Prints in the sand Fishing, a common bondGreat Black-backed gull
There is no mistaking the identity of this gull, it is the largest in the world. It stands about 16 to 32 inches and weights about 64oz. Leg color, pale pink; eye color, pale yellow; bill color, yellow with red on lower mandible; back and wings, black.
The gull, in my photos above, is at least four years old, because it takes that long for it to transition to the dark, black back.
The Great Black-backed Gull is one of many bird species whose feathers were used for fashionable clothing in the 1800s. After the demise of the feather trade in the early 1900s, Great Black-backed Gull populations increased and spread farther south. Garbage dumps and other sources of human refuse have contributed to their range expansion.
Sharing with Eileen at Paying-Redy-Attention; Saturday’s Critters http://viewingnaturewitheileen.blogspot.com/2015/01/saturdays-critters-58.html
A few days ago, I spent a few hours walking on the beach at Hobe Sound, Florida. I couldn’t wait to sink my toes into the warm sand.
Happiness is feeling the ocean breeze on my skin; the sight of the sky, water and sand as they kiss each other in harmony; and observing the gorgeous shore birds as they search for food fighting against the power of this environment.
We have arrived back on the east coast of Florida staying at Jonathan Dickinson State Park near Hobe Sound, Florida. The beach at Hobe Sound is only four miles away from camp and I look forward to many more beach treks.
“You ate that already?”“Now you want more?”This Royal Tern said, “who put this thing on my leg?”Mesmerized
While hiking in Jonathan, I have had the pleasure of seeing the beautiful Florida Scrub Jay!
Coming up next…
Great Black Backed Gull, Ring Billed Gull, Willet, Sanderling, Ruddy Turnstone and more
Footprints in the sandHobe Sound BeachA breathtaking shorelineSerene
~
The Atlantic Ocean, changes color, almost instantly.
The sun and its light, play a lead part in determining these colors.
The weather plays a huge roll in creating its moods.
The wind, the master, shape the waves pounding the shore.
The rise and fall of the sea, caused by the effects of the moon and the sun (gravitational forces) create the tides. Its vibe!
All life, along the shoreline, are dependent on these forces, creating the right combination for existence.
~
A Sanderling, hunting for food along the shoreline and competing with dozens more that wanted the tiny morsel she was able to catch.
To me the out of focus (with one tinted) photos below, showcase the ocean’s vibe and its mighty forces.
She depends on the shore for her existence.
Waiting for food
Found a morsel
Able to live another day
Hunting, running to survive
We have enjoyed the four mile drive to this beach, while visiting Hobe Sound, Florida. A breathtaking beach, quite, clean and teaming with life’s energy. Wednesday, we leave the serenity of the ocean behind.
Wolf Song Blog 