Nature clicks #79 - In flight, with texture

Ring-billed Gull
Nikon D300s, Sigma 50-500mm / f4.5-6.3 APO DG HSM

On my way back home from Illinois today I stopped again at Mississippi dam #14 and joined the group of photographers there for an hour. Everybody was eagerly awaiting some Bald Eagles to show up. Burt and his friends had thrown some fish into the water in order to attract the eagles. I made quiet a few clicks but didn't really like my results today. Instead I show you another image from last Sunday. The Ring-billed Gulls were competing with the eagles about the fish and gulls are a great subject to practice long lens shooting technique. I like this photo for several reasons. First, I do not have too many pictures of a gull in full flight. This one will be a good addition to my Iowa-Wildlife-Gallery. I also like the background of this shot. Usually I prefer a subtle background that lets the animal stand out, but here I really like the texture of the bold reflections on the water. I believe it adds dynamic to the image without totally distracting from the bird.