@Swede1952

@swede1952.bsky.social

Retired soldier, I spent about 30 years in the military (USMC/Army). Also recently retired computer systems engineer. So, I'm just plain retired. I need something to do so, I decided on photography and bird watching as a hobby.

Myrtle Forager Here’s a bird working a crepe myrtle seed pod for its breakfast. The posture is interesting — she’s leaning in with real intent as she pulls a seed from deep inside the pod. It’s hard to tell from this image alone, but the bird is a female northern cardinal.

"A female northern cardinal perches delicately on a slender crepe myrtle branch, surrounded by clusters of soft green leaves. Her plumage is a gentle blend of warm creams, tans, and blush‑pink tones, giving her a soft, understated beauty compared to the bright red males.

She leans forward with intent, her crest slightly raised, her dark eyes focused on a dried crepe myrtle seed pod just inches from her beak. The pod is cracked open, its tiny chambers exposed, and she reaches in with careful precision. Her beak — orange with a hint of coral — pinches a small seed from deep inside the pod, as if she’s plucking a hidden treasure.

Her long tail, washed in muted rose, hangs gracefully behind her, balancing her as she works. The background is blurred into a gentle wash of greens and soft light, making her the clear center of the moment — a quiet, intimate glimpse of a bird going about her morning meal." - Microsoft Copilot

A View from Shore This is a view from Holly Beach, Louisiana, taken in the spring 2023. There are brown pelicans flying above the Gulf of Mexico and a little farther out a couple of white birds, probably gulls, float in the water.

"The captivating image captures six brown pelicans in graceful flight above the Gulf of Mexico, near Holly Beach, Louisiana. These majestic birds showcase their impressive wingspans as they glide effortlessly through the air. The tranquil blue-sky blends seamlessly with the misty horizon, creating a serene backdrop for their synchronized flight patterns. It’s a beautiful depiction of the natural beauty and wildlife found in this coastal region." - Microsoft Copilot

A View from Shore This is a view from Holly Beach, Louisiana, taken in the spring 2023. There are brown pelicans flying above the Gulf of Mexico and a little farther out a couple of white birds, probably gulls, float in the water.

"The captivating image captures six brown pelicans in graceful flight above the Gulf of Mexico, near Holly Beach, Louisiana. These majestic birds showcase their impressive wingspans as they glide effortlessly through the air. The tranquil blue-sky blends seamlessly with the misty horizon, creating a serene backdrop for their synchronized flight patterns. It’s a beautiful depiction of the natural beauty and wildlife found in this coastal region." - Microsoft Copilot

Myrtle Forager Here’s a bird working a crepe myrtle seed pod for its breakfast. The posture is interesting — she’s leaning in with real intent as she pulls a seed from deep inside the pod. It’s hard to tell from this image alone, but the bird is a female northern cardinal.

"A female northern cardinal perches delicately on a slender crepe myrtle branch, surrounded by clusters of soft green leaves. Her plumage is a gentle blend of warm creams, tans, and blush‑pink tones, giving her a soft, understated beauty compared to the bright red males.

She leans forward with intent, her crest slightly raised, her dark eyes focused on a dried crepe myrtle seed pod just inches from her beak. The pod is cracked open, its tiny chambers exposed, and she reaches in with careful precision. Her beak — orange with a hint of coral — pinches a small seed from deep inside the pod, as if she’s plucking a hidden treasure.

Her long tail, washed in muted rose, hangs gracefully behind her, balancing her as she works. The background is blurred into a gentle wash of greens and soft light, making her the clear center of the moment — a quiet, intimate glimpse of a bird going about her morning meal." - Microsoft Copilot

Sunbathing Sliders These are pond slider turtles (Trachemys scripta), they are pretty common around here in the lakes. When I see them up on the logs, I can't help but take pictures. When I go out to a lake early in the morning, the logs are empty. They don't come out until it starts warming up.

This captivating photograph captures four pond slider turtles in their natural habitat. Three of them are diligently scaling a log that emerges from the water, their determined journey from left to right. Meanwhile, one turtle remains submerged, its head turned away from the log—perhaps patiently awaiting its turn to join the ascent.

The arrangement on the log is intriguing: a medium-sized turtle leads the way, steadily climbing toward the top, followed closely by a smaller companion. At the base of the log, a larger turtle balances gracefully, its shell where the log meets the green water. Each turtle extends its long neck, heads held high, as if in synchronized determination.

The lake’s surface ripples gently, reflecting the surrounding foliage and adding to the tranquil ambiance. It’s a snapshot of perseverance, camaraderie, and the timeless rhythm of nature.