If you look closely at the close-up version of the first photo, you can see on the trunks of 
the trees what the water level usually is. Nevertheless, we set out on the walking tour of 
the sanctuary, along a raised wooden boardwalk that runs for over 2 miles

We walked for about an hour before we saw our first bird, this woodpecker

We also came across this owl, sleeping in the hollow of a tree

I had assumed that these anhingas were drying out their wings, but according to this, they're 
really warming themselves in the sun after diving in the vegetation-covered pond below

More big wading birds. Joni stayed far, far away from them

As I said, it took awhile before we saw anything larger than a lizard or
a butterfly, but ultimately, it was worth it. Though certain little girls I
know get awfully tired (and heavy to carry) after Mile #1....

Photos from Naples, Florida, 01/2008