We drove out to the Gulf a few days ago and walked the boardwalk at the Withlacoochee Gulf Preserve.
This is only the second time we've gone to this particular trail. The first time we went, it was hot and the bugs were terrible. (they weren't biting, just buzzing all over)
It was in the 70s on this beautiful day and we only saw one other person. And this is very good!
Gray Catbird in the tree along the trail
What a beauty!
Another view...you don't often see the rufous underside!
Because as much as I would love to declare this my favorite new trail, the narrow one lane road out to the trailhead is not ideal. If you were to meet someone, you would have to back up or find a wide spot in the road to pass another car. The road is winding so you can't look ahead either. But I'm sure we'll be back again. That's the good thing about having a 4WD Jeep!
And oh the things you will see!
We considered these birds our best siting.
Greater Yellowlegs
We watched them in the pond until they moved to another spot.
And we followed the boardwalk and watched them again.
We had hiked another trail in the morning so this was right after lunch.
Not the best time for birders but the perfect time to capture sparkles in the water!
Sparkles!
I could have stayed there all day soaking up the sun in this remote spot!
But it was time to drive home on the back roads of Florida.
The last time we drove to the Gulf, the Pink Elephant was missing!
Now we know why!
Don't you love a little mystery? And a drive off road? And a day spent at the Gulf Coast of Mexico?
Get out in nature no matter where you live. You'll be glad you did!
