We always visit the Apopka Wildlife Drive when in the New Syrma Beach area. But this year SEVAS (South East Volusia Audubon Society) arranged a special tour, via tram, to areas within the preserve that cannot be visited under normal circumstances.
It was interesting getting back into areas we had never seen before. However the whole experience was geared to beginning birders, so there were many fewer birds and we frequently stopped for things we’d normally drive by such as Red-winged Blackbird.
Unlike the typical experience where there are few sparrows, this one had sparrows dominating. This was a Savannah Sparrow.
Here’s a great shot of a very dark Song Sparrow.
These were to only Black-bellied Whistling Ducks that we saw, typically we see 100s.
One of two Purple Gallinules (typically many more).
Limpkin.
We saw a decent number of raptors like Red-shouldered Hawk (left) and Merlin (right).
The highlight for most people was the pair of Sandhill Cranes with two “colts” the term for fledgling cranes.
So – the bottom line. Was this an enjoyable experience – yes. Would I do it again – no. Twenty people meant that it was too noisy, as it was a big social event as well as looking for birds.
More tomorrow…
Michael's Place 
Love your photos of the red shouldered hawk and merlin. I used to see a red shouldered hawk around Miller and Wagner Roads, and saw one once in the Everglades. They are stunningly beautiful. It is amazing how people treat a bird walk, where they should be keeping their mouths shut and their ears and eyes open, like a trip to Disney! Even when I go on an Alan Devoe Bird Club walk here in Columbia County, NY, it is such a huge group that the walking en masse degenerates into conversations! Instead of everyone listening and ENJOYING THE QUIET!! A colleague who is a serious birder and has gone to Peru, Hawaii, etc for birds says that on the trips he goes to, no one speaks! That would be great! Thanks for sharing.
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