More Black-necked Stilt

The good news on arriving to help out on the trails today at Reifel was that the Black-necked Stilt was still around and at the rear of the house pond. Needless to say that was my first stop.

Black-necked Stilt
Black-necked Stilt

Apparently the Stilt had been following some Northern Shovelers in the pond earlier in the day, perhaps checking out what they were stirring up.

Black-necked Stilt
Black-necked Stilt

While the ducks were still around, while I was watching it hung around with the Greater Yellowlegs or would wander off on its own.

Black-necked Stilt
Black-necked Stilt

While preening off and on, the bird also provided a couple of chances to get shots like this.

Black-necked Stilt
Black-necked Stilt

The nice thing about this location in the sanctuary is that you are at the same level as the bird for a more natural perspective. The lighting and reflected colors on this particular pond can also enhance your photo opportunities. Being a little closer to your subject doesn’t hurt either.

Black-necked Stilt

Received a message today concerning a fairly rare visitor to the Lower Mainland area. A Black-necked Stilt had been spotted at Reifel. It has been almost five years to the day since my last photo of this species in this area. So taking a little time off work was in order.

On arriving at the sanctuary I learned the bird was still present in the southwest field and headed right out there. On arriving there were several other birders/photographers already there.

Black-necked Stilt
Black-necked Stilt

The Black-necked Stilt was not hard to spot amongst the Dowitchers.

Black-necked Stilt
Black-necked Stilt

The bird provided good viewing and photo opportunities. It would have nice if it was a little closer, but still a lot better than my last photo/record shot.