On the menu...waterbugs!

I worry sometimes just a tad too much about the critters on the Bayou. I have taken to feeding most everything that flies, crawls or slithers through the area and that, perhaps, is not necessary. I am quite sure that these animals got along rather well without my help back in the day. Still, I feel the need to supply handouts when the weather is not agreeable. For the past few days, the feeders have stayed well-stocked regardless of the numerous animals that made their way to them to get breakfast and supper. Even the waterbirds have come to realize that when I am on the pier, they will get a bit of help in finding their meals if needed. At least, I try. Most of the time, that help is not needed.

Pretty little rail hunting for breakfast!

There is a beautiful little rail that comes to visit occasionally if I sit very quietly on the end of the pier. She will venture out of the marsh grass and hunt for minnows or crabs in the shallows. If I have any handouts she will scoop these up appreciatively. She always keeps me in her sight but seems to have no fear. I suppose she knows that she can escape at any given time. She is much quicker than I would ever hope to be. I found out just how fast she is, today, as I tried to photograph her while she fished. I had hoped to get an "action" shot of her catching a minnow. I did..sort of...maybe...if you count that blur of her head as a good picture!

Snatch! And she has her prey!

I first noticed my little friend as Ezzy and I were on our way back to the house. There was a slight mist still falling from the overnight rains and it was enough to send us packing. The north wind caused that mist to bite! As we headed up the pier, a slight movement caught my eye..there in the marsh edge was the rail! She tilted her head as if to get a better look at the two strange beings on the pier. Ezzy stopped in her tracks..she knows to freeze if I hoist the camera. At first, the rail was a bit cautious of the flash of the camera. It was still a bit before sunrise and far too dark to take the pictures without the added light. After the third picture, though, she went about her business oblivious of my shenanigans! In the blear of the early morning mist, she stared into the water..watching..carefully watching for any wiggle that would indicate a bit of breakfast..then SNATCH! She had a bite-sized waterbug! With one quick toss of the head, the bug was down her throat and she was back hunting. Time and time again, she darted after the waterbugs and minnows. She was faster than they were and much, much quicker than my photography skills!

The rail's dagger like beak is used to grab bugs and minnows from the water.

I sat there for about twenty minutes before realizing that I was now soaking wet! The mist had turned to a fine rain and Ms. Ez and I were literally shaking with the cold! Time to head to the house for a hot mug of coffee for me and a warm blanket for Ezzy! The little rail will have to fend for herself this morning!

The rail's coloring makes it blend well with the marsh grass and provides protection!