Ever since I moved to South West Florida I have been intrigued by the wild birds here. It is a thrill to observe and photograph them while visiting the bird sanctuaries where they are protected and feel quite safe to be in close proximity to humans. I'll never forget the pelican which sidled up to me and nipped my bare leg! Herons are wading birds and cannot dive for their food. They often go hungry during the dry winter months here and many of their babies perish.