Yesterday, after a long day cooped up indoors, I felt the pull of the outdoors calling me. The sun was dipping lower in the sky, painting the world with a hint of golden promise, and I knew I had to seize the moment. With the singular focus of adding a Greater Yellowlegs to my photo inventory, I grabbed my camera and headed for the waterfront, eager to catch the last rays of the day.
The first surprise came sooner than expected. Driving past a golf course parking lot, I spotted a shadow high in a cedar tree. Could it be? I pulled over, and there he was—a Bald Eagle, perched majestically, basking in the waning sunlight. I jumped out of my car, camera in hand, to capture him backlit by the soft hues of the sunset. It's like he knew what I was doing and turned to look directly at me. WOW!
As I marveled at his presence, he seemed to sense that his photo session was complete, taking off in a powerful sweep of wings just as I started to drive away. A perfect beginning to my impromptu adventure.
Time was of the essence as I reached the shoreline, the sky already beginning its transformation into a breathtaking tapestry of pinks and yellows. The sunset alone was worth the trip, but I had my sights set on the elusive Greater Yellowlegs. Scanning the water’s edge, I almost gave up—until a small movement on a distant rock caught my eye. There he was! Just one, surprisingly, busy exploring the rock’s nooks and crannies for his evening meal.
I took a moment to admire his grace, snapping a series of shots. His long legs reminded me of my late aunt, who also had a strikingly statuesque presence. I chuckled softly at the memory. Greater Yellowlegs are expert fishers, skillfully probing shallow waters with their long, slender beaks. Their precision and patience as they dart after small fish or aquatic insects are mesmerizing to watch, a true testament to their adaptability in wetland environments.
As I adjusted my camera, a distinct call pierced the evening air—the unmistakable chatter of a Belted Kingfisher. My eyes darted across the marina, searching for the little fisher. Sure enough, I spotted him taking a bold dive into the water, then retreating triumphantly to perch on a nearby boat. He was too small and far away for a clear shot, but I managed a few captures, his iconic call ringing in my ears. Can you spot him?
On my way back to the car, I caught sight of a Common Cormorant flying overhead. Scanning the bay, I noticed a cluster of cormorants lounging on the lighthouse markers, silhouetted against the vibrant sunset. It wasn’t the close-up portrait I usually aim for, but it made for a stunning environmental photo. Watching them bask in the golden light felt like a shared moment of peace between us, a silent acknowledgment of nature’s beauty.
Just as I turned to leave, a cheerful quack-quack-quack caught my attention. A group of ducks waddled toward me, clearly hoping for a treat. I winced as I realized I’d left my duck food in the car during its service appointment. Among the group, one bird stood out—a striking American Black Duck, a new species for my collection.
His chocolate-brown plumage gleamed in the fading sunlight, accented by a white patch on his chest and a jet-black head. He waddled with endearing determination, his plump frame swaying with every step. I managed to snap a few shots, thanking him silently for the gift of his presence.
As the sun kissed the horizon, I stood by the water, grateful for the incredible encounters I’d experienced in just forty minutes. A Bald Eagle, Greater Yellowlegs, Kingfisher, Cormorants, and an American Black Duck—what a lineup! The outing was a vivid reminder of how much joy and refreshment urban wildlife can bring, even in the briefest of escapes. Nature doesn’t demand grand expeditions; it meets us where we are, offering peace and wonder in return.
I returned to my car as the final rays of sunlight faded, a wide smile on my face and my spirit rejuvenated. Moments like these remind me why I turn to nature, again and again. It’s not just about the photos—it’s about the connection, the stillness, and the joy of being present in the wild spaces that surround us.
Outstanding--obviously a very productive day!