Since this yearly trip is very well attended, it has been preferable to set up two separate outing - we opted to go today and were pleased to have such a nice intimate group. The day started out a bit foggy - as spring morning goes - and improved as the hours unfolded....come and take a look....
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| This particular location is known for their Red-cockaded Woodpecker and the fact that the best way to see them is to be there before sunrise. |
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| We watched the scenery unfold and waited patiently. |
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| We pay particular attention to the trees that are marked with a wide white band - as these are the trees the RCWO nest in. |
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| And here is our star - a 8-1/2" Black-and-white barred back, black cap and large white cheek patch. Even though it looks similar to a Downy or Hairy - this one does not have the solid white back. |
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| The RCWO inhabits open, mature pine woodlands. |
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| We also spotted a few Yellow-bellied Sapsuckers - as pictured here - as well as Downy, Hairy, Red-bellied and Pileated Woodpeckers. |
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| The woodlands and the wildflowers provided a beautiful vista. |
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| A Killdeer on the edge of a dirt road, sitting on his nest - a typical fashion for them to set it up on open ground. |
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| A few Eastern Meadowlarks entertained us with their songs today - I love to hear those guys. |
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| And, oh, what a surprise! A Great Horned Owl perched on the tree top - a fine looking fellow. |
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| Thanks to my Canon SX50, I was able to zoom in to this "X" where the Owl was sitting. |
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| I wonder if he paid us as much attention as we did - I bet not. |
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| Another Meadowlark. |
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| Sweet little Brown-headed Nuthatch sitting nicely for us to observe. |
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| A Shrike! I am used to see them on power lines - this is so much better. |
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| Lilly Pads with Lotus flowers - Lotus to me signify enlightment and purity. |
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| A swamp buggy coming down the trail - Babcock has trips/tours available - a different way to see the place. |
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| For it's size, it was pretty quiet. |
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| The road is open, the price is right and the experience is priceless....try it, you'll like it. My E-Bird List for today. |
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