The ice is finally gone from New Jersey’s Great Swamp and the emergence of amphibians and reptiles are making things a bit more interesting. Mating season for certain species, like the red-winged blackbirds has given me a better look into animal behavior. And I expect soon to know much more about the reptiles I hope to spot. But for now I’ll take anything that scurries. Here are a few pictures from my latest walks, some not as fruitful as others. I’ve been working on cropping and getting cleaner sight lines, pushing my aperture toward 5.6, and hopefully learning about some new species. Like these, I believe, painted turtles. Its amazing how different the Swamp is when the bugs start coming out. Thanks for stopping by! Feedback welcome.
Every night around sundown, these red-winged blackbirds go to their favorite perch, and puff out their feathers, and make themselves known to neighboring females.
Bonus Backyard birding, I got a cheap feeder, and whenever the squirrels aren’t hogging it, its brought in some woodpeckers, as well as the usual residents, Bluejay’s and Cardinals.
Hopefully next time I will have some frogs, toads and salamanders for you. Until then!
FULL BLEED PHOTOGRAPHY 
Nice assortment of birds and animals! Following your example, I’ll have to try and get up to the Great Swamp one of these days. A few years ago, I went and saw snakes and turtles.
Be sure to bring boots! thanks for viewing
great post. love the birds and chipmunk
These photos are beautiful!! And thank you for liking my post! Much love