Elisa’s Selected Favorites, 2011 Northern Mockingbird, Anahuac National Wildlife Refuge, TexasKnown for its ability to learn and remix the songs of other birds, insects and amphibians, Texas’ ubiquitous mixmaster is also quite handsome. Copperhead, Stephen F. Austin State Park, TexasThis young copperhead seems less threatening with Cottonwood fuzz stuck to its snout. Great Egret, Corpus Christi, TexasSurprise, you’re dinner! Golden-mantled Ground Squirrel, Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming 9:02 AM9 o’clock seems a little late for the wildlife to be getting up… Black Skimmer, Corpus Christi, TexasSkimmers fly low over the water, their lower bill probing just beneath the surface for prey. Green Heron, Anahuac National Wildlife Refuge, TexasAfter a long day of hunting, this Green Heron takes to the trees at dusk. American Alligator, juvenile, Brazos Bend State Park, Texas.One does not normally associate “serenity” with “alligator.” Well, here we are. Ladder-backed Woodpecker, male, Franklin Mtns. State Park, TexasThis species, like many woodpecker species, has a squeaky-toy vocalization which always makes me smile. © 2012-2013 Elisa D. Lewis. All rights reserved. No text or images may be duplicated or distributed without permission.