He made a little twist while gliding in, it was just enough to have him fill the view finder as he flew by. It’s nice if you’re just standing there, but getting focus, it’s not so nice.
It was late on a dreary day which can also be really bad for big lens focus.
In general this was the type of shot that is easily missed, and usually are.
As Herons return to their nests their final approach is to stretch and glide, slowing as they get close.
This is when they have the look of ‘Dragons’.
Click, or double tap, any image below to view the gallery.
This is a small set of photographs taken at a wider angle. Here some perspective is provided about the general environment the birds are living in.
Some nests are in larger tress, on an island within this swamp. The thick branches grow out over the water.
Above, closer to the old island trees multiple nests have begin.
Last here is a the top of a single cypress tree living in the swamp water. Each year these cypress become homes for multiple Heron and Egret nests.
For the next 6 months the next generation of southern wildlife will begin here. As one species reaches adulthood and moves on another will be born and raised.
I have not seen any Great Blues in this area for a while now. In the past smaller Herons and Egrets nested here.
This bird was wandering around on a trail by a wooden bridge. The only reason we noticed him was the noise. Croaking and chasing off another Heron.
Competition and territory disputes must be starting in the rookery nearby. They are moving further away for food and nesting materials.
After the shot above he suddenly flew into a thicket, and never came out. I waited but he must have tucked himself in.
Part of the initial mating ritual for the male Great Blue Heron is to bring the ‘perfect’ stick to his new mate.
Part of the female ritual is to throw a few away.
It’s going to be a busy 4 months so she needs to set the rules right from the start.
A dragon …
Two Herons silhouetted against a damp sky.
Passing a stick is the ritual bonding of a pair.
It was dark and even some rain but there are so many things starting in the swamps we went out.
The Great Blues are pairing up, or calling for a mate. Males are getting the ritual first sticks.
Me, I found a good spot (in spite of sharing it with a larger gator) where I could photograph the back and forth flow.
