Sunday 12 December 2010

Gull preparing to land.

I am not usually very successful with in-flight shots but a couple from my recent walk in the park came out ok so I'm happy to share them.

Captured this Black-headed Gull (Chroicocephalus ridibundus) as it was coming into land on the only clear bit of water on the frozen pond.
Unfortunately I didn't capture a quality slash-down!  For anyone not familiar with this gull it is an adult sporting its winter plumage ... the hood will change to a dark chocolate colour next summer.    FAB

30 comments:

  1. Fantastic shots Frank.

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  2. Frank, these are just amazing shots! Very sharp and clear, and I love them!!! You go guy!

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  3. Roy and Mona. Thanks. Just goes to prove that right location and lighting helps.

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  4. Great gull, Frank and you really were in the right place at the right time. I have never been fond of gulls but really liked this one. Looks like it's wearing a band on its leg and I wondered if a bird banding group is tracking it - do you know?

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  5. You where really succesfull on those fly shot...both are awseome!

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  6. I would think you would be very happy with these. They are stunning!

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  7. Hi Frank...great in flight photo's I especially like the last one!!
    I noticed in has been banded too!!
    Have a good week!!

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  8. Incredible shots, Frank. I try and try, too, but have yet to capture such beautiful images as this! Well done! ~karen

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  9. Beatrice. Gull ID and ageing is not one of my strong points but they are fun to watch. Yes it has been ringed (banded as you call it) but unfortunately I can't read the no on this occasion.

    Cheers Dominic, something came right at long last.

    Kelly. Happier than you can imagine. If only they all worked out this good!

    Grammie. Thanks. The weather has turned a little sour today ... damp and foggy so staying inside.

    Thanks very much Keith.

    Karen. Well every now and then something clicks so I gues we both have to keep trying.

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  10. Excellent gull shots Frank.. glad you had an enjoyable time in Richmond Park... (I've been missing for a bit - sorry)

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  11. Great shots Frank, I struggle with the in flight shots as well but would be more than happy with those!

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  12. Oh WOW ... you did GREAT with these!

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  13. Really great in flight pictures.

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  14. Nice shots Frank. I guess that same bird may be around a while for you to read the ring number?

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  15. Great capture of a Black-headed Gull! Beautiful sharp detail, color and composition. This would be a rare bird on the US Atlantic coast, but I have seen them in Germany, both in their breeding and non-breeding plumage. I think it's one of the most handsome gulls.

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  16. Tricia, Phil, Kerri and Bob.

    Thanks very much. I just hope the next occasion is as successful.

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  17. Cheers Phil. There's every chance so I'll do my best.

    Hilke. Thank you. I know they are not everyones 'cup of tea' but they do have character. I've saved a few static shots for some other time.

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  18. Very nice Frank. I struggle with flight shots too. You should be very pleased with these.

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  19. great captures - did you get a look at the ring, too?

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  20. Thanks Angie. Chuffed is the word.

    dreamfalcon. Cheers ... regret I couldn't read it.

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  21. Great flight shots and I love the second shot coming in for a landing. A black headed gull has been seen here in Maryland this week.

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  22. Hi Eileen. I guess that will get the birders hearts racing over there!

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  23. I'd say they came out better than just okay. Fantastic images! The feather details are beautiful. Very crisp and clear. It's always a treat to see in-flight shots.

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  24. Stunning flight shots,well captured Frank.

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  25. JRandSue. Cheers, appreciate the compliments.

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  26. Just an excellent job. You could almost reach out and touch them. Boom & Gary of the Vermilon River.

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  27. Cheers Gary. Hopefully I'll get that close again, one day.

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  28. Beautiful :). My mum put some food right outside the back door this morning so I could see the gulls close up and they duly came down to eat. Such beautiful creatures :).

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  29. Thanks Gaina. I've also noticed a lot more gulls flying lower over the garden in recent days ... obviously looking to scavange a free meal.

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I hope you enjoyed your visit and I always appreciate your comments and feedback.

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