One of the first birds I photographed this autumn was this fluffed-up Snowy Egret glowing in a natural spotlight in the marsh at Farmington Bay WMA.
Snowy Egret in morning light at Farmington Bay WMA – Nikon D500, f8, 1/400, ISO 500, -0.7 EV, Nikkor 500mm VR with 1.4x TC, natural light
Morning sunlight and shadows helped to create drama in the photos of the egrets I photographed yesterday. Almost a year ago, I took very similar images of a Snowy Egret in this exact location, probably around the same time of morning.
The morning light works just wonderfully there against the shadowed marsh vegetation.
Snowy Egret autumn morning in a marsh – Nikon D500, f8, 1/800, ISO 500, -1.0 EV, Nikkor 500mm VR with 1.4x TC, natural light
The reason the egret was all fluffed up was because another egret had tried to take over this egret’s fishing territory. This egret became defensive and puffed up its feathers and plumes as it chased away the intruder.
In this photo, I liked how there was a spotlight on the bird and a second spotlight on the egret’s ‘Golden Slippers’ as it walked along the shoreline. This wading bird species is well known for their golden feet.
Snowy Egret resting on its legs in a marsh – Nikon D500, f8, 1/1600, ISO 500, -1.0 EV, Nikkor 500mm VR with 1.4x TC, natural light
The final image I selected to share today shows the Snowy Egret resting on its legs on the muddy shoreline of the water. This marshy spot is where the egret caught fish yesterday in the morning light.
I had fun photographing this egret, a few avocets, and some grebes in this area of Farmington Bay WMA yesterday along with more birds in other locations.
Life is good.
Mia
Click here to see more of my Snowy Egret photos plus facts and information about this species.
Whoa! Another stunner! Beautiful contrast while maintaining such subtle and precise detail. The eye contact is remarkable. In a word…perfect! Thanks Mia.
Beautiful photos. Great composition of the egret in that light and position.
Absolutely stunning shots Mia. Congratulations on superb results.
Neat photos . I think I have some of the same bird. I haven’t had time to process or post anything. Maybe soon.
Excellent work!
I’ve said before that some of your photos take my breath away. The first two are absolutely stunning.
Exquisite.
Stunning and so clear. Love it so much. It looks almost other worldly.