May 2023 – Herrick Home Page

May 2023

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  of Birds
- Study of birds

Monday, Memorial Day, May 29, 2023
Another 70° morning, light clouds, same wind, hard paddling going north, nice ride back.

Sunday, May 28, 2023
Cool again this morning, sunshine. Wind still is out of the north, fab four and the neat nine were around, but the babies were not present again.

Saturday, May 27,2023
A cool (66°) start to today, but not a cloud in the sky. Wind is up out of the north so paddling was difficult going out, and a cake walk coming back! Not too many birds, only the fab four today. I made the trip quickly as I needed to go in to help set up the lights for the upcoming play.

Friday, May 26, 2023
Another great day, one dolphin, all kinds of ducklings, an Anhinga and other great birds!

Thursday, May 25, 2023
I missed a photo of the shark again, too far away. I was watching a Great Blue Heron as he landed in the mangroves, and right below him was the shark! I paddled over but the shark was gone.
There are another five new ducklings! The juveniles are still with mom, now the ten of them are indistinguishable (they are the same size as mom!).

Wednesday, May 24, 2023
Tuesdays I volunteer at the Gym, so no kayaking. Today it was cloudy at first, but it cleared up. I only saw the older ducklings, the others were not around.

(AI ) The Drying Diva - the Anhinga is a beautiful bird that can be found near wetlands, rivers, and lakes in North and South America. Its unique name comes from its behavior of perching with its wings spread wide open, allowing them to dry after diving for fish. This large bird, which can grow up to three feet in length, has a sleek, black-feathered body and a long, slender neck (lighter on top for the female) . Its reddish eyes and dagger-like beak give it a majestic and fierce appearance. The Anhinga also has the ability to swim underwater, propelled by its powerful legs and tail. It's a fascinating bird to observe in its natural habitat, and its distinctive characteristics make it a favorite among birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts.

Monday , May 22, 2023
One dolphin, one manatee, lots of ducks today. A bit of rain, but it passed quickly.

Sunday, May 21, 2023
Yesterday I did a shore cleanup @tampabaywatch instead of kayaking. Picked up a lot of trash in Maximo Park where boaters leave their trailers.
One shark, several dolphins, and one manatee! An amazing time today!! No photos of the shark and the manatee but many of the dolphins and ducks! A friend named me Daddy Duck!
The shark went across the bay, I thought it was a dolphin until I compared its dorsal fin with the dolphins, it came to a sharp point and it stayed out of the water and did not take a breath. The manatee just came to the surface and then dove, a huge wide bodied one but I never saw him again.

As I came around a catamaran moored in the creek, a female duck flew away, leaving this cute little duckling behind! He hopped into the water. I tried to get him to go upstream to where the rest of the ducklings were but he went in a big circle back to where he started and climbed between two rocks and disappeared. When I had gotten close enough to grab him during the run he dove under water! I knew they float, but I had no idea they could submerge and swim under water! He escaped from me that way!

Friday, May 19, 2023
Clear sky, no wind, flat water, 72°, nice. All three sets of ducklings out!

Thursday, May 18, 2023
Still cloudless, no wind to start, water was like a mirror!!
The only ducks I saw were the mom with four. The mom with the new ten and the mom with nine were not around. Bear Creek Alan (not Allan) said that his neighbor’s cat (the black and white one) had caught three ducklings, but he said that he had saved one.Alan has a bird feeder that sways. When the birds try to eat, they dump much of the seed on the ground, the ducks come up onto the lawn and eat the seed. That makes them vulnerable to the car who lives next door. Maybe that is why they are hiding, or went up the creek where I cannot go. Alan said that the Great Blue Heron was visiting his place every day now.

Wednesday, May 16, 2023
The beautiful weather continues. Another set of ducklings!!! Ten new day old ducklings, shepherded by 3 or more females!

Monday, May 15, 2023
One dolphin, one Kingfisher, and one Black Crowned Night Heron – none with photos! Ducks all fine though. Four Yellow Crowned Night Herons with photos.

Saturday, May 13, 2023

Allan said that I missed seeing two dolphin yesterday by a few minutes, his photo!

