Today Is My Birthday

Yes, I'm 39 again. And what better way to celebrate than by sharing with you some of the images that have made this year so special? I hope you enjoy!

Clark's Grebes

Where I live near San Francisco and San Pablo Bays, grebes are a very common sight. Generally, though, its Western Grebes that are seen in pretty good numbers. A much less common sight are Clark's Grebes like those seen in these photos. Grebes can be a challenge to photograph because they don't stay on the surface long. Like cormorants, they dive underwater for what can seem like minutes and there's no telling where they'll resurface. But there's a good chance it will be out of camera range when they do.

BoredTeenager: Black-crowned Night Heron

So Mom & Dad have finally left me alone, but there's nothing to do around this stoopid river. I've been sitting here on this railroad bridge forever and nothing happens. I haven't seen a cute chick all day. Guess I'll flex my wings once more to show off my magnificence. Yawn. Wish I hadn't dropped my iPod into the water. That majorly sucks.I am so BORED.

Black Oystercatchers

Black Oystercatchers are fascinating. When foraging among the dark rocks at the water's edge, they blend in so perfectly, you can completely miss seeing them -- except for that SCREAMINGLY BRIGHT ORANGE-RED BILL!

It's almost as if they followed the evolutionary path worn smooth by all successful species but momentarily stepped off and declared, "I need some bling!"

Black Oystercatchers are fairly uncommon along a narrow stretch of coastal waters from Alaska south to Baja California. I'm fortunate enough to live along that narrow band.

I accidentally flushed this pair while walking along a stretch near a harbor. They took flight before I could raise my camera even halfway. But a week later, I returned, walking as slowly and silently as I could, and there they were -- in the exact same spot.

"Tomorrow, Brylcreem - A Little Dab"

Nothing like a little breeze to get a Great Blue Heron a bit ruffled on a Sunday morning.

The Very Latest In Black-crowned Night Heron Hair Styles: Cruella DeVille

Yes, admit it: You knew what this image was going to be before you saw it. Good birder, you!

"I'm Ready For My Close Up, Mr. DeMille"

I never imagined I'd get this close to a Snowy Egret. Lucky this time.