![Click here for full sized image Click here for full-sized image](http://www.mikemackay.ca/photos/photo844.jpg) Anhinga - JuvenileAnhinga - Juvenile A Juvenile Anhinga. The strong black and white colouring is yet to develop. Shot in Taylor Park, Largo. ![](images/cameraicon1.png) | ![Click here for full sized image Click here for full-sized image](http://www.mikemackay.ca/photos_medium/medium7/photo15054.jpg) AnhingaAnhinga Anhinga Anhinga anhinga ![](images/cameraicon1.png) | ![Click here for full sized image Click here for full-sized image](http://www.mikemackay.ca/photos/photo896.jpg) AnhingaAnhinga The Anhinga is also known as the Snake Bird. Because its feathers do not have oil, it does not float. When it is in the water, normally only the snake-like neck and head show. ![](images/cameraicon1.png) | ![Click here for full sized image Click here for full-sized image](http://www.mikemackay.ca/photos/photo900.jpg) Anhinga PreeningAnhinga Preening ![](images/cameraicon1.png) | ![Click here for full sized image Click here for full-sized image](http://www.mikemackay.ca/photos_medium/medium8/photo19365.jpg) CormorantCormorant Double Crested Cormorant Phalacrocorax auritus ![](images/cameraicon1.png) |
![Click here for full sized image Click here for full-sized image](http://www.mikemackay.ca/photos_medium/medium8/photo20049.jpg) Duck - Lesser ScaupDuck - Lesser Scaup Lesser Scaup Aythya affinis ![](images/cameraicon1.png) | ![Click here for full sized image Click here for full-sized image](http://www.mikemackay.ca/photos_medium/medium8/photo19994.jpg) Egret - Reddish EgretEgret - Reddish Egret Reddish Egret Egretta rufescens This is a juvenile. See the gallery devoted to Reddish Egrets. ![](images/cameraicon1.png) | ![Click here for full sized image Click here for full-sized image](http://www.mikemackay.ca/photos_medium/medium8/photo20055.jpg) Egret - Reddish EgretEgret - Reddish Egret Reddish Egret Egretta rufescens See the gallery devoted to Reddish Egrets. ![](images/cameraicon1.png) | ![Click here for full sized image Click here for full-sized image](http://www.mikemackay.ca/photos_medium/medium8/photo20035.jpg) Egret - Reddish EgretEgret - Reddish Egret Reddish Egrets are solitary. This pair is probably because mating season is beginning. See the gallery devoted to Reddish Egrets. ![](images/cameraicon1.png) | ![Click here for full sized image Click here for full-sized image](http://www.mikemackay.ca/photos_medium/medium8/photo19990.jpg) Egret - Snowy EgretEgret - Snowy Egret Snowy Egret Egretta thula ![](images/cameraicon1.png) |
![Click here for full sized image Click here for full-sized image](http://www.mikemackay.ca/photos_medium/medium7/photo18266.jpg) Egret - Snowy EgretEgret - Snowy Egret Egretta thula ![](images/cameraicon1.png) | ![Click here for full sized image Click here for full-sized image](http://www.mikemackay.ca/photos_medium/medium6/photo9868.jpg) Egret - Snowy EgretEgret - Snowy Egret Egretta thula ![](images/cameraicon1.png) | ![Click here for full sized image Click here for full-sized image](http://www.mikemackay.ca/photos_medium/medium6/photo9866.jpg) Egret - Snowy EgretEgret - Snowy Egret ![](images/cameraicon1.png) | ![Click here for full sized image Click here for full-sized image](http://www.mikemackay.ca/photos/photo116.jpg) Egret - Snowy EgretEgret - Snowy Egret A close-up of the Snowy Egret's legs. Notice how the black looks like it has been painted on. ![](images/cameraicon1.png) | ![Click here for full sized image Click here for full-sized image](http://www.mikemackay.ca/photos_medium/medium7/photo15427.jpg) Egret - Snowy EgretEgret - Snowy Egret Egretta thula ![](images/cameraicon1.png) |
![Click here for full sized image Click here for full-sized image](http://www.mikemackay.ca/photos_medium/medium8/photo19971.jpg) Egret - Snowy EgretEgret - Snowy Egret ![](images/cameraicon1.png) | ![Click here for full sized image Click here for full-sized image](http://www.mikemackay.ca/photos_medium/medium8/photo19928.jpg) Godwit - Marbled GodwitGodwit - Marbled Godwit Marbled Godwit Limosa fedoa ![](images/cameraicon1.png) | ![Click here for full sized image Click here for full-sized image](http://www.mikemackay.ca/photos/photo905.jpg) Godwit - Marbled GodwitGodwit - Marbled Godwit The Marbled Godwith is actually quite a big bird, about 13 inches in length with a 30 inch wingspan. A few could be found at a particular saltwater pond at the north end of the North Beach in Fort DeSoto. ![](images/cameraicon1.png) | ![Click here for full sized image Click here for full-sized image](http://www.mikemackay.ca/photos_medium/medium8/photo19919.jpg) Grebe - Pie-Billed GrebeGrebe - Pie-Billed Grebe Pie-Billed Grebe Podilymbus podiceps The ringed bill of the Pie-Billed Grebe is only apparent during breeding season. ![](images/cameraicon1.png) | ![Click here for full sized image Click here for full-sized image](http://www.mikemackay.ca/photos_medium/medium8/photo19986.jpg) Heron - Great Blue HeronHeron - Great Blue Heron Great Blue Heron Ardea herodias ![](images/cameraicon1.png) |
![Click here for full sized image Click here for full-sized image](http://www.mikemackay.ca/photos_medium/medium7/photo16385.jpg) Heron - Great Blue HeronHeron - Great Blue Heron Great Blue Heron Ardea herodias ![](images/cameraicon1.png) | ![Click here for full sized image Click here for full-sized image](http://www.mikemackay.ca/photos_medium/medium8/photo20033.jpg) Heron - Great Blue HeronHeron - Great Blue Heron Great Blue Heron Ardea herodias ![](images/cameraicon1.png) | ![Click here for full sized image Click here for full-sized image](http://www.mikemackay.ca/photos_medium/medium8/photo20032.jpg) Heron - Great Blue HeronHeron - Great Blue Heron ![](images/cameraicon1.png) | ![Click here for full sized image Click here for full-sized image](http://www.mikemackay.ca/photos_medium/medium8/photo19980.jpg) Heron - Little Blue HeronHeron - Little Blue Heron Little Blue Heron Egretta caerulea> ![](images/cameraicon1.png) | ![Click here for full sized image Click here for full-sized image](http://www.mikemackay.ca/photos_medium/medium8/photo19373.jpg) Heron - Little Blue HeronHeron - Little Blue Heron Egretta caerulea> ![](images/cameraicon1.png) |
