Rose Creek was calling. It is an urban stream that flows into Mission Bay, and one of my favorite locations to photograph birds.
This morning, I had an itch to grab my camera and head on over. The sky was clearing of smoke, the sun was out, and opportunity was waiting. Sure enough, I discovered this Great Blue Heron posing in the grass along the creek bed. As soon as I flipped the cap off the lens, this magnificent bird performed an amazing fly by. Click images to enlarge.
The last photo was clipped because I was distracted by a Snowy Egret, diving Double-crested cormorants, wading Mallards and screeching gulls. It was a bird lover’s delight.
Remember, always follow the call of the wild — and don’t forget to bring your camera!
In Pics and Words 
Great images! What size lens were you using, and were you on a tripod?
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Canon EF-S 55-250mm f/4.0-5.6 IS II Telephoto Zoom Lens. On my APS-C crop sensor Canon T7i, it provides a focal range from 88-400mm.
At a cost of $155(US), it can arguably be compared with the more expensive Canon EF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS II USM Lens priced at $2199(US).
When I began Project Osprey this Spring, I debated on whether to buy the more expensive lens, but with images like the one you see below, I simply could not justify the cost.
To capture these handheld photos, the camera is zoomed to 250mm, or 400mm equivalent. There are instances where I could use the longer reach so the 100-400mm lens would provide a crop ratio of 150-600mm.
I’m still debating because one of the Osprey nests is a bit too far for the shorter lens. However, in the Canon forums, the consensus is that the 100-400mm lens, while a great piece of glass, may not be $2000 better than the 55-250mm lens depending, of course, on your specific needs.
In general, wildlife photographers and those who earn their living as a professional should probably spend the extra money.
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Great shots again David, I love the 1st one you can see the power in those legs pushing down to spring upwards.
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Andy, I was surprised to see that shot because I usually capture the image after the bird has sprung.
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Wow…!!!
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