For those who enjoy birds, or even for the serious birder, the Shark Valley area is becoming a very special place! While we will always be best known for the alligators and the nearness of them, people who enjoy birds should not miss what is happening here this year.

In the past week the activities of mating season have taken on a high pitch of activity. One would almost think that somehow even the birds know that Valentine's Day is rapidly approaching!

The birds are, three young anhingas with father on the nest, a purple gallinule collecting flowers for his lady, a pair of wood storks roost near the newly constructed nest, and a snowy egret is performing to attract a mate.