This Ruddy Turnstone image was created several years ago at Fort De Soto County Park’s north beach in central Florida.

Bathing Ruddy TurnstoneRuddy Turnstone bathing – Nikon D200, handheld, f6.3, 1/1000, ISO 160, Nikkor 70-300mm VR at 300mm, natural light

I had been photographing a Red-breasted Merganser on the shoreline while sitting very low in the water of a tidal lagoon when I heard splashing sounds and saw this Ruddy Turnstone in breeding plumage bathing.  Since I had been sitting very still in the lagoon to photograph the merganser the Ruddy Turnstone didn’t feel alarmed by my presence and felt comfortable enough to bathe about 20 feet from me. I just have to love those flying droplets of water.

Life is good.

Mia

Click here to see more of my Ruddy Turnstone photos plus facts and information about this species.