Monday, November 15, 2010
Black Skimmer
The Black Skimmer is an odd relative of the terns; its lower mandible is much longer than the upper. It feeds by "skimming" the water with its lower mandible until it touches a minnow, then snapping shut and capturing its prey. When I began birding in Cape May 30 years ago, the skimmer was rarely seen. This flock was resting and feeding along the beach opposite the beach hotels.
I love these birds, great fun to watch their feeding. Super photos - especially the colors in the last.
ReplyDeletedan
Wow excellent. Lucky you to see a so nice bird. I love the way they are feeding and the third picture is wonderful!
ReplyDeleteOh, these birds are super! Excellent captures!
ReplyDeleteChris -- Oh this is the type of bird in your great header. The photos are first rate as all your photos are on your posts. -- barbara
ReplyDeleteWow! Such gorgeous photos of these beautiful birds, Chris! The top photo is almost 3-dimensional, and in some ways it also looks like a painting.
ReplyDeleteThese photos are so beautiful.. I've never seen a skimmer but your photos make me really want to find some!
ReplyDeleteI lov to see the skimmers, they are so fun to watch. Your photos are all wonderful, I especially love the last shot.
ReplyDeleteI particularly admire the light in the images of the whole flock, and then of course you a have a perfect picture to illustrate the name. Wonderful.
ReplyDelete