American Oystercatchers

[Steve_E]

Oystercatchers are some of my favorite subjects and are one of the most challenging. They require a large amount of patience and persistence. Here are a series of images from last spring and summer. They're a bit more difficult to find in the winter months but recently I've come across a few. They often use those knife-like bills to pry open oysters during low tide. They also feed on other crustaceans as well.

Canon 1D Mark II / 500L / Skimmer II Ground Pod and Hand-held for flights

Steve

[lacad01]

Another remarkable set of shots Steve :thumbsup:

[supernova1965]

Hey Steve_E Hope you are saving something for this month's photo challenge things that fly:thumbsup:

[acropolite]

Amazing shots Steve, the in flight shots are particularly impressive, the last one is my favourite.

[telecasterguru]

Steve,

These are great shots. I love these birds. Very similar to the oystercatchers around here.

Frank

[troypiggo]

Wonderful set. The in-flight ones are awesome.

[iceman]

Incredible images - the DOF is just perfect.

Beautiful work.

What's a ground skimmer?

[troypiggo]

Something like this: http://www.naturescapes.net/store/product.php?productid=41

Sit your camera on it at ground level, curved base so you can slide it along sand or whatever.

[gary]

A beautiful sequence. Your patience was well rewarded and your skill shines through.

Best Regards

Gary

[Steve_E]

Thanks Troy, Mike and Gary.

Thanks Troy for the link.

Mike, the Skimmer Ground Pod has been a lot of fun to work with. It's the perfect tool to support the camera, lens, and Wimberley head when laying down or crawling up on subjects.