Red-breasted Merganser close upRed-breasted Merganser close up – Nikon D200, handheld, f6.3, 1/1000, ISO 160, Nikkor 70-300mm VR at 300mm, natural light

There have only been a few times that I have had the opportunity to get a Red-breasted Merganser portrait and each time it occurred in Florida. I was photographing with a friend at Fort De Soto County Park in May of 2009 when we found a Red-breasted Merganser resting on a spit of sand right after it finished hunting for food. We were in the lagoon taking images of other birds and were able to slowly approach the merganser as it stretched, preened, and rested without causing it to become alarmed.

I was able to see the fine details in its feathers, the serrated edge of its bill, and had a great view of its eye too.

I enjoyed taking this Red-breasted Merganser portrait but most of all I felt honored that the bird allowed me into its world even for a short period of time.

Life is good

Mia

Click here to see more of my Red-breasted Merganser photos plus facts and information about this species.