A few day back Jeanette thought she saw a Great Egret fly in
to the willows of Glen Creek that runs between the golf course and a field next
door, but in trying for a second look she could not find it. We finally concluded that it was just some of
the fluttering white plastic pieces the famer uses to keep the Canada Geese out
of his grass fields. But yesterday while birding in the rain by myself I
spotted it and after some hide and seek with the willows I got this photo. The
Great Egret despite its size is a very stealthful stalker as its sneaks-up on
its prey be it field or stream. Its
ability to stand dead cold still also allows it to blend into the scenery despite
its bright white color. They can be seen
here in the Willamette Valley year a round, but are especially prevalent in the
winter.
I think you were using this stealth technique when you were sneaking up on Jeanette, lo those many years ago.
ReplyDeleteSuch a timely post for us! We were stopped in the middle of Butteville Road on Friday morning trying to get an I.D./picture on these guys.
ReplyDeleteJim, I enjoy all your great bird photographs and the little stories that accompany them. Lee
ReplyDeleteJim - Finally followed your link to Elva's Field notes. Thanks for mentioning it. Lovely writing and drawings.
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