The Sandhills are plentiful these days, this flock in the Stayner area is well over 1000 birds. Daily, smaller flocks are passing over our farm in the Beaver Valley, we can usually hear them before we see them as they are very noisy when flying … they sound like a litter of young racoons at war. I literally look around for racoons, then noticed the sound is coming from the sky.
This family was working their way along the shore line, I stayed somewhat still, and they walked right by me minding their own business. I feel good when my presence doesnt interrupt what they were doing and they continue on without giving me much notice. As they mosey along finding bugs to feed the chick, they also tried to show it where the bugs are found and encouraged it to pick them up. Fascinating.
A marsh bird, known for it’s limping-like flight with it’s dandling legs and jerky wing beat. The only species in it’s family, the closest relations are cranes and rails.
This pair of Sandhills have nested at my friends cottage for years, I went for a stroll with them along the shallow lake shore, as long as I kept my business they didn’t mind one bit. Loved it, a great way to enjoy the morning sun an a hot coffee.
wood storks watching a cattle egret
yet another discovery … wild Wood Storks nesting in Florida
Rare to see, Limpkin are on the Special Species list and are on the delcine. They look like they are limping in flight, a flock is called a hobble. 