![Click here for full sized image Click here for full-sized image](http://www.mikemackay.ca/photos_medium/medium8/photo19370.jpg) Heron - Little Blue HeronHeron - Little Blue Heron Little Blue Heron Egretta caerulea> he Little Blue has a length of 24" and wingspan of 40" compared to the Great Blue, which has a length 42" and a wingspan of 72 inches. ![](images/cameraicon1.png) | ![Click here for full sized image Click here for full-sized image](http://www.mikemackay.ca/photos_medium/medium8/photo19372.jpg) Heron - Little Blue HeronHeron - Little Blue Heron Little Blue Heron Egretta caerulea>
![](images/cameraicon1.png) | ![Click here for full sized image Click here for full-sized image](http://www.mikemackay.ca/photos_medium/medium8/photo20036.jpg) Heron - Little Blue HeronHeron - Little Blue Heron Little Blue Heron Egretta caerulea The Little Blue is 24" as compared with the Great Blue, which is 46". ![](images/cameraicon1.png) | ![Click here for full sized image Click here for full-sized image](http://www.mikemackay.ca/photos_medium/medium8/photo19549.jpg) Heron - Little Blue HeronHeron - Little Blue Heron Egretta caerulea> This is a juvenile, just beginning to darken up. The Little Blue has a length of 24" and wingspan of 40" compared to the Great Blue, which has a length 42" and a wingspan of 72 inches. ![](images/cameraicon1.png) | ![Click here for full sized image Click here for full-sized image](http://www.mikemackay.ca/photos_medium/medium8/photo19550.jpg) Heron - Little Blue HeronHeron - Little Blue Heron Egretta caerulea> This is a juvenile, just beginning to darken up. The Little Blue has a length of 24" and wingspan of 40" compared to the Great Blue, which has a length 42" and a wingspan of 72 inches. ![](images/cameraicon1.png) |
![Click here for full sized image Click here for full-sized image](http://www.mikemackay.ca/photos_medium/medium8/photo20021.jpg) Heron - Tricoloured HeronHeron - Tricoloured Heron Tricoloured Heron Egretta tricolor ![](images/cameraicon1.png) | ![Click here for full sized image Click here for full-sized image](http://www.mikemackay.ca/photos_medium/medium7/photo18238.jpg) Heron - Tricoloured HeronHeron - Tricoloured Heron Tricoloured Heron Egretta tricolor The Tricoloured Heron looks like a Great Blue Heron, but is smaller, and has a white line down the front of its neck. ![](images/cameraicon1.png) | ![Click here for full sized image Click here for full-sized image](http://www.mikemackay.ca/photos_medium/medium8/photo20041.jpg) Heron - Tricoloured HeronHeron - Tricoloured Heron Tricoloured Heron Egretta tricolor I am entertained by this shot, as the Heron looks like it is carved from wood and hand-painted. But it is a real Tricoloured Heron. ![](images/cameraicon1.png) | ![Click here for full sized image Click here for full-sized image](http://www.mikemackay.ca/photos_medium/medium8/photo20079.jpg) Ibis - White IbisIbis - White Ibis ![](images/cameraicon1.png) | ![Click here for full sized image Click here for full-sized image](http://www.mikemackay.ca/photos_medium/medium7/photo18255.jpg) Ibis - Juvenile White IbisIbis - Juvenile White Ibis Eudocimus albus ![](images/cameraicon1.png) |
![Click here for full sized image Click here for full-sized image](http://www.mikemackay.ca/photos_medium/medium8/photo18603.jpg) Ibis - Juvenile White IbisIbis - Juvenile White Ibis Juvenile White Ibis Eudocimus albus ![](images/cameraicon1.png) | ![Click here for full sized image Click here for full-sized image](http://www.mikemackay.ca/photos_medium/medium8/photo20134.jpg) Loon - Common LoonLoon - Common Loon Common Loon Gavia immer ![](images/cameraicon1.png) | ![Click here for full sized image Click here for full-sized image](http://www.mikemackay.ca/photos_medium/medium8/photo20129.jpg) Loon - Common LoonLoon - Common Loon Common Loon Gavia immer ![](images/cameraicon1.png) | ![Click here for full sized image Click here for full-sized image](http://www.mikemackay.ca/photos_medium/medium8/photo20133.jpg) Loon - Common LoonLoon - Common Loon Common Loon Gavia immer ![](images/cameraicon1.png) | ![Click here for full sized image Click here for full-sized image](http://www.mikemackay.ca/photos_medium/medium8/photo19778.jpg) Loon - Common LoonLoon - Common Loon Common Loon Gavia immer ![](images/cameraicon1.png) |
![Click here for full sized image Click here for full-sized image](http://www.mikemackay.ca/photos_medium/medium8/photo19798.jpg) Loon - Common LoonLoon - Common Loon Common Loon Gavia immer Mississippi Lake, near Carleton Place Ontario ![](images/cameraicon1.png) | ![Click here for full sized image Click here for full-sized image](http://www.mikemackay.ca/photos_medium/medium8/photo20039.jpg) Merganser - Red-breasted MerganserMerganser - Red-breasted Merganser Red-breasted Merganser Mergus serrator ![](images/cameraicon1.png) | ![Click here for full sized image Click here for full-sized image](http://www.mikemackay.ca/photos_medium/medium5/photo9243.jpg) Pelican - Brown PelicanPelican - Brown Pelican Brown Pelicans are impressive low-level fliers. They can often be seen flying at water level. When gliding, the breast feathers will almost touch the water. Then as the bird flaps its wings, it will rise just enough to keep the down-stroke of the wing out of the water.. See the gallery devoted Brown Pelicans. ![](images/cameraicon1.png) | ![Click here for full sized image Click here for full-sized image](http://www.mikemackay.ca/photos_medium/medium4/photo6017.jpg) Pelican - Brown PelicanPelican - Brown Pelican This Brown Pelican has bold breeding colours. In the breeding season, the head is yellower, and the nape of the neck becomes dark brown. See the gallery devoted Brown Pelicans. ![](images/cameraicon1.png) | ![Click here for full sized image Click here for full-sized image](http://www.mikemackay.ca/photos_medium/medium6/photo10404.jpg) Pelican - Brown PelicanPelican - Brown Pelican Brown Pelican (Pelicanus occidentalis) See the gallery devoted Brown Pelicans. ![](images/cameraicon1.png) |
