“Ok Folks…Let’s All Just Back Off And Give Him Some Room…”
It was a busy evening in the salt marsh last night. Many birds were in feeding at low tide. But it was not just the egrets and wood storks who were interested in all the fish that could be found swirling around in the water. An alligator made a surprise appearance as well. Alligators do not live in the salt water of the marsh, but they will make brief visits. When the possibility of a nice meal of fish brought in by the rising tide presents itself, everybody including the alligator wants to take advantage of that situation. The birds know that the gator presents no significant threat, it is only interested in scooping up fish. However, the birds will keep their eyes open and generally maintain a respectful distance. This ends up working to everyone’s advantage as the alligator’s actions can stir up fish which the birds are more then happy to grab.
Phil Lanoue Photography 
Phil that is so cool. I love to look at your posts every morning I read you and Matt and not the paper with my coffee.
About what time it the best to go down there at early evening? Me and my little Canon (SX40HS) would love to try
to grab some photos like you and your BIG DOG Canon.
Thanks for checking out the photo Geri May. A good time to hunt for bird photo opportunities is about an hour after low tide in the salt marsh.
Very cool shot! I jsut love how the birds know when it is time to keep their distance.
Thanks Molly! Sometimes the birds look like they are completely ignoring the alligators but I know that’s not entirely the case.