Crowned Lapwing
(Vanellus coronatus)
Nikon D3 | Nikon 600mm f/4G & TC-17E II
Termite mounds are scattered throughout Rietvlei Nature Reserve, providing the ideal perch for bird photography. However, termite mounds do not only exist as the perfect perch for ground dwelling Crowned Lapwings. These mounds are created by termites, small insects that not only play a critical role in the ecology, but also provide sustenance to a wide variety of mammal, bird and other species.
Birds make use of the opportunity to harvest termites and provide photographers with great photographic opportunities.
Crowned Lapwing
(Vanellus coronatus)
Nikon D3 | Nikon 600mm f/4G
Back-light provides ideal conditions to capture the feasting Lapwing, and produce images in perfect light conditions. Swaying grass in the late afternoon breeze, adorned with magical African twilight, complemented the subject with the perfect fiery background.
Crowned Lapwing
(Vanellus coronatus)
Nikon D3 | Nikon 600mm f/4G
Changing my position to capture a willing subject from a different perspective also provides some side-lit images.
The feast is not limited to lapwings only. Other species also capitalise on the abundance nature provides.
Pied Starling
(Spreo bicolor)
Nikon D3 | Nikon 600mm f/4G & TC-17E II
Cape Glossy Starling
(Lamprotornis nitens)
Nikon D3 | Nikon 600mm f/4G & TC-17E II
