Graceful Great Egret

This was an image of a Great Egret pausing in a dark pond to take a drink.The delicate feathers and fine quills were reflected in the onyx surface of the pond.This was an unusual spot to see this large four foot high plus Great Egret in such a small pond. This image took first place in the annual Westways AAA Photography Contest.The serene setting, reflection,and textures of the bird reminded me of an ancient brush painting.Los Osos, Ca.2021