Along Rookery Road

Rookery Road winds along the eastern half of Lake Martin.  Mostly consisting of rock gravel, it's a dusty and bumpy  ride.  At least it's wide enough to park without blocking others from passing. My husband and I made several trips along this road in our pursuit to seek out birds and other wildlife in the area.  

Portions of the swamp near the southern end of the road are literally covered in duckweed which gives it a bright green, slimy appearance.  The duckweed dissipates and water hyacinth dominates the swamp near the northern end of Rookery Road.  

On my right side (heading north) I viewed some tropical appearing plants (I don't recall the botanical name of these green fan-shaped plants), beautiful yellow wildflowers growing alongside the road, several turtles warming up on logs, a unique camp house, an old wood-framed house (I like old houses), cows in a pasture of yellow wildflowers (signs of spring), squirrels and a variety of birds.

Among the birds we viewed- Red-winged Blackbird, Pied-billed Grebe, Barred Owl, Killdeer, Yellow-rumped Warbler and White-throated Sparrow.  

Thanks for reading!  Have a wonderful, safe weekend!
Linked with Eileen for Saturday's Critters

Mississippi Gulf Coast: Ocean Springs Small Craft Harbor

After leaving Point Park in Pascagoula, my hubby and I traveled west along Highway 90 until we reached Ocean Springs then south to the small craft harbor.  With a portion of sandy beach, a couple of super nice piers with covered pavilions and long rock jetties, this harbor attracts visitors of all ages. 

It also attracts a variety of birds,

including dozens of Rock Pigeons...

Double-Crested Cormorants...

American Oystercatchers...

Killdeer (some were hiding behind the rocks)...

Ruddy Turnstones (not a clear picture, but this little couple was snuggling)...

Lots and lots of European Starlings...

And, of course, Brown Pelicans...

There is a pretty view of the Mississippi Sound from the harbor and I've heard the sunsets are spectacular.  Of all the harbors along the gulf coast that I've visited, this one is among my favorites.

If you're ever in the Ocean Springs area, 

a visit to the small craft harbor is well worth your time. 

Thank you for visiting...have a wonderful evening!

Photos taken November 30, 2014