I was happy to see Applewood’s heron had returned, and once again, as he stalked his prey, I stalked him. This first photo taken through my truck window at maybe twelve feet. As I opened my door and walked around the back of my truck the great bird flew away, down this narrow pond and out of sight. There are all kinds of trees obstructing my view and he usually lands far back in the reeds. Sometimes I give chase, this time I chose to give up. Then I heard or felt something and as I swung my camera up there was he was flying overhead. These kinds of quick shots are so hit or miss because it’s hard to know what the camera’s focusing on. But I’d say I got my prey.
adam
Oh YEAH, you did … ! Killer instincts, bravo! And “great bird” seems mighty apropos — any guess on wingspan?
rakkity
Are you sure it’s a “he”?
Jen
Those are amazing. I love seeing them on the Concord River when kayaking. They are so graceful and awkward at the same time.
smiling dan
*Now* I’m connecting snipets of breakfast conversation from last Saturday to these postings I missed!
Dannycomelately
rakkity
So you kayak the Concord, Jen? I saw no herons or egrets when I canoed the Concord many decades ago, but we were younger then, and less appreciative of birds.