Lake Apopka without my Beast!

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Early mornings when the Lake Apopka Wildlife Drive is not open for vehicles are officially my favorite days! On this particular morning, I opted to leave my heavy Beast at home and see what fast-moving birds in flight I could catch with my 100-400. I had a good time, and ultimately concluded that my Beast is worth the weight! :)

My first birds of the morning were the flock of Fulvous Whistling-ducks calling happily in the marshes. I love listening to them! Their brown feathers glistened in the early morning sunlight.

Fulvous Whistling-duck
Fulvous Whistling-duck

The advantage of the lighter lens is that it’s faster to react when a bird comes flying towards you suddenly. This White Ibis appeared out of nowhere. Look at the bright orange beak and pale blue eye. I love watching birds in their breeding colors!

White Ibis
White Ibis

As I walked down Lust Road, I came across a lingered flock of Ring-necked Ducks. They’ll be leaving pretty soon for their summer breeding grounds. So I spent some extra time watching them, and they sure showed off for me!

Ring-necked Duck
Ring-necked Duck Male – Wing Flap!
Ring-necked Duck
Ring-necked Duck Female – Landing Gear Ready!

Later I came across a Gray-headed Swamphen. He was wandering among the grasses in the distance, then he decided to fly in closer and closer. My first flight shots of this beautiful bird! I thought it was nice of him to fly toward the camera. :)

Gray-headed Swamphen
Gray-headed Swamphen

A small group of Mottled Ducks flew in. Apparently they had springtime rituals on their minds. There’s a lot of splashing involved when a male notices a good-looking female!

Mottled Duck
Mottled Duck

As I left, the same flock of Fulvous startled and took to the skies. They flew several circles around the marsh before setting in the shallow waters again

Fulvous Whistling-ducks in Flight
Fulvous Whistling-ducks in Flight

The ducks waved goodbye as I left. “Have a good week, see you soon!”

Mottled Duck
Mottled Duck

Want to learn more about nature photography at Lake Apopka?

Check out my Lake Apopka page with more information about the location, map, website, photography tips, etc. It is archived by date so you can see my images from previous visits. Maybe you'll be inspired for your own trip!

Planning a trip to Florida? Don't miss my Central Florida Bird Photography Locations reference guide!

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