Weekend Continuation: Bald Eagle.

Memorial Day. I decided to skip my usual park and head to Bay Port, one of the oldest places in Hernando County with a rich history. But for me, it’s just a spot to snap some pics of all sorts of sea birds, including the majestic Bald Eagles. Lately, I haven’t been as lucky with them, and I thought I’d be home empty-handed again. But guess what? As I was about to leave, I spotted a huge bird in the distance. And right away, I knew it was a Bald Eagle! 

Most Americans think these birds only live north, but they actually also live in Florida, even as far south as South Florida. I’ve even seen them nesting there! 

Taking pictures of these birds is always a pleasure. 

Lizards

I love photographing lizards. They are territorial animals, and when you get close—sometimes too close—they’ll let you know. Head bobbing, push-ups, and dewlap displays (the colored flap under the throat) are common ways lizards communicate dominance, territory, or mating interest.

Stop! You are too close!

South Florida is a paradise for lizards. You can find both native species and ones imported from places like Cuba. Here in the central part of the state, they tend to disappear during the winter but return in the spring and summer.

So, What Happens to Common Florida Lizards in Winter?

1. Brown Anole (Anolis sagrei) – Non-Native (Cuban Origin)

• Behavior: Becomes sluggish during cold snaps, hides under debris or in warm crevices.

• Survival Strategy: Can handle short cold periods in central/south Florida but may die off in prolonged cold.

• Note: They're invasive, so cold winters sometimes help control their populations.

2. Green Anole (Anolis carolinensis) – Native

• Behavior: Brumates (goes dormant) during colder months, especially in central and northern Florida.

• Hiding Spots: Tree bark, logs, leaf litter, or inside buildings.

• Adaptability: More cold-hardy than brown anoles and can bounce back quickly when temps warm.

3. Knight Anole (Anolis equestris) – Non-Native (Cuban Origin)

• Behavior: Sensitive to cold. Often goes into torpor or dies during freezes.

• Region: More common in South Florida, rare in the center or north due to cold intolerance.

• Note: You may find them stunned on cold mornings.

4. Mediterranean Gecko – Non-Native

• Behavior: Hides in walls, attics, or warm places during winter.

• Adaptability: Can survive urban winters by living inside human structures.

5. Eastern Fence Lizard (Sceloporus undulatus) – Native

• Behavior: Brumates in logs, under rocks, or buried in loose soil.

• Location: More common in northern and central Florida; they are well adapted to seasonal temperature changes.

From last weekend

In Florida, whenever you're near any body of water, you should always assume there may be alligators. This small lake near my home was completely dry for several months last year. Thanks to the last two hurricanes, it has water again. While in the past I had only seen one alligator swimming around, this past weekend I was lucky enough to photograph two of them cruising very close to each other.

They are impressive animals. They’ve been on this planet longer than we have, and at least in Florida, they’re here to stay.

 Here is the video that I took last weekend showing wildlife around the lake. 

Baby Alligator

Alligators in Florida are, quite literally, everywhere, and their presence is deeply woven into the state’s natural landscape and culture.

With over 1.3 million alligators estimated to live in the state, they can be found in virtually every freshwater body, including lakes, rivers, swamps, marshes, ponds, canals, and even some brackish environments. From the Everglades to suburban retention ponds and golf course water hazards, it’s not uncommon for Floridians to spot an alligator sunning itself along a bank or gliding stealthily through water.

Their widespread presence is due in part to strong conservation efforts. American alligators were once on the brink of extinction in the mid-20th century due to unregulated hunting and habitat loss. However, through federal and state protections, they’ve made a remarkable recovery and are now considered a conservation success story.

If there’s water, there are most likely alligators—that’s the rule you should follow. Even if you don’t see them, they see you. This baby alligator was watching me without moving a muscle for a long time, and if it hadn’t been for his nose breaking the calm surface of the lake, I wouldn’t have noticed him at all.

Wildlife Photography Tips

 Here is an article that I found very useful for those already into wildlife photography. 

For decades, OM SYSTEM Ambassadors Joe and Mary Ann McDonald have traveled the globe, documenting wildlife in its natural element through their photography.

