Sunday, July 15, 2012

Roadrunner


Both Friday and Saturday brought more clouds to Phoenix and little patches of rain here and there.  The result was cooler temperatures so I took the opportunity to take a morning walk at my favorite place to hike.  You guessed it, the Desert Botanical Gardens.  I didn't really expect to see anything spectacular because the desert hot and dry this time of year but, I was surprised by the things that caught my eye.  As I was heading toward the exit, I heard a huge commotion of loud and very angry birds and then I spotted what they were so riled up about.  This Roadrunner was prowling around and the smaller birds were determined to shoo him off.  I was very lucky, he wasn't in much of a hurry and he stood perfectly still long enough for me to snap a few shots.


So, I can finally present to you a clear photo of one of these speedy birds.

His coloring makes him well camouflaged to do his hunting low to the ground.



14 comments:

PerthDailyPhoto said...

Don't you just love it when an opportunity like this presents itself, well done Sharon you caught a great portrait of this speedy chap!

Lowell said...

These are amazing photos! You must have a way with animals and birds 'cause they never sit still for me! It's a beautiful critter and I don't think I've ever seen one close up before (well, except for the cartoons!)....

Birdman said...

Beep! Beep!

brattcat said...

ditto, birdman. excellent shots.

Kate said...

What a great duo of photos!! I've never seen a roadrunner except the one on the train between Albuquerque and Santa Fe. Wonderful capture of this cooperative fella.

Thérèse said...

Perfect pic for a perfect day at the Garden!

Dave-CostaRicaDailyPhoto.com said...

This is superb. Getting a glimpse of a roadrunner is a treat. Getting photos of one is a gem.

I wonder shat road runners were called before they had roads.

Judy said...

Very nice! I like that great head shot!

Randy said...

Marvelous close up Sharon.

RedPat said...

Wow - super shots Sharon!

Jack said...

You nailed these, Sharon!

Magpie said...

Yes, the other birds don't like the two that live in my yard. For good reason...they are carnivorous.

Kathy said...

Oh, these are great. I only seem to see these dudes when they're scurrying across the road!

Unknown said...

Was the coyote around? :-) Terrifice captures, Sharon!