On Tuesday at Occoquan Bay National Wildlife Refuge I watched this Red-winged Blackbird (Agelaius phoeniceus) try to balance itself on the tip of a small, broken-off branch. The bird teetered and tottered and extended its wings for balance before it finally gave up and flew to a less precarious perch.
Somehow the little bird reminded me of my childhood, when I enjoyed tiptoeing along on sidewalk curbs, trying to maintain my balance. On rare occasions when I felt really bold, I’d try the same balancing act on low brick walls. At an early age I concluded that I was not destined for a career in the circus as a high-wire performer.
© Michael Q. Powell. All rights reserved.
Mike Powell 
You’ve reminded me of that famous quotation from Philippe Petit: “When I see three oranges, I juggle; when I see two towers, I walk!”
What a great quotation from a man of incredible boldness and aerial skills. It is amazing to think of the things that motivate others–we are all wired a bit differently, it seems, and some seem to gravitate naturally to seek security and safety, while others are thrill seekers.
I like how you actually captured the movement in a still photograph, Mike.
Impressive shot! I’ve tried numerous times to photograph these beautiful birds with mostly frustration – if they are still enough for a good shot, the coloring is not revealed. You have far superior camera lenses – great that you share these details in photo stillness.
Thanks so much for your kind words, Jazz. I really like Red-winged Blackbirds. Here is a link to some of my favorite shots of this species. Once you open the posting, I think you will readily see why I like the images so much. (https://michaelqpowell.com/2016/03/08/visible-song/). 🙂
Excellent picture.
Thanks.