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Myakka River State Park put out a notice that all boat tours have been canceled due to low water levels. As I drove to the lake, I was shocked to see many of the wetland areas along the way had changed dramatically. Some popular stops along the way were dried up, and the ordinarily abundant wildlife was mostly gone.

Roseate Spoonbill FujiFilm H2s Nikon 500 PF

I arrived at the lake and started walking to where I found the Spoonbills beginning their courtship. To my surprise, there we more Spoonbills than the first time. The early morning light was shining on the Spoonbills in the small trees, which cast a warmer tone to the scenes.

Taken with IPhone

It didn't take long for the word to get out as the photographers kept rolling in. I stepped back and took this shot with my iPhone. As you can see, some of the photographers are close to the birds. This area was underwater just a week ago. The park has now put up some barriers to keep more distance between birds.

Roseate Spoonbill FujiFilm H2s Nikon 500 PF

Spoonbills nest site is in mangroves, tree, shrub, usually 5-15' above ground or water, sometimes on ground.

Roseate Spoonbill FujiFilm H2s Nikon 500 PF

This small group are wading in the river and one of them has a branch ready to take it to the nesting area.

Roseate Spoonbill FujiFilm H2s Nikon 500 PF

In courtship, male and female first interact aggressively, later perch close together, present sticks to each other, cross and clasp bills.

Roseate Spoonbill FujiFilm H2s Nikon 500 PF

This one flew off and headed away from the trees but circled around and landed right in front of me. They are beautiful with their wings extended.

Roseate Spoonbill FujiFilm H2s Nikon 500 PF

Two more are sitting on the branches, and it didn't take long before they started their mating ritual.

White Ibis FujiFilm H2s Nikon 500 PF

This White Ibis was also sitting in the tree, maybe just getting some warm morning sunshine.

American Allagators FujiFilm H2s Nikon 500 PF

With the river's water levels low, there were many more gators on the shoreline. This one was just a few feet from me. I only had my big lens, so I could not get group pictures.

Photography should be fun! It's not about the phone or camera brand you're using. Remember, your best photographs result from one thing, making an effort to get out and shoot.

Comments are always welcomed.

Mark