![Click here for full sized image Click here for full-sized image](http://www.mikemackay.ca/photos_medium/medium5/photo9239.jpg) Pelican - Brown PelicanPelican - Brown Pelican Brown Pelican (Pelicanus occidentalis) See the gallery devoted Brown Pelicans. ![](images/cameraicon1.png) | ![Click here for full sized image Click here for full-sized image](http://www.mikemackay.ca/photos/photo111.jpg) Pelican - Brown PelicanPelican - Brown Pelican Brown Pelican with fish hook. Since Pelicans tend to be really comfortable around people, especially fishermen, it is not uncommon for one to be caught when the fisherman casts his lure. You can imagine the excitement when you have a four foot bird struggling to get away. The standard approach is to cut the line, if it doesn't break first. The State Park Rangers suggest that the hook should be removed and instructions are posted in the parks, but you have to hang on to the bird to do it. See the gallery devoted Brown Pelicans. (They suggest that children should not try to remove the hooks.) ![](images/cameraicon1.png) | ![Click here for full sized image Click here for full-sized image](http://www.mikemackay.ca/photos/photo892.jpg) Pelican - Brown PelicanPelican - Brown Pelican Pelicans Posing See the gallery devoted Brown Pelicans. ![](images/cameraicon1.png) | ![Click here for full sized image Click here for full-sized image](http://www.mikemackay.ca/photos_medium/medium8/photo20042.jpg) Pelican - White PelicanPelican - White Pelican American White Pelican Pelicanus erythrorhyncos ![](images/cameraicon1.png) | ![Click here for full sized image Click here for full-sized image](http://www.mikemackay.ca/photos_medium/medium8/photo20048.jpg) Pelican - White PelicanPelican - White Pelican American White Pelican Pelicanus erythrorhynchos For many, there is a laterally flattened "horn" that you can see on the bill. This falls off after mating. These birds are huge. The weight is typically 11 to 20 pounds. Wingspan can be ten feet. ![](images/cameraicon1.png) |
![Click here for full sized image Click here for full-sized image](http://www.mikemackay.ca/photos_medium/medium8/photo20050.jpg) Pelican - White PelcianPelican - White Pelcian American White Pelican Pelicanus erythrorhyncos ![](images/cameraicon1.png) | ![Click here for full sized image Click here for full-sized image](http://www.mikemackay.ca/photos_medium/medium8/photo19366.jpg) Plover - Black-bellied PloverPlover - Black-bellied Plover Black-bellied Plover Pluvialis squatarola ![](images/cameraicon1.png) | ![Click here for full sized image Click here for full-sized image](http://www.mikemackay.ca/photos_medium/medium7/photo17023.jpg) Plover - Black-Bellied PloverPlover - Black-Bellied Plover Black-Bellied Plover Pluvialis squatorola ![](images/cameraicon1.png) | ![Click here for full sized image Click here for full-sized image](http://www.mikemackay.ca/photos_medium/medium8/photo19364.jpg) Plover - Black-bellied Plover Plover - Black-bellied Plover Juvenile Black-bellied Plover Pluvialis squatarola ![](images/cameraicon1.png) | ![Click here for full sized image Click here for full-sized image](http://www.mikemackay.ca/photos/photo30.jpg) Great EgretGreat Egret A Great Egret spotted near the pier at John's Pass Village. Great Egrets can be distinguished from Snowy Egrets because they are bigger by a foot or so and have all-black legs and feet. The bill of a Snowy Egret is all black, while this one clearly has yellow. |
![Click here for full sized image Click here for full-sized image](http://www.mikemackay.ca/photos_medium/medium6/photo12182.jpg) ND3_0411ND3_0411 A Great Egret in the early evening at the Pier. Great Egrets can be distinguished from Snowy Egrets because they are bigger by a foot or so and have all-black legs and feet. The bill of a Snowy Egret is all black, while this one clearly has yellow. ![](images/cameraicon1.png) | ![Click here for full sized image Click here for full-sized image](http://www.mikemackay.ca/photos/photo86.jpg) Great EgretGreat Egret A nice head and shoulders (well, head) shot of a Great Egret. This one was hanging around the North Fishing Pier at the Sunshine Skyway. Perhaps he was looking for handouts from the few fishermen who were there. And, indeed, he was given at least one small handout while I was there. ![](images/cameraicon1.png) | ![Click here for full sized image Click here for full-sized image](http://www.mikemackay.ca/photos_medium/medium6/photo12837.jpg) ND3_0891ND3_0891 ![](images/cameraicon1.png) | ![Click here for full sized image Click here for full-sized image](http://www.mikemackay.ca/photos_medium/medium6/photo12106.jpg) DSC_9097DSC_9097 ![](images/cameraicon1.png) | ![Click here for full sized image Click here for full-sized image](http://www.mikemackay.ca/photos/photo107.jpg) DSC_9684 - Great EgretDSC_9684 - Great Egret A Great Egret in flight. The position of the head and neck can be helpful when spotting a bird from a distance. In this case, though, there is little doubt because the colours are vivid. ![](images/cameraicon1.png) |
![Click here for full sized image Click here for full-sized image](http://www.mikemackay.ca/photos_thumb/thumbs3/photo3444.jpg) Yellow-Crowned Night HeronYellow-Crowned Night Heron ![](images/cameraicon1.png) | ![Click here for full sized image Click here for full-sized image](http://www.mikemackay.ca/photos_medium/medium7/photo17489.jpg) ND2_23856ND2_23856 Yellow-crowned Night Heron Nyctanassa violacea ![](images/cameraicon1.png) | ![Click here for full sized image Click here for full-sized image](http://www.mikemackay.ca/photos_medium/medium5/photo9166.jpg) ND2_21891ND2_21891 Juvenile Yellow-Crowned Night Heron (Nyctanassa violacea) ![](images/cameraicon1.png) | ![Click here for full sized image Click here for full-sized image](http://www.mikemackay.ca/photos_medium/medium8/photo19906.jpg) Wood DuckWood Duck Aix sponsa Seen at Mud Lake, Ottawa ![](images/cameraicon1.png) | ![Click here for full sized image Click here for full-sized image](http://www.mikemackay.ca/photos_medium/medium8/photo18591.jpg) Northern PintailNorthern Pintail Anas acuta
