Alafia River: once the "Hunting River" to Spanish explorers, "River of Fire" to Mocoso Indians. A historic 25-mile waterway in west-central Florida.

As nesting season unfolds, Great Blue Herons select mates based on intricate courtship rituals. By early March, nests brim with eggs, signaling the next generation of herons in the making. Don't miss the rare photo of a heron swallowing a three-foot salamander—it's nature at its most fascinating!

In the reopened Viera Wetlands, Boat-tailed Grackles thrive with their confident foraging and nest-building activities. Appreciate their vibrant breeding plumage, showcasing iridescent colors at their peak, as these courageous birds contribute to the wetlands' vibrancy and reveal a story of resilience and vigor.

In February, I immersed myself in the world of a Great Horned Owl family at Circle B Bar Reserve. These birds started their family journey as early as December. Welcoming a precious owlet in January, I became a privileged observer of their growth and familial bonds. As their story unfolds, my hope resonates for the continued thriving legacy of this remarkable owl family.

Wildlife at Circle B Bar Reserve. Pause, observe, and appreciate the natural world.

An early morning on the Space Coast reveals a vibrant cast.

Circle B Bar Reserve hums with life. From gator babies squeaking like sci-fi lasers to Sandhill Cranes etching synchronized paths across the sky. The marsh is full of motion.

Rainy day at Lake Apopka Wildlife Drive. I spotted a rare Gray-headed Swamphen, a species native to Asia that found its way to Florida in the 90s. Tree Swallows painted the sky with their graceful flight, making it a memorable outing, rain and all.

An afternoon exploring Myakka River State Park, where the wildlife shines! From the elegant Black-necked Stilt to the vibrant Roseate Spoonbill, all within the park’s beautiful landscape.

A journey of over 100 miles led me to Celery Fields, where vibrant Painted Buntings stole the show. Often called North America’s most beautiful bird, I was lucky to capture both a dazzling male and a vivid female. Alongside them, feeders buzzed with life - grackles, warblers, gnatcatchers! Also stopped by the Purple Martin house.

A morning of birding at Emeralda Marsh Conservation Area brought some great wildlife encounters - a Barred Owl, a Snail Kite in action, and a juvenile Little Blue Heron that had me guessing. But an unsettling discovery about playback photography left me reflecting on the importance of respecting nature while capturing its beauty.

Black-Bellied Whistling Ducks made a spirited entrance at Circle B, their distinctive calls echoing through the air. Capturing their playful antics proved to be a fun challenge, bringing both chaos and joy to the scene.

After Hurricane Idalia in August 2023, flamingos were spotted in unexpected spots as far as Kansas. These elegant birds made a comeback with over 150 sightings in Florida over four weeks. Intrigued, I embarked on a kayaking expedition to photograph them. Venturing to Bird Island off Haulover Canal, I had thrilling moments, mistaking a dolphin for a shark and capturing Cormorants taking flight at sunrise. Encountering a flamboyance of flamingos with their unique feeding ritual, I'm left wondering: will they stay or leave, revealing their survival story in Florida's changing landscape.

Nature's moments, even in the simplest walks, hold a certain magic.

At Merritt Island NWR, a gamble against gloomy weather, turned into natures own comedic show. Wading birds and ducks entertained with hilarious antics, from balancing acts to comedy routines. Nature, proving once again, that unexpected joy awaits those willing to embrace the outdoors.

Evening visit at Circle B Bar Reserve in Lakeland, a former cattle ranch now restored to native wetland habitat.

Evening at the park: Spotted an American Kestrel, a Yellow-rumped Warblers, and a poised Great Egret by the lakeshore.

Moments in nature's silent symphony.

Encountering Florida's endangered Black Skimmers at Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge was a rare privilege. Their distinctive foraging behavior captured my fascination.

Amidst the landscape of Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge, the American White Pelicans took center stage. They flew in the skies and congregated in the marshes, creating an ambiance of tranquility and camaraderie.