When on a dike or marsh trail there are always openings between tall grass/reeds. Finding them is how we can get unblocked views for photos. However, it there is a matching opening on each side of the dike it’s also an Alligator trail.
When the ground is still wet chances are you can get shots like this.

One of the locals waking up.
Nice shot – makes you wonder what else is hanging out on the banks you just didn’t see.
More than once I’ve look straight down and found a head LOL. One actually climbed out and pushed past me, wanted my spot in the sun.