“Better than nothing . . .” Says the Forster’s Tern at Edwin B Forsythe National Wildlife Refuge in Galloway (commonly referred as Brigantine) New Jersey

            This was actually the day of the popular WORLD SERIES OF BIRDS, which occurs throughout the nation where various team of birders in different categories compete to see as many birds as possible in one full day.  Completely contrary to the weather forecast of a pleasant day with a mix of sun and clouds, the morning started off with a thick layer of fog, followed by intense rain.  I had met a few participants while there, and they  began the day several hours before sunrise.  In any event, after learning some interesting bits of information regarding some more details on the local birds, I proceeded with my personal exploration of the wildlife and plants.
Throughout much of the early part of the day, contending with the rain and mist/fog was a constant, so timing was essential in capturing the best possible shots.  But, even with the somewhat inclement weather, the views can be fairly attractive.
This critter kept striking out with every nose dive taken from high above, but finally came up with something more like an appetizer size . . .
The Edwin B Forsythe National Wildlife Refuge in Galloway Township, but commonly known as Brigantine, New Jersey, was originally established in 1939 with the Brigantine name, and again in 1967 as a combination with the Barnegat Division, in order to protect the natural wetlands for the regular wildlife inhabitants and the migratory birds that follow the Atlantic Flyway as they travel north and south throughout the year.  Later in 1984, the two joined under the name of the current Edwin B Forsythe in honoring the late NJ Congressman and Conservationist.
The overwhelming majority of the area is wetlands and the within that, most of it is of a salt marsh nature.  The roughly 47,000 acres of protective landscape is quite vast—wonderfully seen from the observation towers—and a well maintained 8-mile main drive, with several shorter extensions and songbird trails for hikers are available for more exploration.  There are a number of raised platform nesting sites away from the drive for some of the raptors (eagles, ospreys, falcons, etc.) and a few observation towers along the driving route.  These do offer better wide range vantage points; however, given the way the vegetative growth by the roadside is nicely trimmed back within reason, much of the wildlife can be appreciated right from the vehicles.  And speaking of wildlife, there is a wealth of fascinating birds and other critters to admire.  
One does not need to be a birder to enjoy the visit, for the overall landscape is so very beautiful and peaceful.  The famous Atlantic City with its numerous casino resorts and attractive skyline sits mostly to the south and east, depending on where you are at the time, and, of course, just beyond that is the great Atlantic Ocean.  When capturing AC or any of the vast landscape under the right lighting conditions, namely “Magic Hour” toward the end of the day or early morning, the overall scenery can be captivating.

   

Taken on: May 9, 2015

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Forster's Tern

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