Greater Yellowlegs at dawn – Nikon D200, handheld, f6.3, 1/200, ISO 250, Nikkor 80-400mm VR at 400mm, natural light
When I lived in Florida it wasn’t unusual for me to share sunrise alone with birds at the north beach of Fort De Soto. Thirteen years ago I did just that with a Greater Yellowlegs. I saw the yellowlegs from the east side of the lagoon so when I reached the water I dropped to my knees and slowly moved forward towards the resting bird. The ripples on the surface of the water were created by my movement.
I was soaking wet from my waist down but it felt marvelous. The morning was already hot and sultry.
Greater Yellowlegs waking up in a still lagoon – Nikon D200, handheld, f6.3, 1/180, ISO 200, Nikkor 80-400mm VR at 400mm, natural light
I moved forward inch by inch always watching the Greater Yellowlegs for signs of distress. I don’t like to disturb my subjects and I wanted to photograph the yellowlegs taking its own sweet time as it woke up to greet the day.
I truly miss the way I photographed birds in Florida because I was always on foot. It was so peaceful, quiet, and relaxing. I don’t get quite the same feeling while photographing birds from a mobile blind.
Sleepy-eyed Great Yellowlegs – Nikon D200, handheld, f6.3, 1/320, ISO 200, Nikkor 80-400mm VR at 400mm, natural light
The Greater Yellowlegs was so relaxed that it even fell asleep a few more times as I photographed it. I was thrilled and delighted to share the sunrise with this shorebird and I took many photos of it. It was a pleasure I hope that I never forget.
Life is good.
Mia
Click here to see more of my Greater Yellowlegs photos plus facts and information about this species.
It must have been wonderful! And it produced a wonderful series of photos!
That sounds like a WONDERFUL start to the day. Any day.
Thanks for the post on your birding adventures. A pretty bird to watch.
I shared a sunrise with a Greater Yellowlegs this morning. But from further away than you were. My photos cannot compare to yours.
Lovely peaceful moments! I’m in awe of your willingness to kneel in the water – I will have to look for opportunities to use this strategy.
What a lovely experience and great memories. It also yielded some lovely photos.
I
Over it when you bring back some of your memories of Florida. I’m a transplant from the North and just love ❤️ all the wonderful birds and animal here in Florida. Have you ever came back, since you moved to Utah? I live in the nature coast area but have visited Fort De SotaoPark, Florida has many wonderful state parks. I always enjoy your posts.