What a gorgeous blue, blending in with sky and waters! The color camouflages giving some protection for the Little Blue Heron from predators and allowing it to better hunt along the edge of a pond for small fish and aquatic animals less detection. We often overlook its darker form against nature’s background when it is…

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It is surely springtime in Florida, when we hear these tiny warblers sing so very loudly at the top of oak tree canopies – to establish their territory, deter other males, and attract a mate. Or maybe this Northern Parula is singing just because he is savoring life! What is also amazing is being able…

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Notice the graceful, long plumes on display! The Great Egret you might see hunting for fish, crawdads, or other creatures along the roadside canals or ditches holds their feathers close to their body. These plumes emerge during breeding season, and displayed to attract a mate only at the nest site. This “bow” display is visible…

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While near lakes, marshes, canals, and other waterbodies where reeds, cattails, water lilies, and water hyacinth grow at water’s edge, you might be startled by a loud, harsh “Kraaa,” or repeated cackle. Soon, a Common Gallinule (previously named a Moorhen), likely will appear as it frequents those habitats. Common Gallinules forage for seeds, plants, snails,…

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