So today was slam packed with the Base Camp gang going to two different rookeries around the Tampa area. It is amazing where these things just pop up. What make them so success for birds to roost and breed there is the fact that it needs to be an island that is surrounded by water that an alligator inhabits. So why the alligator? To keep predators away from the nests. This was an amazing day of photography that will not be forgotten by anyone anytime soon. I was able to get images of bird species that I never had before!!! I was able to capture an Ahinga, a Cattle Egret, and a Rosey Spoonbill. Tomorrow we’re headed out to Honeymoon Island for some Osprey, Great horns, and what ever else may fly our way.

All Images Captures with 1D Mark IN 600f4 with 1.4 teleconvertor on Lexar digital film

All I can say is WOW!!!  Fort De Soto really shined through this morning (Literally). The sun broke through the clouds and some serious magic was happening.   White  Ibis’s were just meandering  near students feet,  along with the  Willets,  and a Wood Stork that flew in for it’s own photo shoot.

This Willet caught the first rays of the morning sun on the water.

This Pair of White Ibis’s were strolling around for breakfast near the Willet.  The light was great and the students had a great time.  While they aready maybe exhausted (considering it is only the second day)  I think this morning go them really pumped up.  Well we’re out of here for the next shoot.  Sunrise was so great I wonder what the sunset will bring.