Including a bit of habitat adds texture, color and more information. Even a plain bird such as this Palm Warbler seems to glow. Its long legs are an adaptation to terrestrial foraging habits, as seen here in the shade under a Cypress tree that has dropped most of its needles.
Although common and raucous, this Blue Jay is beautifully juxtaposed to the dark recesses of the dried fronds and fruit as it moves secretively near the crown of a Royal Palm.
Is this a photo of an American Goldfinch, or of the graceful willow branches?
While the side view of a Gray Catbird is monochromatic, the bird provides a bit of vibrant color as it faces away. Look closely to see the Trema berries that attract so many birds during the Florida winter.
Adding a bit of habitat balances the beauty of a Great Egret in the still water.
The soft light and the out-of-focus Palmettos enhance the image of a Tricolored Heron in flight.
Sepia tones predominate in this image of an immature Red-shouldered Hawk in early morning flight.
A Great Horned Owl in a bare tree is silhouetted against the dying sunset.
Despite lack of cover, this American Bittern freezes in place, perhaps believing itself to be invisible.
A Green Heron is perfectly at home at the edge of a small clearing in the marsh.
This Great Blue Heron is almost invisible against a backdrop of herbicide-killed Melaleucas that were taking over the wetland. They will no longer provide it with nesting places.
White Ibises enjoy the shade on man-made perches in our next door neighbor's yard.
Even close up, not only its habitat, but my own image are reflected in the eye of a squirrel.
these are all great - the last one was a nice surprise, too. :)
ReplyDeleteKen, these are all amazing images and great bird sightings. I love the Bittern shot! Cool reflection capture. Great post, have a happy weekend!
ReplyDeleteThe backgrounds add such depth, beauty and interest Ken. Marvellous shots, I especially like the Bittern and Great Blue! The reflections in the squirrel eye are amazing!
ReplyDeleteReally nice set of images! The bittern is so secretive; I'm impressed you were able to get such a sharp shot. The catbird I've heard--never seen. Great capture!
ReplyDeleteGreat reflection in the squirrel's eye! All great shots.
ReplyDeleteYou haven't linked up at I'd Rather B Birdin' for a while, and I miss your shared photos. That egret in the still waters is extraordinary!!
ReplyDeleteAlso, I was elated to read and catch up on your eagles in the previous post!!
I have given up taking perfect photos and am happy for the memories the photos spark, but your photos are amazing.... Michelle
ReplyDeleteWonderful photos! I love the reflections in the eye of the squirrel.
ReplyDelete...well then, know you were missed....and hope you're recovering from sickness! Nice to know you're up to getting out to your 'wetlands'
ReplyDeleteThese are so beautiful. And what you say so perfectly correct.
ReplyDeleteSome great pictures here. Congratulations.
ReplyDeleteI like the birds in their habitat and their surroundings - I can look at perfect bird photos in a book but blog postings can tell me much more and be more interesting too! Too bad about those melaleucas - they should have been left at home where they stay in balance with the rest of the habitat!
ReplyDeleteWonderful and great series of photos and birds.
ReplyDeleteWhat a really nice series, Ken! Not only superb photography but keen advice on not overlooking the habitat of our subjects! (I have to work at remembering my bag has other lenses in it!)
ReplyDeletean ecclectic mix and so interesting
ReplyDeleteBeautiful set of photos, love all the birds and the backgrounds as well. Wonderful!
ReplyDeleteWow! Great photos! I like the reflected Great Heron best. And I love your blog header photo!
ReplyDeleteSuch a great pleasure to see all these amazing photographs and yet to get them identified. Thank you so much for sharing them all. Have a great weekend!
ReplyDeleteYour photos are both beautiful and informative!
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