Wading Heron and Willow

In the late afternoon, the heron moves slowly and with stealth along the shore. The wind is still and the water is quiet, therefore the slightest movement of minnow or frog can easily be seen. With eyesight many times sharper than that of humans, the heron can detect the movement of even one tiny fin. The heron's head and neck move forward very slowly on the target, presenting a slender silhouette which the fish confuses as part of the willow. Both of the bird's eyes point forward, lining up like double gun sights along the beak. Then, with a quick jab, the strike is made.

Looking through the willow with its backlit, late fall leaves, I didn't move a muscle. So in spite of the heron's wonderful eyesight, I was privileged to witness this beautiful moment.