On Thursday at Occoquan Bay National Wildlife Refuge I captured this image of a Great Blue Heron (Ardea herodias) at water’s edge. Heron’s are quite large and normally are easy to spot.
However, as I was approaching this area, this Great Blue Heron was initially hidden from view by the metal posts sticking out of the water, as you can see in the second photo. Fortunately the heron’s head was turned to the side and it was the bird’s large bill that gave away its presence. I had to walk farther down the trail and look back to get the viewing angle for the first photo in which the heron is somewhat separated from the posts and is more visible.
© Michael Q. Powell. All rights reserved.
Mike Powell 
They are such beautiful and graceful birds. Great capture. I guess he’s thinking about breakfast.
Beautiful birds. The one who lives at our local pond has been hanging out at the side near the trail in recent weeks. Last night, we went for a walk at dusk and we almost walked right past him. He was well camoflauged.