Fall 2012 - Updated Jan-2nd-2012

Rookery islands in Robert's Bay near Siesta Key Florida:

At this time Florida shore birds feed on the flats in the tidel pools during low tides. Some species dive for bait fish known as glass minnows, thread fins and alantic sardines. Many birds hang around the boat launches and bait stands looking for scraps from local fisherman cleaning fish. Dolphins can be seen swimming and playing in the bays and Intra Coastal Waterway. Manatees are enjoying the grass flats located in quite locations in the back bays.

Many species of snow birds have arrived. More loons than in the past it seems and the white pelicans are in larger numbers than in the past. There must be several hundred in north Sarasota Bay in the Long Bar areas. Cormorants, Great Blue Herons and Great White Egrets are building nests at the Siesta Rookery. The Great Blue Herons are already feeding chicks.

Double-crested Cormorants – Everywhere, nesting has begun.

Anhingas – Every now and then you may spot one or two.

Great Blue Herons– Everywhere, nesting has begun and chicks have arrived.

Tri-Colored Herons – Spot one or two each trip.

Night-Herons – See a few every trip.

Great White Egrets – Always in the area, nesting has begun.

Snowy Egrets – Always in the area.

Cattle Egrets – Here and there.

Brown Pelicans - Always around.

American White Pelicans  -  Several around the rookery, many in north bay.

Roseate Spoonbills – A few hanging around the islands.

Vultures – A few around.

Oyster catchers – See a few almost every trip.

Skimmers - Seen fishing along the beaches early in the morning and on sandbars inside the bay.

Opsreys - Always in the area, nesting has begun.

Eagles - A few around - don't see them every trip.

I will do my best to keep this report updated, however if you would like the most current update for the Sarasota area please feel free to email me at terry.frankford@verizon.net I'm on the water several times a week guiding fishing, photography, and birding trips I would be glad to share my sightings with anyone interested.

Capt. Terry Frankford
Reelin & Chillin Charters Inc.
941/228-7802
www.wildshotsphotography.com
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