It was Heron day 19/09/09, not official, after trying for so long to get close to one without spooking it. I was surrounded by them, all trying to pick a fight with the nearest one.
Does anyone know if this is an annual event?
For once I wished for my small lens, in the pool in front of me, was eight to twelve at a time, picking on each other!
Sorry that I never got a large group photo to share. I was so wrapped up in events and not having small lens never helped. Any knowledge would be welcomed!
John
For viewing or photography right place right time is everything. I'd rather be in the right place with poor kit than have the best kit and be in the wrong place.
Hi John... what glorious photos. I love the way you have caught the mirror-images in the water. Excellent photography - competition winners, I'd say.
Squirrel
The necessity of bird-watching is a really good reason for avoiding all forms of housework.
The dust will still be there tomorrow - the birds may not be!
Superb set John! Can't help with the reason for the 'gathering' though. Obviously the food is very plentiful! We have often 3 or 4 herons at the local reserve but they tend to keep some distance apart! What a great sight! Thanks for sharing!
Edit: looking again, in the first few pics, the heron at the back looks like a juvenile. Perhaps he's reluctant to move off from his parents! (of course that doesn't explain the quantity you saw though!!)
"All weeds are flowers, once you get to know them" (Eeyore)
My photos on Flickr
Thanks Squirrel and MarJus. The juvenile point is a very good one, never saw that, maybe a couple of families having the same trouble! All I know is I've never seen this before.
Another good day or two at Vane Farm watching Greenshank chasing fish.
I got the reflection better than the bird!
Hope you enjoy, John
HI John,
Aw I don't know, I don't think you did too badly - They're absolutely brilliant! They are lovely aren't they? I've never seen one before and according to my book I won't be seeing one for a while unless I go up to your neck of the woods!
Regards
Kerry
http://www.flickr.com/photos/kezmo6310/
Love your great photos!
Wonderful photos again John. Like Kezmo, I am never likely to see many of the birds in your photos so I am always grateful to you for sharing them with us.
Excellent photographs John. To catch it with dinner in it's beak. Most times they seem to dig but come up with nothing.
Lovely photos. I especially like the fourth one with the fish in its beak and a super reflection. Congratulations.
There is something new to learn everyday...
http://www.flickr.com/photos/skylark58/
Stonking pics John! Especially the ones with the fish!! Superb!!