This is the second of a series of posts on the birds of Alameda, CA. The first post was “Mallards of Alameda”. Along the southwestern shoreline of Alameda proper are tidal flats that attract many shorebirds. Some of the photos seen here were taken on those flats. Located across the San Leandro channel from this piece of shoreline is Bay Farm Island. A friendly birder told me about an egret rookery that is located along an artificial channel that winds through a fancy subdivision on the island. The rookery is located in a large pine tree, and adjacent trees, that stand just yards from condos and churches. Those walking, jogging or biking along a paved path that passes under these trees have to be on their guard against being splattered with bird shit. Courtship activity was in full swing when I visited these sites in Alameda, with the male egrets posturing with plumes extended, fighting and chasing females.
Egret rookery
Great Egret
Great Egret
Snowy Egret
Snowy Egret
Snowy Egret
Snowy Egrets and nest
Great Egret
Great Egret
Snowy Egret
Snowy Egret male chases female
Snowy Egret
Black-crowned Night Heron
Wow! Great captures. never seen so many in one place.
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Thanks!
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