Zebra (Equus burchelli boehmi)
(1 of 126) (41552 views)

(2007) San Francisco Zoo
Photo Posted Sunday, October 7, 2007
© 2007 Terry Costales
#20071007.jpg

A beautiful Zebra with gorgeous long lashes. I would love to see Zebras in California fields alongside the horses, sheep and cows. We have Ostriches and Llamas, why not Zebras?

Avocet in breeding plumage (Recurvirostra americana)
(2 of 126) (41171 views)


(2007) Palo Alto Bird Sanctuary
Photo Posted May 20, 2007
© 2007 Terry Costales
#20070520.jpg

This view shows the extent of the buff coloring avocets acquire on neck and chest in the breeding season. They stand about 15 to 20 inches tall and Wikipedia has more info on these birds if you're interested.

Breeding pair of Avocets
(3 of 126) (41169 views)


(2007) Palo Alto Bird Sanctuary
Photo Posted May 21, 2007
© 2007 Terry Costales
#20070521.jpg

Taken Early May, they are guarding a nest and looking lovely. Maybe next trip out there I can get a shot of some Avocet chicks.

Great Egret (Ardea Alba)
(4 of 126) (42740 views)

(2007) Palo Alto Bird Sanctuary
Photo Posted May 22, 2007
© 2007 Terry Costales
#20070522.jpg

These large egrets are graceful and breathtaking in flight. I watched this bird flying back and forth several times bringing nesting material back to it's mate.

There was only one pair that I saw amongst dozens of the smaller Snowy Egrets.

Great Egret (ardea alba)
(5 of 126) (42127 views)

(2007) Palo Alto Bird Sanctuary
Photo Posted May 23, 2007
© 2007 Terry Costales
#20070523.jpg

This shows all the markings you would look for in identifying this bird in the breeding season. The lacy plumes on the back and the green/blue "mask" that extends from the base of the bill to the eye are only present during this time.

The Audubon Society came into existence to stop the extermination of great Egrets by plume hunters and has this bird as it's logo.

Great Egrets are found world-wide, even in Australia .

Black-crowned Night Heron (nycticorax nicticorax)
(6 of 126) (42337 views)

(2007) Palo Alto Bird Sanctuary
Photo Posted May 24, 2007
© 2007 Terry Costales
#20070524.jpg

At the sanctuary, there is a group of palm trees next to the large pond that provides prime nesting spots. It is fenced off to ensure the breeding birds are not disturbed.

In late March, this was one of many night herons nesting amongst the snowy and great egrets. Its usually yellow legs are pink because it's breeding season.

Juvenile Black-crowned Night Heron
(7 of 126) (41408 views)

(2007) Palo Alto Bird Sancutary
Photo Posted May 25, 2007
© 2007 Terry Costales
#20070525.jpg

Taken late March, this bird is probably a year or two old and has the yellow legs you see on both juveniles and non breeding adults. They get their full adult plumage in the third year.

If you look at this shot and the thumbnail below it, you can see they are roughly the same size and shape. Nice of them to pose for their comparison shots.

Nesting Night Heron
(8 of 126) (39738 views)

(2007) Palo Alto Bird Sanctuary
Photo Posted May 26, 2007
© 2007 Terry Costales
#20070526.jpg

This nest was not in the fenced off area near the pond but next to the picnic tables. The herons are used to seeing and hearing people and seem quite tolerant of being ogled and photographed.

Fledgling Night Heron
(9 of 126) (39830 views)

(2007) Palo Alto Bird Sanctuary
Photo Posted May 27, 2007
© 2007 Terry Costales
#20070527.jpg

This was taken in early May and shows a fledgling night heron that has fallen out of it's nest. It took shelter next to a fence that was only a few feet from a path.

I hope everyone knew to leave it alone. Its parents would care for it where it is, but it was quite vulnerable there.

This picture is being considered for inclusion in a training manual to be used by the Toronto Wildlife Centre . If you have any photos you would like to submit, here is the original article with additional details.

Fledgling Night Heron
(10 of 126) (39829 views)

(2007) Palo Alto Bird Sanctuary
Photo Posted May 28, 2007
© 2007 Terry Costales
#20070528.jpg

This picture was taken early May. The nest was in a very shady area and it was overcast, but luckily there was a brief break in the clouds which provided enough light for me to get a decent shot.

This fledgling night heron managed to stay in the nest despite what looked like a precarious perch.

Young Night Herons
(11 of 126) (39722 views)

(2007) Palo Alto Bird Santuary
Photo Posted May 29, 2007
© 2007 Terry Costales
#20070529.jpg

This picture was taken in early May and these two seem a little older than the other fledglings I saw. They have gotten big enough to come out of the nest and perch on the branches nearby.

Young Night Heron
(12 of 126) (39789 views)

(2007) Palo Alto Bird Sanctuary
Photo Posted May 30, 2007
© 2007 Terry Costales
#20070530.jpg

This photo was taken early in May. There were 4 or 5 young ones about this size on the ground all within the fenced in area. Sometimes one of them would clamber up into a bush, but mostly they sat quietly on the ground.

This little night heron actually flew a short distance to explore the edge of the nearby pond. He made a few jabbing motions with his bill and managed a couple of times to pick up a twig

I felt quite privileged to have witnessed and recorded these birds and their behavior. Here are more of my favorite pictures of these birds.

Snowy Egret (Leucophoyx thula)
(13 of 126) (39921 views)

(2007) Palo Alto Bird Sanctuary
Photo Posted May 31, 2007
© 2007 Terry Costales
#20070531.jpg

This picture was taken in late April of this year and shows this gorgeous Snowy Egret bringing a twig back to the nest as an offering to his mate.

Their distinguishing marks are the black legs, yellow feet and lacy plumes. The breeding season causes more plumes to develop on their backs and the area in front the eyes (the lores ) to change from yellow to pink, then red at the height of the season.

The only thing not beautiful about these birds are their voices. A gurgling "wogga, wogga, wogga." As if Donald Duck was imitating a drowning turkey.

Nesting Snowy Egret with young
(14 of 126) (39814 views)

(2007) Palo Alto Bird Sanctuary
Photo Posted June 1, 2007
© 2007 Terry Costales
#20070601.jpg

This picture was taken in late May. There were mother egrets in the colony still sitting on eggs while others, like the one above, were taking care of their small chicks. Many mother egrets were feeding larger chicks. Many larger fledglings were out on the branches but not yet flying. Quite an advance in procreation from my visit a month earlier.

