More Flora Than Fauna

Our day back at 'home' after the Birdapalooza was a bit quieter. All of our birds were captured before 8:30 AM and then everything around stayed high in the treetops to feed on the insects in the sunlight. We did get a few Gray Catbirds. While trying to take photos as usual, Andrew's old camera drained its batteries. Time to try the phone camera. Not really good in the early light. So we missed shots of the Hermit Thrush and House Wren we also brought in.



The sunrise works a little better as he had to haul the poles back to the banding table after the festival.



As soon as the light began to creep across our area we were greeted by the sight of hundreds of Bowl and Doily Spider webs which is quite common this time of year, especially with the morning dew highlighting them.



All of our birds were recaptures today. House Wren, Hermit Thrush, and Catbirds. So, as always, we focus on other flora and fauna while waiting for more birds to join us. Next to Net 14 fungus is springing up in the crook of an old stump.



Deep in the shade by Net 1 our Stoppers are beginning to bloom.



Along the river, the Wax Myrtle we have planted are thriving and one is starting to form the first signs of fruit.



The Little Wekiva itself is looking nice after the latest rain.



On the adjoining property, a Great Blue Heron rests in a Bottle brush tree.



Near Nets 9 and 13 we are again noticing signs of our Bobcat using the area for a territory.



In a stump nearly submerged by the fluctuating water levels a spider has claimed a temporary stronghold.



On the opposite side of the river an Eastern Phoebe hunted in the shallow side of the marsh.



Oxalis continues to extend its reach around the area collecting droplets before the heat of the day evaporates them.



Earth Smoke is also spreading up and down the net lanes and blooming. Next will be the Crane's Bill plants.



Thistle species are waking up now. Florida has a lot of yellow in the Fall and Winter before the other colors spring to life.



For instance, the Spider Worts are now popping up in their usual locations that we walk and soon will draw in bumble bees and honey bees as the flowers start to dominate the river side.



Darting through the Maples, a Blue-headed Vireo feeds and sings as it flits from branch to branch.



Near the lake a male Red-winged Blackbird pranced from branch to branch and sang its territorial songs. Every now and then it would look down for a relaxed pose.



The Holly planted a couple of years ago are doing quite well and sporting tons of red berries. If only we could get Waxwings or Robins to fly down to feast while we are set on Sundays!



Right on schedule, as the light kissed the river bank before we headed out, our lovely girl wandered up to bask. Maybe we have to give her a name based on that toothy showing?



Next Sunday will be a little chilly and part of the Great Backyard Bird Count so go out and report birds seen for the weekend be added to the list!
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Next (planned) Banding Day: Sunday, February 15th.
All nets will be opened by 6:35 A.M. Sunday.