Green Heron

Yesterday I was visiting a friend in Forked River. This Green Heron was across the lagoon in front of her house. It's the best view I've ever had of this species.

 

 The second picture was taken when he first landed on the branch. The lighting wasn't very good, and the wind was making it difficult to hold the camera still. And of course, he was moving somewhat as well. I was surprised it turned out as well as it did.

Woodpeckers

A few weeks ago, a few members of Southern Ocean Birding Group went on a field trip to Old Mine Road, which goes along the Delaware River in New Jersey. The main purpose of the trip was to see  migrating warblers. It was a success, but we heard more than we saw. Although I always had my camera at the ready, the little warblers, stayed high in the trees and seldom stayed in one spot long enough for me to focus on them. Therefore, my best picture on the trip was of a Pileated Woodpecker, which I took near the home we were staying in in Pennsylvania.

 

 

I've also seen Pileated Woodpeckers in Florida and Virginia, but so far, not in New Jersey. I have seen other woodpeckers here, however, and a couple of days ago, I was able to capture a picture of this Red-bellied Woodpecker enjoying the food in one of my backyard feeders.

 

 

Not just birds

I've been birding, but have had little time to update this blog. Here are a few of what I've seen. How many can you identify? Obiously, the first two are not birds. You never know what you'll see out in the woods of South Jersey. The last one was seen along the Potomac in Virginia.