This husband-and-wife team photographs birds, reptiles, mammals, and marine life across all seasons and continents. Their extensive experience, from photographing bison and wolves in Yellowstone to penguins in Antarctica, has yielded invaluable insights. The photography team shares practical tips that have helped them improve their wildlife photography, especially when tackling challenging conditions.

Breakfast in America

This is a picture from last weekend’s photoshoot. Of course, while I was looking through the viewfinder, I didn’t notice the bug in the beak—it was only during post-editing that I spotted it.

I’ve been following a couple of Sandhill Cranes to see where they were nesting, and last weekend, I finally found the spot. I have to say, these guys are late, because by now, most of them already have babies.

 

They chose a spot on a small island close to the shore of the lake—hidden and safe from predators living around the area.

I love squirrels

 I love squirrels—what’s not to love about them? Well, unless you have an avocado tree in your yard. If you haven’t experienced one of them attacking your trees, these animals are adorable and among the most photographed by me.

Birds portrait photography

I'm fascinated by bird portrait photography. While capturing the entire bird showcases the vivid colors of its feathers, shooting portraits highlights the beauty of its eyes. Birds' eyes come in a stunning variety of colors. Click on the image to zoom in and appreciate the details.

 

Human contamination

Human contamination of nature is a serious problem. If you don’t understand its impact, just look at this picture of a seagull trying to eat a red plastic floater.

 

 

Sleeping Squirrels

In this video, wildlife photographer Dani Connor explains how she captured photos and videos of sleeping squirrels—a project that took her two years to complete.

 

From Last Weekend

Last weekend was a long weekend with a lot of activity, I shot more than 1200 pictures starting with a Karate Event last Saturday. Here are some of my favorite pictures from the event. 

 

A funny moment!

You can see the rest of the HD pictures of this event here. There photographs were taken using the EF70-200 L f2.8, my favorite lens for this type of events. 

During Sunday and Monday I resumed my normal activities doing some wildlife photography.

These pictures were taking using the EF100-400 L, with a 1.4x. 

 

 

Getting close

Some people think that once you get a zoom lens you are ready for wildlife photography but the reality is that even with zoom lens you need to get close to your subject to get quality photos. This vide from Paul Miguel is all about this topic. 

To be always ready

I can’t overstate the importance of always being ready as a wildlife photographer. The BBC recently published an article that perfectly illustrates what I mean.

Just the other day, I was at a local park with a lake when an otter suddenly emerged from the bushes, sprinting toward the water. By the time I raised my camera and attempted to take a photo, it was too late. The otter had disappeared into tall grass, and the camera couldn’t lock focus. I had missed the brief moment when it ran across the shorter grass, clearly visible.

It felt like I’d lost a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to photograph one of the most graceful animals I’ve ever encountered.

Spot were I lost view of the otter.

Hide and Seek

Sometimes animals behave in ways that mimic human activities and even games, like this squirrel that decided to play hide-and-seek with me.

 

I finally got it

In 10 years I have taken many pictures of hummingbirds perched but never of one flying. Today I finally had that opportunity. 

Inwas about to end my walk today when I saw it flying around and I mananaged to take 3 pictures in one single burst.

Settings for Wildlife Photography

There aren’t necessarily right or wrong settings—there are settings that work well for you and your specific shooting situation. I chose the following video because it perfectly explains my approach and settings to wildlife photography.

The Best Canon Mirrorless Cameras for Wildlife and Sport Photography

In this article I will do my best to create a list of Canon cameras that I believe are ideal for wildlife and sports photography. I'll also share my personal recommendations based on my experience and specific needs.

