Wildlife at Viera Wetlands
GLOSSY IBIS
This was my favorite capture on this particular day. The reason being, in all the years I've been coming to the wetlands, here in my community, I had never seen a glossy ibis before, let alone photograph one. Its various colors become so vibrant as the sunlight hits its plumage.
LITTLE BLUE HERON
I enjoyed watching this heron slowly wade in the marshes as it watched for fish to catch. This little blue heron had hints of purple and slate blue hues throughout its body. When they're young their plumage is very similar to a Snowy Egret, but then darkens as it turns to an adult.
ANHINGA
These "snakebirds" are usually sitting here at the wetlands with their wings spread wide open. I have always been drawn to these birds for some reason. I like their colors; the contrast in their plumage along the body, and the browns and tans that cover their head/neck area which appear to have a fur-like texture. Anhingas are silent most of the time unless it's nesting time, then you'll hear different clicking sounds from them.
LITTLE BLUE HERON
Again, you can see the vibrant hints of purple and blue hues throughout this beautiful creature. It was a windy day, therefore, creating ripples in water, which became a nice surrounding texture for this shot.
WHITE IBIS
I have to say I love this composition- the foliage in the foreground, the ibis peeking through just enough, and the water in the background. It's sad to say, the population of these ibises in Florida continues to decline, but in other areas of the United States, it has increased. I am not sure why that is. I am so thankful for the wetlands. It provides a place for the wildlife to feed, nest, etc. We need more places like this for our wildlife.
GREAT EGRET
This tall white egret was slowly wading in the marshes that were filled with lily pads and various foliage. I liked the array of reflections in the water as well as the small ripples created by the wind.
