Meanwhile, at the Zoo

Spent 90 minutes or so at the zoo today. That's what I love about having a season pass, is that I can make a brief visit and not feel like I'm wasting my money, especially now that it's $10 to park, and $12 for admission. Zoo pass covers that all, plus lets me bring a friend along if I'm in the mood. I normally avoid the place on weekend days with good weather, simply because of the crowds, but it really wasn't that bad today.


One of the alligators was sunning himself right by the glass window, watching the people who were watching him. That pink on his back looks like they painted a pink stripe on him at some point, and it's wearing off. I have no idea why. They all look pretty much alike to me, but I'd have to think their keeper could tell them apart without a stripe.


The swans fascinate me. Sometimes I'll come, and just spend an hour watching them. Today they were in a very laid back mood, and didn't terrorize the ducks or anything. They can be mean, aggressive birds when the mood strikes them. The vegetation is just exuberant right now, remarkably so for April. It looks more like late May.
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A Balinese Mynah, in the Temple of Birds. The zoo's Bird Jungle is designed in such a way that you're standing on the porch of a (Buddhist?) temple looking out into the jungle.

Bird Time!

More from the Bird Jungle, from when I visited back in February. I didn't like these much at first, being too aware of what I saw vs. what I managed to capture. As time goes on, and memory fades, I like them better. Very pedestrian poses, without any action, but they're acceptable to me now. I'm that way with a lot of art and photography.


An Ibis of some sort, I'm sure, but don't know exactly what. He's by no means a pretty bird, but is elegant in his own way, with a great deal of presence.


More of the Balinese Mynah.


A Nicobar Pigeon. Most pigeons are iridescent to some extent, but this guy's pretty much the champ. Long, waterproof feathers too. He's prepared for the daily downpour.