Great Egret, Perched

This morning we drove from Florida's East Coast west to the Gulf Coast, across Alligator Alley (Route 75). We arrived at our rented apartment on Little Estero Lagoon, Fort Myers Beach, at midday.

I spent the afternoon wandering the beach and the lagoon, in the company of many birds. Choosing the blip was hard, but this Great Egret (Ardea alba) was on an unusual perch by the beach, about two meters off the ground at the top of a very small and flimsy tree. His balance was impressive, and he even climbed around and vocalized briefly, before finally flying off.

We're on the 6th floor with a western exposure, overlooking the lagoon; the sunset was lovely. It's at least our sixth visit to the immediate area--our favorite place in Florida.