Young Snowy Egrets
(15 of 126) (39699 views)

(2007) Palo Alto Bird Sanctuary
Photo Posted June 2, 2007
© 2007 Terry Costales
#20070602.jpg

These 3 birds are all siblings but one is quite smaller than the rest. I kept expecting it to get shoved aside, or even knocked out of the nest, but it really held it's own. The mother would fly up to feed them and the little one was always in the front making the most noise and waggling its outstretched wings up and down in a frantic "feed me" dance.

The young don't have the black legs or yellow feet like their parents, just a green that changes gradually to the adult colors as they grow.

Snowy Egret Feeding Her Young
(16 of 126) (39916 views)

(2007) Palo Alto Bird Sanctuary
Photo Posted June 3, 2007
© 2007 Terry Costales
#20070603.jpg

This is the trio of nestlings from yesterday's blog. Mom swoops in, holds on to the nest with her feet, uses her wings to stay balanced and feeds them on the fly, as it were.

They set up a clamor when they see her nearby. "C'mon Mom, we're starving here!"

Here are more photos of Snowy Egrets.

Barn Swallow (Hirundo rustica)
(17 of 126) (40494 views)


(2007) Palo Alto Bird Sanctuary
Photo Posted June 4, 2007
© 2007 Terry Costales
#20070604.jpg

This picture was taken late May of this year. This is a very active bird so I was surprised and delighted to see it perch long enough for me to photograph it.

The Barn Swallow is the only American swallow that has that deeply forked "swallow-tail".

Barn Swallow
(18 of 126) (40181 views)


(2007) Palo Alto Bird Sanctuary
Photo Posted June 5, 2007
© 2007 Terry Costales
#20070605.jpg

This picture was taken moments after the one I posted yesterday. It's a small bird, about 7 inches long, and was singing its little heart out. I only saw a couple of barn swallows that day, but there were almost a hundred cliff swallows nesting under the eaves of the Interpretive Center.

The name barn swallow derives from the fact that their nests are usually found inside barns. The nest is an open cup made of mud mixed with grass.

Cliff Swallow in Flight (Petrochelidon pyrrhonota)
(19 of 126) (39729 views)

(2007) Palo Alto Bird Sanctuary
Photo Posted June 6, 2007
© 2007 Terry Costales
#20070606.jpg

This picture was taken just after the swallow had gathered a mouthful of mud to add to its nest. It plainly shows the tail shape that helps to distinguish it from the Barn Swallow.

This is the kind of swallow that returns each year from Goya, Argentina to the San Juan Capistrano mission each March.

Cliff Swallows Gathering Mud
(20 of 126) (39855 views)

(2007) Palo Alto Bird Sanctuary
Photo Posted June 7, 2007
© 2007 Terry Costales
#20070607.jpg

These two swallows were among dozens gathering mud on the bank of an inlet close to their colony. They landed and scooped up mud with their wings held high and fluttering. Once they got a good beakful they zipped back to their nests.

This group established themselves under the eaves of the Interpretive Center located in the Palo Alto Baylands Preserve.

Cliff Swallow in its nest
(21 of 126) (39763 views)

(2007) Palo Alto Baylands Preserve
Photo Posted June 8, 2007
© 2007 Terry Costales
#20070608.jpg

This is a close-up of a typical nest with the adult peering out. Mud gathering has made its bill appear lighter than it actually is.

Baby Cliff Swallows
(22 of 126) (39725 views)

(2007) Palo Alto Bird Sanctuary
Photo Posted June 9, 2007
© 2007 Terry Costales
#20070609.jpg

This photo was taken the last day of May. Nine days earlier there were no visible signs of chicks, although you could hear them peeping. On this day there were many little heads framed in the openings of nests.

I wonder what another nine days will bring?

Canada Goose
(23 of 126) (39663 views)

(2007) Palo Alto Bird Sanctuary
Photo Posted June 10, 2007
© 2007 Terry Costales
#20070610.jpg

This goose is very widespread and commonly found in the wild, and at almost any park that has a pond, lake or marsh.

There are many other species of ducks , shorebirds , and terns found at the Palo Alto Sanctuary. Because of the wealth of bird species there it is also a favorite place for many bird and nature photographers.

Canada Goose and Goslings
(24 of 126) (39796 views)

(2007) Palo Alto Bird Sanctuary
Photo Posted June 11, 2007
© 2007 Terry Costales
#20070611.jpg

This is a real Mother Goose watching over a few of her very large brood.

Mother Goose as a person in literature has been around for a very long time. There is even a Mother Goose Society and did you know May 1st is Mother Goose Day? I wonder who you send cards to?

More info can be found about real Canada Geese at Wikipedia.

Canada Goose Gosling
(25 of 126) (39839 views)

(2007) Palo Alto Bird Sanctuary
Photo Posted June 12, 2007
© 2007 Terry Costales
#20070612.jpg

A gosling is so darn cute when it's little. It's hard to believe that there is an entire industry devoted to the task of making them go away. When large flocks of adult geese show up in a "wrong locations" they are considered by some to be a nuisance.

Would you want them in your swimming pool? Your Koi pond? Your child's playground? It's really a matter of make peace or make them go away. There's always a choice.

Young Canada Geese
(26 of 126) (39824 views)

(2007) Palo Alto Bird Sanctuary
Photo Posted June 13, 2007
© 2007 Terry Costales
#20070613.jpg

Yesterdays picture was taken of a gosling that was only a few days old. Today's photo was taken three weeks later. Now you should definitely be able to see that they are becoming adult geese.

These goslings have lost their cute baby fuzz, but don't yet possess the handsome markings of an adult. But such is the bane of all adolescents.

Parade of Canada Geese
(27 of 126) (39780 views)

(2007) Palo Alto Bird Sanctuary
Photo Posted June 14, 2007
© 2007 Terry Costales
#20070614.jpg

Mom is leading her brood from the duck pond, across the road and into the marsh. This is not an uncommon sight and one of the reasons there is a 15 MPH speed limit at the santuary.

