BIRDS OF PALO VERDE - HDTV 2008

Tempisque Basin, Palo Verde National Park, Costa Rica — The last remaining water from the wet season attracts birdlife to this wide open seasonal marsh of west central Costa Rica. Brilliant reds and oranges streak across the fast moving and scattered clouds, reflected in the shallows. The moon sets. Light increases, as does the wind. Flocks of black-bellied whistling ducks hunker down in the face of its 25 mph persistent force. Long-legged Northern Jacana run jerkily, seeking insects and snails. White Ibis stiffen their necks in the direction of least resistance, reconfigured as living wind vanes. Roseate spoonbills huddle. Passing horses wade and graze.