I seem to have started really working on my bird pictures just in time for breeding plumage shots.

These nesting photos were taken from the boardwalk at the Wakodahatchee Wetlands, and as far as I could tell the birds didn't even notice that the people were there. Open water separates the areas the birds were nesting in from the bird watching folks on the boardwalk.

I was delighted that this bird posed so gracefully for me. I photographed it on my first walk through the Wakodahatchee, and it inspired me to go back again and again to try to get better bird pictures. It also taught me to be more careful when I identify a bird. After I got home, I peered at the pictures, and came to the incorrect conclusion that it was a Tricolored Heron. Now, thanks to Tim, I know better. It's a young Great Blue Heron. Thanks Tim!

Check out the wingspan! Is this one a Great Blue or a Tricolored?

I was flattered when Joe Murphy emailed me to ask if he could use my photos on his tiles. He sent me this one, and one of a White Peacock Butterfly, as beautiful samples of his work with my photos. I didn't know what to expect, but I was delighted when I got them.

His site is: http://shamrocklane.com