Tuesday, August 2, 2011

American avocets at Radio Road Ponds

Flock of Avocets

On my way back from Pillar Point Harbor last month, I decided to take a slight detour to Radio Road Ponds in Redwood City. I was delighted to see a large flock of American avocets resting in the shallows near a convenient place to set up a tripod. While they were far enough away that making a compelling image of a single bird was difficult, it was a fun challenge to find some pleasing compositions within the flock.

Avocets tucked in

Many of the birds were busy preening, but occasionally they would all tuck their bills into their feathers to rest. I really love the shape of a shorebird in this pose, and it's always nice to photograph such a relaxed subject. The rippled reflections were a nice bonus too.

American avocets

More photographs of these elegant shorebirds in my Stilts & Avocets gallery.

Submitted to World Bird Wednesday -- follow the link to check out this week's posts!
Posted by at
Labels: , , ,

16 comments:

  1. holdingmomentsAugust 2, 2011 at 8:15 PM

    Pat, these are stunning images.
    The first is excellent.

    ReplyDelete
  2. John @ Beans and I on the LooseAugust 2, 2011 at 8:53 PM

    Amazing. So rich in color. Very nice.

    ReplyDelete
  3. SpringmanAugust 2, 2011 at 10:31 PM

    Funny how these little side trips pay off! I love the lead shot. Your subjects always seem so relaxed and natural. That is your gift!

    ReplyDelete
  4. mickAugust 3, 2011 at 1:21 AM

    Beautiful photos and birds. I agree that they look very relaxed with their bills tucked into their feathers - but it certainly doesn't make it easy to count and ID a large mixed lock of waders!

    ReplyDelete
  5. Laura~Pretty PixAugust 3, 2011 at 3:49 AM

    Fantastic captures!

    ReplyDelete
  6. eileeninmdAugust 3, 2011 at 5:11 AM

    They are beautiful birds and photos. Well done!

    ReplyDelete
  7. FABAugust 3, 2011 at 6:38 AM

    Lovely captures Pat of this beautiful species with the shimmering reflections in their relaxed poses.

    ReplyDelete
  8. ArijaAugust 3, 2011 at 6:50 AM

    Lovely shots of these beautiful birds. I love the dormitory shots.

    ReplyDelete
  9. EdenAugust 3, 2011 at 7:47 AM

    Beautiful work Pat!

    ReplyDelete
  10. UnknownAugust 3, 2011 at 10:00 AM

    Great shots Pat!! Boom & Gary of the Vermilon River, Canada.

    ReplyDelete
  11. Hilke BrederAugust 3, 2011 at 10:55 AM

    You were lucky with your side-trip, Pat! Terrific assembly of Avocets!

    ReplyDelete
  12. theconstantwalkerAugust 3, 2011 at 5:42 PM

    Beautiful images Pat...

    ReplyDelete
  13. NeilAugust 3, 2011 at 7:15 PM

    It looks like it pays to take a side trip now and then great photos.

    ReplyDelete
  14. PatAugust 4, 2011 at 10:28 AM

    Wonderful captures of these beautiful birds! I especially like that first shot - really a winner!

    ReplyDelete
  15. SondraAugust 4, 2011 at 4:53 PM

    Stunning color in your images!!

    ReplyDelete
  16. JmaAugust 6, 2011 at 7:17 AM

    Wonderful pictures !

    Jean-Michel
    http://leblogdugeai.canalblog.com

    ReplyDelete

Subscribe to: Post Comments (Atom)