Heron at low tide

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Heron at low tide

October 26, 2021 by Mike Powell

As I was wandering about in Occoquan Bay National Wildlife Refuge last Thursday, I could not help but notice that the water levels were really low—the waters of the Potomac River and adjoining bodies of water are definitely influenced by the tide. Large stretches of the land that are normally covered with water were visible.

I spotted an opportunistic Great Blue Heron (Ardea herodias) poking about in the tidal pools, searching for tasty tidbits. The heron seemed to be having some success, though its “catch” was so small that I could not tell what it was, even with my telephoto zoom lens fully extended.

I love watching Great Blue Herons and am happy that they remain with us all winter, unlike their cousins, the Great Egrets, that depart my area in the autumn for warmer locations.

Posted in Autumn, Birds, Nature, Photography, wildlife | Tagged Ardea herodias, Canon 50D, Great Blue Heron, heron, low tide, Occoquan Bay National Wildlife Refuge, Tamron 150-600mm, Woodbridge VA | 7 Comments

7 Responses

on October 26, 2021 at 7:55 am | Reply Olivia

Thank you for sharing!
- on October 26, 2021 at 9:30 am | Reply Mike Powell
  
  Thanks, Olivia.
on October 26, 2021 at 9:53 am | Reply Reed Andariese

Very nice Great Blue Heron image Mike! Another of one of my favorite birds to photograph. Plus they are large so it is easier to fill the frame! Enjoyed seeing your image!
on October 26, 2021 at 11:10 am | Reply Dan Antion

Great capture, Mike. I could watch them all day.
on October 26, 2021 at 1:11 pm | Reply Laura (PA Pict)

I really like all of the angles in this portrait.
- on October 27, 2021 at 9:25 pm | Reply Mike Powell
  
  Thanks, Laura. There is definitely an angular feel to this photo. 🙂
- on October 27, 2021 at 9:25 pm | Reply Mike Powell
  
  Me too.