Birds
Read MoreWhat is it about "solitary" that you don't understand?
Solitary Sandpipers
Tringa Solitaria
This image makes me laugh because I've been on both sides of this situation before. I've been the person whose peace and contentment is suddenly disrupted by an unwanted intruder, and I've also been the person who has inadvertently disturbed someone else's peace and contentment. I suppose I can take solace in the fact that even solitary sandpipers often have difficulty finding solitude.Greater Yellowlegs
Tringa Melanoleuca
The greater yellowlegs is similar in appearance to the solitary sandpiper (previous image), though the greater yellowlegs is larger and has a few other unique traits. It's understandable, however, that the solitary sandpiper is sometimes considered a small version of the greater yellowlegs.Diva
Grasshopper Sparrow
Ammodramus Savannarum
The grasshopper sparrow has a weak voice. Indeed, its beak is usually open as if it's singing a few seconds before a small short tweet emerges. This tiny bird has a heart of gold, however, and the passion it brings to each performance is worthy of Caruso or Pavarotti.One Solitary Encounters Another (The Photographer)
Solitary Sandpiper
Tringa Solitaria
Early this morning, seconds after the sunrise, I was able to peer through some waving grass to photograph this solitary sandpiper. When I looked across the pond and saw fifteen greater/lesser yellowlegs weaving among five Canadian geese, and then looked down at the little guy in his solitude, I knew instantly where I would fit best in the bird kingdom. Hands down, I would be a solitary sandpiper.Grasshopper Sparrow
Ammodramus Savannarum
I recently posted other images of grasshopper sparrows, but I especially like the way that this particular image captures the complex and intricate feather structures of this tiny bird. From an aerodynamic point of view, one might have reason to question the design; indeed, it's hard to see how the grasshopper sparrow could ever become airborne. From an aesthetic perspective, however, no one could question the beauty of this species. It's exquisite.Anhinga Portrait
Anhinga Anhinga
I just returned from a couple of days of birding and photography in Huntington Beach State Park, Pawleys Island, South Carolina. One of the most fascinating birds in that area is the anhinga, which is large, exotic, and beautifully designed. While I have many shots of the full bird, this headshot is the one I like most. For some reason, it reminds me of a stylishly dressed person with a fashionable haircut having lunch with a friend in a local bistro.Contemplation
Dickcissel Spiza Americana This young dickcissel seems both calm and confident. It inspires me to remain hopeful about the future, even when, as now, the world seems to be flirting with disaster. What Rachel Carson said in Silent Spring remains true today: "Those who contemplate the beauty of the earth find reserves of strength that will endure as long as long as life lasts. There is something infinitely healing in the repeated refrains of nature — the assurance that dawn comes after night, and spring after winter."
Immature Blue Grosbeak
Blue Grosbeak
Passerina Caerulea
The blue grosbeak is one of my favorite birds. To see what a male adult looks like, just go back nine images from this one. This young bird is immature, and must be considered a work in progress. As you can see, however, from the blue breaking out on his flanks and back, he is designed to be quite beautiful.