Bay Anchovy

Bay Anchovy

Anchoa mitchilli

Size: to 4"

Habitat: coastal and estuarine waters

Notes: Another small herring-like fish that forms large schools. These, as well as those above, can form huge schools that swirl around the upper reaches of inshore reefs - a sight that easily rivals the tropics. I have seen them school together with the larger and more striking Silver Anchovy. Note the large underslung mouth, which makes identification from other baitfishes easy. Anchovies are physically fragile, yet tolerate an amazing range of environmental conditions. Fishermen call them "Rainfish".

Bay Anchovy

Great Blue Heron

Ardea herodius

Size: 42-52"

Habitat: in and around water

Notes:
These large and majestic birds may be seen wading in the shallows, hunting fish and frogs. They are not as uncommon as you might think but watch from a distance as they do not like to be approached.

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