Bullock's Oriole (Icterus bullockii)
(28 of 126) (39693 views)

(2007) Palo Alto Bird Sanctuary
Photo Posted June 15, 2007
© 2007 Terry Costales
#20070615.jpg

This oriole was named for William Bullock, a British amateur naturalist.

In all my visits to this bird sanctuary, this was the only time I've seen this bird. I was very lucky to get some photos of it.

Bullock's Oriole (Icterus bullockii)
(29 of 126) (39775 views)

(2007) Palo Alto Bird Sanctuary
Photo Posted June 16, 2007
© 2007 Terry Costales
#20070616.jpg

The Bullock's Oriole is the western version of the Baltimore Oriole which is found east of the Rockies.

This photo was taken late May and what a great pose he gave me.

Bullock's Oriole (Icterus bullockii)
(30 of 126) (39756 views)

(2007) Palo Alto Bird Sanctuary
Photo Posted June 17, 2007
© 2007 Terry Costales
#20070617.jpg

Here is the Oriole perched on a barbeque grill in the picnic area. He and several blackbirds had just chased a crow that dared to enter their territory. Crows are a threat to them because they will eat the young of these smaller birds.

There are several species of birds found at the sanctuary. There are sparrows , blackbirds and crows , and many other perching birds .

Killdeer (Charadrius vociferus)
(31 of 126) (41802 views)

(2007) Palo Alto Bird Sanctuary
Photo Posted June 18, 2007
© 2007 Terry Costales
#20070618.jpg

This female Killdeer is standing over eggs in its "nest." Three eggs are actually present but only one is clearly visible. Even the clearly visible one is very well camouflaged.

It is reputed their call sounds like "kill deer" and thus the name. I don't hear it myself but maybe that's just me.

Killdeer eggs
(32 of 126) (41480 views)

(2007) Palo Alto Bird Sanctuary
Photo Posted June 3, 2007
© 2007 Terry Costales
#20070619.jpg

This is a photo of three very well camouflaged eggs in a Killdeer "nest." Because Killdeer often lay their eggs on gravel, the parking lot at the sanctuary had become a favorite nesting spot for them. Unfortunately a parking lot is a dangerous place for eggs, which leads to much failure for the Killdeer who lay eggs there.

Killdeer (Charadrius vociferus)
(33 of 126) (41315 views)

(2007) Palo Alto Bird Sanctuary
Photo Posted June 20, 2007
© 2007 Terry Costales
#20070620.jpg

The female Killdeer in this picture is adopting a wounded bird pose and making a distress call. She is trying to lure me away from her nest by convincing me she is easy prey. Luckily for her I only wanted her photo.

Red-crested Pochard (Netta rufina)
(34 of 126) (40062 views)

(2007) Hyde Park, London, England
Photo Posted June 21, 2007
© 2007 Terry Costales
#20070621.jpg

I took this photo April 4th of this year while in London. I didn't know what it was at the time but I knew I had never seen this duck before. I was quite taken with the brilliant gold of it's head. When the sun shone on its head there was an amazing metallic sheen which really has to be seen in person to be appreciated.

These pochards are not found in the United States.

Eurasian Coot
(35 of 126) (40270 views)

(2007) Hyde Park, London, England
Photo Posted June 22, 2007
© 2007 Terry Costales
#20070622.jpg

The most obvious difference between the Eurasian Coot and the American coot is the larger white face shield. The coots were very numerous in Hyde Park and seemed to behave just like the coots I'm familiar with here in California.

This shot shows the face shield, the greenish feet and the lobed toes. They are fascinating little birds.

Grey Heron (Ardea cinerea)
(36 of 126) (40207 views)

(2007) Hyde Park, London, England
Photo Posted June 23, 2007
© 2007 Terry Costales
#20070623.jpg

The Grey Heron is very similar to the larger Great Blue Heron we have in California. This one seems to be in full breeding plumage. It was the only heron I saw in Hyde Park and was standing on one leg near several mute swans. He didn't seem in the least bothered by all the people that were around.

He actually has a very long neck but they sit with it pulled in and folded against the chest. The Royal Society for the Protection of Birds has a nice page on these herons where you can see the long neck and even hear it's call.

Moorhen (Gallinula chloropus)
(37 of 126) (40292 views)

(2007) Hyde Park, London, England
Photo Posted June 15, 2007
© 2007 Terry Costales
#20070624.jpg

The moorhen is a very commonly found bird in England, Europe and the States. Even so, I had never seen one before this day in Hyde Park.

Moorhens are related more to Coots than to ducks. Moorhens and Coots both have greenish feet with lobed toes which allows them to walk over water-plants and mud.

Mute Swan (Cygnus olor)
(38 of 126) (39756 views)

(2007) Hyde Park, London, England
Photo Posted June 15, 2007
© 2007 Terry Costales
#20070625.jpg

Something about a swan. I see one and I feel like I am getting a small glimpse into a fairy tale. Swans conjure images of fairy princesses, enchanted lakes and talking animals. I almost expect to turn my head and see a unicorn come to drink at the edge of this pond.

A more realistic approach to these birds is not to just admire them but protect them as well. The population of swans had declined in the UK due to habitat loss and lead poisoning, but their numbers are rising again.

The Mute swan is not natively found in the US and is not actually mute at all.

Pochard (Aythya ferina)
(39 of 126) (40202 views)

(2007) Hyde Park, London, England
Photo Posted June 15, 2007
© 2007 Terry Costales
#20070626.jpg

When I first saw this duck I thought it was a Canvasback . Later, I realized only its basic coloration was the same.

The Pochard is not found here in the States. It's closest relative, in England, is the Red-crested Pochard. Both species were present in Hyde Park the day I took this photo.

Tufted Duck (Aythya fuligula)
(40 of 126) (39903 views)

(2007)Hyde Park, London, England
Photo Posted June 15, 2007
© 2007 Terry Costales
#20070627.jpg

This is a photo of a duck with a "crazy hairdo". I had never before seen a picture of a Tufted Duck, and was quite startled to observe this unusual species. Looking at the photos on our return home I identified it as a Tufted Duck and found out these ducks are quite common in England and Europe.

