Comment from SandraInSpain
I have never seen one of these birds, and this shot is just stunning. Well done for capturing it just so - they don't always play along with the wishes of the photographer. Great work.

 Comment Written 22-Sep-2018

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reply by the author on 22-Sep-2018

many thanks sandra

Comment from dalebraatz
A very interesting looking bird, very good light, , has great colors and details and textures in the feathers, very nice depth, a pleasure to look at, thank you for sharing, dale

 Comment Written 21-Sep-2018

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reply by the author on 21-Sep-2018

many thanks dale

reply by dalebraatz on 21-Sep-2018

Your welcome

Comment from Envision
This is super interesting Fred. I have never seen anything like it. Your shot shows off his height and unusual build very nicely. It's weird to see those long legs on a raptor.

 Comment Written 21-Sep-2018

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reply by the author on 21-Sep-2018

many thanks again

Comment from seshadri_sreenivasan
Interesting shot. Never see this bird so far!Wonder why it is named Secretary bird. Because of its long legs!:) :)The light and shadows, colours and the composition have worked out well. Good effort!

 Comment Written 21-Sep-2018

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reply by the author on 21-Sep-2018

thanks again

Comment from Susan F. M. T.
Fred,
A beautiful picture of the Secretary Bird looking at you over it's shoulder as it strikes a pose, the sand making the perfect backdrop. Beautiful composition framing & lighting taken with superb camera techniques & sharp focus.
Susan

 Comment Written 21-Sep-2018

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reply by the author on 21-Sep-2018

merci beaucoup

Comment from Daphne Oberon
Great shot and subject! I found your description extremely interesting, especially about the pens behind the ears giving the bird its name! My admiration on all fronts! Thanks for sharing and have a cool day! This photo looks hot!!! Daphne Oberon

 Comment Written 21-Sep-2018

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reply by the author on 21-Sep-2018

thanks a lot Daphne for your lovely comments

Comment from nikman
Does she have thin legs then? Your fine off-centre composition offers us an enjoyable look at your secretary. Wonder where she is off to? Exposure and sharpness are good. Nicely taken!

 Comment Written 21-Sep-2018

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reply by the author on 21-Sep-2018

many thanks again

Comment from michiganmike
For some reason the image I have in my mind for a secretary bird always includes a snake in its bill. I have seen them at several zoos (never with a snake). It is certainly a beautiful bird, a shame you couldn't get closer.

 Comment Written 21-Sep-2018

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reply by the author on 21-Sep-2018

many thanks mike;
they are very shy, I had to do a major cropping...