Plegadis chichi

Nikon D-3, 1/400second @ f/6.7, ISO 1250, -0.33 EV, 650mm

Most of my life I have "noticed" the White-Faced Ibis.  Some records show that in North America the WF Ibis population is in decline.  But the same reports say that the largest nesting population is at the Great Salt Lake.  This week I have more than noticed.   My passion for photography has taken me many places.  Though I am very blessed to live where I live.  My home is within 10 minutes of some of the most beautiful birds in North America.  The White-Faced Ibis is no exception.  For years they have just been that black bird with the long freaky beak.  With the option of looking much closer at the Ibis through very long lenses, my appreciation for their beauty and personality has grown immensely.  They are not just a black bird!  Click on the photo above and enjoy the colors of this bird.  They are not the fluorescent colors of a amazon bird.  They are deep and subtle.  I have been missing a lot for so many years.  

Their personalities...well let's say they are a little hyper!   Another animal in the wild kingdom that makes me laugh and want to enjoy more.  Their motions are quick and determined.  As my interest drew I was taken in by their actions.  Each bird will drive it's long beak into the muddy soil retrieving  little morsels.  There was no other distracting sounds.  All my attention was on hundreds of little sucking noises as each bird drove it's beak in and pulled it out with that characteristic sucking sound.  All while walking at a pretty good clip.  A lot of work was being done.  It was like there really was no tomorrow for the Ibis.  Incredible fun.  

I could not get too close.  The intent is to always get as close to ground level as possible.  The long lens and wide open aperture isolates the subject.  I could not get low enough to do this but I think the green surroundings enhances the beauty of this bird.  Only a couple of adjustments in the digital dark room.  Pushed the contrast slightly and sharpened in NIK Sharpener.  

To learn more about the White-Faced Ibis look here