Ospreys at Rutland water

Hello again. Here are some shots from my recent trip to Rutland water. I expected the Ospreys may be some distance from the hides, though not that distance! Shooting with my 300mm lens was pretty pointless, as the birds could have been carrier bags for all I know? Fortunately one of the birds decided on a spot of fishing, coming quite a bit closer. I'm not expecting any awards for the shots though...

guest slot – from Portland

Here is a lovely article from my friend from across the pond, take it away Michele...

"Hummingbirds are quite common in North America, particularly in the west. They are the among the smallest species of birds and are also the only group of birds that can fly backwards. They are quite fast and can fly at speeds exceeding 54 km/h. With a very high metabolism to support the rapid beating of their wings, they consume more than their own weight in nectar each day"

"In Oregon, we have about 5 species of hummingbirds, with the most common in the Portland area being the Anna's Hummingbird. Anna's are unique in that they don't migrate, but tend to stay in their home territory year round. I've had a regular visitor to the feeder on my balcony since about February. He's a male Anna's, which have a metallic green back, dark rose-red crown and gorget and grayish breast. It has been a bit challenging to get a good photo of the little guy as they don't sit still for very long, but with a little patience and perseverance, I managed to get a few good shots"