Where the Birds Are

Time for one of my favorite summer outings, a combination biking/birding adventure.

The winds were calm, the tide was low, and many shorebirds were feasting in the shallows. Great egrets, snowy egrets, and more.

The first time I've spotted a white pelican in the area; all alone.

A pair of great blue herons—one close by.

A great egret craning for a catch.

We arrived at the rookery just as the local Audubon Society folks were preparing to pack up—a bonus! I really should check their calendar. And really, I should just become a member.

They had a scope trained on the nest of a black-crowned night-heron, which was snoozing with its chick.

The egret nests are emptying out; many of the chicks have fledged, but a few remain.

A satisfying ride for me: 51 miles, with 1,000 feet of climbing.