Ken Spilios led and reported sightings via walkie talkie from the front truck. He had a capable side kick in Bob Ross. There is a photo of them here as they bird from atop Mt. Apopka.
The number and variety of birds was a joy to behold after experiencing relatively few birds in previous outings this season. Early sightings included a male and a female Painted Bunting. Purple and Gray Swamphens cooperated as we crept along toward the big rest stop. A female Northern Shoveler duck was spotted there. Later, Ken and Bob were able to get three males in the scope. Other notable sightings included large numbers of Fulvous and Black-bellied Whistling Ducks. Many Ring-necks and Blue-winged Teal were sighted along the way. Large flights of unknown ducks were seen several times in the distance.
Raptors consisted of a kestrel along Lust Rd. before the gate, an eagle, ospreys, and Red-shouldered Hawks. Late in the drive, Jim Meyer and Eileen Riccio spotted a Peregrine Falcon atop a telephone pole. Ken and Bob stopped to talk with some friends from Volusia Audubon who had a scope on a flock of American Pipits at the sod field.
It was a most enjoyable morning in good company. In all, 48 species were recorded.