Lesson learned: don’t stop photographing avocets just because they’re no longer in breeding plumage.
I’ll admit that once American Avocets phase out of breeding plumage, losing the red on their head and neck and many of their most interesting behaviors during the process, I often ignore them. I’m glad I made an exception yesterday morning at Bear River MBR
1/8000, f/5.6, ISO 800, Canon R5, Canon EF500mm f/4L IS II USM + 1.4 tc, not baited, set up or called in
About a half dozen avocets were calmly feeding together on a muddy shore when this one suddenly took off and initially flew right at me. When the bird banked to circle around and rejoin its companions, I captured a diagonal wing position which always appeals to me. A head turn which put light on its face and in its eye sealed the deal. I like the photo, even though the background isn’t very attractive.
The bird’s long legs almost look like they’ve been dipped in metallic silver. I like that too.
Ron
What a gorgeous bird and photo ! I like looking at those beautiful wings, and how the black beak is in line with the black on the wings.
Glad to see this wonderful bird! And I join the chorus to thank you for the wonderful photos day after day!! I’m close to the East coast so especially enjoy the diversity! Come visit if you ever get this way!! À bientôt, Mary
Thanks, Mary. Also for the invitation but it’s my sincere intention to never get on a plane again.
I understand reluctance to get on a plane but there are several alternatives and we can meet you at a train or bus station!! à bientôt!!
How wonderful to capture a ‘considerate’ bird. That head turn makes the photos – though the long metallic legs are amazing too. Birds being birds and having a set aim of foiling the photographer I suspect that it counted on your ignoring it…
Thanks, EC. I was actually lucky that I chose this avocet to get in my viewfinder. There were about a half dozen of them and this bird was the only one that took off.
Beautiful shot Ron and thanks to the Avocet for the head turn.
Everett, I probably actually thanked the avocet for the head turn when I saw the photo on my big screen. I often do, out loud. I’m weird that way. And others…
I have done that too – often while taking photos I have no idea how good or bad it will be till I get it on the screen – especially when it comes to in-flight shots
Very very nice photo. Not the easiest to take. Love to see your column (blog) each day. Thank you!
Good to know I’m part of your day, Richard. Thanks.
It looks like a bird you read about in mythology, with its silver legs and highlighted wings. Beautiful.
Take Care,
Kaye
Interesting observation, Kaye.
This is a keeper! Love all the angles especially the head turn. 😄
Agreed. The head turn made a lot of difference. Thanks, Kathleen.
Beautiful! Glad you didn’t ignore them……. 😉
Me too. Thanks, Judy.
Yes, those diagonal shots have a lot of visual energy to them. I like this one for all the reasons you mentioned. The bank, head position, and legs all have a gear-down-turn-to-final-approach kinetic feel.
You said that well, Michael. Thanks.
Nice BIF! Like the wings and legs too!
Thanks, Karl.
“Ron… take a look/photo of Me!”
Great capture… always enjoy your post.
Thank you, CJ.