This little guy is so hard to photograph. I made a big deal out of getting one this fall as it was fishing. Now at the CNWR in early December I was able to get another as he rested about 25 yards away. I took several shots but many of them were a bit off focus. This is one of the better. The Belted Kingfisher is pretty skittish as you approach they quickly fly off, with their rattling call echoing over the water. Frustrating to photograph they are fun to watch. One of my favorite birds to enjoy just listening to and watching fish.

I paired him up with the Mourning Dove. (the other 24 photos of the Belted Kingfisher were all about the same:) It too is often flushed out when you get too close and it also makes a call when it first launches from its perch. It is not as some people think a “morning” dove but is named for the mournful note of its call. This one was found deep in the woods and you can get a decent look at the unusual blue eye ring and the subtile colors of its feathers. Also note the characteristic black spots on the back.