Shipley & Pond Apple Trail

There has been a lot of progress at the Bailey Homestead and the Shipley Trail is looking really lovely....come and take a look....

As I entered the trail, I couldn't resist admiring these Cassia blooms....

also a new sign has sprouted on the north side of the trail...

and look at these vines producing natural arches...

in the background more Cassia blooms.

The trail took me to the reclaimed water pond area and WHOA! Now, judging from the distance between the eye balls and the tip of his nose, I'd say this is a 8-9ft gator....I hadn't seen one that big in that pond before.

An Eastern Phoebe welcomed me as I made my way to the Pond Apple Trail.

I was glad to see that the DQ Eagle was around, well camouflaged in that Australian Pine, wouldn't you say?

A Better view of the Bald Eagle - I wonder where his mate is.

He took off while I was watching and he flew to another Australian Pine by the reclaimed water pond....see the tree....

and the Bald Eagle in the tree - gotta love this Canon SX50 camera - not too many outfit can bring you this close to your subject.

A Pileated Woodpecker flew quickly by me while......

I was watching this lady Anhinga

I made a point of scouting the entire water's edge just to make sure the gator was not laying on the side of the road waiting to surprise me.....aha.....

turns out he was using the path to bask....

I was right on my estimation - this is a big gator

a sneaky grin too. Soon after he up and went into the water when he realized more people were coming.....the path was clear to proceed.

A male American Kestrel is more my cup of tea....

Back to where I started I can see a Great Blue Heron feeling quite comfortable in these new digs.

 The construction is just about done, as a matter of fact the SCCF nature garden has made its move and will have a soft opening next week, the Bailey Homestead is scheduled to open early 2016. I will keep you all updated and I will pass the word around that it's a great spot for the birds to stop by. My E-bird list for today.