Black-bellied Plover – Nikon D200, handheld, f7.1, 1/800, ISO 200, Nikkor 80-400mm VR at 310mm, natural light
One of the shorebird species I am able to see in Utah during migration that I photographed often while I lived in Florida are the lovely Black-bellied Plovers (Pluvialis squatarola).
Black-bellied Plovers at the largest of the North American plovers and according to my iBird Pro app they are also the only American plover that as a hind toe on its foot, that hind toe is often too small to be seen on the field. I looked through my images and found one that shows the hind toe on both feet here. Thanks to the iBird Pro app I learned something new today!
I was able to get much closer to Black-bellied Plovers in Florida than I have been able to yet in Utah but hopefully I will get more opportunities to get “down & dirty” with them here.
The Black-bellied Plover (almost in breeding plumage) in the image above approached me rather closely while I laid on the shoreline of the Gulf of Mexico, I’ve often wondered if it saw its reflection in the glass of my lens and wanted to check it out. A mystery I will never solve.
Mia
Great pose, low angle, and light, Mia. I would love to see one of these beautiful little shorebirds. Maybe on my next trip to Florida!
Julie, I hope you get your Black-bellied Plover shots next time you are in FL! Thank you.
Another magnificent close-up, Mia.
Thanks Bob!
i LOVE seeing this exquisitely focused image of this sweet bird. i just met these fine little birds during my stay on the island, but don’t have a long lens or good binoculars. i made quick sketches (using an old guidebook in the cottage as my reference) but this is just stunning–those feather patterns!! When i finally get around to making my “bird post” on my blog i will definitely be linking to his post of yours.
Thank you zephyr, they are exquisitie birds and the plumage has wonderful details. I look forward to seeing your “bird post”.
What a beautiful bird, and what a lovely photo! The breeding plumage is gorgeous!!
Linda, thanks so much for your comment!
Beautiful capture of the Black-bellied Plover, a bird that definitely suits its name!
Thank you Tammy, their belly really is black!