Wood Pigeon (Columba palumbus)
(41 of 126) (41974 views)

Animalblog Pigeon Collection
Wood Pigeon
(2007) Hyde Park, London, England
(Photo posted Thursday 28 June 2007)
(Photo taken in 2007)
© 2007 Terry Costales
#20070628.jpg

Of course England has it's fair share of "flying rats". For some reason this one in Hyde Park seemed more like an actual bird to me than just feathered vermin.

I'm sure if I was there long enough they would become just as annoying as pigeons are here at home.

Jackdaw (Corvus monedula)
(42 of 126) (39724 views)

(2007)Canal du Midi, France, EU
Photo Posted June 15, 2007
© 2007 Terry Costales
#20070629.jpg

When I took this photo I thought it was a common crow. That was in April. I processed this photo recently and discovered it was actually a jackdaw.

A Jackdaw is a type of crow but has a grey head and pale eyes. Some people associated the Jackdaw with the children's nursery rhyme "See Saw, Margery Daw".

Mallard (Anas platyrhynchos)
(43 of 126) (39997 views)

(2007)Canal du Midi, France, EU
Photo Posted June 15, 2007
© 2007 Terry Costales
#20070630.jpg

This is a photograph of a pair of Mallards nesting on a concrete outcropping that is part of this canal lock. The roar of the water as it leaves the lock and close proximity to boats going by doesn't seem to faze them.

The female Mallard is sitting on the nest a few feet behind the male and is very well camouflaged.

Mallard (Anas platyrhynchos)
(44 of 126) (39775 views)

(2007) Canal du Midi, France, EU
Photo Posted July 1, 2007
© 2007 Terry Costales
#20070701.jpg

This is a photo of the female mallard from yesterday's posting . Even though the nest is visible to people in boats and the towpath, it's quite well protected by it's inaccesability.

European Starling (sturnus vulgaris)
(45 of 126) (39657 views)

(2007) Canal du Midi, France, EU
Photo Posted July 2, 2007
© 2007 Terry Costales
#20070702.jpg

Finally a European starling where it belongs: in Europe.

I have observed large flocks of Starlings since I was a kid. Sometimes I've seen enormous groups making, what I like to call, "flock circles" in the sky. When they do this it's very unnerving. The first time I saw this phenomenon it was in the skies over San Francisco about 15 years ago. I thought perhaps the birds could sense an impending disaster, perhaps an earthquake. If so, what was I doing in SAN FRANCISCO? Home of the big one that's always overdue.

I found out later this was normal behavior for starlings. The Wikipedia article on European Starlings says "Large roosts (exceptionally up to a million birds) can form in city centres, causing a great deal of mess from their droppings. Flocks are also noted for forming a tight sphere-like formation in flight, then expanding and contracting and even changing shape, all seemingly without any sort of leader."

Even knowing this is normal for Starlings and nothing supernatural, I still get the heebie-jeebies. Though I'll never admit it.

Domesticated Swan Goose (Anser cygnoides)
(46 of 126) (39669 views)

(2007)Canal du Midi, France, EU
Photo Posted July 3, 2007
© 2007 Terry Costales
#20070703.jpg

This is a photo of a domesticated Swan Goose, originally called a Chinese goose.

I've seen geese like this in California, Washington and France. Clearly they must adapt easily to many different climates.

Mute Swan (Cgnus olor) and white dove
(47 of 126) (40060 views)

(2007) Trebes, France, EU
Photo Posted July 4, 2007
© 2007 Terry Costales
#20070704.jpg

Our boat was moored on the Canal du Midi and the four of us aboard all commented on the picturesque red and blue boat tied up across the way.

When the swan swam near the boat I saw a photo op I couldn't resist. Only now, months later, did I notice that I had also photographed a white dove perched on the edge of the rowboat.

The white dove is a symbol of peace and, on this July 4th, seems the most appropriate wish for this nation and the world.

Red-eared Slider
(48 of 126) (39915 views)

(2007)Stow Lake, Golden Gate Park, San Francisco, CA
Photo Posted July 5, 2007
© 2007 Terry Costales
#20070705.jpg

There are hundreds of these turtles in Stow Lake. If the little pet turtle you had as a kid ever lived long enough to outgrow its little plastic dish (the one with the fake palm tree) it would've become an adult Red-eared slider like this one.

I wonder how many of those little pets ended up in Stow Lake?

Soft-shelled Turtle (Trionyx ferox)
(49 of 126) (39901 views)

(2007) Stow Lake, Golden Gate Park, San Francisco, CA
Photo Posted July 6, 2007
© 2007 Terry Costales
#20070706.jpg

This is a photo of a soft-shelled turtle. Unlike the numerous red-eared sliders, this was the only soft-shelled turtle I saw that day.

French Donkeys
(50 of 126) (39806 views)

(2007) Paris, France, EU
Photo Posted July 7, 2007
© 2007 Terry Costales
#20070707.jpg

Just west of the Louvre are wonderful gardens called Jardin des Tuileries. The gardens contain outdoor cafes, fountains, scattered statuary, chestnut trees, formal flower beds and trimmed hedges.

But, to my surprise, there was also a children's playground, carousel and pony and donkey rides.

The photo above is of one of the donkeys, or âne in French.

White Horse
(51 of 126) (39867 views)

(2007) Hyde Park, London, England, EU
Photo Posted July 8, 2007
© 2007 Terry Costales
#20070708.jpg

Hyde Park is a large London park with much to offer visitors. Kids played soccer on the lawns. People paddled boats. Couples strolled the many paths in and around the Serpentine

This photo is of a very dignified, white, police horse.

Horses at dawn
(52 of 126) (39704 views)

(2007) Otis Orchards, Washington
Photo Posted July 9, 2007
© 2007 Terry Costales
#20070709.jpg

Backlit at dawn, two horses in the Northwest are a calm and beautiful sight. Almost everything looks better when the light is special.

Parade Horse
(53 of 126) (39854 views)

(2007) St Patrick's Day Parade, San Francisco, CA, USA
Photo Posted July 10, 2007
© 2007 Terry Costales
#20070710.jpg

The face of a horse can be very fascinating. Such a large animal, capable of such force and power, yet with such gentle eyes it just makes one sigh.

This picture is a Police horse patiently waiting for the parade to start. I have wondered if being part of the Mounted Police in San Francisco is a position with status within the Police Force. Actually it is such an honor, in fact, that some officers wait years to join.

