my camera. He's smiling seemingly saying...I'll let you take this one and with a smile too!

Not too far, a juvenile Little Blue.

Here was the surprise of the day - a family of Otters (3) kept hiding from me and as soon as I would turn, they would pop out and dash across the way - their reactions were much quicker than mine.....youth!!

The last one seemed curious enough to sit for a millisecond before following his family into the dense shrubs.

Toward the end  of the Middle Dike lane, the Great Egret was holding his grounds - always behind the reeds while tending to his hunger.

The Salt bushes are in bloom and they are striking.

A Palm Warbler - one of many along the Bailey Tract, actually they usually lead the way as they feed on insects and stay a few feet ahead of me.

A White Peacock butterfly.

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Next time you are around, make sure to stop by and visit the Bailey Tract, you just never know what you will find along the way. One thing is certain, there is never a boring moment while you are out and about in nature.
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