![](images/cameraicon1.png) |
![Click here for full sized image Click here for full-sized image](http://www.mikemackay.ca/photos_medium/medium8/photo18592.jpg) RX1_02049RX1_02049 Northern Pintail Anas acuta ![](images/cameraicon1.png) | ![Click here for full sized image Click here for full-sized image](http://www.mikemackay.ca/photos/photo887.jpg) Double Crested CormorantDouble Crested Cormorant Normally the cormorant rests atop a pole, usually the higher the better. I found a trio of them on the beach at Fort DeSoto and was able to get quite close. A largish bird, about 33 inches, the Double-Crested Cormorant is almost always alone. This day on the beach was an exception, but it was also spring (breeding season). Notice the thick legs. ![](images/cameraicon1.png) | ![Click here for full sized image Click here for full-sized image](http://www.mikemackay.ca/photos_medium/medium8/photo18601.jpg) Green HeronGreen Heron Butorides virescens | ![Click here for full sized image Click here for full-sized image](http://www.mikemackay.ca/photos_medium/medium8/photo18615.jpg) ND3_24046ND3_24046 Juvenile Roseate Spoonbill Platalea ajaja ![](images/cameraicon1.png) | ![Click here for full sized image Click here for full-sized image](http://www.mikemackay.ca/photos_medium/medium5/photo9167.jpg) Wood StorkWood Stork Wood Stork (Mycteria americana) |
![Click here for full sized image Click here for full-sized image](http://www.mikemackay.ca/photos/photo85.jpg) Double-Crested CormorantDouble-Crested Cormorant The Double-Crested Cormorant dives for its food, and dives quite deeply, I think. When they disappear under, you are not sure where they will re-appear. This is about as good as it will get without going underwater with the camera. The cormorant has just dived under and we can still see its head. ![](images/cameraicon1.png) | ![Click here for full sized image Click here for full-sized image](http://www.mikemackay.ca/photos/photo106.jpg) DSC_9688 - Double-Crested CormorantDSC_9688 - Double-Crested Cormorant A Double-Crested Cormorant after a successful dive. Taken from the North Fishing Pier of the Sunshine Skyway. ![](images/cameraicon1.png) | ![Click here for full sized image Click here for full-sized image](http://www.mikemackay.ca/photos_medium/medium5/photo7334.jpg) Canada GooseCanada Goose And, while we're on the topic of Canada, Penticton does also host a pretty healthy looking Canada Goose. ![](images/cameraicon1.png) | ![Click here for full sized image Click here for full-sized image](http://www.mikemackay.ca/photos_medium/medium7/photo17506.jpg) ND3_19512ND3_19512 Roseate Spoonbill Platalea ajaja Not just another pretty face. More bird shots can be seen in Serious Bird Shots ![](images/cameraicon1.png) | ![Click here for full sized image Click here for full-sized image](http://www.mikemackay.ca/photos_medium/medium8/photo18585.jpg) Red Shouldered HawkRed Shouldered Hawk ![](images/cameraicon1.png) |
![Click here for full sized image Click here for full-sized image](http://www.mikemackay.ca/photos_medium/medium7/photo16153.jpg) OspreyOsprey Osprey Pandion haliaetus See more Osprey in Osprey. ![](images/cameraicon1.png) | ![Click here for full sized image Click here for full-sized image](http://www.mikemackay.ca/photos_medium/medium8/photo20109.jpg) OspreyOsprey Osprey Pandion haliaetus ![](images/cameraicon1.png) | ![Click here for full sized image Click here for full-sized image](http://www.mikemackay.ca/photos_medium/medium8/photo19972.jpg) OspreyOsprey Osprey Pandion haliaetus See more Osprey in Osprey. ![](images/cameraicon1.png) | ![Click here for full sized image Click here for full-sized image](http://www.mikemackay.ca/photos_medium/medium7/photo15500.jpg) Bald EagleBald Eagle Haliaeetus leucocephalus
![](images/cameraicon1.png) | ![Click here for full sized image Click here for full-sized image](http://www.mikemackay.ca/photos_medium/medium7/photo17168.jpg) ND3_17746ND3_17746 Bald Eagle
This one of a nesting pair at Honeymoon Island State Park near Dunedin, Florida. ![](images/cameraicon1.png) |
![Click here for full sized image Click here for full-sized image](http://www.mikemackay.ca/photos_medium/medium8/photo19976.jpg) Warbler - Palm WarblerWarbler - Palm Warbler Palm Warbler Dendroica palmarum ![](images/cameraicon1.png) | ![Click here for full sized image Click here for full-sized image](http://www.mikemackay.ca/photos_medium/medium8/photo19935.jpg) WilletWillet Catoptrophorus semipalmatas ![](images/cameraicon1.png) | ![Click here for full sized image Click here for full-sized image](http://www.mikemackay.ca/photos_medium/medium7/photo17488.jpg) WilletWillet Willet Catoptrophorus semipalmatas ![](images/cameraicon1.png) | ![Click here for full sized image Click here for full-sized image](http://www.mikemackay.ca/photos_medium/medium7/photo15302.jpg) WilletWillet Catoptrophorus semipalmatas ![](images/cameraicon1.png) | ![Click here for full sized image Click here for full-sized image](http://www.mikemackay.ca/photos/photo125.jpg) WilletWillet Catoptrophorus semipalmatas A Willet at Madeira Beach. On this particular morning, the light was very flat. Notice that there no sign of a shadow. ![](images/cameraicon1.png) |
