Estuary Merlin
A couple of weeks back I got this sunny day shot of a merlin out at the Nanaimo Estuary.
Merlin Launch
A hungry merlin launches off of an old snag to chase another dragonfly.
Merlin Missile
You have to be fast to catch dragonflies in mid air.
Taiga Merlin
This is for all of my birder and photo buddies out there. Got this image of a taiga merlin a few weeks back and never got around to posting it. As you can see it is quite a bit different from the pacific merlins we see at Buttertubs Marsh. Easy to see how it can be mistaken for a kestrel at long distances.
Buttertubs Merlin
Unusual to catch this guy around the swamp at this time of year. They seem more prevalent in late summer when they make a feast of the dragon flies there. Must be some sort of food source that has attracted it.
Like Clockwork
It must be August. The merlin is back eating dragon flies at the marsh again.
Merlin in The Marsh
Nice to see the merlin back in their usual venue eating the summer dragonflies. Pretty harsh light but did my best. May go back a couple of more times to try for some flight shots.
Little Mountain Merlin
Although the light and the background were not ideal the merlin did come a bit closer yesterday.
Tighter Crop (merlin)
Here is a somewhat tighter crop. Not quite sure which one I like best. You be the judge.
Cottle Lake Merlin
Found this nice looking merlin at Cottle Lake today. He followed us as we walked the edge of the lake and landed three or four times on different close by perches. If you are viewing this image on Flickr please left click for higher detail.
