Black-shouldered Kite (AKA Elanus axillaris)
It’s only taken about 3 years but I’ve finally spent some time with a black-shouldered Kite. I’ve managed to get a couple of photos of these birds before but they’ve been off in the distance or have flown off on my approach. But not this day. The weather was stunning for the middle of winter, no wind, not cold and beautiful reflections in the estuary. The birds were chirping, people out walking everywhere.
I just love those red eyes and yellow legs and feet. These small to medium raptors feed by dropping to the ground upon seeing mice, small lizards and ground birds. More information can be found at Birdlife.
A big shout of thanks goes out to my friend Chris Tate for letting me know that this Kite has been hanging around Leschenault lately and that I had better get my act into gear and get out there.
Great Egret
I also came across this Great Egret sitting up on a branch for me. These guys are often on the ground in amongst the grasses or in the water so you don’t always get the opportunity to photograph them legs and all. These birds are stunning when they are in their breeding plumage usually in summer.
