Not a picture you would want to frame on the wall, I know. Still, it further documents this bird in the county, which is noted as Extremely Rare or having occured less that 10 times.
I encountered this juvenile/subadult, you can tell the age by the yellow bill, while walking in 100 degree heat looking for nothing in particular. I also encountered 2 Roseate Spoonbills(Platalea ajaja), 1 American Avocet(Recurvirostra americana) amongst an enormous number of Great Egrets(Ardea alba). The first 2 species an uncommon species in the area as well. But with the copious amounts of rain the state got earlier in the summer, who know what other waders found their way up here?
Wood Storks(Mycteria americana) are incredible birds, particularly when encountered in larger numbers. They are the largest wading bird encountered in North America measuring in a about 40 inches in length and sporting a 61 inch wingspan. Seeing a group of these guys take off in a stiff morning wind, without a wing flap, is a quality experience.
Flocks forage in fresh water by slowly walking, with bill held open and down into the water ready to close on contact with prey, generally fish. They are often in a line walking together to onside, slowly...then pivot and turn the opposite way in unison. A remarkable syncronized behavior.
The bird pictured outside of Waco, TX was a lone juvenile, hangin' con las garzas.
It doesn't take long for flood conditions to turn to mudflats. It's been 100+ degrees in this area. Looks to continue for some time.
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