(AI ) A momma dolphin and her baby are swimming together in the clear, blue ocean. The baby dolphin swims close to its mom, following her every move as they glide through the water. The momma dolphin takes great care of her little one, making sure it never strays too far or gets into danger. She teaches her baby important skills, like how to catch fish and how to communicate with other dolphins. The baby dolphin is eager to learn and looks up to its momma with admiration. As they swim, they playfully nuzzle each other and sometimes jump out of the water, performing acrobatic flips. Even though they are different sizes, their bond is strong and they are always there for each other. The momma dolphin and her baby are a beautiful sight to behold in the vast, open sea.

(AI ) While at the oyster bar, a yellow crowned night heron was also present, holding a crab that it had just caught. The yellow crowned night heron is a medium-sized bird that commonly inhabits wetlands, marshes, and lagoons. It is known for its unique elongated bill and yellow crown, and it feeds mainly on crustaceans, such as crabs and shrimps. Seeing a yellow crowned night heron fishing for crabs in the wild is a rare and fascinating sight, which showcases the beauty and diversity of nature. Observing such natural moments can not only be entertaining but also an educational experience that can foster our appreciation and respect for the environment.

Friday, May 12, 2023

Another fine day, ducklings are well, I also saw an Anhinga and a Cormorant drying their feathers.

The ibis is a fascinating bird species that can be found in various habitats, including mangroves. Mangroves are unique ecosystems that are characterized by their diversity of plant and animal life, particularly in coastal areas. They provide shelter, nesting sites, and food for a variety of bird species, including the ibis. These birds are known for their long, curved beaks, which they use to probe for insects, small crustaceans, and other prey buried in the mud or sand. Ibis are also social creatures that tend to roost and feed in large groups, making them a common sight in mangroves. Due to loss of mangroves as a result of human activities like logging, pollution, and land reclamation, many ibis populations have been threatened, highlighting the importance of conserving mangrove ecosystems as a habitat for these and other bird species.

Cormorants are aquatic birds that spend a lot of time fishing in the water. However, they don't have waterproof feathers like ducks do, so they have to dry them after swimming to avoid getting waterlogged. This is where preening comes in. Preening is a self-grooming behavior that cormorants use to maintain the condition of their feathers. It typically involves the bird carefully smoothing and aligning their feathers using their beak. This can help to realign any displaced feathers and remove any dirt or debris that has accumulated on them. During preening, cormorants also produce a special oil from a gland near their tail. This oil helps to condition their feathers, making them more resistant to water and helping the bird to stay buoyant in the water. By preening regularly, cormorants can ensure that their feathers are in prime condition for their next fishing trip.

Thursday, May 11, 2023
The beautiful weather continues. Osprey, ducks and other birds today. No dolphins or manatees.

(AI ) The boat-tailed grackle, is a large black bird found throughout the southeastern United States. These birds have a distinctive long, deep V-shaped tail that resembles the keel of a boat. Males are larger and more iridescent than females, with a blue-black body and a glossy purple head. The females are more brown in color.Boat-tailed birds are known for their loud and varied songs, which can range from whistles and squawks to grunts and clicks. They are also known for their communal roosting behavior, often gathering in large flocks to spend the night in trees or on power lines. These birds are common in wetland areas such as marshes, swamps, and coastal regions. They are omnivorous, feeding on insects, small animals, seeds, and even garbage. While they are not considered threatened or endangered, habitat loss and degradation pose a threat to their populations in some areas.

The juvenile Black Crowned Night Heron is a beautiful bird found in wetlands, swamps, and forests. They have a dark brown hued body with white spots and stripes, a large head with a thick bill, and distinctive red eyes. These birds are social and often nest in colonies. Juvenile Black Crowned Night Herons typically feed on crustaceans, small fish, and insects, which they catch by wading in shallow waters, or sometimes even by climbing trees to reach their prey. Like most herons, they have a distinctive hunting stance where they stand still before quickly spearing their prey with their long and sharp bills.

