This is somewhat subtle. Notice the open bill, raised forehead feathers, ruffled throat and crouched stance. This juvenile Semipalmated Plover is saying "stay out of my feeding area". These plovers are extremely entertaining to watch as they constantly bicker over feeding territories. Most squabbles begin with some high pitched calls, followed by one bird fanning it's tail and displaying similar to this bird. If the other bird does not back down a brief squirmish or chase ensues and it all ends with both birds crouching very close to the ground. BG is not ideal for me,also I had to clone out a rock in the bottom left and it didn't work out as well as I would have liked, but after 14 hours of birding, this is as good as this image is gonna get for now.
Hi Dave Excellent info on these little guys !!! Much appreciated
Image is sharp, well exposed and great pose. Would like to see a better light angle for evenly illuminating the bird, the front part is in shadow. Also wish the dark strip was not behind the bird. It is a very nice image and love the overall feel !!!
Thank you, Dave, for the behaviour information, I really appreciate the opportunity as there is so much to learn! Great detail in this image, like the open beak and head turn, nice job.
Semipalmated Plover(Motif)
