With settings optimized for perched birds, a Swamp Sparrow suddenly swoops down leaving its wings all ablur.

Swamp Sparrow dropping in. #swampsparrow #bird #birdphotography #littlecompton #tncri #johncwhiteheadpreserve

Bank Swallows nest in small holes dug into the sides of steep banks at the beach. There were many comings and goings, making me think that there are nests, eggs, and mates inside.

Bank Swallow kicks up sand as it jets out of its nesting cavity. #bankswallow #bird #birdphotography #goosewingbeachpreserve #tncri #maybemassachusetts #couldberhodeisland

A Piping Plover stands outside, looking toward its caged nest.

A Piping Plover walks inside its caged nesting area, appearing ready for a prison break.

Piping Plover, outside and inside the nesting area. The Nature Conservancy places cages around nests to keep out gulls and humans. #pipingplover #bird #birdphotography #tncri #goosewingbeachpreserve #littlecompton

A Least Tern is standing ankle deep in the surf, facing away from the camera. His bill is pointed skyward, holding an itsy bitsy fish

The Great Ternini practices his disappearing fish act. #leasttern #bird #birdphotography #littlecompton #goosewingbeachpreserve #tncri