(AI ) The Little Green Heron is a small water bird that can be found in wetland areas such as marshes, swamps and streams across North and Central America. They have a distinctive appearance with a greenish-black back, chestnut neck and head, and a greenish-yellow beak. They are skilled hunters and use their long necks to patiently wait and ambush prey such as fish, insects, and small amphibians. Their quick movements and agility make them adept at catching prey both on land and in water. The Little Green Heron is a relatively shy and solitary bird. Although their populations are considered stable, their habitats are under constant threat from human activity, making conservation efforts crucial to ensuring their survival.

(AI ) The gray squirrel (Sciurus carolinensis) is a species of tree squirrel native to North America. They have a gray fur coat, which can vary in shade depending on their region and genetics, and they have white undersides. Their tails are long and bushy, and they use them for balance and communication. Gray squirrels are most active during the day and spend their time foraging for food, such as acorns, nuts, and seeds. They are also known to raid bird feeders and gardens. Gray squirrels are known for their impressive agility, which allows them to climb trees, run along branches, and jump large distances.

(AI) The Male Mallard duck, also known as the "drake," is a well-known and recognizable bird. It has a distinctive green head, yellow bill with a black tip, and a brownish-gray body. During breeding season, the male's feathers are even more vibrant, featuring bright blue wings, a white neck ring, and a chestnut-brown breast. Mallard drakes are sexually dimorphic, meaning they look very different from females. Females are mottled brown, with a darker crown and eye-stripe. Mallard ducks are found throughout the world and are popular among hunters and bird enthusiasts alike. They are opportunistic feeders, eating insects, fish, and plants. The ducks mate for life and can be seen swimming in pairs or flocks. They are an important species in many ecosystems and play a vital role in seed dispersal and water quality.

(AI ) The osprey took off into the sky, watching for a fish in the shallow water. As it began its descent to swoop in and grab its meal, a crow appeared as it swooped in to harass the osprey. The osprey tried to fight back, but the crow was too vicious and forced the osprey to retreat. The osprey circled around, hoping the crow would leave, but the crow remained persistent, determined to displace the osprey. Despite the osprey's strength and powerful talons, it was no match for the cunningness of the crow, who was willing to do anything to chase him away..

(AI ) The ibis is a large, wading bird that is commonly found in the wetlands and coastal areas of North and South America. This graceful bird is well adapted to life in the mangroves, where it uses its long, curved beak to catch fish, crabs, and other small creatures that live in the shallow water.During breeding season, ibises pair off and build their nests high up in the mangroves. The male and female take turns incubating their eggs and caring for their young. Below their nest, their partner will stand guard, keeping watch for predators and bringing food to the nest.The ibis is an important species in the mangroves, playing a vital role in the ecosystem by keeping populations of small aquatic creatures in check. Despite their important role, ibises are threatened by habitat loss and pollution. Conservation efforts are underway to protect these beautiful birds and the precious mangrove habitats they depend on.

Wednesday, May 10, 2023
Super weather still, I saw a herd of manatees, one with acorn barnacles on its back! Also at least five dolphins! An exciting day!

(AI created caption)The dorsal fin of a dolphin is a distinctive feature that helps to identify the individual dolphin. It is a curved, pointed structure that rises from the dolphin's back and is the most visible part of the dolphin when it surfaces. The dorsal fin can vary in shape and size depending on the species of dolphin, as well as age and gender. Some dolphins have tall, straight fins, while others may have more curved or hooked fins. The dorsal fin also plays an important role in helping the dolphin to maintain balance and stability in the water. Overall, the dorsal fin is a remarkable and unique feature of dolphins that highlights their beauty and adaptability in their aquatic environment.

(AI ) Capturing a photo of a dolphin can be a challenging task due to the animal's quick movements. Typically, when a dolphin surfaces, it only stays above water for a brief moment before returning to the depths. This means that photographers and marine life enthusiasts have to be prepared and quick in order to capture the perfect shot. Factors such as lighting and distance also play a crucial role in obtaining a high-quality photograph. Nevertheless, the reward of capturing a stunning picture of a dolphin in its natural habitat can make all the effort worth it. With patience, experience and the right equipment, one can increase their chances of getting a great dolphin photo that can be cherished for a lifetime.

