Birds and backgrounds

Too often, I strive for the perfect "field guide" photo of a bird, side view, in perfect light devoid of shadows and showing all pertinent plumage features. I crop away the surroundings, which often could have added beauty and told more about the bird.

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.