Telegraph Creek and Bob Janes Preserves

Elaine and I took a drive to North River Road today with the hopes of finding a few species that we haven't seen this year - a Towhee and a Turkey - some folks have reported them at this location so we are hopeful.

We were happy to see that boots were not needed and that the trail was well marked.

It did not take us long to find a pond that was just on the other side of the property boundaries, we were thrilled to find not one but....

three Wilson Snipe - our first of the season.

I don't know about you but if I could I would love to own this beautiful property.

Apparently the Black-bellied Whistling Ducks feel the same way.....

because they were everywhere.

Crows and Grackles were plentiful and it was nice to see them all share the space peacefully with the Red-shouldered Hawk.

It was peaceful for us too.

Once we reached the top of the loop we were greeted by an Eastern Phoebe.

The Telegraph Creek is along the edge of those two preserves, the water level was low and it was hardly moving.

As we headed back we couldn't help but notice some of the fauna and how different it looked from another angle.

The pasture along the edge of Bob Jane's preserve - the cows were far away but we still had to keep an eye where we were stepping.

Another look/see as we exited this parcel.

Yummm, some tasty looking mushrooms - but we'll pass on the tasting part.

We found a bench and sat for a few - admiring the peaceful view and wondering who erected these ropes and how they were accessed.

As the morning progressed more and more raptors were showing up - a Short-tailed Hawk is photographed here.

The Salt bushes were in full bloom and the seeds were joyfully blowing in the wind.

One of many Wood Storks flying overhead - heading for that beautiful pond, I'm sure. I wished we could spend more time especially since we hadn't found a Towhee or a Turkey but after walking 5.35 miles we were ready to wrap it up. Another great time being spent outdoors - we are blessed to be living in sunny Florida. My E-Bird List for today.