A formation of American White Pelicans banks westward across the spring sky, broad wings flexing in unison.
Subject: WaterbirdsFocus: American White Pelicans, Other Waterbirds
Our conductor for nature’s orchestra today is Ms. Hoo D. Merganser.
Subject: WaterbirdsFocus: Ducks, Hooded Mergansers
A Common Goldeneye drake and two hens fly in tight formation, looking for all the world like a practiced team rehearsing for an upcoming waterfowl air show.
Subject: WaterbirdsFocus: Ducks, Goldeneyes
Perched on a limb above me, a Double-crested Cormorant peers straight down with a curious expression, as though asking the photographer, 'Do I know you?'
Subject: WaterbirdsFocus: Double-crested Cormorants, Other Waterbirds
An Eared Grebe and a Horned Grebe paddle along the shore of a lake at West Branch Forest Preserve in DuPage County, Illinois.
Subject: WaterbirdsFocus: Ducks, Grebes
Ma and Pa Sandhill Crane let out one of their rattling bugle calls with their two little colts beside them.
Subject: WaterbirdsFocus: Cranes, Sandhill Cranes
Can you find a Whooping Crane hanging out with some Sandhills in this shallow pond?
Subject: WaterbirdsFocus: Cranes, Whooping Cranes
A Great Blue Heron drops in with that slow-motion grace—wings flared, toes out, and a careful touchdown on the log.
Subject: WaterbirdsFocus: Great Blue Herons, Herons & Egrets
Whooping Crane #14-15 lifts off at dawn after roosting with migrating Sandhill Cranes, joining the last birds to depart beneath a sky turning gold and orange.
Subject: WaterbirdsFocus: Cranes, Whooping Cranes
Sandhill Cranes parachute against the stiff south wind at sunset for a soft landing into their roosting field.
Subject: WaterbirdsFocus: Cranes, Sandhill Cranes
