In September I added eleven species to my modest Gemini Springs list, including Little Blue Heron and Pine Warbler. I also picked up three BIGBY species. These were observed during four visits and many other passes through the park during my frequent bike rides.
Black and Turkey Vultures kettling on a perfect day; September 12, 2011
Gulf Fritillary; September 12, 2011
American Alligator with (Eastern Chicken?) Turtle; September 12, 2011
Danger; September 25, 2011
Tricolored Heron detail; September 25, 2011
The Tricolored Heron in the above photo posed on the railing for a good 15 minutes, during which I took dozens of photos. They didn’t really turn out very well but I did like this feather detail. While I stood still taking photos, I felt something crawl up my leg and was startled. My sudden movement flushed off the heron, unfortunately. I couldn’t be mad at my little distractor, though – the lizard shown below.
Friendly lizard; September 25, 2011
Flowering vine; September 25, 2011
The obligatory White Ibis photo; September 25, 2011
Spanish Moss; September 30, 2011
A squirrel chowing down on a mushroom; September 30, 2011
I stood for a while on one of the nature paths, looking around and listening for birds. I looked at the lovely snag in the below photo, and thought what a nice perch it would be for a raptor. I took a photo of the snag and then noticed part of it moved. There was a raptor using it – a Red-shouldered Hawk. Can you see it?
Nice snag; September 30, 2011
Little Blue Heron; September 30, 2011
No swimming; September 30, 2011
Northern Cardinal; September 30, 2011