• Canon EOS R1, Recommended for Professionals Only, Full Frame, 24.2 MP back illuminated stacked sensor, New ($6299), Used (),  Expected to be released in Nov 2024. Canon Flagship. The overall opinion is that this is the best Canon Camera that money can buy but the differences between this camera and the R3 are not substantial and most photographers would probably buy the R3 and save almost $2000. Big and Heavy. Uses a new Digic Accelerator ship optimized to minimize rolling shutter, and enables up to 40 fps with the electronic shutter. Dual Card Slot. Includes Action Priority, a new feature that allows to enhance AF when used at Sport Events. Includes Eye Control. Includes In Body Stabilization.Good Low Light Performance. 40 FPS in Electronic Mode.It uses a different battery than the R5, R6 and R7: LP-E19. No Rolling Shutter. Full weather sealed.
• Canon EOS R3, Recommended for Professionals, Full Frame, 24.1 MP back illuminated stacked sensor, New ($4499), Used ($4000), before the release of the R1 this was Canon's Flagship. Big and Heavy. Dual Card Slot. Includes Eye Control but it's not as sophisticated as the one used in the new R1 and R5 Mark II.  Includes In Body Stabilization. Good Low Light Performance. 30 FPS in Electronic Mode. It uses a different battery than the R5, R6 and R7: LP-E19. No Rolling Shutter. Full weather sealed.
• Canon EOS R5 Mark I, Recommended if you do not want or can't pay for the R5 Mark II. Full Frame, 45 MP non stacked sensor , Hard to find New ($2999), Used ($2480), Dual Card Slot: CFexpress and SD Card. CFexpress are the faster cards available and this will add an extra cost if you decide to buy this camera. Includes In Body Stabilization. Good Low Light Performance. 20 FPS in Electronic Mode. Very low  Rolling Shutter. No fully weather sealed.
• Canon EOS R5 Mark II, Recommended, Full Frame, 45 MP back illuminated stacked sensor, New ($4299), No available Used (), Uses a new Digic Accelerator ship optimized to minimize rolling shutter, and enables up to 30 fps with the electronic shutter. Dual Card Slot: CFexpress and SD Card. CFexpress are the faster cards available and this will add an extra cost if you decide to buy this camera. Uses a new type of battery LP-E6P that will add cost if you buy this camera. The old battery LP-E6NH used in R5, R6, R7 will still work with some limitations. Includes Action Priority, a new feature that allows to enhance AF when used at Sport Events. Includes Eye Control. Includes In Body Stabilization. Good Low Light Performance but reports indicate that the R5 Mark I performs better. 30 FPS in Electronic Mode. No Rolling Shutter.  No fully weather sealed.
• Canon EOS R6 Mark I, A good option if you do not want to pay for the R6 Mark II or the R5 Mark II. Full Frame, 20.1 MP non stacked sensor , Hard to find New ($1799), Used ($1499). This is the camera that I'm currently using. Dual Card Slot using SD Cards. Includes In Body Stabilization. Good Low Light Performance. 20 FPS in Electronic Mode. It uses the LP-E6NH Battery. Some  Rolling Shutter. No fully weather sealed.
• Canon EOS R6 Mark II, Recommended, Full Frame, 24.1 MP non stacked sensor , New ($1999), Used ($2029-$1949), Dual Card Slot. Includes In Body Stabilization. Good Low Light Performance. Auto Focus in this camera is more sophisticated than the one included in the R6 Mark I. 30 FPS in Electronic Mode. It uses the LP-E6NH Battery. Very low Rolling Shutter. No fully weather sealed. 
• Canon EOS R7, Recommended for Beginners and Amateurs, Crop Sensor, 32.5 MP non stacked sensor, New ($1399), Used ($1159), Dual Card Slot: Both SD Cards. Includes In Body Stabilization. Low Light Performance is not as good as the other cameras included in this list. Suffers from a heavy Rolling Shutter. It uses the LP-E6NH Battery. No fully weather sealed.
• Canon EOS R8, Recommended for Beginners and Amateurs, Full Frame, 24.2 MP non stacked sensor, New ($1299), Used ($1174), Single Card Slot, this is a negative point. Does not Include In Body Stabilization. Good Low Light Performance.Uses LP-E17 Canon Battery, smaller battery than the rest of the R cameras. Does not have a joystick in the back of the camera, a feature that help a lot in your image composition. Very low Rolling Shutter. No fully weather sealed.

