This is one of those right place, right time stories. As usual, I was lagging at the tail end of our group of backpackers, taking photos and shooting video between Hickory Hammock and Bluff Hammock. Lori Burris, who led our group, stayed with me. After we descended the high bridge, most of the folks with us shuffled on ahead. I strolled along the long boardwalk and noticed a commotion in the trees. It was a caracara fussing. I pointed it out to Lori and her friend and they stopped to watch. Soon, another appeared. And another. More fussing and THEN they started mating. What a surprise! Not once, but twice. Lori got fabulous photos and I shot this video. Enjoy.
January 13, 2009 Sandra Friend