World Bird Wednesday - Feeding Frenzy

When I feel desolate, I need the open ocean to blow the cobwebs

away. All the city beaches are on the Gulf so we headed to Goolwa

and the Southern Ocean.

I love going there although it is a longish drive as it is quite near

the mouth of the Murray river. At Goolwa there are barrages

across the river and because of the recent rains, the river level

was up and quite a few sluice gates were open and the birds were

in a feeding frenzy as the fish rich water gushed out.

Masses of Cormorants, a few Pelicans and a number of adult

and juvenile Terns were involved in fast moving duck dives

and sudden up periscopes.

Flying back a bit and grazing the churning water against the

current.

The one below had just hit the water after a flight jockeying

for position.

Constantly on the move, this one I managed to catch in flight.

Seldom staying in one position for a good shot.

This Pelican seemed pleased with himself as he was constantly

smiling.

A quick dive, crowned with success.

Small wonder that he was pleased with himself until . . .

he ducked as

a tern flew overhead, he probably thought it was the axe

murderer.

There were terns aplenty, both adult and juvenile. They are such swift flyers

that it is not easy to get a clear shot at them.