Several times within the past week I went outside to photograph birds. I went to City Park and to my backyard. Most days it was overcast, and the birds seemed hidden. Each time I went to City Park, though, there were white ibises in the pond. They were using their long beaks in the muddy water to look for food.

I thought about how I have been fascinated with these birds because of their unique appearance and beauty especially in groups. Here are two photos I took this week.

I started noticing white ibises a few years ago and I don’t know why I hadn’t noticed them before.

I was surprised to see these large birds in trees in City Park like in these photos I took in December 2020 and February 2021. My sister said seeing them in the tree reminded her of a Christmas tree with ornaments.

I took these photos of them flying over my backyard in June 2021. Their elegant appearance flying reminds me of ballet dancers.

I came to a conclusion today about why I may have been interested in birds and butterflies recently. It has to do with the theme of freedom. Humans are fascinated with a bird’s ability to fly, and it makes them seem free.