This morning I was going through images and ran across some of my American Oystercatcher photos. I have always loved these amazing birds and they are extremely fun to photograph.
I am drawn to their colorful bills, but what really appeals to me is their behavior. Once they feel that their nest scrapes or their mate are being threatened or intruded on, they take to the air and start screaming, then give chase. Always returning to the original spot once their chase is over. Oystercatchers have a lot of patience when they feed their young. They tenderly pick up the meal and try over and over again for a good hand-off.
I often wonder if the swarms of people I see photographing these unique creatures on the beach appreciate every single detail about these birds as I do, or if they are just in a hurry to collect shots. Spending time in the field with your subjects is the great reward in photography.
