Estero Llando, Saying Good-byes 3/23

After our belongings were packed up and ready to take to the Honda, we drove to Estero Llando Grande State Park.  It was our destination 3-5 times each week for photo classes, scheduled walks and our walk through the park. It was humid and warm when we arrived but misty and cool by the time we left. I sat with May in the Tropical Area by the hummingbird feeders, while Rick, Gunnar and Benton chatted near by. We had a few hummingbirds sitting and feeding but it was a dreary day for lighting. Jim and Judy happened by so we could say our farewells to them and Karen and Dale also. Estero is the best birding park with wonderful volunteers. See you next year. 

                                           Immature Buff-bellied Hummingbird

 Black-chinned Hummingbird male

 Ruby-throated Hummingbird male

Male Ruby-throated Hummingbird in poor lighting.

     George and his family came by as they were looking for the bathroom and then birds. George and his mother (whom home schools him and his two sisters) came to photograpy classes. He is 10 years old and has a camera similar to Gunnar's, which he bought from the prize money he won from a  photo contest last year. His family is delightfully centered on their children with their children's interests in learning. RoseAnn and Jerry from South Padre told us about a boy with a camera and this family.  So they are know in the birding circles from Mission to South Padas well as Estero Llando Grande. 

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                This is one of George's younger sisters.The lovely flowers from the Orchid Tree were  picked off the ground. The flowers matched her blouse perfectly.