(AI ) The Osprey is a bird of prey that mainly feeds on fish. To catch its prey, it dives into the water, sometimes completely submerging itself. After such a dive, the feathers of the Osprey get wet, which can hinder its flying abilities. Therefore, the Osprey needs to dry its feathers before taking to the skies again. To do so, it will spread out its wings and tail, allowing them to dry in the sun and wind. This posture also helps the Osprey to regulate its body temperature, allowing it to warm up or cool down as needed. Observing an Osprey drying its feathers is a fascinating sight, and it serves as a reminder of the remarkable adaptations that birds have developed to survive in their environments.

As the Osprey sat with the moon behind it, I quickly adjusted my camera settings and zoomed in, carefully maneuvering to position the moon in the same shot. It wasn't an easy task, as the kayak was moving swiftly and the moon was high up in the sky. But I was determined to capture this rare moment of natural beauty. Finally, I got the perfect shot, with the majestic bird in sharp focus against the backdrop of the glowing orb in the sky. It was a stunning sight, one that I knew I would treasure forever. I couldn't help but feel grateful for the opportunity to witness such a breathtaking scene and capture it for others to enjoy as well.

(AI ) As I observe this little Snowy Egret, I can't help but notice its remarkable agility as it scales the rocks, in search of its next meal. Its slender legs seem perfectly adapted to the task of clambering over the uneven surface, and its predatory gaze is fixed on the rocks and on the water below. The bird's snowy plumage stands out brightly against the rugged background of the rocks, and adds to the spectacle of its nimble movements. Suddenly, the egret lunges forward with lightning speed, and snatches up a snail or a small fish from the water's surface, with its sharp beak. The success of its hunt is a testament to the bird's skill and adaptability in this challenging environment. As it continues to hop from rock to rock, the Snowy Egret remains a fascinating and captivating sight to behold.

(AI ) The Snowy Egret is a magnificent bird known for its curious nature. They are small white herons with long, thin legs and yellow feet. They are found in freshwater marshes, lagoons, and other shallow bodies of water, searching for fish and other aquatic animals. When the Snowy Egret is curious or interested in something, he stretches his neck up very high, sometimes over a foot long, to get a better look at it. This is a useful adaptation for the egret to reach hard-to-reach prey, and to also show aggression towards predators. The special neck extension is a unique feature of the Snowy Egret that sets it apart from other birds in its family. Overall, the Snowy Egret is a fascinating bird that is worth watching and learning more about.

The Yellow Crowned Night Heron is a bird species that is known for its unique hunting behavior. These birds have adapted to hunt at night, which makes them well suited for catching prey during the early hours of the morning. They are found in wetland areas where they use their keen eyesight to scan the water for fish and other small creatures. The heron's stealth and patience are also key to their hunting success. They may wait for long periods of time before making a sudden strike to catch their prey. This bird's skillful abilities make it well-suited for catching its breakfast, a feat that is vital to its survival in its natural habitat.

(AI ) A Great Blue Heron sits on a dam, patiently waiting for its next meal. With its tall and slender legs, the heron stands tall, calmly gazing out into the water. Its sharp eyes scan the water below, searching for any sign of movement. Suddenly, it spots a fish swimming by and with lightning speed, the heron swoops down, snatching the fish with its sharp beak. The heron returns to its perch, triumphantly holding its breakfast in its beak. The peaceful surroundings and the heron's gracefulness make for a picturesque scene at the dam. In this tranquil moment, the heron’s hunger has been satisfied and it is time to enjoy the rest of the day.

(AI ) A beautiful Blue Jay perched on the wooden rail, enjoying a moment of relaxation after having its fill of birdseed from the nearby feeder. Its vibrant blue feathers shimmering in the sunlight, the bird's head swivels from side to side, as if looking out for any potential danger. The bird appears content, its wings neatly folded against its body as it takes in the peaceful surroundings. The soft rustle of leaves can be heard, and a light breeze carries the sweet fragrance of blooming flowers in the nearby garden. As the Blue Jay gazes out into the distance, it seems to be lost in thought, maybe contemplating its next meal or simply basking in the warmth of the sun's rays. Regardless of what's on its mind, the Blue Jay's presence is a beautiful and refreshing sight, reminding us of the simple pleasures in life.