![Click here for full sized image Click here for full-sized image](http://www.mikemackay.ca/photos/photo119.jpg) Willet Willet This bird is a little over a foot in length. It hangs around the seacoasts as far North as the Canadian Maritimes. The Willets follow the waves as they roll back away from the shore, looking for small bits of food that are deposited in the process. When the next wave comes along, they scamper for higher ground, and repeat the process. Here a Willet is chased by the incoming wave. Notice how the wave has wrapped around its leg. ![](images/cameraicon1.png) | ![Click here for full sized image Click here for full-sized image](http://www.mikemackay.ca/photos/photo73.jpg) WilletWillet Catoptrophorus semipalmatas The Willet is about a foot and half, making it much bigger than some of the other little waders that scamper around in the surf. ![](images/cameraicon1.png) | ![Click here for full sized image Click here for full-sized image](http://www.mikemackay.ca/photos_medium/medium7/photo17024.jpg) Ruddy TurnstoneRuddy Turnstone Ruddy Turnstone Arenaria interpres ![](images/cameraicon1.png) | ![Click here for full sized image Click here for full-sized image](http://www.mikemackay.ca/photos/photo42.jpg) Ruddy TurnstoneRuddy Turnstone The robin-sized Ruddy Turnstone is really common if you happen to be where they hang out. In the summer they are on the coasts of the high Arctic and in the winter around the southerly coasts of the continent. | ![Click here for full sized image Click here for full-sized image](http://www.mikemackay.ca/photos_medium/medium7/photo17251.jpg) DunlinDunlin Calidris alpina ![](images/cameraicon1.png) |
![Click here for full sized image Click here for full-sized image](http://www.mikemackay.ca/photos_medium/medium7/photo17257.jpg) Least SandpiperLeast Sandpiper Calidris minutilla ![](images/cameraicon1.png) | ![Click here for full sized image Click here for full-sized image](http://www.mikemackay.ca/photos_medium/medium7/photo16900.jpg) ND2_29920ND2_29920 ![](images/cameraicon1.png) | ![Click here for full sized image Click here for full-sized image](http://www.mikemackay.ca/photos/photo199.jpg) Laughing GullLaughing Gull Only a handful of the Laughing Gulls had this dark handsome head. It's probably because of molting or some changes which take place in the spring. ![](images/cameraicon1.png) | ![Click here for full sized image Click here for full-sized image](http://www.mikemackay.ca/photos_medium/medium7/photo17176.jpg) ND2_23710ND2_23710 Laughing Gull Larus atricilla ![](images/cameraicon1.png) | ![Click here for full sized image Click here for full-sized image](http://www.mikemackay.ca/photos_medium/medium7/photo15836.jpg) ND3_3437ND3_3437 Laughing Gull Larus Atricilla ![](images/cameraicon1.png) |
![Click here for full sized image Click here for full-sized image](http://www.mikemackay.ca/photos_medium/medium7/photo15043.jpg) Laughing GullLaughing Gull ![](images/cameraicon1.png) | ![Click here for full sized image Click here for full-sized image](http://www.mikemackay.ca/photos_medium/medium7/photo16379.jpg) Laughing GullLaughing Gull ![](images/cameraicon1.png) | ![Click here for full sized image Click here for full-sized image](http://www.mikemackay.ca/photos_medium/medium7/photo16380.jpg) Laughing GullLaughing Gull ![](images/cameraicon1.png) | ![Click here for full sized image Click here for full-sized image](http://www.mikemackay.ca/photos_medium/medium7/photo16381.jpg) Laughing GullLaughing Gull ![](images/cameraicon1.png) | ![Click here for full sized image Click here for full-sized image](http://www.mikemackay.ca/photos_medium/medium7/photo16382.jpg) Laughing GullLaughing Gull ![](images/cameraicon1.png) |
![Click here for full sized image Click here for full-sized image](http://www.mikemackay.ca/photos_medium/medium7/photo16383.jpg) compositecomposite Seen at Fort De Soto. ![](images/cameraicon1.png) | ![Click here for full sized image Click here for full-sized image](http://www.mikemackay.ca/photos/photo75.jpg) Ring-Billed GullRing-Billed Gull The Ring-Billed Gull is largish and very common. It is a "three year" gull, changing from birth through the first three years. The pink legs and brownish tones suggest that this one is in its second year. In the youngest gulls, the whole bill is black. ![](images/cameraicon1.png) | ![Click here for full sized image Click here for full-sized image](http://www.mikemackay.ca/photos_medium/medium7/photo15291.jpg) Ring-Billed GullRing-Billed Gull ![](images/cameraicon1.png) | ![Click here for full sized image Click here for full-sized image](http://www.mikemackay.ca/photos/photo145.jpg) DSC_9154DSC_9154 An older Ring-Billed Gull. The distinct black ring on the bill and the yellowish legs mean that this bird is in its third (or later) year. ![](images/cameraicon1.png) | ![Click here for full sized image Click here for full-sized image](http://www.mikemackay.ca/photos_medium/medium6/photo13882.jpg) Lesser Black-Backed GullLesser Black-Backed Gull I'm pretty sure about the identification, as the more common, Great Black-Backed Gull has a red ring around the eye, and this one doesn't. ![](images/cameraicon1.png) |
![Click here for full sized image Click here for full-sized image](http://www.mikemackay.ca/photos_medium/medium6/photo12216.jpg) ND2_29996ND2_29996 Great Black-backed Gull Larus marinus This gull is common on the Atlantic coast, but is quite rare on the Gulf coast, so ![](images/cameraicon1.png) | ![Click here for full sized image Click here for full-sized image](http://www.mikemackay.ca/photos/photo220.jpg) Great Black-Backed GullGreat Black-Backed Gull The The Great Black-Backed Gull can be up to 30" in length, with a wingspan of almost seven feet. While walking the beach at Hollywood Beach, this one caught my attention because of its size. It was a giant among the more numerous Ring-Billed and Laughing Gulls. It could be a Herring Gull, but it was truly large and seems to have more white than a Herring. This one would be in its first winter of life. ![](images/cameraicon1.png) | ![Click here for full sized image Click here for full-sized image](http://www.mikemackay.ca/photos_medium/medium8/photo20025.jpg) ND3_1075ND3_1075 