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Posted by Paul-the-other on 19:50:37 10/26/08
In Reply to: Re: Yamato Scrub and NW Boca - Grebes, Raptors, Pileated posted by Ellie
Echoing these previous reports; the baby grebes are very present and often came within 35 feet of the shoreline. They seem to have a safe distance of 35-45 feet but once in a while would drift in closer. The 500mm w/o extender was more than adequate and in several cases was too much power. Mother and father grebe also are coming closer to shore. Both the south shore (with sidewalk) and the west border (sand and mud) are good position points. Light was poor today because of the passing front but we managed to get some "family" pictures. The oaks are filled with warblers. If you haven't seen the grebes, then this week coming is the time. the cooling temperatures and clearing skies should make for good viewing and photography.
The spraying has had no ill effect on the shore side vegetation. Dragon flies (and related critters) are still in good number so the babies are getting good nutrition. mother grebe is leaving the babies for 10-25 minutes. Their wing stretching clearly exhibits that these two babies aren't going to be flying soon. But they do dive well and remain under for a time. Mother grebe is also exhibiting bursts of water running and it appears she is trying to teach the little ones another method of "escape." All visitors that we saw were quiet, considerate, viewed, made notes took pictures and left. A Park Supervisor came around and inspected the lakes.
On each absence the parents returned to the tall reeds on the north bank. Still no visual confirmation on the nest or the second clutch.
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