Saturday 15 September 2012

Saturday Morning at Lake Cathie

Usually when I'm photographing not far from home I will just carry one lens secured to my Canon 7D camera. I originally chose the 7D for its nine frames per second speed, ideal for surfing, sports and wildlife.
 
This morning I didn't have time to walk down the beach for sunrise, so I thought I would use the Canon EF 400mm 1:5.6 lens. I took some sunrise shots from home and then headed to the Little Bridge at Lake Cathie for some wildlife shots. Click on images for a larger view.
 
The sun is rising around 6am here on the East Coast of Australia as we enter the third week of spring.
There were several surfers out at daylight, and being a Saturday morning they were in the water before any crowds arrived.
Arriving at the Little Bridge there were three Pelicans quietly watching the channels for fish. Two took off in one direction, and one headed straight for me and over my head.
Just as well he didn't relieve himself as he flew over. I've heard of some very severe consequences when this happens.
Next was several resident Great Egrets flying into this section of the lake.The tide was coming in so they were looking to feed on schools of fish passing under the narrow bridge.
On the opposite side of the narrow road, three Ibis were scouring the edges of the bank looking for food.
Off in the distance there was no sign of the Eastern Grey Kangaroos sometimes seen swimming the channel behind the fallen trees. This tree has been down several weeks now but still looks alive. It must still have some root attached as it becomes another perch for Cormorants and other water birds.
The sound of a boat made me turn to the north where two fisherman were setting out in a small dinghy. From here they can follow the channel through into Lake Innes. 
Next a pair of White Breasted Sea Eagles appeared from the far reaches of Lake Cathie, which is only accessible by canoe.
The White Faced Heron is commonly seen gliding back and forth across the lake with its unmistakable aerobatics.
The weed like grasses growing on the top of the lake banks offer a play with light in the early morning.
Finally there was Spike with his master out on their morning Expedition of the lake.
 
My SLR Camera Tip for Today is to focus on the eye of the bird or animal, regardless of aperture setting.

Fair Dinkum!!

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