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Mark Smith Photography

@marktakesphoto • 48,478 subscribers

My name is Mark Smith and I am happily addicted to photography! https://t.co/SySX33QcOi

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Brown pelicans are ruthless. They will eat anything they can stuff into that gaping maw of a pouch and they definitely don’t mind taking from others. The osprey being one of the best anglers on the planet is often a target for the pelicans.

Brown pelicans are ruthless. They will eat anything they can stuff into that gaping maw of a pouch and they definitely don’t mind taking from others. The osprey being one of the best anglers on the planet is often a target for the pelicans.

753,660 Aufrufe

Meet the Anhinga, also known as the snake bird or water turkey, or as I like to call them “Holy Crap Did You See That!?!” And while this seems like a once in a lifetime fish flipping rodeo, it isn’t.

Meet the Anhinga, also known as the snake bird or water turkey, or as I like to call them “Holy Crap Did You See That!?!” And while this seems like a once in a lifetime fish flipping rodeo, it isn’t.

240,429 Aufrufe

Love these little Tree Swallows and they are so hard to capture in photos even more so in video but try enough times and eventually you’ll get it.

Love these little Tree Swallows and they are so hard to capture in photos even more so in video but try enough times and eventually you’ll get it.

68,258 Aufrufe

This eagle is motionless between eye blinks as it searches a meadow about a half a mile away. The rabbit never saw it coming.

This eagle is motionless between eye blinks as it searches a meadow about a half a mile away. The rabbit never saw it coming.

839,343 Aufrufe

I’ve seen a lot of foxes but this one is still my all time fav. The colors on this beauty are simply remarkable and if memory serves me correctly which it occasionally does, this was the alpha male of the group. Someone also told me this foxes coloration is a rare gene mutation.

I’ve seen a lot of foxes but this one is still my all time fav. The colors on this beauty are simply remarkable and if memory serves me correctly which it occasionally does, this was the alpha male of the group. Someone also told me this foxes coloration is a rare gene mutation.

146,602 Aufrufe

Osprey‘s might be the best avian anglers that exist, but when it comes to aquatic mammals, dolphins are definitely top on the list. I was lucky enough to spend a couple of days watching a pair of dolphins who almost seemed to be constantly showing off and playing with their food.

Osprey‘s might be the best avian anglers that exist, but when it comes to aquatic mammals, dolphins are definitely top on the list. I was lucky enough to spend a couple of days watching a pair of dolphins who almost seemed to be constantly showing off and playing with their food.

151,240 Aufrufe

Coming in really fast and almost sideways. Look at that wing control! Epic birds.

Coming in really fast and almost sideways. Look at that wing control! Epic birds.

484,352 Aufrufe

Beautiful barred owl silently flys right by the camera. #owl

Beautiful barred owl silently flys right by the camera. #owl

464,671 Aufrufe

The whole concept of floating on a cushion of air amazes me and this bird demonstrates it perfectly. With a wingspan of up to 4 meters or 12 feet that’s some serious feather real estate making contact with invisible forces and keeping this bird floating mere inches

The whole concept of floating on a cushion of air amazes me and this bird demonstrates it perfectly. With a wingspan of up to 4 meters or 12 feet that’s some serious feather real estate making contact with invisible forces and keeping this bird floating mere inches

95,338 Aufrufe

This is a great example of something that has to be seen to be believed, and I’m not even talking about the eagles’ amazing aerodynamic abilities. I’m referring to chaotic tidal rapids that cause huge vortexes of water to push fish to the surface. You can clearly see one starting right when the eagle plucks the fish from the surface. The poor fish was rushed to the surface at such a velocity that the air and gases inside it expanded filling it like a balloon. Glad I’m not a fish.

This is a great example of something that has to be seen to be believed, and I’m not even talking about the eagles’ amazing aerodynamic abilities. I’m referring to chaotic tidal rapids that cause huge vortexes of water to push fish to the surface. You can clearly see one starting right when the eagle plucks the fish from the surface. The poor fish was rushed to the surface at such a velocity that the air and gases inside it expanded filling it like a balloon. Glad I’m not a fish.

