Swallowtail Kite

[Judy Lynn Malloch]

These birds have been a challenge to photograph as they are so seldom seen in any one place very long. They are so beautiful and it was exciting to be able to capture this one perched and exposing his swallowtail.

Nikon D3
Nikon 300 mm F 2.8
ISO 400
!.1250, F8
manual

Many thanks for looking.

[Marina Scarr]

I absolutely love the pose here. The exposure looks really good. Can't beat the head turn. However, the head appears a bit soft to me.

[Bryan Hix]

I like the pose a lot. Very neat bird and one I would love to see some day. I agree that it could use a bit more sharpening, but I would also consider adjusting the whites or temp overall. They seem a little warm/orangish.

[Lana Hays]

Judy
There's a dust bunny near the top and a sharpening halo. However, this is a such a nice image. Interesting pose and just the right touch of greenery for the perch. One of these days.....I'm going to be able to be down there when they're around.....maybe this year.

[Danny J Brown]

Hi Judy Lynn - A very unique bird (new one for me) on an exceptional perch -- plus a super pose. You caught it all here. Softer light to deal with all that dynamic contrast would be my only wish on this one. Well done and congrats on getting an elusive species.

[Fernando Cerra]

Very dificult bird to find and photograph, you did excellent

[Bonnie Block]

Very unusual bird, Judy. Love the pose--nits mentioned--but really a marvelous image.

[Marc Mol]

Great capture of this elusive bird Judy, nice comp. All nits aside, well done.
TFS

[Stephen Stephen]

Judy beautiful capture of this lovely bird. I really like the over the shoulder look and the head turn.