As we've noted, vegetation is sparse in this part of Loxahatchee National Wildlife Refuge except for the patches of grass, cattails and sedges and tree islands, one of which is seen in the center of the photo, that break up the water within the impoundment. These tree islands provide a refuge within the refuge for our feathered friends. It's a place where herons, egrets, ibis, grackles, wood storks and spoonbills can nest and forage with a degree of safety from land-based predators such as raccoons. These islands are primarily made up of pond apples and probably some willows, both water-loving trees. Back to the first photo.
