I can’t believe I forgot to publish this post! These photos were taken in late August after a visit to the Lake Apopka Wildlife Drive. The morning was gorgeous. I’d just started to sniff a tiny hint of fall in the air, and right on time, I spotted some migrating fall warblers.

Just off Lust Road by the Crazy U were the usual Gray-headed Swamphens. Except they had a small surprise with them on this visit. A baby! This was the first time I’d seen a baby swamphen. She reminded me of a baby gallinule, but bigger. Nature never stops amazing me with the camouflage given to young birds to protect them. Look closely under Mom’s backside here…peek a boo!

I spent a little while at the trees at the Crazy U, where I often see migrating warblers during the spring and fall. It didn’t take long to spot motion in the trees, and with a little bit of patience, a young Prairie Warbler hopped out to say hi to my camera. He showed off the small bug he’d just caught for breakfast before disappearing back into the vegetation.

Yellow Warblers start to pass through Florida at the end of August, and this year was no exception. This bright yellow beauty was one of several that I spotted this morning. Photographing them is a challenge since they don’t sit still for long!

I spent most of my morning wandering around the Crazy U. By the time I moved on, I didn’t linger at other spots. But I couldn’t resist pulling out the camera when I saw this Common Gallinule feeding her baby. I love how the babies flap their little wing-stubs to beg for food.

It was a great end to a great morning. I can’t wait to get out there again! :)