Green-winged Teal
Here in California, out of hunting season, danger for most birds comes primarily from above. Hawks and falcons pose the most danger for adult birds. When I process many of my images I see the birds looking up; I assume they are on the look out for danger coming at them from above. This Green-winged Teal definitely fit this picture. Shortly after this image was taken a Red-winged Hawk floated over the pond. A RWH is not much of a danger to an adult teal, but none the less, all the ducks exploded into flight; the hawk floated away and back the ducks came.
Taken with a R7, hand held with the lens just above the water; processed in PS with healthy crop. BG brought down slightly and shadows on bird brought up slightly.
Country United States
State California
Location San Joaquin WR, Irvine CA
Gender Male
Age Adult
Activity Feeding in the Wild, In or By Water
- Created Timestamp02/10/2023 15:39:40
- CameraCanon EOS R7
- Aperture7.1
- CreditDeb Babbitt
- Focal Length500
- Iso800
- Shutter Speed1/2000
A very interesting observation. I will have to observe the waterfowl more carefully to see if they are looking up as well. GreatBirdPic, too!