Usually very reclusive and shy, this bittern made an uncharacteristically bold appearance at Las Gallinas and even moved around a bit, in spite of a small group of observers close by.
American Bittern, Las Gallinas Valley Water Treatment, San Rafael
Actively hunting, its entire body perched like a spear.
Another view, American Bittern
It finally seemed to have had enough of us, and flew over to a more remote spot.
American Bittern in flight, Las Gallinas Water Treatment, San Rafael
Green winged teal near the entrance
Northern mockingbird grabs a palm date, in one of the palm trees close to the parking lot.
Yellow-rumped warbler, Las Gallinas
An eared grebe, pond two
This beautiful male northern harrier flew over our position.
American Pipit along the shore of the second pond
Cackling goose, pond three, Las Gallinas
Bonaparte Gull, first year plumage, Las Gallinas Valley Water Treatment
Bonaparte Gull in flight
Cinnamon teal ducks, male and female, Las Gallinas Valley Water Treatment
A pair of common gallinules, first pond, Las Gallinas