A short afternoon visit to Deer Prairie Creek Preserve in Venice, Florida. Nice day, beautiful landscapes and a photogenic and cooperative Limpkin (Aramus guarauna).
This preserve is another very large, multi-use area owned by the Southwest Florida Water Management District. Located on the eastern banks of the Myakka River, it protects the watershed of the river and into Charlotte Harbor.
Feeding Limpkin.
The field guides say that Limpkins feed on Apple Snails, but this one had other ideas.
I think these are Asian Clams (Corbicula flumenea).
The newly opened South Entrance is closest to the kayak launch, small lake, picnic area, and is handicap accessable.
Thistles
Cattails and Water Hemlock.
One of several covered picnic tables.
Trails are well marked and maintained.
Equestrian use is allowed in the northern end of the preserve.
Water Hyancinth (Eichhoria crassipes).
Live oak (Quercus virginana) with Spanish Moss (Tillandsai usenoides).
Looking for that perfect landscape shot!