Richard Moore Outdoor Report: Wildlife Reflections

RIO GRANDE VALLEY, Texas (ValleyCentral) — Sunrise floods the sky with lush golden-orange hues reflected in wildland waters as creatures of the chaparral begin stirring.  

A solitary curlew begins a morning stroll, each step reflected in the tranquil surface, while nearby a foursome of spoonbills languidly grooms before wading off to feed. 

Early rich light reveals a herd of does cautiously arriving for a drink, their tawny coats shimmering in still waters. Wary deer, they don’t all lower their heads at once, as some are always alert for ambush at the oasis.

An alligator glides lethally shoreward before halting and ominously submerging, plotting a possible secretive strike.

The devious maneuver has not gone unnoticed by waterfowl and shorebirds, as all maintain vigil for the toothy submarine. 

A morning parade of wildlife flows to life-giving water, with each creature’s countenance reflected in the smooth surface, from thirsty cottontail rabbits to myriad colorful birds. 

A pair of leopard frogs crouches quietly in the shallows, their throats moving rhythmically as they patiently wait for a tasty insect to snap up. However, stoic frogs may be on the morning menu as an indigo slithers into the pond in search of prey.   

The serpentine threat has frogs huddling together seeking safety in numbers. 

While black snake poses a serious threat, frogs also need to avoid being skewered by the sharp bill of a stalking great egret. 

The top predator at this South Texas oasis is mirrored in placid water, as piercing yellow gold eyes of the bobcat seek potential prey to pounce upon. 

Throughout the day, wildlife come and go, and a covey of quail quivers on high alert, quickly dipping their beaks while constantly scanning for any lurking threat. 

Denizens of the chaparral take their final sips: their mirrored images soon to fade with the setting sun as another day comes full circle in the South Texas wildlands.