While we prefer to observe wildlife in the wild, the Saint Augustine Alligator Farm provides a unique situation. Because of the large number of alligators on the grounds, wild wading birds have discovered that the trees within the Alligator Farm are basically free from climbing predators. Every spring, the trees in the farm are filled with a variety of nesting birds, most within easy viewing and photography from a boardwalk. When we visited this time, the trees were a madhouse of nesting birds with a wide range of nest building stages and chick development.
A smile greeted us upon entry into the park.
When we first arrived, many of the larger male alligators were "bellowing". This low pitched rumble is created underwater, agitating the water around them. This behavior is believed to be for dominance and mating displays.
This is one of the main trees used for nesting next to the boardwalk.
Just a few of the alligators roaming under the trees and boardwalk
Great Egrets in breeding plumage
A fairly mature Roseate Spoonbill chick
Very young Little Blue Heron chicks
Snowy Egret with chick
Roseate Spoonbill chicks in their nest
Adult Roseate Spoonbills
Great Egret with young chicks
Cattle Egrets in breeding plumage
Tricolor Herons were just starting nest building and egg laying.
A Roseate Spoonbill "hanging out" on its nest
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