Marlborough Sounds - New Zealand

                                  With only a few exceptions every bird I've seen here is new to me!  I haven't met any Americans yet, so I'm doing my best to represent Iowa kayakers....so far holding my own, I think.  :)

Adventures in Kayaking

Canoesports Outfitters EXPO 2011

Don't miss the fun!

Morning Solitude

Low Tide in the Morning on Pavillion Key

Dark Blue and Orange Hues with Circles and Lines

Smile

You really can't tell from this photo, but this fellow was VERY big (15 - 17 ft) ....and, he was watching us.  Doesn't it look like he's smiling?  American Alligator - Alligator mississippiensis (can you say that three times fast).

Everglades Osprey

North American Osprey - Pandion Heliaetus Carolinensis

 The Osprey thrives in the Florida Everglades.  On my morning walks along the shores I was often visited by this majestic raptor.

Consider the meaning of the Osprey’s scientific name:  “Pandion” refers to the mythic King of Athens whose daughters were turned into birds in Greek mythology.  “Haliaetus” comes from the Greek word “Halos” (Sea or Salt) combined with “Aetos” or Eagle.  Thus - ' Sea Eagle'.

I was once fortunate to hold one of these magnificent birds for a brief moment and look into her eyes....perhaps she now lives in the Everglades.  I hope one day she will return to  Lake Red Rock in Iowa.