Black Skimmers are a favorite of mine. They're perfectly equipped to feed while gliding with ease on their wide wing span just above the surface of the water. Their lower mandible extends beyond the length of its upper to reach into the water where schools of small fish do their best to get out of the way. When contact is made their bill snaps shut so quickly its nearly impossible to see. Their head is usually whipped backward underneath them while they make the grab. They eat on the wing so feeding can continue and no energy is wasted landing and taking off. Their call is similar to the bark of a small dog so there's no mistaking them when they're nearby.
With all that said you'd think that I'd have some flight shots to share. Instead, here are some portrait favorites from the past that I reworked. Long methodical belly crawls get me up close and personal without stressing the birds.
