Wood Duck male and female, checking out the nesting box behind Steve Rumpf's place
I stepped out the back door to see what I could see.
In a short five minute span of time, I saw wildlife. First, Eastern Gray Squirrel is known as nature's tree planter since it caches acorns and then forgets where they all are.
A Tri-Colored Heron. Are you thinking, "Hey, is that a Tri or Little Blue Heron?" Look here and learn how to distinguish the two herons. Clue - it's in the beak and breast colors.
Before dawn, I hear this sound (click listen here) and was able to identify anhinga who was also awake.
Across the pond, I saw a Great Blue Heron practicing choosing material for a nest.
That's a pretty amazing twig, Great Blue Heron.
As my five minute break ended, I looked for the Florida Mottled Duck pair nesting in the wild area of the butterfly garden. I noticed a nest there every spring for the last few years. Often a Mallard-mix duck hangs with this pair. I look forward to ducklings.
Last, as if in a call out that it's not always birds, birds, birds, an otter says hello.
PS. I wish I had photos of the Barred Owls I hear most mornings. They are here in WS2A! I take that as good reporting on our incredible habitat. Joel Sartore's photograph from Instagram and informative encouragement: