OK, so it wasn’t the most graceful take off. It wasn’t planned though. More like a push off the tree.
Spoonbill Flight
The Spoonbill was minding his own business when another did the typical ‘king of the hill’ thing they do. The first bird pretty much just fell into the air.
Spoonbill FlightSpoonbill Flight
Like I said, no points here for style.
Spoonbill Flight
He did recover nicely and moved off to another spot in the island rookery.
A Great Blue giving me a fly by, and great opportunity.
Swamp Fly By, Great Blue HeronSwamp Fly By, Great Blue Heron
The first nests this year are a little far on a small island. However the Herons will drop off the trees and head straight towards the trail for sticks and Spanish Moss.
I placed myself in an open spot where I hoped the birds would pass on either side of me. This time it worked.
Swamp Fly By, Great Blue Heron
The Great Blues knew I was there, they flew on my left, and right, into the back swamp collecting materials. Several landed nearby and walked around too. The Herons were comfortable having me to the side and for maybe two hours went about their business.
Even Roseate Spoonbills have bad days. In this case an adult decided to grab hold of a juvenile by the leg. I’ve seen this before and I guess this is how they ‘argue’.
Spoonbill Disagreement
The older one had a good hold on the young one too.
Spoonbill Disagreement
As expected Jr. wailed a bit, flapped around, and took the hint.
Spoonbill Disagreement
Time to move on.
This is a rookery where the rules are a little different for a few months.