I went to the Raptor Center in Lucas yesterday. It was the first time in a long while I made it for the bird display. The Texas heat still played a large factor in reminding me why I tend to isolate during this season.
I went minimalist this time, just my I Phone-not with the telephoto opportunities I had previously, but this trip was more about being present rather than photography.
I listened to the presentation and was excited to see so many people, young and old appreciating nature and the birds did not disappoint even in the heat.
Mississipi Kites In North Texas
A Mississipi Kite sunned itself during the presentation, he really enjoyed the heat. I learned something- a Mississippi Kite usually has bright red eyes and it’s because of the red insects they eat in South America, since this one does not, it’s eyes lack the red tint. This is much like the flamingos that pass through South America, they are extra pink from the shrimp they feed on.
There is always something to learn on these trips, no matter what you think you know, there is so much more to discover.
The Vulture is Petunia and what a wonderful character she is, I had met her before but it was fun to watch her antics.
The Center is named after the Blackland Prairie- a shrinking treasure that they are in the process of conserving. It is important to get young children involved, to learn about their environment, to grow their passion for the planet.
Despite the heat, I took an opportunity to walk along the path and take just a moment to enjoy nature and an unspoiled landscape.
Thistle, Partridge Pea and Euphorbia, all elements of the landscape made for striking images, even just using my phone.
I have been to the center on several other occassions, please check out the previous trips.
Visiting the Blackland Prairie Raptor Center
Another exciting project I am embarking on is a series of raptor images from the all the trips to this wonderful place in Lucas, Texas. I will be creating a series of small notecards on the species and will donate the images for them to use however they see fit.