Least Tern Chick

[Ryan Schain]

While watching several species of terns at Sandy Point, I nearly stepped on this newborn Least Tern chick that was resting in the sand. I quickly backed up and got down on my stomach for some shots. I photographed it resting for about ten minutes, until a much larger Roseate Tern flew low over the colony. The Roseate's shadow spooked the Least Tern chick, causing it scurry down the beach towards its parent. This bird was literally the size of a cotton ball with toothpicks for legs. I normally would never post an image of a bird going directly away, but I feel like it works here.

Canon EOS 7D
Canon EF 100-400 mm F4.5-5.6 L IS

1/3200
f/6.3
400 mm
ISO 400

116538

[Ken Watkins]

Ryan,

This works very well for me despite the head angle:w3


It makes you smile which is a pretty good reason for taking an image:cheers:

[Robert Holguin]

Very nice shot. I really like it.
Great low angle, love the raised foot, and I really like the shadow.
Put a smile on my face.
Well done.

[Maya Raut]

Hi Ryan,

Lovely capture. It's running pose makes me smile. Love the open wings, raised foot and composition. Sand grains and shadow added beauty in this image.

- Maya

[Daniel Cadieux]

I agree that it works well!! Love the kicked up sand and the shadow. Not sure what the original crop looks like but I would have placed the little guy lower in the frame, and I'd may run more sharpening to the head (although I know these little fluff-balls can look soft anyhow). Well seen Ryan!!

[allanrube]

Great shot. A good example of breaking the rules. Shadow adds a lot.

[Marina Scarr]

This frame tells a great story. Agree with Daniel on putting him a little lower in the frame but keeping him left of center. Love that kicked up sand and the shadow. Well seen and executed.

[Satish Ranadive]

Ryan,
this is magnificent image.Every thing is just perfect and you have captured this at right the moment.

Regards,
Satish.

[PhilCook]

Very appealing, cute to the max.... and all that comes to mind is " Run Forest Run !!! "

[Cheryl Arena Molennor]

sweet image and does make you smile. I love the shadow and kicked up sand and those little feet Ohhhh :)