Saturday, June 21, 2008

Killdeer: Our most common Plover



Named for its call, the Killdeer is commonly seen in meadows, pastures, and golf courses over most of North America. This Killdeer was unconcerned about my presence while hunting worms in the soggy pasture.

Killdeer have drawn my attention from an early age. I well remember being enthralled with them from an early age. As a boy, I enjoyed watching them run about the pastures, always able to maintain a healthy distance between themselves and an inquisitive little boy.

When viewed up close their brilliant markings are striking but at a little distance those same sharply contrasting colors serve as excellent camouflage

6 comments:

Michele said...

Beautiful photo... and yes, many times I have heard the rustling in the grasses and not seen them because of their camouflage until they popped out into the open... wonderful bird.

Tom said...

I think the markings are very good.. they certainly do their joy when the bird wants to blend in.. love the eye... I think it had you sussed as a good guy.

photowannabe said...

There were many Kildeers around when we lived on the San Francisco coastline. You are so right about their call and name sounding the same.
This photo could be a right out of a field guide. Excellent.

This Is My Blog - fishing guy said...

Salty: So wonderfully shot with a great result.

Kerri Farley said...

I don't believe I have ever seen these around here. They are lovely looking birds!!

i beati said...

they remind me of sandpipers the way they walk