Razorbill Alco torda This was a time when my friend Dee and I were shooting at the north end of Longboat Key. We were approached by a stranger who said that there was great excitement at the north end of Anna Maria, because there was a Penguin there. Well, stuff like that needs to be checked out! And here it is! And it is rare indeed. A Razorbill, not often seen on the Gulf side. ![](images/cameraicon1.png) | ![Click here for full sized image Click here for full-sized image](http://www.mikemackay.ca/photos_medium/medium7/photo16953.jpg) DSC_9840DSC_9840 Royal Tern Sterna maxima ![](images/cameraicon1.png) | ![Click here for full sized image Click here for full-sized image](http://www.mikemackay.ca/photos/photo83.jpg) Royal TernRoyal Tern This common guy, the Royal Tern, is distinguished from the Sandwich Tern by his yellow bill. About 18-21" long. I see that this one has been banded. The Royal Tern flies above the water at about 30 feet, occasionally crashing headfirst into the surf, presumably to catch something. ![](images/cameraicon1.png) |
![Click here for full sized image Click here for full-sized image](http://www.mikemackay.ca/photos_medium/medium7/photo16512.jpg) Royal TernRoyal Tern Sterna maxima ![](images/cameraicon1.png) | ![Click here for full sized image Click here for full-sized image](http://www.mikemackay.ca/photos_medium/medium7/photo16514.jpg) Royal TernRoyal Tern Sterna maxima ![](images/cameraicon1.png) | ![Click here for full sized image Click here for full-sized image](http://www.mikemackay.ca/photos/photo72.jpg) DSC_9765 - Royal TernDSC_9765 - Royal Tern This common guy is distinguished from the Sandwich Tern by his yelow bill. About 18-21" long. The Royal Tern flies above the water at about 30 feet, occasionally crashing headfirst into the surf, presumably to catch something. | ![Click here for full sized image Click here for full-sized image](http://www.mikemackay.ca/photos_medium/medium5/photo9126.jpg) DSC_21579DSC_21579 Male Royal Tern tries to impress the female. Nesting time is approaching. ![](images/cameraicon1.png) | ![Click here for full sized image Click here for full-sized image](http://www.mikemackay.ca/photos/photo146.jpg) Sandwich TernSandwich Tern The Sandwich Tern is distinguished from other terns by his black bill with the yellow tip. ![](images/cameraicon1.png) |
![Click here for full sized image Click here for full-sized image](http://www.mikemackay.ca/photos/photo845.jpg) Forster's TernForster's Tern Forster's Tern in beginning to acquire breeding colours. These don't seem to be all that common on the beaches around here. At twelve inches overall length, the Common Tern is about half the size of the Royal Tern, but definitely shows its relationship. Shot at Indian Rocks Beach. ![](images/cameraicon1.png) | ![Click here for full sized image Click here for full-sized image](http://www.mikemackay.ca/photos/photo846.jpg) DSC_13497 - Common Tern in FlightDSC_13497 - Common Tern in Flight ![](images/cameraicon1.png) | ![Click here for full sized image Click here for full-sized image](http://www.mikemackay.ca/photos_medium/medium6/photo12195.jpg) ND2_29911ND2_29911 Forster's Tern Sterna forsteri ![](images/cameraicon1.png) | ![Click here for full sized image Click here for full-sized image](http://www.mikemackay.ca/photos/photo18.jpg) DSC_9240 - Black SkimmerDSC_9240 - Black Skimmer These unusual birds have a longer lower beak; it extends beyond the upper. | ![Click here for full sized image Click here for full-sized image](http://www.mikemackay.ca/photos/photo58.jpg) DSC_9240 - Black SkimmerDSC_9240 - Black Skimmer After looking at my photographs I had to wonder whether these birds have eyes. Even on the beach in the sunlight, it is impossible to see their eyes. This photograph shows that they are, indeed, sighted. Even then, you have to look carefully to see the small black eye. |
![Click here for full sized image Click here for full-sized image](http://www.mikemackay.ca/photos/photo135.jpg) DSC_9189 - Great Blue HeronDSC_9189 - Great Blue Heron I made my initial photographs of this Great Blue Heron from behind a bush on the shore. As I move away from the bush, in its direction, it became a little nervous. It finally took off, coming back less than a minute later. The land behind are the flats exposed at low tide. The light was very red the on this February morning, even though it was about an hour after sunrise. ![](images/cameraicon1.png) | ![Click here for full sized image Click here for full-sized image](http://www.mikemackay.ca/photos_medium/medium6/photo12186.jpg) ND3_0534ND3_0534 Semipalmated Plover (Charadrius semipalmatus) These tiny guys winter along the southern coast and spend their summers in the far north. In this case, I found a few hanging around the East Beach, with a group of Willets, Ruddy Turnstones and Sanderlings. This flock was intent on grabbing some shut-eye, so I was unable to get a shot of the bird with both legs in the water. ![](images/cameraicon1.png) | ![Click here for full sized image Click here for full-sized image](http://www.mikemackay.ca/photos_medium/medium7/photo16910.jpg) ND2_36511ND2_36511 Piping Plover Charadrius melodus ![](images/cameraicon1.png) | ![Click here for full sized image Click here for full-sized image](http://www.mikemackay.ca/photos_medium/medium5/photo9241.jpg) ND2_21790ND2_21790 American Oystercatcher (Haematopus palliatus) ![](images/cameraicon1.png) | ![Click here for full sized image Click here for full-sized image](http://www.mikemackay.ca/photos_medium/medium5/photo9242.jpg) ND2_21801ND2_21801 American Oystercatcher (Haematopus palliatus) ![](images/cameraicon1.png) |
