The guy behind the lens

Tuesday, August 24, 2010

My "Bluebird" of Happiness

The Camera Critters post for this past week is one I took on safari in Botswana during July,2006. This bird is a Lilac Breasted Roller and is one of the most colorful birds in the world. It is often claimed to be the National Bird of Botswana, but my research was unable to "officially" confirm this very widespread claim. Regardless, it was a stunning sight to see and I am incredibly grateful that our local guide,Willie, spotted this lil' fella and I had enough telephoto glass to capture it.

When I give slide shows, audiences invariably "ohh & ahh" at this bird more than most of my others. The "cute" factor combined with  the stunning colors of the Lilac Breasted Roller make this a real winner of a shot.


Click on the image for a larger view!

15 comments:

Unknown said...

Gosh he's almost a coat of many colours!! Boom & Gary of the Vermilon River, Canada.

Iowa Gardening Woman said...

What a beautiful bird, he is not afraid to show his colors. I have always wanted to visit Botswana since reading the #1 Ladies Detective Agency books.

Anonymous said...

Wow wow wow! I've never seen such a beautiful bird. Fabulous shot.

Kay L. Davies said...

John, this is absolutely stunning! And I absolutely agree with Iowa Gardening Woman - for years I've wanted to visit Botswana for the very same reason! I love Alexander McCall Smith's books, and I just know I'd love Botswana if I could see this wonderful bird!
-- K

Kay, Alberta, Canada
An Unfittie's Guide to Adventurous Travel

VioletSky said...

He is a beauty. How fortunate for you to have also caught him against the blue sky so he can really stand out.

Anonymous said...

the African version of a Painted Bunting? Lovely!

EG CameraGirl said...

Yes, this bird has "cuteness" for sure! And the colours are amazing.

MarieElizabeth said...

What a stunning bird, clearly the most brightly colored one I've ever seen. Thanks for sharing.

Lynette Killam said...

Great shot, John...love the colours! I took many bird photos on a trip to East Africa in 2006, but have posted lions for this week's Camera Critters...

Lynette
Imagination Lane

Roan said...

Wow! What a great find! The colors are amazing.

Misty DawnS said...

This is one of the most gorgeous creatures I've ever seen! WOW!!!

Anonymous said...

WOW, John, this is astonishing, my friend! What incredible colors here in this feathered-friend! GREAT capture!

Unknown said...

WOW!!!

Lisa said...

He is stunning and so beautiful

Wendys Hat said...

Wow! What a beauty!