Whew……what a winter!  But things are looking up and spring has sprung.  I often wish that there were only 3 seasons…spring, summer, fall……then back to spring!

On top of it all, I’ve been on call for Federal jury duty for the last 6 months and so haven’t traveled at all to see my Florida birdies.     

Not knowing what to get in to around here, I discovered the storm water retention pond in my neighborhood.  Sounds gross, I know…but it’s a protected area for birds to nest.   So I approached the board members of my homeowner’s association and was granted access…..and a key! 

I’ve only been in there a couple of times so far…worried about snakes… and poison oak after that outbreak I had last fall.

While I’ve not been able to get close enough to photograph them, I’ve found a pair of Savannah Sparrows making runs back and forth to feed their young’uns.  I can’t see the nest as it is in a culvert….but I can sure hear them when dinner arrives.

I’ve also found a pair of Carolina Chickadees that are nurturing 2 eggs…they look like tiny jelly beans.

The Northern Cardinal kids are out of the nest and learning to fly…with parents close by. 

And finally, I’ve got a pair of Red Shouldered Hawks that circle the wetlands from time to time......hereafter known as Lorac Wetlands!

Take care!! 

Carol Huffman