We're having a little excitement around here as a celebrity visitor is has been showcasing its beauty at a local beach. Folks have been traveling from near and far for the opportunity to meet this unusual guest to Lee County.
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| American Flamingo at Bunche Beach |
Many people think of this visitor as a Florida icon, but American Flamingos are not often easily seen in the Sunshine State. A very small number have been seasonal in hard to reach sites in Everglades National Park, as well as recent sightings in restricted areas of Palm Beach County. But last week this bird appeared at Bunche Beach Preserve, providing exquisite views for the many birders flocking to the site. An Awesome bird.
My speculation on the provenience of the Flamingo could possibly be associate with the El Nino effect in the Pacific Ocean. As the bird lacks any leg bandings, it can be assumed the it is not an escapee, but a wild bird. Unusual wind patterns and strong thunderstorms coming across the Gulf of Mexico could have pushed the bird from its wintering grounds in Mexico to our coast. Hope it sticks around for awhile.
Nice report, Tom. Great flight shots! The American Flamingo should certainly be considered a Florida icon because of the bird's presence at Florida zoos and theme parks.
ReplyDeleteNice action shots Tom! I was hoping for some of those myself but nevertheless the time spent with the flamingo was really special.
ReplyDeleteCan anyone tell me if the flamingo is still being seen?
ReplyDeleteCan anyone tell me if the flamingo is still being seen?
ReplyDelete