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"Peek A Boo"
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"Peek A Boo"

by Craig Strand

Gallery: AvianPosted August 5, 201099 views5 comments
I came across this American Bittern photo, shot this past February and thought it's "hidden" qualities deserved posting. Taken at the Ridgefield WA NWR, it's an excellent example of a bittern in his/her enviroment and how spotting them can often mean noticing something out of place.

Larger version available, thanks for stopping.

canon 7D
canon 600mm f4.L IS USM
F/9.5 1/250 ISO 100
auto window beanbag rest

Comments

5 comments
Comment posted by Mia McPherson on August 5, 2010 at 11:38 AM
Craig,

I love how the bittern is peering over that one stem of foliage, the visibility of the eyes and that sharp bill.

I might crop just a bit off of the bottom if this were mine, the yellow of the legs pull my eyes down and away from the more subtle yellows present on the bird's face.

I have a few hidden burrowing owl images that have this type of hidden interest and I like them, it is nice to see one from your portfolio posted here.
Registered on June 25, 2007, 491 Posts, 12566 Comments
Comment posted by Dennis Plank on August 5, 2010 at 3:14 PM
Very cool, Craig. I always like the half-hidden subject, since that's how they're so often seen. The extended neck and eyes really make this one. :toast:
Registered on January 28, 2008, 1767 Posts, 23192 Comments
Comment posted by Brian Gatlin on August 5, 2010 at 8:37 PM
really cool, Craig. I love how you can see both eyes, as well as the cryptic plumage. Every time I see a shot like this, I realize it's no wonder I've never seen one of these!
Registered on March 21, 2009, 202 Posts, 4187 Comments
Comment posted by Ron Dudley on August 5, 2010 at 8:38 PM
No wonder I an never see these guys! Nice illustration of how well these birds can hide Craig. I'd crop from the bottom too, for the reason Mia mentioned.
Registered on March 30, 2007, 437 Posts, 10915 Comments
Comment posted by Simon Bennett on August 5, 2010 at 11:43 PM
Terrific example of camouflage, and I didn't even notice the body at first look.
Registered on February 4, 2007, 350 Posts, 4614 Comments