Hi, Bill Jackson here, travel and nature photographer in the Raleigh-Durham area.

This photo comes to you from my three-day photo “safari” to the NC coast. During my stay I had the opportunity to walk the Soundside and Willow Pond Loop nature trails on Harker’s Island looking for birds and interesting landscape photo opportunities.

Unfortunately I was there at mid-day and the bird activity was less than I would have liked.  I watched for activity at Willow Pond for maybe an hour, found most of the birds to be out of range, but as I was just about to move on, this beautiful Yellow Crowned Night Heron swooped in and stayed just long enough for me to grab some photos.

I learned enough about the area to visit again, but will choose the season and time of day better to improve my chances of seeing more amazing birds.

Be sure to check out my site for more bird, wildlife, and travel photos at www.BillJacksonImages.com. You can also find me on Facebook and Instagram.