Habitat:
Marshes, shallow ponds, muddy shores

Activity period :
Primarily active during the day, with peak activity in the morning and late afternoon.

Identification and description:
The American Avocet is an elegant and distinctive bird, recognizable by its contrasting black and white plumage and its long, upward-curved bill. It primarily frequents wetlands, such as salt marshes, shallow ponds, and muddy shores. This bird is often seen sweeping the water's surface with its bill to capture aquatic invertebrates. During the breeding season, avocets form colonies and build their nests on the ground, often on islets to protect against predators. Their social behavior is fascinating, with complex courtship displays and aggressive defense of their territory. Although their population is stable, habitat destruction remains a potential threat.

Recommended lens:
400 mm – adjust based on distance, desired framing (portrait or habitat), and approach conditions.

Photography tips:
To photograph the American Avocet, prioritize the golden hours of morning or evening for soft, flattering light. Use a telephoto lens of 400mm or more to capture details without disturbing the bird. Approach slowly and stay low to avoid startling the avocet. Wetlands often provide interesting reflections, so try to include water in your compositions. Be patient and wait for the bird to adopt an elegant posture or interact with other avocets for dynamic shots.