The smooth feathers of this White-faced Heron stand out nicely against the stripes made by the wind-ruffled water on Manly Dam. The heron strides out into the water, spots a fish, then spins around and jabs at the water in an amusing dance.

Here’s a still photo showing the bird’s yellow legs and big feet:

Here’s another photo which I like because of its impressionist mood and raindrop-scattered bushes:

Common name: White-Faced Heron

Scientific name: Ardea novaehollandiae

Approximate length: 70 cm

Date spotted: 7 March 2015

Season: Late Summer

Location: Manly Dam, New South Wales, Australia

Latitude/longitude: 33°46’34.8″S 151°15’07.9″E