I’ve always liked this photo because it shows how this American Oystercatcher (Haematopus palliatus) is using its long bill to pry open a shell. (photographed at Fort De Soto County Park, Florida)

American Oystercatcher with incoming waveAmerican Oystercatcher prying a shell open – Nikon D200, handheld, f6.3, 1/800, ISO 200, Nikkor 80-400mm VR at 400mm, natural light

The tip of the bill is squared off and thin and as it gets thicker towards the top it makes a nice wedge for opening the shells so the bird can get to the mollusk inside.

Mia