Posted by Paul on February 03, 2004 at 08:01:54:
Two pair nesting Great blues. Warbler sightings still light and predominately Pine/Yellow-rumped/palm. Red winged blackbird numbers increasing but still light. Moorhens (resident) are average in number and some territorial activity seen. Purple Gallinule present as are coots. Yellowlegs gone for now. Green-winged teal and Blue-winged teal present and coloration is almost complete for mating season. Some aggression exhibited. Green-backed herons in average numbers.Purple martins are present and numbers are growing daily. Limpkin is often heard generally in the area of the east water bin. Shrike, mockingbirds are hanging in the parking lot area and red-shouldered hawk and northern harrier cruising to keep the bird population "honest."
Much vegetation has been cleared opening areas for better sighting. But the tall stalks are reduced on the alligator flag which is too bad as it provided great perches for warblers and R-W blackbirds. Water table is increasing as bins are flooded again after a drawdown last week. Duck-weed is prevalent and windblown to one side or the other.
Mottled ducks are present and reports, stress reports are that there is one wigeon. "No joy" on that guy. Glossy ibis are few but feed very close to the trails.
Oh yes. And there are two alligators. I can't believe how many times I get asked that question! Heaven's sake. What's with alligators? You'd think that is all Florida has to offer.
No rabbits. And no more bobcat. Boardwalks are very crowded but everyone moves along at a good pace.