Slaty Skimmer - Trailside Perch

Slaty Skimmer - Trailside Perch, a photo by JKissnHug on Flickr.

Via Flickr:
On a recent visit to Lewis Wint Nature Center at Independence Oaks County Park in Independence Twp., Michigan, I walked a trail alongside a marshland. I came upon creatures great and small resting in the mid-day heat. Two White-tailed Deer were resting comfortably in the middle of the woodlands, a Red-eyed Vireo was singing ove head and a Slaty Skimmer was perched upon a branch alongside the trail. The deer didn't stick around long once they saw me, however, I was able to watch this Slaty Skimmer perching and alternately dancing and hunting in the subtle breeze. I watched as this male snatched an insect and consumed it. I marveled at it's efficiency in capturing minute flying insects from mid-air. These encounters happen everyday in the woods, waters and fields of our state. Go out and watch for them and enjoy the great outdoors, you will be much rewarded by nature.