Is this Normal?

[Amy DeStefanis]

This heron is sitting about 100 feet up in a tree along the Hillsborough river. I've never seen this before (but maybe I haven't seen much). Is this normal? Or have all of the animals on the Hillsborough gone bonkers?

[Johnny Bravo]

Nothing unusual about it at all. Heron's roost and nest in trees.

[Judy Lynn Malloch]

Hi Amy,

Great sight to see for sure but not uncommon. They will often land on a high perch but of course while they are searching for food or fishing you will find the in the water or near the shore. They build their nest high in tall bushes and trees ets. Lovely to be able to capture this but tough to photograph as the ideal is at eye level rather than looking up. The lighting too is difficult in this situation with shadows and over exposed areas and in this image the lighting looks a bit harsh. I like the alert pose and perhaps if you had been able to step back the angle for taking this image would not be so steep. Many thanks for sharing Amy.

[Amy DeStefanis]

Thanks everyone - guess I need to look up more often....

Yes, if it's overcast, it's too dark under the branches by the river, and if it's sunny, the light is a challenge. Either way - there seems to always be something to take into account....

It was nice to see the bright green leaves and blue sky coming through, and I, at least, was surprised to see the heron there. But there was no avoiding the upward angle, unless I climbed a tree on the opposite bank - wouldn't THAT be an interesting shot.

[Arthur Morris]

You have the whole bird in the frame and it looks fairly sharp.

#1: Avoid filtered sunlight! #2: the bill and the face are totally blown out. You needed some - compensation. #3: The branches that cross behind his head are distracting. In overcast conditions, you have much less contrast to deal with. You need to keep on studying and choose your battles (and your subjects) more carefully...

later and love, artie

[Amy DeStefanis]

Thanks to all who answered my question.