May 17, 2011

Soaring

SDP  5-17-11
I don't know what I like more about this osprey: those legs tucked high, tight and flat under that feathered tail, those outstretched wings riding a strong breeze or that golden eye scanning the bay below for dinner. Per the usual, I have a story behind this shot. After hanging out at the fishing piers at Ken Thompson Park for about 45 minutes, and being teased by an osprey way off in the distance that refused to come any closer, I decided to pack up and go home for dinner. As I was pulling out of my parking space (camera and long lens safely packed and stowed), an osprey materialized and soared within a few yards of the hood of my car. It was as though I was being taunted...and that was enough for me! I re-parked, unloaded and waited. And waited. Then, right when I was about to toss in the towel (again), the osprey magically reappeared -- and this time it soared straight at me. Bingo! Definitely worth the return trip.

13 comments:

Kathy said...

You should be very proud of this shot. It certainly wins first prize in my book!

James Mark said...

Definitely worth the return trip, thanks.

Reena said...

Awnry critter! Great shot. I think they purposely taunt us!

Ernie said...

Ain't that the way it goes? Good job!

Jack said...

It is a great shot and perfectly cropped, SRQ. You have the patience of Job. I'm an antsy kind of guy, but I am working on it . . .

Lois said...

Your patience certainly did pay off! This shot is just wonderful.

Bob Pelkey said...

Great shot. As you recently commented on another blog, and as I observed recently, yes the Black-necked Stilt is a dominant bird over other species of at least its size. On the ride home from work today I observed an extremely rare pure white Rock Dove seen only once before and seconds later a Swallow-tailed Kite 30 feet above Highway 41. We are extremely fortunate to have these opportunities.

Lowell said...

Boy, you put me to shame. I saw an osprey on our Stone Creek golf course and got off a couple of shots, but nothing like this! (I'm still gonna post them, though! :-)

These are big, powerful birds. I've seen one dive deep into a canal and come up with a fish almost as big as he was!

Clueless in Boston said...

Great shot!!

Jim Klenke said...

Nice, glad he made a surprise visit. I'm always fumbling for my camera and usually miss my shot.

Unknown said...

Wow, excellent work! Patience pays off. ;-)

Lorraine said...

Outstanding photo! Beautiful bird! Wow!

Book said...

Beautiful moment ! well seen !