Courtship

On the second half of my sea turtle patrol this morning, I witnessed an amazing performance by these two Great Blue Herons. My only conclusion is that it must have been a mating ritual, though it seems a bit late in the season.


Rounding the tip of the island at Pensacola Pass, I saw two Great Blue Herons about 100 feet in front of me. I stopped the Mule just long enough to pull out my camera, but realized I was still too far away for a good shot. I pulled forward another 25 feet or so, fearful that I would startle them into flying away.

Suddenly, in unison, both herons looked skyward, extending their necks. I moved the camera away from my face and looked up to see what had grabbed their attention. There was nothing in the vicinity which I could see.


The heron in the first position seemed to go into slow motion, walking alway from the shoreline and toward the dunes in a march. The second heron continued looking up and fell in behind the first.

Again, I moved the camera away from my face and looked up to see what had their rapt attention. No planes, no osprey, no gulls, no other people in sight - just two herons in a trance.

Continuing their march in slow motion...

What the heck is up there, guys?

Never wavering, he just looks toward the sky in a hypnotic state.

Oops, something happened, but I don't know what.

Then immediately went back to his strange, slow march across the sand.

I would love to hear from some of my blog followers who are birders. This was a fascinating event to witness.