Article by Adrienne Watkins, Mobile, AL.
The perfect fix for any outdoor junkie is by far kayaking the Mobile-Tensaw Delta. The Delta consists of over 200,000 acres of wetland environment with a plethora of plants and wildlife to observe. With over 300 species of birds that make their way through Alabama each year the Delta is easily a bird lovers delight.
Even with this in mind, while out on my own personal excursion, I had no idea I would see such a variety of birds as I did. Although common in this area it is always pleasant to spot the Brown Pelican dive-bombing into the water with their massive wingspan, or the Osprey plunging feet first to display their awesome hunting ability. Amongst the usual variety of Gulls and Terns we saw varieties of birds that are rarely seen in everyday life around buildings, roadways and human settlement.
The first great sighting of the day (besides several alligators) was a rookery of Prothonotary Warblers, with their breath taking neon yellow color. One paddler even saw a hummingbird but was unable to identify it because of its speed. Upon entering Little Bateau Bay we came across a family of Moorhens, who literally let me observe from just a few feet away. Along the same lines as a Moorhen we also spotted the brilliantly colored Purple Gallinule.
The wading birds were of great variety, we saw Great Blue, Little Blue and Night Herons and even the gorgeous Green Heron. We observed Great and Snowy Egrets as well as several Anhingas that were basking in the suns warmth after feeding. We then encountered the Glossy Ibis and White Ibis which were unmistakable with their long curved beaks.
Perhaps my favorite find of the day was the Black-Necked Stilt, which browsed along the waters edge alone, walking gracefully while picking up food with its long needle-like beak.
Overall, the trip was amazing, a definite fix to my outdoor addiction. The greatest part of all had to be the diversity. The amount of wildlife we saw in such a short period of time was almost overwhelming. I can only hope that everyone has an opportunity for such an experience in the Delta.
Thank you 5 Rivers Delta Safaris!
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