Preserving Wildlife

We spent four days recently at the Jersey Shore.  We didn't do the 'beach thing'--instead we visited the marshlands, wildlife refuges and preserves in the Tuckerton area.  Great opportunities for fishing and photography!  The first day was rainy.  I wouldn't use the word 'gloomy', for it's much too gloomy a word!   While a gray flannel blanket of mist might have dulled the hues, it also provided a peaceful, soothing and calm place to explore.  The colors in the photographs are depicted as genuine as it actually appeared. 

This stark-white shorebird flapped into view.

A pair of ducks swam into a 'fingerprint' of ripples.

Moving to another place, we came across this American Bittern who was willing to pose for a few pictures!

This marshy 'meadow' was a perfect place for Great Egrets to forage food.  Again, the misty air created an enchanting backdrop for the white birds.  I particularly like the photo with the black bird flying nearby the egret, hence the 'meadow-like' feel.

My goal was to capture one of these magnificant birds in flight.

The next day the weather was a little brighter and more clear.  I caught these playful ducks frolicking.

A little further down the trail, this Great Blue Heron was fishing. 

In my attempt to get a little closer to it, I discovered that the reflection of the heron made for interesting photos!  Here are a few of them, followed by a close-up of the heron's face I was able to shoot through the weeds.

More waterfowl......

I was surprised to see the heads of two mostly-submerged creatures pop out of the water!  A more thorough inspection revealed the shells of these terrapins. 

This Canada Goose also made an appearance.  (Gosh, they're everywhere!)  Although considered a nuisance fowl, it's stunning beauty can't be overlooked.

Speaking of nuisance birds......  we can't forget these gulls!

Another day...  another marsh...  another egret.  The next three shots show it ruffling it's feathers.

...a few more shots...  and still waiting for one to take flight...

Wanting to see what it likes to eat, I located the source as shown below.  This little bird also found the source!

And FINALLY, what I'd been waiting for!  A Great Egret came in for a landing right in front of me!  The next three shots show the sequence:

Nearby was a smaller yet similar bird.  I assume it's a juvenile Great Egret, noting the differences if the tuft of hair at the back of the head, the black bill, and the yellow feet, to name a few.  Here's a picture of the smaller egret:

Our trip continued......  as I will, here on this blog, with more images and captions to come soon!