Last Sunday was my only really good day of photography when I probably got my best green kingfisher images. There were days when I got nothing, but that’s how it goes.
There’s probably no species I enjoy photographing more than kingfishers. These unique birds are skittish, uncommon, and avoid humans. They frequent waterways in many parts of the state, and three of the fours species that have been recorded in the USA only occur in Texas.
Male Green Kingfisher.
In other words, Texas is the best place in the country to watch kingfishers. The Lower Rio Grand Valley is especially good for kingfishers, including two species tough to find elsewhere; Ringed and Green Kingfishers. The Ringed is big and only found on larger rivers, whereas the Green occurs on streams and oxbow lakes. The other two species are the Belted Kingfisher (common and widespread), and the Amazon Kingfisher (a species that has been found twice in Texas but normally occurs south of the border).
I was pleased to get this Green Kingfisher just after it dove into the water.
Belted Kingfisher.
While waiting for a kingfisher to make an appearance, other birds and animals also come within range of the camera. Last weekend, Least Grebes swam into view.
Least Grebes on the prowl.
They were followed by their larger cousin, the Pied-billed Grebe.
Young Pied-billed Grebe.
Least and Pied-billed Grebes.
It just goes to show, whether that target species turns up or not, wait long enough and you will some great shots.