Please note that there are other Canon mirrorless cameras on the market that are not included in my list. The reason for their exclusion is that their characteristics and features make them less suitable for wildlife and sports photography. However, this does not mean they are bad cameras; in fact, they may be ideal for other types of photography, such as portrait, family, landscape, or travel photography. 

In the Canon R ecosystem, the lower is the number, the better is the camera (E.g. R1 is the flagship, R8 is considered a Beginner camera).

Important Features for Wildlife and Sport Photography:

• In Body Stabilization. This is a very important point if you are using a lens that does not include stabilization or you are shooting without using a tripod.
  
• Dual Card Slot. Keep in mind that those cameras using CFExpress will add an extra cost to the initial price to pay for the camera. Keep in mind that Canon cameras do not include memory cards in the box.
• Low Light Performance.  While this point is important we need to say that this can be remediated by using Noise Reduction Software such as DXO PureRaw and Topaz Denoise.
  
• Auto Focus (AF) features and speed. 
• Staked Sensor, this feature will resolve Rolling Shutter issue when shutting in Electronic Shutter Mode. 
• Maximum FPS in Burst Mode. Useful when shooting fast action such as Birds in Flight.
  
• Sensor Format, Full Frame or Crop Sensor. Crop Sensors will give you an extra reach if you are using a full frame lens. They are also cheaper than Full Frame cameras. Full Frame cameras will perform better in low light and usually will give you better image quality. 
• Picture Resolution in Megapixels (MP). A higher resolution does not mean better images but having a higher resolution will give you more room to crop your image in post editing. Higher resolution results in more time in post processing and the need of more storage space to keep your files. If you are not cropping a lot I would say that 24 Megapixels the sweet spot.
  
• Weather sealing.
  

Summary

 As you can see, I’ve recommended the Canon R6 Mark II, R5 Mark II, R3, and R1. For those starting out, the R6 Mark II is my top pick. If you’re looking to save some money, the original R6 (used) is a solid choice. Typically, you’ll find that previous versions of any camera come at a more affordable price than the latest release. Once you’re confident that photography is a hobby you want to pursue, upgrading to the R6 Mark II would be a smart move.

If your budget allows, starting with the R5 Mark II is a fantastic option, especially if you're interested in wildlife or sports photography. The R3 and R1, with their higher price points, are ideal for professionals who rely on their cameras to make a living.

The R7 and R8 are good cameras, but they don’t quite match the power of the others in this lineup. While they’ll get the job done, you might soon find yourself wanting more, leading to an upgrade to the R6 or R5.

For those considering the used market, buying from eBay is an option if you want to pay the lowest price possible, but it does come with certain risks. I prefer companies like MPB or KEH, which offer a 6-month warranty on any used camera. When you purchase a camera from them labeled as "Like New" or "Excellent," you’re likely to get a camera in excellent condition, tested by their expert teams.

Lastly, the most important thing: go outside and enjoy your camera, whichever one you choose from my list. That’s what truly matters.

I got lucky this weekend

 This weekend, I photographed a Speckled Pigeon— a bird I never expected to see in Florida.

 

Normally, this pigeon is found in Africa, so it seems likely that it either escaped from a private owner or a zoo. It's a beautiful bird, isn't it?

Is the R5 Mark II a good camera for Safaris?

There’s nothing better than getting an expert opinion on the Canon R5 Mark II, especially from someone with authority in African safaris. But the question remains: Is the Canon R5 Mark II the right camera to take on an African safari?

In the right place at the right time

 Being in the right place at the right time and being ready to take the shot are just as important in wildlife photography as having the right gear and camera settings.

Squirrel looking at me from the nest. See EXIF by clicking on the picture. 

I took the above picture while hiking at Crews Lake Park in Pasco County. As I was walking away from the pier, I noticed a squirrel running toward a tree and disappearing into a hole. I thought that was the end of it until I saw its head sticking out of the hole, looking right at me.

This experience highlights an important lesson: you can’t make animals pose for you. Instead, you need to be ready to seize every opportunity nature presents. Knowing your camera and its settings is crucial—you should be able to adjust them quickly, almost instinctively, to capture those fleeting moments.