![Click here for full sized image Click here for full-sized image](http://www.mikemackay.ca/photos_medium/medium8/photo19917.jpg) SanderlingSanderling Calidris alba A group of Sanderlings, a small sandpiper about the size of a Robin. These birds hang around, running back and forth like a wind-up toy, chasing the waves as they retreat and then running back before the next wave washes over them. They look for little bits of food which the waves drop on the beach. ![](images/cameraicon1.png) | ![Click here for full sized image Click here for full-sized image](http://www.mikemackay.ca/photos/photo124.jpg) SanderlingSanderling A Willet, in the background, gives some scale to the Sanderling as it heads toward the outrolling wave. ![](images/cameraicon1.png) | ![Click here for full sized image Click here for full-sized image](http://www.mikemackay.ca/photos_medium/medium8/photo19918.jpg) SanderlingSanderling Calidris alba The Sanderling is tiny, about the size of a Robin. They are abundant along the beaches, where they chase the retreating waves like little wind-up toys. ![](images/cameraicon1.png) | ![Click here for full sized image Click here for full-sized image](http://www.mikemackay.ca/photos_medium/medium7/photo15052.jpg) SanderlingSanderling Calidris alba ![](images/cameraicon1.png) | ![Click here for full sized image Click here for full-sized image](http://www.mikemackay.ca/photos/photo226.jpg) Common MoorhenCommon Moorhen This solitary Moorhen was in a small pond off of Country Club Drive in Aventura, Florida. ![](images/cameraicon1.png) |
![Click here for full sized image Click here for full-sized image](http://www.mikemackay.ca/photos/photo836.jpg) Common MoorhenCommon Moorhen A Common Moorhen. I was taken with the brilliance of his red beak. In the winter, the red is quite muted and may not be apparent at all. Some of the other Moorhens in this pond in Largo did not yet have the same brilliance. ![](images/cameraicon1.png) | ![Click here for full sized image Click here for full-sized image](http://www.mikemackay.ca/photos_medium/medium8/photo18616.jpg) LimpkinLimpkin Limpkin Aramus guarauna Limpkin with shot at sunset, preparing for its evening meal. Limpkins are very uncommon outside of Florida. With a lenght of 26 inches and a weight of 2.4 pounds, they look like giant waders, but five times the size of a Willet, for example. ![](images/cameraicon1.png) | ![Click here for full sized image Click here for full-sized image](http://www.mikemackay.ca/photos/photo112.jpg) DSC_9577 - Hooded MerganseerDSC_9577 - Hooded Merganseer This Hooded Merganser was spotted swimming in the pond of an RV Park on Sanibel Island. ![](images/cameraicon1.png) | ![Click here for full sized image Click here for full-sized image](http://www.mikemackay.ca/photos/photo225.jpg) DSC_9873 - Mallard PairDSC_9873 - Mallard Pair This pair of Mallards was in a small pond on Country Club Drive in Aventura, Florida ![](images/cameraicon1.png) | ![Click here for full sized image Click here for full-sized image](http://www.mikemackay.ca/photos/photo242.jpg) DSC_10083 - Turkey VultureDSC_10083 - Turkey Vulture Few birds are uglier, if you look them in the face. Here the Turkey Vulture's small, naked red head can be easily seen. This one was cruising low over the old bridge at Bahai Honda State Park on Pine Key in Florida. A diurnal raptor, the Turkey Vulture is extremely common in the Florida Keys. In Key West we saw nearly a dozen in close proximity cruising above the waterway. ![](images/cameraicon1.png) |
![Click here for full sized image Click here for full-sized image](http://www.mikemackay.ca/photos/photo243.jpg) DSC_10081 - Swallow-Tailed KiteDSC_10081 - Swallow-Tailed Kite The Swallow-Tailed Kite is uncommon, but unmistakable. It is moderately large, with a wingspan of about four feet. This one was shot from the old bridge at Bahai Honda State Park on Pine Key in Florida. It was taking full advantage of the breeze and hovering in a limited area for most of the afternoon. ![](images/cameraicon1.png) | ![Click here for full sized image Click here for full-sized image](http://www.mikemackay.ca/photos/photo148.jpg) DSC_2104 - Sandhill CraneDSC_2104 - Sandhill Crane A Sandhill Crane, seen beside the golf course in the Clermont area. This bird can be up to four feet tall and may have a wing span of seven feet. ![](images/cameraicon1.png) | ![Click here for full sized image Click here for full-sized image](http://www.mikemackay.ca/photos/photo51.jpg) White IbisWhite Ibis A White Ibis tries a little taste of coaxial cable, while standing on the television antenna of the RV across the road from us. This bird struts carefully around the campground when things are quiet. With the cold, dreary weather, things are really quiet and the bird goes just about anywhere. | ![Click here for full sized image Click here for full-sized image](http://www.mikemackay.ca/photos/photo134.jpg) DSC_9202 - Bald EagleDSC_9202 - Bald Eagle I grabbed this lucky shot of this Bald Eagle as I was leaving the Fort DeSoto beach one morning. ![](images/cameraicon1.png) | ![Click here for full sized image Click here for full-sized image](http://www.mikemackay.ca/photos/photo117.jpg) DSC_9547 - Red-Shouldered HawkDSC_9547 - Red-Shouldered Hawk This bird looks tiny in this photo, but they range in size from 17 to 24 inches. I would have put him at around 18 inches. The Florida version of the Red Shouldered Hawk is much paler than the same species outside of Florida. The other possibility is that this is a Broad-Winged Hawk but they are not as likely to be found in Florida. Also the tail- banding of the bird in this photo points to the Red Shouldered species. ![](images/cameraicon1.png) |
![Click here for full sized image Click here for full-sized image](http://www.mikemackay.ca/photos/photo205.jpg) DSC_9813 - Monk ParakeetDSC_9813 - Monk Parakeet This shot looks a little like a scan of a pet shop brochure because the background is actually a bit of outdoor carpet in a mini-putt. This was one of a pair that were busy on the ground before the min-putt opened. The Monk Parakeet is pretty hardy; while this one was seen on Hollywood Beach, they can occur as far north as Chicago.