French Bulldog puppy
(54 of 126) (39807 views)

(2007) Coastal Trail, San Francisco, CA, USA
Photo Posted July 11, 2007
© 2007 Terry Costales
#20070711.jpg

These are just the cutest but strange little dogs. Owners of French Bulldogs call their dogs Frenchies and I actually saw quite a few in France.

Irish Dog
(55 of 126) (39749 views)

(2007) St. Patrick's Day Parade, San Francisco, CA
Photo Posted July 12, 2007
© 2007 Terry Costales
#20070712.jpg

They say everyone is Irish on St Pat's Day and I guess that includes the animal kingdom. Our dogs are eager to accompany we humans on all of our crazy endeavors. Whether it's dogs on motorcycles or skydiving or just wearing a bit o'the green.

Dog with orange ball
(56 of 126) (39749 views)

(2007) Hyde Park, London, England
Photo Posted July 13, 2007
© 2007 Terry Costales
#20070713.jpg

This is a happy dog. He's getting exercise, interacting in the park with his human companion. And that's a nice orange ball!

I've been watching the Dog Whisperer lately and exercise is a hugely important factor in a dog's physical and mental health. I always thought that a big back yard eliminated the need to take your dogs on walks. Boy, was I wrong. Leave your dog in the backyard all day, wrongly thinking it will get exercise, and you will just create a very bored dog. A bored dog full of unspent energy develops behavior problems.

So take a walk. Take your dog with you. And do it every day!

Caged Tiger
(57 of 126) (39841 views)

(2007) San Francisco Zoo, San Francisco, CA
Photo Posted July 14, 2007
© 2007 Terry Costales
#20070714.jpg

This photo was taken August 13th, 2006, which was my first day with my new camera. The tiger rapidly paced her cage, back and forth, revealing an occasional silent snarl. I waited in front of the enclosure for a good shot but in all my photos the tiger was out of focus or out of frame. Except for this one.

This photo isn't the greatest I've ever taken, but I love it anyway. I caught that exact second our eyes met and for that breath-catching moment I was potential prey.

Two Red-tailed Hawks
(58 of 126) (39769 views)

(2007) The Presidio, San Francisco, CA
Photo Posted July 15, 2007
© 2007 Terry Costales
#20070715.jpg

I took this photo before the fog had burned off yesterday. These two aerial acrobats had a good time swooping and clowning around. After this display they landed on top of a cypress tree and then sat peacefully side by side.

Zoe the Vizsla
(59 of 126) (39883 views)

(2007) Palo Alto Bird Sanctuary
Photo Posted July 16, 2007
© 2007 Terry Costales
#20070716.jpg

Today I met a very nice young woman and her beautiful dog Zoe. I learned a lot about the Vizsla breed and am looking forward to finding out even more.

Harbor Seal
(60 of 126) (43789 views)

(2007) Palo Alto Bird Sanctuary
Photo Posted July 18, 2007
© 2007 Terry Costales
#20070718.jpg

This photo of a Harbor Seal was taken very near the Lucy Evans Interpretive Center at the bird sanctuary. I was very surprised to see it but the ranger verified that they have been known to occasionally appear.

Mother Coot and Young
(61 of 126) (39737 views)

(2007) Palo Alto Bird Sanctuary
Photo Posted July 20, 2007
© 2007 Terry Costales
#20070720.jpg

On July 16th I was surprised to see a young coot with its parent. I hadn't been to this location in a while and I had missed seeing the coot chick when it was small. That's one of the attractions of birding. You never know what you will see on any given day. Usually it's not what you expect.

Crow
(62 of 126) (39703 views)

(2007) Palo Alto Bird Sanctuary
Photo Posted July 23, 2007
© 2007 Terry Costales
#20070723.jpg

Long to soar,
Long to fly away.
Leave it all behind?
Or rush forward to start anew?
Wind and feathers obey the heart.

Weezy the Rooster
(63 of 126) (39692 views)

(2007) Otis Orchards, Washington
Photo Posted August 1, 2007
© 2007 Terry Costales
#20070801.jpg

Weezie was supposed to be a hen. He was picked at random out of bin of Barred Plymouth Rock chicks, 90% guaranteed to be female.

As you can see Weezie turned out to not be female. He grew up to terrorize the dogs, kids and even me. He would approach to see what goodies I might have then, even when indulging, he would forget he was glad to see me and sneak in a few vicious kicks. Now that I'm in San Francisco with no chickens, I don't miss him at all. Not one little bit.

Grey Heron (Ardea cinerea)
(64 of 126) (39704 views)

(2007) Dublin, Ireland
Photo Posted September 2, 2007
© 2007 Terry Costales
#20070902.jpg

Taken August 23rd, this is a Grey Heron hunting for food in a Dublin canal. This bird is a year round resident throughout England and Ireland. But I didn't expect one to be found downtown! Fifteen feet above this heron was the morning commute rushing over a bridge!

I also saw one other Grey Heron in Hyde Park, London in April of this year.

Elephant reaching for food
(65 of 126) (39827 views)

(2007) The Dublin Zoo
Photo Posted September 3, 2007
© 2007 Terry Costales
#20070903.jpg

The largest elephant in the group reached up to pull down some hay. The elephants in this zoo had a very large enclosure with varying terrain. The Dublin Zoo seems to be doing an excellent job of caring for these great animals.

Baby Elephant
(66 of 126) (39751 views)

(2007) Dublin Zoo, Ireland
Photo Posted September 4, 2007
© 2007 Terry Costales
#20070904.jpg

This is a baby Asian Elephant that is only a few months old. It drew a huge crowd of admirers and everyone wanted its picture.

Tiger
(67 of 126) (39687 views)

(2007) Dublin Zoo, Ireland
Photo Posted September 5, 2007
© 2007 Terry Costales
#20070905.jpg

To me the tiger is the most awe inspiring animal I have ever seen. So majestic and powerful I could watch them forever, but in zoos they don't tend to do much whenever I'm around.

British Pied Wagtail (Motcilla alba yarrellii)
(68 of 126) (39952 views)

(2007) Dublin Quay, Dublin, Ireland
Photo Posted September 6, 2007
© 2007 Terry Costales
#20070906.jpg

This little bird was fast and wary and did not want its picture taken. Persistent stalking wins the day (and the photo).

