This series of photographs is a harbinger of things to come, I hope!
This was my first visit to Lemmon Lake located in the Joppa Preserve area of the Great Trinity Forest. This unique lake attracts a number of exotic wading birds that just are not found in other parts of the city, and which are rarely seen anywhere. White Ibises, Glossy Ibises, White-faced Ibis, Roseate Spoonbills, and Wood Storks all reportedly can be found here at certain times of the year.
So, what is it about this lake that makes it so attractive to these birds? Well, first is the lake’s remoteness. This lake is very difficult to get to. The water is ringed by a formidable barrier. To get a clear view of the lake, first you have to traverse nearly 100 yards/meter of Black Willow swamp. After that is another 100 yards/meters of reeds and peat bog. Alligators and Water Moccasins are a part of the mix as well.
The lake is also shallow, just the right depth for these birds to wade in. And, finally, the lake is nutrient rich and full of insects, frogs, bait fish, and crayfish. In short, this place is a wading bird’s paradise.
There is a lot of shoreline to explore around this lake. I hope to find a prime viewing spot or two. Until I do, I most likely will only be allowed fleeting glimpses of the exotic birds that call Lemmon Lake home.
These pictures of a White Ibis are to whet your appetite. They are a first for me, and are a promise of more discoveries to come. I will definitely be going back for more.
Observations Details
| County | – | Dallas |
|
| City | – | Dallas | |
| Date | – | Jun 3, 2012 | |
| Time of Day | – | Noon | |
| Temperature | – | Hot (greater than 89°F/32°C) | |
| Weather | – | Clear | |
| Habitat | – | Recreation-Park | |
| Type of Behavior | – | Feeding | |
| Gender | – | Uncertain | |
| Maturity | – | Adult | |
| Observer | – | Chris Jackson |
