Gray Skies Over Emeralda Marsh

The weather wasn’t ideal! Dark skies and steady drizzle. A few Ring-necked Ducks to begin with. Soon after, a pair of Black Skimmers swept in out of nowhere.

I spotted both a Swamp Sparrow and a Savannah Sparrow, while Boat-tailed Grackles filled the air with their endless vocal experiments.

Far in the distance, several large flocks of Black-bellied Whistling-Ducks moved across the sky.

I also caught sight of the Marsh Wren weaving through reeds. Photographing one unobstructed remains a challenge… maybe next time.

And overhead, at least three Snail Kites circled patiently, scanning the marsh below for snails.

Lastly, I had my very first sighting of a Smooth-billed Ani, a lifer!!!