(AI ) This manatee is visibly covered with several acorn barnacles which have attached themselves to its skin. Acorn barnacles are a type of crustacean that live in shallow waters and attach themselves to any available surface including rocks, piers, and even marine mammals like manatees. While they are not harmful to the manatee, a heavy infestation can cause discomfort and hinder swimming. The manatee may attempt to scrape or rub the barnacles off on rocks or other rough surfaces. It is important for boaters and humans to observe manatees from a safe distance and not disturb them or cause them harm.

(AI ) A brown Pelican stands on a boat lift, eagerly scanning the water for his next meal. He keeps a keen eye out for any unsuspecting fish swimming by, ready to jump into action at a moment's notice. However, he has a noticeable limp, indicating that one of his feet is injured. Despite this setback, he seems to be coping well, adjusting his stance occasionally to alleviate any discomfort. The sun shines down upon him, casting a warm glow upon his feathers. Through his perseverance and instincts, he knows that breakfast will soon be his. As he patiently waits on the boat lift, one can't help but admire the resilience and adaptability of this majestic creature.

(AI ) The photo captures the intense moment when a Crow was seen chasing an Osprey. The Osprey was fishing on one side of the island and as it crossed over to the other side, the Crow suddenly took offence. The Osprey, with its impressive wingspan, begins to take off and fly away from the aggressive Crow. It is amazing to see the natural instincts of these birds as they compete for resources and food. It reminds us that in the natural world, survival is key and the struggle for existence is a constant battle. The photo is a stunning example of the beauty and brutality of nature.

(AI ) As the tide came in, a tiny fiddler crab emerged from his sandy burrow on the edge of the shoreline. With one big claw waving in the air, he scurried along the water's edge, searching for food. Despite his small size, the bright white and yellow markings on his claw made him stand out against the sandy background. Excited to show off his impressive claw, he sometimes stopped in his tracks and lifted the massive appendage high above his head, as if to say, "Look at me! I'm a fiddler crab and I'm awesome!" His movements were quick and nimble, darting here and there, seemingly without any pattern or direction. But his small stature and playful nature belied the important role he played in the ecosystem, as a hunter and scavenger, helping to keep the shoreline healthy and productive.

Monday, May 8, 2023
Beautiful day, started 68°, ended 74°. No wind at first, breese started later. Ducks are in great shape.

Sunday, May 7, 2023
Super day, but very windy, many birds seemed to disappear.
Mother Mallard and nine babies passed right beside me! I was paddling along, but they were faster and went right on by! Then on my return, the mother who had six plus one babies, now has only four.

Another superb day. People said that they saw manatees but I was too late. No dolphin either, but lots of ducks!

Friday, May 5, 2023
Another superb day, cool, dry, low breeze (zephyrs really.)
Marian caught up with me and we gently returned home. She is gone for the summer. We saw a dolphin going upstream, then later saw him again going downstream, catching fish each way we imagine!
Two families of ducks, Osprey fishing, I then saw an Osprey with his catch, just a glimpse as he flew by. I also saw a glimpse of a racoon.

Thursday, May 4, 2023
Only 62° the weather service said, but it did not feel that cold, it was very nice. Best wishes go out to Allan in this time.
Lots of ducklings still; mother with nine, another with five and another with one today. I thought that the male who was sitting near one mom was there to help, but he reached out to nip the little one as it scurried past.

Wednesday, May 3, 2023

Another cool, dry, beautiful sunny day. Lots of photos today. All the mothers and their ducklings were out! #1 mother and nine, #2, mother and five, and …#3 the newest mother with two!
I watched an Osprey fishing, then 15 minutes later he flew over me with his catch! He was flying too quick for me to get a good photo, but I took one photo anyway.

Monday, May 1, 2023

Another great day, cooler after that storm. The wind storm yesterday dislodged a huge paddleboard and a round fender. I found them both up Bear creek and returned them to their proper places. I also found a very nice pad and an inflatable bag (Gorilla it said on it) and Bob is going to dispose of them for me.