Black-headed Gull (Larus ridibundus)
(69 of 126) (40176 views)

(2007) Dublin, Ireland
Photo Posted September 8, 2007
© 2007 Terry Costales
#20070908.jpg

All the Black-headed gulls I saw in Dublin were all in winter plumage. What a great excuse I have now to go back and get photos of them in their fancy summer outfits.

Bongo
(70 of 126) (39765 views)

(2007) Dublin Zoo, Dublin, Ireland
Photo Posted September 9, 2007
© 2007 Terry Costales
#20070909.jpg

It was difficult to get a shot through the fence of the Bongo. This close-up was the only one that turned out well enough to post.

Celebes macaque
(71 of 126) (39739 views)

(2007) Dublin Zoo, Dublin, Ireland
Photo Posted September 10, 2007
© 2007 Terry Costales
#20070910.jpg

Monkeys and apes aren't my favorite animals but this guy looked interesting. Cool hairdo.

Flamingo
(72 of 126) (39777 views)

(2007) Dublin Zoo, Dublin, Ireland
Photo Posted September 11, 2007
© 2007 Terry Costales
#20070911.jpg

I love this close-up of a flamingo on its nest. I never realized their eyes were so pale.

Red-ruffed Lemur (Varecia variegata rubra)
(73 of 126) (39909 views)

(2007) Dublin Zoo, Dublin, Ireland
Photo Posted September 12, 2007
© 2007 Terry Costales
#20070912.jpg

The red-ruffed lemur is a pretty big animal. I love watching them interact with one another. This one looks like he was wringing his paws with glee after stealing a tasty treat.

Meerkat (Suricata suricatta)
(74 of 126) (39849 views)

(2007) Dublin Zoo, Dublin, Ireland
Photo Posted Thursday, September 13, 2007
© 2007 Terry Costales
#20070913.jpg

Here is a meerkat enjoying a good scratch and, as you can see, he has the nails for it.

Meerkats have been popular since the movie "The Lion King" which had a meerkat as a funny side-kick character with the voice of Nathan Lane. Now there is even a tv show called "Meerkat Manor" where you can learn more than you ever wanted to know about the life of this desert mongoose.

Hippopotamus (Hippopotamus amphibius)
(75 of 126) (39618 views)

(2007) Dublin Zoo, Dublin, Ireland
Photo Posted Friday, September 14, 2007
© 2007 Terry Costales
#20070914.jpg

The hippos I've seen in other zoos have been rather lethargic. But the two hippos in this pool were very active, swimming, diving with a great splash, surfacing again, over and over. They attracted quite a crowd and were fascinating to watch.

Snowy Owl (Bubo scandiacus)
(76 of 126) (40687 views)

(2007) Dublin Zoo
Photo Posted Saturday, September 15, 2007
© 2007 Terry Costales
#20070915.jpg

This snowy owl at the Dublin Zoo was very quiet but, if it had spoken, it would have had an unusual voice.

Peafowl
(77 of 126) (39804 views)

(2007) Dublin Zoo, Dublin, Ireland
Photo Posted Sunday, September 16, 2007
© 2007 Terry Costales
#20070916.jpg

This female peafowl, called a peahen, was well camouflaged. She was just off the paved path and dozens of people passed within two feet of her and never realized she was there. I noticed her because I was looking for local birds while admiring the captive inhabitants. Just as at many zoos, peafowl are set loose to wander the grounds as they wish.

Goeldi's Monkey
(78 of 126) (39668 views)

(2007) Dublin Zoo, Dublin, Ireland
Photo Posted Tuesday, September 18, 2007
© 2007 Terry Costales
#20070918.jpg

As I have mentioned before, monkeys are not my favorite animals. That said however, this guy was little, cute and the afternoon sun made for a shot I couldn't resist.

Goeldi's Monkeys live in the tropical rain forests of South America.

Hooded Crow (Corvus cornix)
(79 of 126) (40418 views)

(2007) Quay, Dublin, Ireland
Photo Posted Thursday, September 27, 2007
© 2007 Terry Costales
#20070927.jpg

I had never seen this kind of crow before. As soon as he noticed me he walked over the peak of the roof and out of sight.

Jackdaw
(80 of 126) (40032 views)

(2007) Belfast, Northern Ireland
Photo Posted Friday, September 28, 2007
© 2007 Terry Costales
#20070928.jpg

The Jackdaw is another type of crow common to Europe. Smaller than the Hooded crow from yesterday's posting and much less shy.

Magpie (Pica pica)
(81 of 126) (39818 views)

(2007) Dublin, Ireland
Photo Posted Saturday, September 29, 2007
© 2007 Terry Costales
#20070929.jpg

Flying shots are hard to get. The bird was on the path when I lifted the camera but I managed to get this photo without cutting off any part of its body, just barely.

Snoozing Rhinocerous
(82 of 126) (39886 views)

(2007) San Francisco Zoo, SF, California
Photo Posted Sunday, September 30, 2007
© 2007 Terry Costales
#20070930.jpg

What a face. A puppy and a kitten sleeping together in a basket couldn't be cuter than this!

Visit the San Francisco Zoo whenever you can.

Flamingo (Phoenicopterus chilensis)
(83 of 126) (39808 views)

(2007) San Francisco Zoo, SF, California
Photo Posted Monday, October 1, 2007
© 2007 Terry Costales
#20071001.jpg

The flamingos were just waking up, looking beautifully exotic in the morning light.

Avocet non-breeding plumage
(84 of 126) (43698 views)


(2007)Palo Alto Bird Sanctuary, Palo Alto, CA
Photo Posted May 19, 2007
© 2007 Terry Costales
#20070519.jpg

This photo was taken late March of this year and many birds were still in just black and white. For courting and breeding the necks and chest acquire a rusty or tan color.

They really seem to enjoy their mud-flats.

White Pelicans
(85 of 126) (42950 views)

(2007) Delta waters near Oakley, California
Photo Posted Tuesday, October 9, 2007
© 2007 Terry Costales
#20071009.jpg

Taking photos from a boat was a new experience. I was able to get much closer to this flock of Pelicans before they took flight.

These appear to be Australian Pelicans because of the pink bills. Or do American White Pelicans have pink bills in the winter? Further research needed.

