It was a cloudy day, but I was determined to photograph these endangered species before they left the area. As I pulled over by the beach, the sounds of water splashing and birds chirping filled the air.
I thought about my chances of spotting the birds. Their population has seen a frightening decline, and only a handful of known breeding pairs remain in our province. It seemed the odds were not in my favor.
My thoughts were interrupted by a surfer walking down the beach. It’s amazing how this place is shared by people enjoying so many different activities. In no time, he was catching the waves, and my mind drifted back to my own task.
Slowly, the beach began to come to life. First, a small critter appeared, walking up and down the shoreline in search of food. In the distance, I spotted its parents, keeping a watchful eye. Soon, a second sibling joined the feeding party. Lying on the sand, I observed as the parent and its four chicks enjoyed the evening.
To my surprise, the sun broke through the clouds for just a few minutes, gifting me with an incredible blend of warm and cold colors—a fleeting but beautiful moment.
Species: Piping Plover