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.
Anhinga, anhingha
The Anhinga is one of the few birds whose common name and scientific name are the same. Not only that but its genus and species are the same, Anhinga anhinga. It might be thought of as the bird’s first and last name.
With that in mind… here are two anhingas fishing this morning. The anhinga hunts by swimming under water and spearing a fish on the end of it’s sharp bill. It then must get the fish off it’s bill to eat it, so the anhinga does that by flipping the fish up into the air for a head first swallow.
“Radar” Is Not Happy
Many of you will remember seeing “Radar”, the great egret that has a transmitter pack attached to his back with antennas sticking out. Well earlier this afternoon he wanted to fish in his usual spot at the edge of the salt marsh except someone else was already there!
Radar was not at all pleased that an alligator decided to nap in his favorite fishing hole and thought that possibly a vigorous display of wing flapping might send the intruder off.
Apparently the alligator was not aware that Radar is head bird out there, or more likely he didn’t care because a short time later it was Radar who was gone while the unimpressed gator continued on with his afternoon nap.
Quiet Time
Normally when I see green herons they are very purposeful and busy sorts of birds. They can most often be found intently stalking the marsh area for small fish, shrimp, and other types of aquatic species.
However, I recently found this green heron taking a break from its feeding duties and enjoying a bit of early evening down time by relaxing on a conveniently located stump along the edge of the pond.
Sleeping Like A Baby
Yesterday afternoon our good pal Mr. A was out napping on a small island in the marsh pond. I know he would have preferred that there was more sun and less wind, but you have to admit, this big guy knows how make the best of any situation and manages to get quite comfortable!
Sunset Dining
Yesterday evening, just at sunset, I was watching this juvenile yellow-crowned night heron stalking the edge of the marsh pond in search of the tasty little crabs that are such a favored menu item for them. This youngster was such a patient hunter and, as the sun began to set, I had just about given up seeing him catch anything and I decided to leave.
But, as I was walking away, I glanced back just in time to see the wily young night heron walking back up onto the rocks with a crab he had just plucked from the marsh! It turns out we were both rewarded for our patience.
The Lovely Mrs. Anhinga
Earlier in the week I saw this female anhinga drying her wings along the edge of the marsh pond. I quickly noticed she displayed the bright ‘eye makeup’ colors that indicate breeding condition. The males also will display a similar color pattern at this time of year but I thought the Mrs. looked particularly fashionable all decked out with her formal makeup applied!
Around this same time another female came flying in and I grabbed a shot for comparison. You can see this lady is not in breeding color so perhaps her turn will come next season.
Popular Spot
Two days ago this stump out in the salt marsh seemed to be *the* hot spot for several of the wading birds. First it was claimed by an egret who stood there for a while watching his friend fish. Then he was evicted by a different egret who immediately attracted the attention of a great blue heron.
Well naturally the heron wanted the stump, if for no other reason then he didn’t want the egret to have it. However, the blue heron could not quite fit properly standing at the very top the way the egret did, so he moved down to the lower level where he proceeded to watch an egret fish.
This did not prove to be quite as exciting as the heron hoped and he quickly became bored and as you can see in the 13 second video below, he left the area to pursue some excitement elsewhere.
Feeling Better and…Thanks!
Well I’m feeling much better this week and I wish to thank you all for the kind thoughts, prayers, and comments I have received! Your continued and ongoing support and encouragement has meant a lot to me over what has been a difficult time. I now see light at the end of the tunnel and am feeling positive and optimistic about the upcoming summer months and all the wildlife activity that I hope to witness and capture.
I also thought what better way to represent that then a photo of our own dysfunctional yet beloved spoonbill from last summer Mr. Cranky! If even our grumpy pink friend can have a happy look on his face then so can I!
I’m quite ready to get back out to the marsh and see what’s been going on and I especially want to check on those mischievous alligators who always seem to be up to something!
Thanks again my friends, you are the best!
Phil Lanoue Photography 