outdoor photography

Spotted Sandpiper There have been a couple Spotted Sandpipers at Central Winds Park this Spring.  Until this year, I've only seen this species in Brevard and Orange Counties.  It's been nice to see them in my home county on a regular basis.  The one above was taken at Central Winds; one below was taken near Cocoa Beach in the winter time, so he's not showing off his spots. Spotted Sandpiper

Marbled Godwit If you ask me, that long, slightly upturned bill has got to get in the way. Of course, they probably aren't too interested in my opinion on the matter, and in reality those bills are a great benefit for them.  Having a bill that long helps them probe deeper into soft mud for mollusks, and they're great for catching aquatic insects and even grasshoppers when feeding in grasses. So I'm content to admire them. What a fantastic bird! Marbled Godwit Marbled Godwit Marbled Godwit Marbled Godwit

American Avocet American Avocets are wonderful shorebirds that really are a model of elegance.  They have long upturned bills, and during their breading season, the heads and necks can turn a rusty color.  At Merritt Island, you can often find them feeding in large groups. American Avocet American Avocet American Avocet American Avocet American Avocet