Juvenile Black Skimmer

There are some large nesting colonies of Black Skimmers scattered around the coastal bend of Texas. These were taken in Rockport and there must have been over a thousand Skimmers in this one area. They were very approachable, sometimes being too close together for a good composition. I've always liked the look of the juvies, so different from the adults.

I was just thinking how on earth these birds balance themselves with beaks as disproportionately big and heavy as theirs, but obviously sometimes they DO fall over!! Great shots!

Levina de Ruijter wrote in post #10636390
I was just thinking how on earth these birds balance themselves with beaks as disproportionately big and heavy as theirs, but obviously sometimes they DO fall over!! Great shots!

Thanks Levina! Laying on the ground is how they rest. Both the adults and juvies do this. Almost looks as if they're playing dead.

Miles these are fantastic.....I would love to locate where they nest around here just to see some of the juvies.

Absolutely beautiful series Miles. It's fun to crawl up on the snoozing juvis, I find it easier than the adults. When they wake up and realize that the others have moved further away and they're still laying there with the photographer, their reaction is funny. You know you've gotten close enough when you can see the diagonal ridges on the bills. Great work.

Great set Miles,
Super sharp and clear.

The juvies are so cool looking.

Kenn

They sure are a strange looking bird with that long body and unusual bill. You captured some fine shots of the young one Miles.

Appreciate all the kind words! The juvenile Skimmer is one of my favorites, it's a good time of year to capture them.

These are all absolutely beautiful. The skimmers are such fun to watch.

These are all outstanding. First class work, Miles.

Thanks LB and Stan!

Beautiful shots Miles. Did any of the juvies approach you, begging?

canonloader wrote in post #10638525
Beautiful shots Miles. Did any of the juvies approach you, begging?

No, they were pretty much hanging with the old folks, no begging like I've seen them do before. My presence didn't phase these birds at all. I could get very close if I approached slowly and non-threatening.

They must not have much contact with humans. But I wonder what holding up some baitfish would do. LOL

Great shots Miles. Amazing how specialized the beaks have become. Have any shots of them younger?