Photographed on the Fox River, Silver Springs SFWA, Plano, IL.
I assume this is an adult in breeding mode? What does the white patch on its throat indicate. Note how it has its right foot over the edge of the piling.
I often see them swimming here, so it is a treat to see one perched for this view.
Diving in the water and flying over the canal
A breeding pair, this one was eating something.
I didn't bring my long lens today...
Farmlands near Knippa in Uvalde County Texas
Huge tick load on neck and back, maybe 20 engorged.