Least tern family

Lido Beach, Sarasota, Florida. AV mode 1/3200 sec at f/11. Exposure compensation -1 1/3. ISO 400. Canon 500mm f/4 lens and a 1./4x teleconverter.

Late May through June willl find me walking the beaches of the Gulf Coast of Florida where I live, searching for least tern colonies, I never tire of the adorable chicks and the ir attentive parents. Like most beach-nesting birds, Least terns are declining since the beaches they need for nesting areas are coveted by people too. When terns begin making nest scrapes along our beaches, volunteers rope off the areas to help avoid human disturbance, but summer storms often wipe out an entire year's reproductive effort.

Ohhh Lovely sight. Nice oof bg. The dof is nice. You got the chicks as well as the mom nicely covered.

Beautiful composition linda! Great low angle and light with a nice BG. Good job

Wow, just TERRIFIC. IU love everything here, the light, the moment, the BG, the sharpness, eye contact, exposire, this is an amazing shot!! Just outstanding! Congratulations!

This is such a lovely image - a wonderful moment indeed. Thanks so much for sharing this image.

Wow Linda talk about jealousy. This is just too cute. I love the composition and to capture two babies and the proud mom with her beak open makes this a winner. I am sure the Mom is bragging just a little < smile > Lovely work and a great low angle. Congrats.

fantastic capture, linda!!! love the one small one sleeping. makes the image more peaceful.

Oh so cute Linda I just love these type of family shots you can see the comfort by the expression on the chicks face excellent details and comp.

Lovely, attractive image Linda, with just the right amount of d.o.f. These birds unfortunately have the same problems here in the UK.

Just an excellent image Linda of a tender moment. Well done!