American White Pelican (Pelecanus erythrorhynchos)
(86 of 126) (41875 views)

(2007) Delta waters near Oakley, California
Photo Posted Wednesday, October 10, 2007
© 2007 Terry Costales
#20071010.jpg

Yesterday I thought these birds might be Australian Pelicans but with further research I found they are American White Pelicans in non-breeding plumage.

I'm glad that's settled.

Blue Heron (Ardea herodias)
(87 of 126) (40113 views)

(2007)Delta waters near Oakley, California
Photo Posted Thursday, October 11, 2007
© 2007 Terry Costales
#20071011.jpg

I went out on my brother's boat last Monday and saw many Great Blue Herons. Twice I saw one noisily chase away a Great Egret that he thought was encroaching on his fishing spot.

Great Blue Heron
(88 of 126) (39750 views)

(2007) Delta waters near Oakley, California
Photo Posted Friday, October 12, 2007
© 2007 Terry Costales
#20071012.jpg

This is a photo of the heron taking off as the boat got too close for comfort.

Great Egret and Pheasant
(89 of 126) (41999 views)

(2007) Delta waters near Oakley, California
Photo Posted Saturday, October 13, 2007
© 2007 Terry Costales
#20071013.jpg

I didn't see a pheasant when I looked at this tree, only the Egret. As the boat drew nearer to the tree the pheasant burst out, startling the egret and me. I tried to get a shot of them as they flew past, but I was much too slow. It wasn't until I looked at the photos at home that I had the pleasure to see I had gotten a shot of the pheasant after all.

Black-crowned Night Heron
(90 of 126) (41274 views)

(2007) Delta waters near Oakley, California
Photo Posted Monday, October 15, 2007
© 2007 Terry Costales
#20071015.jpg

The bird on the left is a young adult who won't achieve the look of the mature bird on its right for another year.

Red-shouldered Hawk
(91 of 126) (40157 views)

Red-shouldered Hawk
Delta waters near Oakley, California
(Date Photographed: in 2007)
(Date Published: Tuesday 16 October 2007
© 2007 Terry Costales
#20071016.jpg

There are many hawks living in the Delta, doing their part to keep the circle of life rolling.

Red-tailed Hawk (Buteo jamaicensis)
(92 of 126) (39700 views)

(2007) Delta waters near Oakley, California
Photo Posted Wednesday, October 17, 2007
© 2007 Terry Costales
#20071017.jpg

The namesake tail.

Great Egret flying
(93 of 126) (42101 views)

(2007) Delta waters near Oakley, California
Photo Posted Thursday, October 18, 2007
© 2007 Terry Costales
#20071018.jpg

To get a shot of a graceful bird flying is always a coup.

Black-crowned Night Heron (Nycticorax nycticorax)
(94 of 126) (41381 views)

(2007) Delta waters near Oakley, California
Photo Posted Saturday, October 20, 2007
© 2007 Terry Costales
#20071020.jpg

Seeing a bright red eye on a bird, to me, is quite startling. Although the heron appears to be standing one-legged, the other leg is actually stretched out in front, grasping another branch.

Great Egret
(95 of 126) (41962 views)

(2007) Delta Waters near Oakley, California
Photo Posted Sunday, October 21, 2007
© 2007 Terry Costales
#20071021.jpg

I got this shot just as the egret was landing. Look closely and you can see the feet haven't quite come to rest on the pipe.

Great Egret
(96 of 126) (42017 views)

(2007) Delta waters near Oakley, California
Photo Posted Monday, October 22, 2007
© 2007 Terry Costales
#20071022.jpg

I think I am addicted to taking shots of flying egrets.

English Sparrow
(97 of 126) (40282 views)

(2007) Riverfront Park, Spokane, Washington
Photo Posted Tuesday, October 23, 2007
© 2007 Terry Costales
#20071023.jpg

I don't usually photograph English Sparrows because it is common knowledge what this introduced species looks like. I like this shot not so much for the subject, but for the shot itself. The narrow area of focus lends the bird a softer and more delicate appearance.

Ring-billed Gull (Larus delawarensis)
(98 of 126) (40089 views)

(2007) Riverfront Park, Spokane, Washington
Photo Posted Wednesday, October 24, 2007
© 2007 Terry Costales
#20071024.jpg

This photo caught a sleepy juvenile unaware of the camera. Like yesterday's photo, I love the narrow field of focus.

Otter (Lutra canadensis)
(99 of 126) (39759 views)

(2007) San Francisco Zoo, California
Photo Posted Thursday, October 25, 2007
© 2007 Terry Costales
#20071025.jpg

This is a North American River Otter having a scratch and a yawn. There were two in the exhibit and their cute faces and playful antics drew quite a crowd.

Sumatran Tiger (Panthera tigris sumatrae)
(100 of 126) (39816 views)

(2007) San Francisco Zoo, California
Photo Posted Friday, October 26, 2007
© 2007 Terry Costales
#20071026.jpg

I hate to give away the secret behind this shot but, in actuality, this ferocious tiger is merely yawning.

Magellanic Penguin (Speniscus magellanicus)
(101 of 126) (40032 views)

(2007) San Francisco Zoo, California
Photo Posted Saturday, October 27, 2007
© 2007 Terry Costales
#20071027.jpg

When the brown and white penguin is done molting it will become black and white, just like its companion.

Male Lion Sleeping
(102 of 126) (41461 views)

(2007) San Francisco Zoo, California
Photo Posted Sunday, October 28, 2007
© 2007 Terry Costales
#20071028.jpg

Here is a photo of a lion doing what a lion does best.

Boxer Puppy
(103 of 126) (39854 views)

(2007) San Francisco, California
Photo Posted Wednesday, October 31, 2007
© 2007 Terry Costales
#20071031.jpg

This little guy was as sweet as Halloween candy and was like velvet to the touch. You can tell he is well cared for and loved.

Double-crested Cormorant
(104 of 126) (40069 views)

(2007) San Francisco, California
Photo Posted Thursday, November 1, 2007
© 2007 Terry Costales
#20071101.jpg

Here is a cormorant in its classic drying off pose.

The name "double-crested" is insired by the tufts of white feathers over the eyes that only appear in breeding season.

Western Grebe
(105 of 126) (39740 views)

(2007) San Francisco, California
Photo Posted Friday, November 2, 2007
© 2007 Terry Costales
#20071102.jpg

An adult Western Grebe amid ripples and bubbles.

