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It was time to get back to my favorite bird...the pelican.

I drove to Sarasota, Florida this morning , and watched the birds and the boats at the city's boat launch. Such a difference in boats. From small skiffs to large yachts.

Especially in this spot, the pelicans hunt in small groups. From 2 birds up to five. Perhaps it freaks out the fish? Which one signals the takeoff? Which one decides when it's time to dive? Which one determines when they are full? No answers here.

After the boat launch, I went to a bird rescue center. Can a place be both uplifting and sad at the same time? Nice to see that some are being rehabilitated, but other birds are NEVER leaving. The loon was particulary hard to watch. She had a run-in with a boat propeller. The problem is...that she won't eat. The future probably doesn't look good.

When I finally got to the fish market docks...the place was a-hoppin. 3 boats were unloading their catch. 2 were unloading huge fish...mostly grouper. But, the 3rd was unloading red herring...a bait fish. The herring unloading was putting the pelicans into a frenzy.

They could stick their long beaks right into the conveyer belt...snatching fish after fish. Plus...the belt kicked quite a few fish onto the docks. More frenzy! I don't think they were going to have to go out for supper tonight.

I put all the other shots on my FLICKR FISH account. Have a look, but be forewarned...one dead herring shot...and a forlorn loon...are together with some happy pelicans.