Posted by Paul on October 31, 2002 at 02:00:08:
The winter season is approaching but still the weather is unseasonable, as in record breaking hot. A recent trip to Corkscrew took us through the Everglades area on Alligator Alley. The water is quite high and bird life is scarce for viewing since the birds are spread out over the entire glades area and not congregating along the canals. White ibis are about in great numbers, so much so that they will probably become front yard birds soon. Corkscrew was quiet, very few mosquitos. We were drenched by periodic late afternoon showers. The little blues are viewable, and a pair of limpkins were making quite a racket. A small herd of deer entertained the few people at Corkscrew this hot and humid day but didn't present great photo opportunities. It was nice to see that the population of native orchids is doing very well within the sanctuary. Those that understand Florida Orchids should be heartened by that news. We heard tufted titmouse, Carolina wren, and saw at high up flocks of warblers but couldn't identify them. The usual gathering of red-shouldered hawks were about and the barred owl was heard but never located. Catbirds were also ever-present. There is a great photo display at the concession area and of course the movie theatre has the "shorts" of great interest. All in all, a pleasant time, with peace and solitude, and little foot traffic. But be prepared for "hot and steamy" until this pending cold front passes through.