Some more from Shaws Bay (Sept)

Another week, another day, another walk along the north wall at Shaws Bay.

First up was this figbird offering a clear profile just above the green foliage as it perched on a dead branch and checked out where it might fly off to next. The plainer brown striated plummage of the female without the distinctive red eye patch here.

Next up I offer a three photo set showing the amazing ability of the egret to be still, even when striking and thereafter ... hardly a ripple in the still water! First up the slow stalk, getting the long neck muscles into the sprung "strike" position; second, the strike, with that powerful pointed beak and head piecing the surface and into the reeds; finally, savouring the catch just before devouring it. The stillness hardly seems to have been broken after the event 😉- unless, of course, you happen to be the prey!

While certainly not birds, the floating and breeze dependent haphazard flight of a butterfly is always a sight to behold. This day there were masses of Caper whites. Here are a couple of photos of ones enjoying the pollen and nectar of the yellow flowers out near the beach. The subtle pastel colours really complement the environment they are enjoying.

 

The next two photos offer two more wading birds in action. First a smaller egret with a breeding plume hanging off the back of the head and more in the tail. Just standing patiently ... watching, waiting. Second, a white-faced heron also being patient but with the right leg poised to wade forward.

Finally, another little pied cormorant roosting in the mangroves, but having a quiet word as I meandered past and paused for the photo opportunity.