Splashdown! Hooded Merganser Drake

[Bill Dix]

Another from the Jersey Shore ponds last week. These little guys seem to have such character, which appears to change depending on which of many crest positions they are showing. I know a bit of head turn would have been good here, but this is the first shot I've gotten of them with crest in fully open position and the profile shows that to advantage.

D7200, 500f4 + 1.4 TC, ISO 1000, 1/2000s @ f/7.1 manual, gitzo and mongoose.

[adrian dancy]

These birds always remind me of something but I can't think what something is ....if you know what I mean. Excellent behaviour image Bill.

[gail bisson]

You nailed the exposure here! White crest is so easy to blow!
Great splash and yes to a bit more head turn but certainly not a big issue.
Gail

[Randy Stout]

Bill:

yes, they are great characters, and wear there emotions on their crest, so to speak. Exposure is indeed a challenge, well done here.

Cheers

Randy

[Joseph Przybyla]

Beautiful bird... you did well on the exposure I have yet to get one I liked. Pleasing composition, the water splashing adds to the image. Nice work, Bill. Thank you for sharing.

[Ritesh Nangare]

What An beautiful shot the water droplets looks like diamonds ...... love the bird here ......

[Daniel Cadieux]

I like the action, exposure, sharpness. Good comp too. I do wish it was angling towards us rather than away though. Yes, these guys are fun to watch!

[Bill Dix]

Thank you all.