Green Heron stretching- Nikon D200, handheld, f6.3, 1/250, ISO 250, Nikkor 80-400mm VR at 330mm, natural light
When I lived in Florida I spent most of my time photographing along the Gulf of Mexico on beaches, saltwater marshes and in lagoons because of my love of shorebirds and because there were sea breezes that often kept the bugs at bay. Further inland the biting insects could be so bad that they would find the tiniest places where I missed spraying insect repellent and “tear me a new one” and I’d often go home feeling like I had been used for a pincushion.
But photographing inland had its benefits too, I did see birds there that I rarely or never saw closer to the Gulf. I don’t recall seeing Green Herons close to the Gulf but I did find them in inland locations like Sawgrass Lake Park. More often than not when I would find Green Herons they were in locations that made photographing them difficult because of trees, branches and other obstructions so when I would find one out in the open I would take full advantage of the situation and take loads of photos.
This Green Heron was photographed from an elevated boardwalk at Sawgrass Lake Park, it had been preening when I walked slowly up to it and when it stretched its wing I took this image. Not long after this a Broad-winged Hawk flew over and disturbed the Green Heron and that was fun to photograph because of the defensive poses it showed me.
Some times I look back and wish I had spent more time photographing birds in more inland locations while I lived in Florida but then I remind myself of the birds I would have missed seeing and photographing on the shores of the Gulf of Mexico had I done that.
Life is good.
Mia
Click here to see more of my Green Heron photos plus facts and information about this species.
P.S., Green Herons can be found in Utah, I have seen one since I arrived here as it flew away from me. Maybe one day I will find one that cooperates with me here.
After a truly gruelling and bloody day I can’t tell you how much heart balm this image has given me. Megathanks.
Wonderful image from the beautiful state of Florida. I was only there twice; years ago in Panama City in the pan handle and more recently Fort Lauderdale on the eastern side. Still recall the white sand and clear water of the gulf (allowed spotting sand-dollars underneath).
An incredible image of an exquisite bird. Love the background and the subtle colors you captured. Mia, you truly are the gift that never stops giving. Thanks.
OMGosh. What a gorgeous shot. My Green Heron photos are usually taken from the back as they fly away. They are so skittish.
Between the colors of the bird and the colors of the water the whole thing looks like jeweltry or some kind of fine silk tapestry….BEAUTIFUL!!! The position of the bird is a spectacular bonus!
I’ve lived in North Florida pretty much all my life and have never seen a Green Heron. Beautiful bird!
Nice! Green herons are interesting birds.