American bitterns escape notice by blending in with their surroundings in wetlands. Their plumage and coloring, from head to toe, are designed to hide the bird in the marsh vegetation. The bitterns stand with their beak pointed up and sway with the surrounding reeds to enhance the camouflage. Even their eyes are designed to function in this pose.
A flock of median egrets preen and socialize on the Kaveri river as they prepare to settle in for the evening. Preening is an important exercise for all birds to remove parasites and dirt. I liked the light and reflections, and the contrasting poses of each egret.
A snowy egret concentrates on its next meal in the middle of a rocky shore in the Bay Area. The white of the egret contrasted well with the earthy colors of its surroundings.
A trio of American white pelicans arrive at their feeding area These large birds nest inland but close to water bodies. They fish in small to moderately sized groups, often diving in unison. Here, I saw them arrive in small numbers to feed on carp trapped by a small check dam. I was captivated by the lighting, synchronous head angles and colors.
A flock of Indian spot-billed pelicans gather on a dead bamboo trunk to cool off in the midday heat. Pelicans use their large pouch as radiators to remove body heat.
A pair of white pelicans swimming in tandem during feeding.
Four corners: Cattle and Little Egrets
It is interesting to observe behavior of birds, such as these egrets, when they gather in small groups. The greens of the wild creeper provide a complementary backdrop for their contrasting poses.
An American white pelican sporting a breeding growth on its beak feeds at the Horicon Marsh NWR.
American White Pelican and Reflection
I came across this juvenile American white pelican early one morning in a ditch close to the Great Salt Lake. I liked the diffused light and the dark background which set off the pelican and its reflection.
An American white pelican in the process of digesting a carp. I observed the pelican holding on to the fish for well over an hour, during which it was continuously tilting its head and agitating its pouch. I like the dramatic pose enhanced by morning light.
