Photo by Barney B.
Although the sky was cloudy and rain sprinkled on and off, we managed to escape the predicted thunderstorms and had another successful walkabout. What a turnout we had for such a cloudy day! Cars were already there at 7:30 AM and continued to arrive until 8:00 AM, with a nice total of about 27 participants. It was interesting that several folks attended the walk just to see the ranch and did not bring binoculars. Luckily the PRAS board had purchased 10 new pairs and 6 of them were handed out to the guests who were quickly trained on their use. After a brief look at the map and discussion about Walton Ranch, we headed on our way. We walked through a corridor of oaks and palms, then through the pasture. Those that could bird by ear had a definite advantage on a windy day. Most of the smaller birds stayed out of sight but were still counted on our list, like the Blue-Gray Gnatcatcher, Cardinals, and the Palm Warbler. Others were seen flying above the ranch such as Bald Eagles, Kestrels, Tree Swallows, and Vultures. Sandhills Cranes were in the pasture as we walked by and also Killdeer and Cattle Egret. Our goal was to head to a marsh area that we hoped would contain many species and we were not disappointed. Most of the birds on our list were found at the marsh including Anhingas, Coots, Gallinules, Great Egrets, Grebes, and Little Blue Herons. Both Glossy and White Ibis were feeding along with Limpkins, Wood Storks, and Yellowlegs. There was one Roseate Spoonbill there and that always delights the crowd. We saw a total of 41 species that morning thanks to several expert birders who joined us. The sky was still threatening rain, so most of the group turned around at that point and headed back to their cars. Others threw caution to the wind and continued on to explore more of the ranch. Everyone seemed to enjoy the morning. Do you think anyone forgot to turn in their binoculars at the end of the hike? Absolutely not! What a great group they were!
Walkabout report by Phyllis Cady.
Photo by Joan Winter.
Photo by Joan Winter.
Photo by Barney B.
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