Black-crowned Night Heron juvenile

[Bill Dix]

From JBWR last August. I suspect a smaller aperture might have helped.

D7000, 700mm, ISO 2000, 1/1000s @ f/7.1 manual. HH braced against blind.

[Daniel Cadieux]

I like the comp you chose here. Nice details and smooth BG. Dof is OK to me, but I can see that you may have wanted the shoulder more in focus. I would eliminate the curled "strand" on the bill even if it is caused by the preening behaviour, although I'm sure many would prefer it there as natural history...

[andresleon]

The eye detail is wonderful! In my opinion, I find that it is difficult to obtain interesting images when the birds are preening. Sometimes, however, you can capture some really incredible moments when they're taking care of their feathers. This is one of such moments. great job!

[nick clayton]

Great detail and a beautiful eye on this Heron Bill

[gail bisson]

I really like the comp you chose.
I like the tight, intimate view.
I agree a F of 10 would have improved this but still a really nice shot,
Gail
Good job HH!!
Gail

[dankearl]

Nice one Bill, the eye is terrific!

[David Salem]

The eye looks like glass it so clear. I like the tight comp and the detail is great. Exposure is spot on and the feather detail is very nice. Well done.

[Frank Schauf]

Beautiful portrait, great details, a great shot.

[Karl Egressy]

Nice, intimate portrait image Bill

[Satish Ranadive]

Bill Sir:
Wonderful close up with magical colors,great details,lovely BG and beautiful eye.Great composition too.
Love the frame.

Regards,
Satish.

[Robert Holguin]

Excellent shot.
I really like the pose, excellent details, and great comp.
Very well done.

[Bill Dix]

Thanks everyone. I appreciate the comments.