The base where I work contains several canals, ponds and lakes which attract several species of birds during their migration or stay as year-round residents. This past year proves to be another indicator of the improved conditions here in Iraq where the populations of several bird species increased in numbers. One can only hope that all of Iraq will follow their lead in creating a peaceful co-existence between all Iraqis. Then again, the Cormorant and Gull seem to be arguing over the same space in a large lake.I finally captured the colorful Common Kingfisher in the midst of meal time. This very colorful bird, not sure why it is referred to as “Common”, is one of the smallest kingfishers approximately six inches in length. The brilliant blue colors on its back contrasted by the reddish colors underneath makes this the most colorful bird I have photographed in Iraq. The early afternoon sun highlights the bird’s colors against the drab green of the shallow pond waters.Perched on abandoned rebar, the kingfisher’s keen
eyes search the pond for a tasty morsel. Suddenly the bird soars into the air, hovers and then dives into the water emerging with a morsel of food. Notice the camera’s shutter speed freezes the kingfisher’s wings while hovering but the same shutter speed is not fast enough to freeze the fluttering of its wings shedding the water after exiting the pond. Until next time.
