This gallery features shorebirds seen at Big Lagoon in the Gulf Island National Seashore in Perdido Key, Florida. There wasn't much activity on the lagoon and it seemed like the wildlife were having a lazy day. However, there were a few out and about I spotted while kayaking the lagoon.

Great Blue Heron in Perdido KeyA great blue heron at Big Lagoon in Perdido Key, Florida.

This great blue heron was hanging out at the boat launch. I think this one was comfortable around people, and has probably learned it can get some bait fish from people fishing. It allowed me to get pretty close to it.

Hooded Marganser in Perdido KeyHooded merganser at Big Lagoon in Perdido Key, Florida. Hooded Marganser in Perdido KeyHooded merganser at Big Lagoon in Perdido Key, Florida. Hooded Marganser in Perdido KeyHooded merganser at Big Lagoon in Perdido Key, Florida.

There were a few hooded mergansers in the lagoon. The male has the black crown with the white crest.

Cormorants in Perdido KeyCormorants at Big Lagoon in Perdido Key, Florida. Cormorants in Perdido KeyCormorants at Big Lagoon in Perdido Key, Florida.

Cormorants were hanging out on channel markers. They have less oils than other shore birds. This allows them to swim under water better than other birds, but it also means their feathers get wetter. When it is a bright day they can often be seen sunning themselves like this to dry out.

Great egret in Perdido KeyA great egret at Big Lagoon in Perdido Key, Florida.

This great white egret was stalking for bait fish.

Great Blue Heron in Perdido KeyA great blue heron at Big Lagoon in Perdido Key, Florida. Great Blue Heron in Perdido KeyA great blue heron at Big Lagoon in Perdido Key, Florida.

I can't tell for sure if this was the same bird that greeted me at the boat launch, but it was at the same spot and didn't spook easily.