As the sun was rising, two juvenile Great Blue Herons were hunting from a dock. But, the most striking pictures were of them with their wings out.
At one point, both herons took off at the same time, one from a piling, one from the dock.
Again, one heron landed on the piling with wings and tail spread.
And took off into the rising sun.
Breathtaking,,,I am in awe of the birds & your photograhy
Thank you for reminding me yet again of how precious it all is.
WOW…
Your timing is impeccable. Wonderful images!
Tom, chuckle, my response time is not good, but my technique is.
I have been a birder for 2 decades and have yet to see a juvenile blue heron. It is a treat just to see the adults !!!
Charlie, I suspect that you have seen many blue heron juveniles (as distinct from babies), but did not recognize them as such. One clear indication is the lack of a white crown.
Everyone else said it all! Thank you so much for everything you show and teach us.
I second Margo’s comment, with thanks always, Alistair. I mentioned you this morning walking with a friend in the nearby round-leaved orchid forest, now being shared with disc golfers!
After seeing your pictures and your note about the lack of a white crown, I realized we’ve been watching some juveniles here along the North Shore without realizing it. Thanks for your great photos and for your behavior and identification details!