Fishing with Harry

A bird's gotta eat, you know! So, I thought I'd track Harry as he devoured a snack or two at the Ditch. (As you will be able to tell by the sky and water, the photos were taken over two shoots)

Watching a heron fish requires several key operating essentials: A zoom (unless your subject is closer than mine!), a tree or fence to lean against to steady that zoom (if you don't have a tripod, which I don't), and more patience than I ever thought I would acquire in life. Ever.

Because lots of the action looks like this.

Unless it looks like this.

Of course, then he might start to walk -- this could mean one of several things.  He spots a fish ahead; even if he doesn't, this fishing hole isn't working; or he's just bored and ready to move on.

I like watching him stalk -- slow, graceful, deliberate.

Then he stops and looks like this.

Yup! This is the place!

Boom!

 On this day, he is doing his best to rid the pond of its koi.

 And he was pretty lucky! Or maybe not!

Another day, another fish!

If he's lucky he comes up with something. If not, he might go back.

But this time he caught a big one.

(None of us Ditchies knew there were fish that big in the pond!)

And it appears, he may have lost it. At least he was having trouble handling it.

Maybe not, but quite a struggle.

He wandered over to the reeds with his capture.

I can't help but wonder what's in there -- he was very preoccupied with something out of view.

Any ideas, bird fans?

Then it was back to hunting.

So, what about a little snack, nothing so large and bony. How about...

...a dragonfly.

Check his mouth.

I think he may have lost this one, too.

He sure was having trouble! Those dragonfly wings must tickle!

But somehow, I don't think Harry's going to starve.

Our boy is pretty resourceful!

Sometimes, it's just a beautiful day in the neighborhood.

Sharing this week with:     Share Your Cup     Saturday's Critters   /   Let's Add Sprinkles