Nighthawks and gators at Anahuac wildlife refuge

What are you stopping for?

This little Nighthawk was sitting in the middle of the paved one-way loop around Shoveler Pond at Anahuac National Wildlife Refuge.

Actually I didn't know what kind of bird it was so I posted the pic to iNaturalist. Almost immediately three birders responded: Common Nighthawk (Chordeiles minor). I'm sure they also rolled their eyes when I listed it as some type of "bird."

This pic was taken from the driver's side of the car. When I got out on the passenger's side to see if I could get a better angle, it flew away.

Did it think it was camouflaged on the roadway? Bird guides say Common Nighthawks are usually hard to see when they land and like to nest on gravel roofs.

We also played spot the alligator while we were wandering the park.

This baby gator made a noise, otherwise it probably would not have been spotted.

It's pretty cute.

Wildlife along the trails at Anahuac

With temps in the 70s it has been a nice couple of January days to enjoy mosquito-free trails in comfort.

At Anahuac National Wildlife Refuge the alligators must still be sleeping because the frogs felt safe enough to sun by the piers.

We saw a Double-crested Cormorant come up with a fish it had speared.

The fish also caught the attention of a Great Blue Heron, which swooped over the Cormorant a couple of times as it swam away with its fishing prize.

When it had trouble swallowing the fish, the Cormorant decided to take it around the bend. The heron followed.

I don't know which bird won the battle, but the fish was definitely a loser.

Lunchtime drama.

The stalker.

And there were plenty of sparrows flitting up, down and all around.

I see you see me see you.

Left eye raptor

This turkey vulture at Anahuac National Wildlife Refuge was watching us with its good eye.

The bird's good side.

And its damaged eye.