American Bittern II

American Bittern - Orlando Wetlands Park

Here's the same bittern. He was walking so very slowly to the left and stopping with almost each step. I lost him time and again over about 15 minutes. He was only about 25 feet away.

Nikon D300s, Nikkor AFS VR Zoom 70-200mm f/2.8 G IF-ED, F/5.6, 1/350 second, ISO 200
© Lauren Peeler Brice

Hunting -- American Bittern

Hunting -- American Bittern
Originally uploaded by Laurie-B

Here the bittern crosses a small open area to hunt in the reeds on the opposing side. He won't stay in the open for long. I had a great time tracking him from the road above this channel until I turned my attention for just an instant and lost track of the silent hunter.

Nikon D300s, Nikkor AFS VR Zoom 70-200mm f/2.8 G IF-ED, F/5.6, 1/350 second, ISO 200
© Lauren Peeler Brice

American Bittern at Viera

American Bittern at Viera
Originally uploaded by Laurie-B

Another day, another bittern hiding in plain sight, more conspicuous against the green leaves.

Nikon D300s, Nikkor AFS VR Zoom 70-200mm f/2.8 G IF-ED, F/5.6, 1/350 second, ISO 200
© Lauren Peeler Brice

American Bittern

American Bittern

These birds are fascinating. They hide in plain sight by striking a pose as this one did with it's bill in the air and staying absolutely still. Their coloration makes it almost impossible to find them even when you know where they are. More shots of this amazing animal tomorrow.

Nikon D300s, Nikkor AFS VR Zoom 70-200mm f/2.8 G IF-ED, F/10, 1/250 second, ISO 800
© Lauren Peeler Brice

Snowy Egret - Orlando Wetlands Park

Snowy Egret - Orlando Wetlands Park

Snowy egret are one of my favorite subjects. They seem to demonstrate their mood through their ornate plumage. Like all predominantly white birds. They are an exposure challenge especially in the brighter hours of the day as seen here.

Nikon D300s, Nikkor AFS VR Zoom 70-200mm f/2.8 G IF-ED, F/10, 1/2500 second
© Lauren Peeler Brice

American Coot and Reflection

American Coot and Reflection

American Coot are so common, they are often overlooked in favor of more photogenic egret and heron. I find them challenging exposure subjects with their bright white beaks and black feathers. So I look for poses and conditions that express individuality within the flock.

I took this shot because I liked the red eye and forehead marks, the reflections, water clarity and the droplets on the coot's back.

Nikon D300s, Nikkor AFS VR Zoom 70-200mm f/2.8 G IF-ED, F/10, 1/125 second
© Lauren Peeler Brice

Tri-colored Heron

Tri-colored Heron

There's nothing like late afternoon sun for warm, shadow-filled images. This Tri-colored heron was fishing from the boardwalk railing when I caught him in a quiet moment. His red eye and neck feather detail are what enticed me to take the shot.

Nikon D300s, NIKKOR AF VR Zoom 80-400mm f/4.5-5.6D ED, F/5.6, 1/400 second
© Lauren Peeler Brice