197,282 Aufrufe

Nothing quite like gliding on a cushion of air. Who else would love to be able to do this?

Nothing quite like gliding on a cushion of air. Who else would love to be able to do this?

17,063 Aufrufe

This is an older video of mine but I love to repost it just for the sheer “awe” value it holds. Animals love to have fun too and this video of a flounder who is “hanging fin” proves that point quite dramatically.

This is an older video of mine but I love to repost it just for the sheer “awe” value it holds. Animals love to have fun too and this video of a flounder who is “hanging fin” proves that point quite dramatically.

143,824 Aufrufe

Watching cattle egrets hunt dragonflies in the dew soaked grass is an epic way to pass time in the morning. As charming as this bird was, it still didn’t manage to catch the dragonfly.

Watching cattle egrets hunt dragonflies in the dew soaked grass is an epic way to pass time in the morning. As charming as this bird was, it still didn’t manage to catch the dragonfly.

23,128 Aufrufe

Meet “Beakless” The bird who refuses to give up. Yesterday, I shared a still photo of this incredible Great Egret, and today, I want to show you even more of its story. If you missed the original post, let me catch you up: •No, I don’t know how it lost its upper beak. •Yes, it’s doing fine. •And yes, I consulted a very experienced bird rehabber who confirmed this bird looks healthy and strong, despite the injury. I’ve watched birds perform all kinds of behaviors over the years… from opening their beaks wide to what almost looks like licking their lips. But Beakless? When it tries, its tongue just pops out the top where the upper beak should be. This bird is not just surviving, it’s thriving, and somehow, that makes it even more beautiful.

Meet “Beakless” The bird who refuses to give up. Yesterday, I shared a still photo of this incredible Great Egret, and today, I want to show you even more of its story. If you missed the original post, let me catch you up: •No, I don’t know how it lost its upper beak. •Yes, it’s doing fine. •And yes, I consulted a very experienced bird rehabber who confirmed this bird looks healthy and strong, despite the injury. I’ve watched birds perform all kinds of behaviors over the years… from opening their beaks wide to what almost looks like licking their lips. But Beakless? When it tries, its tongue just pops out the top where the upper beak should be. This bird is not just surviving, it’s thriving, and somehow, that makes it even more beautiful.

59,825 Aufrufe

Hungry Osprey Rips Barracuda From its Ocean Home

Hungry Osprey Rips Barracuda From its Ocean Home

24,388 Aufrufe

Yesterday I posted some still images of an Osprey who uses a tiny pole to perch. This bird sits on one of these poles daily. The poles were put there to prevent cars from hitting birds when they fly over the bridge. It has been a huge success in reducing the bird-car fatalities significantly. I’ve always been amazed at how the Osprey can sit on this tiny pole. The image I posted yesterday shows exactly how in great detail. It’s amazing how animals adapt.

Yesterday I posted some still images of an Osprey who uses a tiny pole to perch. This bird sits on one of these poles daily. The poles were put there to prevent cars from hitting birds when they fly over the bridge. It has been a huge success in reducing the bird-car fatalities significantly. I’ve always been amazed at how the Osprey can sit on this tiny pole. The image I posted yesterday shows exactly how in great detail. It’s amazing how animals adapt.

47,075 Aufrufe

There she sat, waiting on her throne. It was well before sunrise and the world lacked any color but yet she was ready for prime time. What do you think? Was she angry or was this a look of praise? I don’t think she wanted to be filmed.

There she sat, waiting on her throne. It was well before sunrise and the world lacked any color but yet she was ready for prime time. What do you think? Was she angry or was this a look of praise? I don’t think she wanted to be filmed.

28,569 Aufrufe

Sibling rivalry is alive and well, especially among Sandhill cranes. And nothing beats the classic silent stare from a disapproving parent. These young cranes are always sparring, but this little altercation cracked me up. The chick coming in from the right looked genuinely excited to see its older sibling, but the one coming in from the left clearly had other plans… like total domination. Watch the foot stomps. They are ridiculously cute. And if you look closely, you will see a tiny swat with that little nub of a wing. Pure drama. Everything was going perfectly until the adult caught sight of it. That is when the universal silent stare worked its magic. Instant transformation. Both chicks suddenly became innocent little angels. Classic.

