Rich joined me for an afternoon walk at the Lake Apopka Wildlife Drive last weekend. The drive closes to cars at 3pm, so the trails are perfect for biking/walking in the late afternoon. Afternoons are never as birdy as mornings, but we still had a good time.

After passing the kiosk on Lust Road, we came across a cluster of cypress trees in full color. The red leaves were gorgeous against the backdrop of blue sky and green plants. A small Yellow-rumped Warbler hopped around in the branches.

It’s duck season and there were plenty of visitors to welcome. This male Blue-winged Teal was so happy to see Rich that he thrust his wings back and flapped.

Several Great Blue Herons stalked their prey along the edges of the path. It’s already nesting season for these birds, and I checked several trees that have hosted nests in previous years. Alas, the forces of nature and hurricanes have reshaped the landscape a bit, and the great nesting trees are no longer there.

Rich and I walked up to the Crazy U, then turned around and walked back. In the afternoons, the return trip always has the best light. The sun was getting low on the horizon, and the grebes and teals were beautiful in the golden-colored water.

I’ve never seen so many White Ibis at the wildlife drive! There were easily 100 of them perched in the trees and bushes, all along Lust Road. Flyby opportunities were plentiful. Who can resist a good flight shot?