Small Shorebird
(106 of 126) (39757 views)

(2007) San Francisco, California
Photo Posted Saturday, November 3, 2007
© 2007 Terry Costales
#20071103.jpg

A small shorebird, about 4-6 inches long, was perched on a rock. I don't know what kind it is.

Tortoise
(107 of 126) (42864 views)

(2007) Dublin Zoo, Dublin, Ireland
Photo Posted Sunday, November 4, 2007
© 2007 Terry Costales
#Dublin_Zoo

These two large tortoises ambled about and were not as sluggish as one might expect. I dont know which species of tortoise this is because I forgot to photograph the sign.

Flamingos
(108 of 126) (39721 views)

(2007) San Francisco Zoo, California
Photo Posted Monday, November 5, 2007
© 2007 Terry Costales
#20071105.jpg

This photo reminds me of peach colored roses in a garden, ready to unfurl.

Black Swan (Cygnus atratus)
(109 of 126) (40071 views)

(2007) San Francisco, California
Photo Posted Tuesday, November 6, 2007
© 2007 Terry Costales
#20071106.jpg

The face of an Australian bird which is odd, but compelling.

Great Egret
(110 of 126) (42060 views)

(2007) Palo Alto Bird Sanctuary
Photo Posted Thursday, November 8, 2007
© 2007 Terry Costales
#20071108.jpg

I was fascinated to watch this egret hunt . He moved very patiently and slowly, then his head would dart into the shallow water and he would come up with a little fish. It must take a lot of little fish to fill such a large bird.

Bonaparte's Gulls (winter plumage)
(111 of 126) (40177 views)

(2007) Palo Alto Bird Sanctuary, California
Photo Posted Friday, November 9, 2007
© 2007 Terry Costales
#20071109.jpg

I generally prefer to photograph individual birds or pairs. But sometimes the flock can prove just as beautiful.

Great Egret
(112 of 126) (42112 views)

(2007) Palo Alto Bird Sanctuary, California
Photo Posted Saturday, November 10, 2007
© 2007 Terry Costales
#20071110.jpg

The Great Egret has just caught a small fish.

Ring-necked Pheasant
(113 of 126) (40230 views)

(2007) Palo Alto Bird Sanctuary, California
Photo Posted Sunday, November 11, 2007
© 2007 Terry Costales
#20071111.jpg

This gorgeous male pheasant was much too tame for its own good. It came right up to me looking for hand-outs.

Northern Harrier (Circus cyaneus)
(114 of 126) (40069 views)


(2007) Palo Alto Bird Sanctuary, California
Photo Posted Monday, November 12, 2007
© 2007 Terry Costales
#20071112.jpg

In all my visits to this area over the past year, I finally captured a decent shot of a Harrier. Up until now, they have always been too distant and too fast.

Sparrow
(115 of 126) (39906 views)

(2007) Palo Alto Bird Sanctuary
Photo Posted Tuesday, November 13, 2007
© 2007 Terry Costales
#20071113.jpg

A well camouflaged bird in the bush.

Canada Geese in a California Sky
(116 of 126) (40257 views)

(2007) Palo Alto Bird Sanctuary
Photo Posted Thursday, November 15, 2007
© 2007 Terry Costales
#20071115.jpg

When Canada Geese trumpet their arrival while flying directly overhead, no-one could possibly pass up the opportunity to photograph them.

Killdeer in Flight
(117 of 126) (41519 views)

(2007) Palo Alto Bird Sanctuary, California
Photo Posted Friday, November 16, 2007
© 2007 Terry Costales
#20071116.jpg

Killdeer are a shy and fast bird. Consequently I rarely get a good shot of one. I was lucky this day to get that elusive shot.

Mr and Mrs Dieter Welte
(118 of 126) (39805 views)

(2007) Los Angeles, California
Photo Posted Tuesday, November 20, 2007
© 2007 Terry Costales
#20071120.jpg

I know this should be the Animalblog, but my only son, Dieter, got married this Sunday!

Here is Dieter with his beautiful wife, Lizzy. My Congratulations and Best Wishes to them both.

Warthog
(119 of 126) (42183 views)

(2007) San Francisco Zoo, California
Photo Posted Wednesday, November 21, 2007
© 2007 Terry Costales
#20071121.jpg

The profile of a warthog is not handsome. Neither is any other view.

They do have their niche in nature, but they just don't look good filling it.

Hawk with Prey
(120 of 126) (39999 views)

(2007) Main Street, San Francisco, California
Photo Posted Saturday, November 24, 2007
© 2007 Terry Costales
#20071124.jpg

This hawk unaware that it was Thanksgiving morning, none the less, enjoyed the holiday while helping the city lessen its vermin problem.

Hawk
(121 of 126) (39661 views)

(2007) Main and Fulton, San Francisco, California
Photo Posted Sunday, November 25, 2007
© 2007 Terry Costales
#20071125.jpg

Disturbed by photographer, the Thanksgiving hawk fled to higher ground.

Savannah Sparrow
(122 of 126) (40009 views)

(2007) California Delta, California
Photo Posted Saturday, December 1, 2007
© 2007 Terry Costales
#20071201.jpg

Fall colors provide a wonderful background for this little sparrow.

Polar Bear (Urus maritimus)
(123 of 126) (40720 views)

(2007) San Francisco Zoo, California
Photo Posted Sunday, December 2, 2007
© 2007 Terry Costales
#20071202.jpg

What a face. And under all that gorgeous white fur is black skin. All the better to absorb heat and keep the bear warm.

Sparrow in Pickleweed
(124 of 126) (39736 views)

(2007) Palo Alto Bird Sanctuary
Photo Posted Friday, December 7, 2007
© 2007 Terry Costales
#20071207.jpg

Pickleweed makes even a little sparrow look good.

Reindeer
(125 of 126) (39773 views)

(2007) San Francisco Zoo, California
Photo Posted Saturday, December 8, 2007
© 2007 Terry Costales
#20071208.jpg

The quintessential Christmas animal.

Anna's Hummingbird
(126 of 126) (39731 views)

(2007) San Francisco, California
Photo Posted Sunday, December 9, 2007
© 2007 Terry Costales
#20071209.jpg

A female hummingbird on a stick.