Pic of the Day

Great Egret, Ardea alba: Saint Augustine Alligator Farm

Saint Augustine, Florida

     I took this image earlier this month at the Saint Augustine Alligator Farm where Great Egrets and at least 7 other wadding birds species nest right along the boardwalk.  Nesting is in full swing by now with some species still building nest, with others sitting on eggs or feeding newly hatched young. I shot this bird as it flew to its nest.  Flight photography opportunities at the alligator farm abound as does bird on the nest with nestlings.

     Note the aigrette plumes that extend beyond the tail feathers.  Aigrette plumage is molted after the breeding season.

Nikon D800, Nikkor 500mm f4, 1/8000 second @ f7.1