Or so I call it . . . also fondly known as Pigeon Tai Chi . . . or simply, the Pigeon Stretch. It’s that endearing things birds do — wild and domestic both — leg extended under outstretched wing, releasing tension from their hard-working limbs. I always appreciate a wild-bird stretch when I’m out photographing. I’m deluded into believing they don’t mind me too much if they engage in a stretch.
Below, a few warmup moves from a beloved racing pigeon, Clive. The last photo is a Willet (shorebird), also in a stretch.
Pigeon Pilates
Pigeon Pilates
Pigeon Pilates
Willet in a Stretch - ©ingridtaylar
Have you seen the unusual yoga-like “lotus position” pose that great blue herons sometimes go into, with their wings way down low in a heart shape? My wife Catherine and I saw it last summer on a nearby pond while kayaking. Very neat.
Hi, Ingrid!
LOVE these pix of Clive and I think a collection of stretching bird pix would be very cool. Also- just wanted you to know that your 404 error message is the best ever. Everything you do, EVERYTHING, is done with such – what’s the right word- it’s care but more than that, it’s a – – richness. Thank you for sharing this beautiful blog.
Thank you, Elizabeth. You’re always so kind. Clive is a great photographic subject, wouldn’t you say? His beautiful white combined with his dolphin smile. What a character. I sent you a note but had to say publicly that I can’t take credit on the 404. It was conceived of by the theme writer. But I like it and kept it. 🙂