Phil Lanoue Photography
I previously worked as a news and sports photographer. Recently I have been enjoying wildlife photography. My approach toward bird photos is similar to sports photography. I attempt to capture mostly action and hopefully a unique perspective.
Red Moon Rising
I stayed up a bit late last night to see the blood red super wolf moon eclipse (or whatever the heck it’s called) and wouldn’t you know it would turn out to be our coldest night of the Winter so far. In fact I’m still cold.
The eclipse was kind of cool, and the moon eventually started taking on a reddish color, but I only stayed out briefly to get a few quick grab shots.
We do have an owl that often hangs out in one of our nearby trees but I suppose I would have needed night vision equipment to capture him, so that accounts for the lack wildlife photos in this post, moon only!
Winter Wear
On yet another bright sunny day (prior to the arctic blast expected for Monday) We found a Little Blue Heron playing around in the marsh pond.
The little blues start out life as all white juveniles, then progress to a patchwork of blue and white (“tweeners”) before becoming deep blue colored adults with a maroon neck.
This individual however, was a bit different. He was a sort of pale grey with only a slight blush of red on his neck. I was thinking that this little blue was past his tweener phase and might be exhibiting some winter plumage on his way to full adulthood.
I expect to see him and all his friends all fully decked out and colorful this Spring!
Strutting His Stuff
Earlier this week in the salt marsh, we had a great blue heron showing off for the world.
Maybe it was the bright sunshine, but the thing about blue herons is that they always think they have an audience even when they don’t.
This day was no different, we were the only ones around to potentially impress.
Although…to be fair, we were sort of impressed. 🙂
Best Not To Wake Him…
Looking back at the swamp yesterday, we find one of the big boys snoozing the day away in the warm sun. He was all tucked in among the grass, reeds, and other assorted muck found in that area.
I kind of suspect that this is ‘his’ spot and nobody is allowed to disturb him.
I don’t know about you, but I think just leaving him alone with his nap is the best plan.
Afternoon Get Together
It was unseasonably warm today so we decided to head over to the swamp and see who might be out and about.
Well, it looked like three large turtles and one small alligator had reservations at the same table for a lunch time meeting.
It’s always pleasant to be able get outdoor seating when the sun is shining on a wonderfully warm January day!
Happy 2019!
Well…I can’t believe another year has passed and most excitingly, in wildlife world, we still have some Roseate Spoonbills hanging around the marsh.
It’s been 10 years since the spoonies have regularly started visiting the area, and in all that time they have never stayed later than a day or two into December, and now we have a surprising New Year’s Day appearance!
Now we are wondering if some will think about staying through the winter rather heading south as they normally have in the past.
In any case, we are thrilled they seem to be happy with their January home at least for now.
Also had to include one of the ‘regulars’ a great blue heron, that remains a constant source of beauty and amusement.
Happy New Year everyone!
Merry Christmas!
Alyce and I and the whole gang here at the marsh and the beach want to wish all our special blog friends a very joyful, safe, healthy, and Merry Christmas, and all the best for the coming New Year!
White Pelicans Fall Visit
This past November we had three American White Pelicans show up in the marsh pond for a short visit.
At times they stayed to themselves in a tight little group, but at other times it sure looked like they were having a lot of fun flying and splashing around with the various birds including cormorants, gulls, herons, and egrets.
Always enjoy seeing these very large birds arrive in our area. They are not rare, but they are uncommon, so it’s a treat for sure!
Phil Lanoue Photography 