Kevin M. organized a quick trip over to Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge last weekend and invited me to go with him and Kevin K. We started at Space View Park, where we watched a lovely sunrise.
Dawn from Space View Park
Next we drove around Black Point Wildlife Drive where there were lots of birds, some wild hogs, some alligators, and lots of photographers! Two different ponds had concentrations of fish attracting swarms of birds (mostly Snowy Egrets). They were flying low over the water and snatching their meals “to – go”. This one seemed full – it stood watching the action.
Fluffy Egret
The Great Horned Owl nest was empty this time. We scanned the surrounding trees trying to spot the owls (like Jim Boland did on his visit) but we weren’t able to find them.
At least three Painted Buntings were hanging around near the feeder at the visitor’s center. The light’s usually difficult there for me, but this time I managed to get a good photo of this colorful bird. It’s exciting to see something like this in the wild. Now’s the best time – they migrate through here in the winter.
In the bushes – Painted Bunting
MINWR is a wonderful place and there’s almost always something there worth seeing. Check it out for yourself!
Thanks for stopping by and reading my blog. Now – go make some photos!
©2015, Ed Rosack. All rights reserved.
I agree…What a great place to visit. You always find something to shoot….:). Your images are wonderful, Ed!
Thanks Dorothy – MINWR is a great place to explore!
Great shots, as ever! I bet you were thrilled with that Painted Bunting.
Thank you Rhona. I was very happy, especially when I got home and looked at the Painted Bunting photo on my computer!
Thanks for the informative information…Might get up there this week. Hoping the swans return to nest this year in Viera…Always enjoy your blog.
You’re welcome, Jean. I haven’t heard anything about the Viera swans yet this year. I might try to check on them soon.
Your pictures have beautiful details. The Snowy Egret highlights are outstanding.
Thanks Maria. The Snowy Egret was posing in very nice light and had started to get its breeding plumage. I was glad it let me make a photo!