Sibling rivalry is alive and well, especially among Sandhill cranes. And nothing beats the classic silent stare from a disapproving parent. These young cranes are always sparring, but this little altercation cracked me up. The chick coming in from the right looked genuinely excited to see its older sibling, but the one coming in from the left clearly had other plans… like total domination. Watch the foot stomps. They are ridiculously cute. And if you look closely, you will see a tiny swat with that little nub of a wing. Pure drama. Everything was going perfectly until the adult caught sight of it. That is when the universal silent stare worked its magic. Instant transformation. Both chicks suddenly became innocent little angels. Classic.

41,753 Aufrufe

I’ve watched this alpha female bald eagle tangle with rivals for years. I’ve seen her rake eagles across oyster beds, lock talons and spin adversaries into the mud, and even take down a full-grown great blue heron. Ruthless doesn’t even begin to describe her.

I’ve watched this alpha female bald eagle tangle with rivals for years. I’ve seen her rake eagles across oyster beds, lock talons and spin adversaries into the mud, and even take down a full-grown great blue heron. Ruthless doesn’t even begin to describe her.

30,210 Aufrufe

Pelicans are brave kleptoparasitic birds from the Dino era.

Pelicans are brave kleptoparasitic birds from the Dino era.

76,129 Aufrufe

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Have you ever seen an eagle grab a fish and eat live in mid air.

Have you ever seen an eagle grab a fish and eat live in mid air.

Mark Smith Photography

5,377,250 Aufrufe • vor 3 Jahren

What a sight. After getting dragged under three times, this Osprey emerges with a massive pompano. Go bird go!

What a sight. After getting dragged under three times, this Osprey emerges with a massive pompano. Go bird go!

Mark Smith Photography

1,851,394 Aufrufe • vor 3 Jahren

Osprey gets dragged under but resurfaces with a huge barracuda.

Osprey gets dragged under but resurfaces with a huge barracuda.

Mark Smith Photography

1,146,000 Aufrufe • vor 3 Jahren

What do you when an eagle grabs a fish, swallows it whole and then makes a sudden bee line for your face? You keep rolling video!! Eagles have a weird smell. I found out as it flew inches from my nose. #tooclose

What do you when an eagle grabs a fish, swallows it whole and then makes a sudden bee line for your face? You keep rolling video!! Eagles have a weird smell. I found out as it flew inches from my nose. #tooclose

Mark Smith Photography

944,386 Aufrufe • vor 3 Jahren

Have you ever seen a cormorant eat a large mouth bass?

Have you ever seen a cormorant eat a large mouth bass?

Mark Smith Photography

601,735 Aufrufe • vor 3 Jahren

Crazy eagle tries to steal a rabbit right out of a hungry momma fox’s mouth.

Crazy eagle tries to steal a rabbit right out of a hungry momma fox’s mouth.

Mark Smith Photography

474,242 Aufrufe • vor 3 Jahren

On a scale of 1-10, 10 being perfect, I have to award this eagle with a 12. 😃 If you ever wanted to see a perfect example of an eagle’s ability to fly, grab a fish and eat it in mid air, I think this is it. What would you give this eagle on a scale of 1-10?

On a scale of 1-10, 10 being perfect, I have to award this eagle with a 12. 😃 If you ever wanted to see a perfect example of an eagle’s ability to fly, grab a fish and eat it in mid air, I think this is it. What would you give this eagle on a scale of 1-10?

Mark Smith Photography

377,450 Aufrufe • vor 2 Jahren

I’ve learned from posting on social means that some people don’t think there are catfish in the ocean. There are plenty and this Osprey managed to hoist out a big Gafftopsail catfish. Glad I’m not a fish, especially a catfish.

I’ve learned from posting on social means that some people don’t think there are catfish in the ocean. There are plenty and this Osprey managed to hoist out a big Gafftopsail catfish. Glad I’m not a fish, especially a catfish.

