Anhinga courtship (Anhinga Anhinga) could be extremely amusing and very fast, as we were able to witness this past Saturday morning at Shark Valley, West entrance to Everglades National Park, while there on a Miami-Dade College photography class.
There had been some action, especially with Purple Gallinules that were very abundant and in plain view, some Snowy Egrets and Tricolored Herons dancing the water, the invariable and always present great Blue Herons.
It is breeding time for many of them, even a big alligator was rumbling calling for a mate. Early for them, but this year, the water level at the park is on the high side, accelerating some things.
A male Anhinga was doing his ritualistic wing dance to attract a female. Sure enough, this beautiful female answer and flew in. Some of us were standing right in front of the nest, that had just fledged two big female chicks, still hanging around the area, not missing a beat.
Well, it was love at first site and they proceeded to kiss and fence and celebrate the beauty of the day and the getting together. A couple of minutes later, they mated and, as expected, he climbed down the tree and brought a beautiful green branch, to her absolute delight
One more branch and another mating, before things settled and the nest was officially inaugurated. Let us hope that they can produce healthy chicks and no cold front gets in their way. It will be a beautiful location to photograph, just across the narrow canal, and as branchy as you can expect from a nest.
It was a privilege to witness the beginning of a new cycle of life.
CasaForns Blog 
WOW – Thanks for keepin’ on keepin’ on
Thanks, couz, long time no see 🙂
Just got a 24′ tri-hull pontoon with a 115 Honda. Thought it would be smooth enough even for the the “old man” in case you came out. My next stop is a fixed 500 and then I’ll be active again. I still intend on coming out to see you guys. I am pretty much retired now,
Would love for you to come down!!!! We are going the other way around, dumped the 500s and got little mirrorless Sonys.
Yes, I have been following your blogs but still must wonder how resolution and distance is resolved for large print sizes?? I’m using a 24-70 myself right now (HDR). I was thinking I would like to come out when the Ospreys are there next coming season. Please say Hi to Al for me and let me know in advance so I can plan a trip when the Ospreys AND you guys are there.
Luv Ya both – Bill
Great series of images on the Anhingas…..you are missed….hope to see you and Al out in the field
Fabulous story! Thank You
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WOW! great post!