Common Paraque, Estero Llano Grande SP World Birding Center

I mean, maybe others already knew, but I certainly did not know that the Paraque has feathered eyelids. Makes me wonder how many other birds might have tiny feathers on their lids? This specimen is the faithful Common Paraque that roosts beside the Alligator Lake trail at Estero Llano Grande State Park World Birding Center south of Weslaco Texas, and has roosted in the same spot for at least the past 6 years. It is perhaps the most photographed Paraque in the world 🙂 But that, of course, does not stop me from photographing it again on every trip. Who can resist? This year the lighting was just right for this really tight telephoto shot…tight enough to show the feathers on its eyelids. (That will now probably become a “saying.” “He was close enough to see the feathers on her eyelids!” Etc.)

Sony HX400V at 1200mm equivalent field of view. Shutter preferred. 1/160th (testing the limits of the Sony image stabilization, but it was relatively dark in the paraque roost) @ISO 1000 @ f6.3. Processed in Lightroom on my Windows tablet.

Feathered eyelids. I am amazed. I am amused. Though I make light of it, the fact that the Paraque’s eyelids are feathered fills me with wonder and delight, and a great sense of thankfulness to see and be part of this astounding life…to be able to record and celebrate the details and the beauty. Thank you God. Happy Sunday!

This post is early, since I will be headed out to find more wonders as soon as the sun is up!