I went on a hike in Santa Cruz with a birder and photography friend who shared great tips on locations and photographing birds. With trails winding along the California coastline with cliffs and valleys, the views were spectacular.
Groups of Brown Pelicans cruised above the water, hovering gently in formation. A tip from my friend, give yourself some time to watch–if the habitat is where the birds live or go, there will be many more. Sure enough, I saw dozens pass by following the same paths, allowing me to capture a great image of one.
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- Brown Pelicans
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- Brown Pelican
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- Pigeon Guillemot
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- American Goldfinch
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- Mourning Dove
Bird Facts: Brown Pelicans dive into the water with so much force that it shocks nearby fish, allowing them to scoop the fish up in large gulps. Unlike most other birds, they do not fly with their necks extended forward, creating a distinctive profile in flight.
