Black-crowned Night Herons

The BCNHs have started nesting again at City Park. Here are a few from the last couple of weekends.

#2

#3

#4

#5

#6 This last one is obviously not a Black-crowned Night Heron, but it is a Bonaparte's Gull. I haven't seen too many of these in Colorado. Plus they are a lot smaller than many of our other gulls and do not fly in any sort of predictable flight pattern other than bouncing all over the place. Was probably one of the harder flight shots I have ever tried getting.

Great set of ultra sharp and silky smooth images. At first glance they almost looked like paintings they are so perfect.
What focal length and lens were you using if you don't mind me asking?

Hi Ken, Thanks for the comments. I have a few lenses I use, but for all of these shots, my setup was a Canon 1D MIV with the 500mm f/4 on a Gitzo tripod, with an Arca Swiss ball-head and a Wimberly Sidekick attached.

Great shots Kurt...so much clarity!!!

Great shots Kurt...so much clarity!!!

The fifth just grabs me with his flight attitude, placement in the frame and the red eye. Well done.

Kurt--you da man! #4 is the pick of the winning litter here.

Just look at those eyes! Magnificent bird photography, Kurt. It's almost like you capture ballet moves sometimes.
I just love your work, sir.

Superb shots Kurt !! liked the artistic pose of the bird at #4.

I love Night Herons. Those bright red eyes sure make the shot.