They Found Me

Shortly after sunrise I was out exploring Sweet Marsh this morning. My targeted species to find and possibly photograph… soras and/or Virginia rails. I was covered by camo as was my camera equipment and my canoe and paddle. Apparently I blended well with my environment.

While I heard only one sora and saw none, and I saw and heard no Virginia rails, I did surprise sandhill cranes. And, they surprised me!

Since I was camo-covered and nestled in cattails, the tall birds didn’t see me until both had waded quite close. When the cranes did find me, one put up a ruckus and the other walked away in a determined manner. I am not sure they knew what I was. I shot some photos and got out of their area. Following are sample images from our brief interaction.

Again today I found a green heron, probably hunting minnows and frogs.

Sweet Marsh is also hosting at least a few great blue herons. This was one of them.

There is no doubt I am an equal wildlife observer. Yes, I see and photograph many birds, but I am also willing to photograph smaller species - like this tadpole. Its legs are just beginning to develop.