Mark Smith Photography

370,929 Aufrufe • vor 2 Jahren

A few weeks ago I was treated to an Osprey flying right through a rainbow and I shared an image from that experience. Yesterday morning it happened again and this time I was fortunate enough to get it on video.

A few weeks ago I was treated to an Osprey flying right through a rainbow and I shared an image from that experience. Yesterday morning it happened again and this time I was fortunate enough to get it on video.

Mark Smith Photography

370,638 Aufrufe • vor 2 Jahren

One of the most common questions I get asked. Why is the Osprey your favorite bird to photograph/video? This video is the perfect example of why. Ospreys never give up. Ever.

One of the most common questions I get asked. Why is the Osprey your favorite bird to photograph/video? This video is the perfect example of why. Ospreys never give up. Ever.

Mark Smith Photography

122,280 Aufrufe • vor 9 Monaten

What did this eagle just drop? Full video here.

What did this eagle just drop? Full video here.

Mark Smith Photography

24,784 Aufrufe • vor 1 Monat

Eagle landing in super slow motion. Must see! Amazing example of aerodynamics in nature.

Eagle landing in super slow motion. Must see! Amazing example of aerodynamics in nature.

Mark Smith Photography

372,276 Aufrufe • vor 3 Jahren

Even eagles have to hit the brakes every once in a while. No drive thru windows for them, just a plunge into cold salt water for a bite sized snack. And when that snack is a small hake fish? It’s a repeat trip. Think chicken strips. How many can you eat in one sitting?

Even eagles have to hit the brakes every once in a while. No drive thru windows for them, just a plunge into cold salt water for a bite sized snack. And when that snack is a small hake fish? It’s a repeat trip. Think chicken strips. How many can you eat in one sitting?

Mark Smith Photography

88,506 Aufrufe • vor 8 Monaten

Ospreys in this area have an eagle alarm call. When they spot an eagle coming, they make a very specific sound to alert all the other ospreys in the area. Every time I hear that call, I know something crazy is about to happen.

Ospreys in this area have an eagle alarm call. When they spot an eagle coming, they make a very specific sound to alert all the other ospreys in the area. Every time I hear that call, I know something crazy is about to happen.

Mark Smith Photography

261,845 Aufrufe • vor 2 Jahren

Perfectly executed dive!!

Perfectly executed dive!!

Mark Smith Photography

309,693 Aufrufe • vor 3 Jahren

Great blue heron effortlessly glides in and makes a near perfect landing on razor shep oysters.

Great blue heron effortlessly glides in and makes a near perfect landing on razor shep oysters.

Mark Smith Photography

285,995 Aufrufe • vor 3 Jahren

This is why this bird is called a pelican, not a pelican’t. This is the first time I’ve been able to capture the whole process in one take. Now you know why pelicans have such big pouches.

This is why this bird is called a pelican, not a pelican’t. This is the first time I’ve been able to capture the whole process in one take. Now you know why pelicans have such big pouches.

Mark Smith Photography

234,439 Aufrufe • vor 2 Jahren

Have you ever seen an eagle with a flounder? This one effortlessly glides in seemingly controlling each and every feather on its way down. Af first glance it appears that it has simply landed in the shallows but this is all part of this birds calculated grace.

Have you ever seen an eagle with a flounder? This one effortlessly glides in seemingly controlling each and every feather on its way down. Af first glance it appears that it has simply landed in the shallows but this is all part of this birds calculated grace.

Mark Smith Photography

238,712 Aufrufe • vor 3 Jahren

This Osprey set its sights on a huge fish and almost paid the price for it!

This Osprey set its sights on a huge fish and almost paid the price for it!

Mark Smith Photography

250,535 Aufrufe • vor 3 Jahren

I’ve often wondered if ospreys ever make this mistake and now I know the answer. This bird has picked up a highly venomous Portuguese Manowar jellyfish.

I’ve often wondered if ospreys ever make this mistake and now I know the answer. This bird has picked up a highly venomous Portuguese Manowar jellyfish.

Mark Smith Photography

169,338 Aufrufe • vor 2 Jahren