One, by himself in open water. Avocet are flocking birds, not large groups, but I rarely see one alone.

American Avocet measures 40–51 cm (16–20 in) in length, has a wingspan of 68–76 cm (27–30 in) and weighs 275–420 g (9.7–14.8 oz) The bill is black, pointed, and curved slightly upwards towards the tip.

They look delicate, but I assume they are not living out here in these marshes.

I had never even heard of this bird until moving to the southern coast. Only the Stilt is as graceful and elegant. Unfortunately my photographs of Stilts this day were all in full sun and glare.