This was a special gathering. Most all of the marsh birds were together, crowded into a small open marsh pond.

I believe this was because of the burnings about a mile off. The smoke and smell was still heavy here.

Spring here is a time when the dry reeds and brush is burned off in a controlled setting. It is done using the theory that lightning strikes have been doing this here since forever.

It can be shocking to see how quickly the land revives. Yes some trees are damaged, but most are fine, or better than fine.

These birds were never in danger, the areas are tightly controlled. besides the fact water is everywhere, and they fly.