Picture Of The Week 03-29-10

Great Blue Herons
(Ardea herodias)

Where: Richmond, VA • Pipeline Rapids Rookery Notes: In 2006 on the riverfront in Richmond, Virginia a heron rookery began to develop on a small island just yards away from the metropolis of towering skyscrapers, busy bridges, railroad tracks and trestles. What was once a few nests, has grown to over forty active, mating pairs at this colony in the past four breeding seasons. This has become quite a spectacle. At this time of year the courtship displays, mating, and greetings for the arrival new nesting materials are nearly constant. It is like a very busy airport. The occasional squabble occasionally beaks out when a neighbor wanders in too close to another's spot. Soon eggs will be laid and chicks will hatch, ready to be fed fresh fish, tadpoles and frogs from the river. As I witnessed this display at the arrival of her mate several times, I was reminded at the importance of greeting each other properly. That first few moments can truly set the tone for some time to come.

Equipment: Canon EOS 40D • Canon 400mm Prime f5.6 L Series Lens • 1.4X Converter • Manfroto Tripod

Exposure: Shutter Speed = 1/640 second • Aperture = f 11 • Exposure Mode = Aperture Priority • Focus Mode: One Shot • Lens (Focal) Length = 560 mm (400 mm w/ 1.4X converter) • ISO = 400 • Aprox. Camera Distance = ~100 Feet • Date Shot: 03-24-10

©2010 Robert W. Schamerhorn. All rights reserved. Unauthorized duplication prohibited.

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This photograph is available on archival premium luster photopaper. Quality prints come signed by the artist, matted (white) with backing board and clear protective polypak. Satisfaction Guaranteed or Full Refund. A portion of the proceeds goes to support avian habitat conservation efforts.

PRINT: Great Blue Herons (No. 4317)
Size: 8" x 10" • Signed Print with 11" x 14" White Matte • S&H Included
Item: GBHE(IMG_4317)8X10 . . . $39.95

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