Some birding before my migration

The family was in Lake Charles this past weekend, taking the opportunity to hang out with the R. family. While Casinos really are not my style, I will admit to enjoying the hotel’s “lazy river” pool and the swim-up bar. But then shpilkes seized me and I headed out for a full day of solo birding.

As I was staying in Lake Charles, I was able to hit Sabine, Lacassine, and Cameron Prairie National Wildlife Refuges. It was farewell tour through some places I love. I had a joyous day indulging in pure birding geekitude. My route took me past Lake Charles and down through Sabine NWR to the gulf. I took the Cameron Ferry (there are no bridges south of Lake Charles) across the Calcasieu channel and then headed north through Cameron Prairie NWR and then east to the Lacassine Pool.

It was not a spectacular day in terms of species seen. Also, I am a hack birder, as much as I enjoy it. Without Joe K. (Bwana Joe) I saw much I could not identify. Still, the marshes were beautiful and birdy enough to keep me interested.

Louisiana’s scenery is an acquired taste, I think. It has no mountains or canyons that impose themselves on the viewer. But if one slows down enough to look, this land has its own beauty.


Sabine NWR


Tri-Colored Heron, Sabine NWR