Green Heron!

Though we’ve certainly had our share of sunshine and heat here in the Pacific Northwest lately, yesterday, at least yesterday morning, was one of those days that reminds you that fall’s clouds can’t be too far away.

Not only was it dark, and constantly threatening to rain, but there were very few birds in sight. Near the end of the hike I’d only taken six shots, and with the exception of what I think is a

Short-Billed Dowitcher

Short-billed Dowitcher, Photoshop-enhanced to show correct plumage, I had nothing worth keeping.

Just as we were leaving the refuge, Leslie asked, “What’s that?” and pointed out a Green Heron flying directly toward us rather than away from us.

I recognized it instantly but figured I could never get a decent picture of it flying considering how dark it was. I was shocked to see it land in the pond directly in front of us. In fact, it seemed totally indifferent to us, going about its business of catching breakfast.

Naturally, it landed in the end of the pond with lots of cover and I had to shoot between fronds and leaves, but I was elated by the best shots

Young Green Heron

of the 145 pictures I ended up snapping. This appears to be a young Green Heron, lacking some of the color found in mature ones, but I couldn’t have been happier with the experience of watching this bird hunt for fifteen minutes.

Of course, the weather cleared later in the day and I had a good time at Kyland’s birthday party, but that’s an entry for another day.

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