While looking for froggies for FFs to come, I saw this handsome Great Blue Heron across a pond, possibly Brickyard Pond, along the Norwottuck Rail Trail.
Great Blue Heron- Ardea herodias
I liked the pose but thought a little farther down the trail would be better. The heron did not agree and as soon as I appeared a little closer from behind some bushes lining the path away he flew. I am happy to have this shot.
That is the same fallen branch that I posted a few weeks ago with four turtles basking. I was looking for frogs and turtles but settled for a heron.
Stephen Gingold Nature Photography Blog 
Nice image, Steve. I love the reflected greens in the background.
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Fresh spring greens make everything better. Thanks, Eliza!
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I would settle for that, too.
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KInd of a no brainer.
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That is a real beauty, Steve.
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Thanks, Pete! A lovely subject makes a big difference.
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Great shot Steve.
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Thank you, Rudi!
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Nothing wrong with capturing a Great Blue, in my book! Very nice, Steve!
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Thanks, Ellen. Oh, I agree and jump at every opportunity.
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The blue heron with its reflection looks superb, Steve. Great shot!
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Thank you, Peter. The light was just right.
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I love photographing these herons. They are obligingly still! I like the grassy green backdrop too.
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Yes. The stiller the better for me. I’ve never tried photographing small birds in flight. I used to participate in a photography forum where the ideal bird photograph was a “BOAS”…bird on a stick. 🙂
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What I think must be a little mud island behind the heron looks for all the world like a fish suspended in air. I had the impulse to tell the heron, “Hey! Look behind you!”
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The water is a little shallow there so it might even be a rock as the water is also low currently. It does look like a fish half out of the water.
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Mr. (or Mrs.) Heron says:” I take issue with your choice of words, Steve. Nobody ‘settles’ for me. I am the central character in this scene and no turtle or frog will usurp that role from me.” 😊
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In all honesty I was very glad to see the heron and considered it a much brighter spot in my day than a turtle or frog. I’ve done Tuesday, or Thursday, Turtle and, of course, Frog Friday. Maybe I’ll wait for the 4th and do Holiday Heron. 🙂
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Mrs. (or Mr.) Heron says: “I’m glad to hear it. Any day would be honored to be considered heron day.” 🙂
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A very elegant chap!
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He definitely knows how to strut his stuff.
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Nice Steve! Like the reflection!
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Thanks, Reed. I was lucky to find it in the pond.
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You may not have gotten the shot you had in mind but so much time and effort has gone into this one, when you think about all the hours you have put into photography. And it really is very satisying.
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It is a satisfying image, Lynn. Quite often we set out with a goal, and oftentimes without, and come back with a prize that was unexpected. Thanks!
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