![](images/cameraicon1.png) | ![Click here for full sized image Click here for full-sized image](http://www.mikemackay.ca/photos_medium/medium7/photo15837.jpg) Nanday ParakeetNanday Parakeet Black-Hooded Parakeet Nandayus nenday
![](images/cameraicon1.png) | ![Click here for full sized image Click here for full-sized image](http://www.mikemackay.ca/photos_medium/medium8/photo19287.jpg) LorikeetLorikeet Trichoglossus moluccanus Radio Amateur, trying to improve the reception. ![](images/cameraicon1.png) | ![Click here for full sized image Click here for full-sized image](http://www.mikemackay.ca/photos_medium/medium7/photo15666.jpg) Rainbow LorikeetRainbow Lorikeet Trichoglossus moluccanus ![](images/cameraicon1.png) | ![Click here for full sized image Click here for full-sized image](http://www.mikemackay.ca/photos_medium/medium7/photo14452.jpg) Barred OwlBarred Owl Barred Owl. Strix varia This is a medium-size (21") owl. This one was in the Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary, a sanctuary for the Florida Cypress Tree. ![](images/cameraicon1.png) |
![Click here for full sized image Click here for full-sized image](http://www.mikemackay.ca/photos/photo23.jpg) Pileated WoodpeckerPileated Woodpecker No bird in North America is more exotic than the Pileated Woodpecker; it's extremely hard to get a good look at one of these. This particular bird showed up at our Fort De Soto campsite and was shot through the window. He must have been young, since he seemed only a foot or so in size. | ![Click here for full sized image Click here for full-sized image](http://www.mikemackay.ca/photos/photo931.jpg) DSC_13990 - Red-bellied WoodpeckerDSC_13990 - Red-bellied Woodpecker This guy was unusually sociable for a woodpecker. I don't know why they are called Red-bellied. This is a male; his red covers the crown and the nape. The red in the female covers only the nape. This was one of a pair seen through the window at our Fort De Soto camp site. ![](images/cameraicon1.png) | ![Click here for full sized image Click here for full-sized image](http://www.mikemackay.ca/photos_medium/medium8/photo19465.jpg) Downy WoodpeckerDowny Woodpecker Downy Woodpecker Picoides pubescens ![](images/cameraicon1.png) | ![Click here for full sized image Click here for full-sized image](http://www.mikemackay.ca/photos_medium/medium8/photo19427.jpg) Black-capped ChickadeeBlack-capped Chickadee Black-capped Chickadee Poecile atricapella ![](images/cameraicon1.png) | ![Click here for full sized image Click here for full-sized image](http://www.mikemackay.ca/photos_medium/medium7/photo14859.jpg) American RobinAmerican Robin Turdus migratorius ![](images/cameraicon1.png) |
![Click here for full sized image Click here for full-sized image](http://www.mikemackay.ca/photos_medium/medium7/photo14864.jpg) American RobinAmerican Robin Turdus migratorius ![](images/cameraicon1.png) | ![Click here for full sized image Click here for full-sized image](http://www.mikemackay.ca/photos_medium/medium8/photo18598.jpg) Yellow-rumped WarblerYellow-rumped Warbler Yellow-rumped Warbler Dendroica coronata ![](images/cameraicon1.png) | ![Click here for full sized image Click here for full-sized image](http://www.mikemackay.ca/photos_medium/medium7/photo17184.jpg) Northern MockingbirdNorthern Mockingbird Northern Mockingbird Mimus polyglottos ![](images/cameraicon1.png) | ![Click here for full sized image Click here for full-sized image](http://www.mikemackay.ca/photos_medium/medium7/photo14468.jpg) Painted BuntingPainted Bunting Passerina ciris ![](images/cameraicon1.png) | ![Click here for full sized image Click here for full-sized image](http://www.mikemackay.ca/photos_medium/medium8/photo19460.jpg) ND3_28585ND3_28585 Northern Cardinal Cardinalis cardinalis ![](images/cameraicon1.png) |
![Click here for full sized image Click here for full-sized image](http://www.mikemackay.ca/photos_medium/medium8/photo19441.jpg) Northern CardinalNorthern Cardinal Northern Cardinal Cardinalis cardinalis ![](images/cameraicon1.png) | ![Click here for full sized image Click here for full-sized image](http://www.mikemackay.ca/photos_medium/medium7/photo17259.jpg) Red-winged BlackbirdRed-winged Blackbird Red-Winged Blackbird Agelaius phoenicus Juvenile or Female ![](images/cameraicon1.png) | ![Click here for full sized image Click here for full-sized image](http://www.mikemackay.ca/photos/photo224.jpg) DSC_9880 - Brewer's BlackbirdDSC_9880 - Brewer's Blackbird This seems like it might be a particularly light-coloured female Brewer's Blackbird. Seen next a pond on Country Club Drive in Aventura. ![](images/cameraicon1.png) | ![Click here for full sized image Click here for full-sized image](http://www.mikemackay.ca/photos/photo223.jpg) DSC_9861 - Fish CrowDSC_9861 - Fish Crow I am guessing this to be a Fish Crow. I thought it was too small to be an American Crow. The Fish Crow is common near the coast, but is reliably identified only by its call, which I didn't hear. This one was spotted near the Boardwalk at Hollywood Beach, Florida. ![](images/cameraicon1.png) | ![Click here for full sized image Click here for full-sized image](http://www.mikemackay.ca/photos_medium/medium8/photo19473.jpg) NZ6_00894NZ6_00894 Dark-eyed Junco Junco hyemalis ![](images/cameraicon1.png) |
![Click here for full sized image Click here for full-sized image](http://www.mikemackay.ca/photos_thumb/thumbs3/photo3453.jpg) ND2_9157 - Brown-Headed CowbirdND2_9157 - Brown-Headed Cowbird ![](images/cameraicon1.png) | ![Click here for full sized image Click here for full-sized image](http://www.mikemackay.ca/photos_medium/medium8/photo19464.jpg) NZ6_00692NZ6_00692 Common Redpoll Carduelis flammea ![](images/cameraicon1.png) | ![Click here for full sized image Click here for full-sized image](http://www.mikemackay.ca/photos_medium/medium8/photo19466.jpg) NZ6_00612NZ6_00612 Chipping Sparrow Spizella passerina ![](images/cameraicon1.png) | ![Click here for full sized image Click here for full-sized image](http://www.mikemackay.ca/photos/photo255.jpg) DSC_10036 - Key West RoosterDSC_10036 - Key West Rooster Roosters are to Key West as cows are to India. The roosters are everywhere, wild, handsome and healthy. We were told that they are the legacy of a period when cock-fighting was legal. When cockfighting was banned the roosters were turned out to fend for themselves. Strangely, we only saw a couple of hens. They must be stay-at-homes. ![](images/cameraicon1.png) | ![Click here for full sized image Click here for full-sized image](http://www.mikemackay.ca/photos_medium/medium7/photo18240.jpg) Vulture - Turkey VultureVulture - Turkey Vulture Turkey Vulture Cathartes aura
![](images/cameraicon1.png) |
![Click here for full sized image Click here for full-sized image](http://www.mikemackay.ca/photos_medium/medium8/photo20092.jpg) Yellowlegs - Greater YellowlegsYellowlegs - Greater Yellowlegs Greater Yellowlegs Tringa melanoleuca ![](images/cameraicon1.png) | ![Click here for full sized image Click here for full-sized image](http://www.mikemackay.ca/photos_medium/medium6/photo12188.jpg) Yellowlegs - Lesser YellowlegsYellowlegs - Lesser Yellowlegs Lesser Yellowlegs Tringa flavipes ![](images/cameraicon1.png) | | | |