Debra Mugs
Description: "Female Red-winged Blackbird Among Coastal Greenery" I always enjoy finding the females of a species that often receive less attention than the males. This female Red-winged Blackbird paused among the leafy branches at the South Padre Island Birding and Nature Center, allowing me to capture her intricate markings and natural camouflage within the lush coastal surroundings. ©Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved 20260330_DSC1768 Alt Text: A speckled bird perches confidently on a thin branch amidst lush green leaves. The sunlight filters through, highlighting its delicate feathers. Photography by Debra Martz
Female Red-winged Blackbird Among Coastal Greenery Mug
by DebraMartz
$13 $18
Description: Caught this classic vintage Texaco station completely surrounded by spring wildflowers in Enid, Oklahoma. Love how the weathered green sign and cottage-style roof trim stand out against the blue sky and overgrown thistles. Perfect rustic wall art for anyone into retro Americana, old roadside history, and classic cross-country road trips.
Description: I captured this Great Blue Heron as it looked for a place to land among all the resting ducks. So many birds to see when birdwatching from the nearly one-mile boardwalk at the South Padre Island Nature Center. The boardwalk goes over brackish water and on out to the Laguna Madre, all areas have great habitat with tall grasses, reeds, and Mangroves. Copyright Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved 20260402-_DSC2771 AI Alt Text: A heron gracefully flies above a tranquil wetland, its wings fully extended. Ducks rest on the shore with lush greenery in the background. Photography by Debra Martz
Description: "Black-bellied Whistling-Duck Close-Up" Photographed on South Padre Island, Texas, this Black-bellied Whistling-Duck gave me an unusually close look at its distinctive face and colorful bill. The warm morning light brought out the subtle details in its plumage and bright eye, while the darker water created a beautiful, natural backdrop. Copyright Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved 20260330_DSC1993
Description: "Red-winged Blackbird Calling Across the Wetlands" While walking the boardwalk near the South Padre Island Convention Center, I heard this Red-winged Blackbird long before I focused my camera on him. Perched atop a weathered post, he was calling loudly and proudly, flashing his brilliant red-and-gold shoulder patches as he announced his presence across the wetlands. Moments like this are what I enjoy most about bird photography; not just seeing the bird, but witnessing the behavior that makes the scene come alive. Copyright ©Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved 20260330_DSC2166 AI Alt Text: The image captures a red-winged blackbird perched on a wooden post, displaying its vibrant red and black plumage. The background is soft and out of focus
Description: "Close-up of a Laughing Gull" This gull was not bothered at all by my presence as I walked the boardwalk over the wetlands of Leonabelle. It actually went from a perch overlooking the wetlands to lying down on the rail as I passed by. Photographed in Port Aransas, Texas in October. Copyright Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved 20261012_DSC7117 AI Alt Text: A seagull stands against a blurred background, showcasing its detailed plumage. The close-up highlights the bird's natural beauty and lively expression. Photography by Debra Martz
Description: "Cormorant Resting on a Wooden Post" I spotted this Neotropic Cormorant perched on a wooden post in the waters of the Laguna Madre. Its colorful eye was shining in the morning light, a beautiful contrast to its dark feathers. Photographed from a boardwalk in South Padre Island, Texas. Copyright Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved 20260330_DSC1863 AI Alt Text: A cormorant perches serenely on a marine post, its feathers gleaming in the sunlight. The background features gently rippling water. Photography by Debra Martz
Description: "Tricolored Heron with Fresh Catch" I photographed this Tricolored Heron from the boardwalk on South Padre Island as it paused among the mangrove roots with a freshly caught fish. Watching these graceful birds hunt is always fascinating, and this brief moment of its success made for one of my favorite photographs of the morning. We both made a good catch :-) Copyright ©Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved 20260402_DSC2594 AI Alt Text: Tricolored Heron standing among mangrove roots with a freshly caught fish in its bill, photographed from a boardwalk on South Padre Island, Texas. Photography by Debra Martz
Description: "Close-Up of Watchful Great-tailed Grackle" I was walking the boardwalk next to the convention center on South Padre Island when this grackle landed on the rail near me. It then stared directly at me as if I was in its way...for what I'm not sure! Copyright ©Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved 20260330_DSC2115 Alt Text: The image captures an iridescent blue bird with striking plumage, perched and looking directly at the viewer. Its vivid colors contrast with the soft, blurred background. Photography by Debra Martz
Description: While traveling to Rugby, North Dakota, to see the roadside attraction of the Geographical Center of North America, I stumbled upon this architectural gem and simply had to pull over. The historic Pierce County Courthouse boasts grand Beaux-Arts design, majestic stone columns, and a stately brick facade. Built in 1908, this National Register of Historic Places landmark beautifully captures the historic, small-town charm of the American Midwest. Copyright ©Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved
Description: While walking from the parking lot to The Forks in Winnipeg, this vintage railcar immediately caught my eye. The colorful piano-key walkway leading alongside the train created a fun contrast with the historic railway car, while dark summer clouds rolled in overhead. I paused long enough to capture the scene before heading back to the car to grab an umbrella. Copyright Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved 20250808_0551 AI Alt Text: A vintage red train car is showcased along a colorful walkway resembling piano keys. The scene is set against a cloudy sky, adding contrast. Photography by Debra Martz
Description: "Common Gallinule in Lush Wetlands" When seen in water, it swims like a duck, but the Common Gallinule is actually a Rail and has long, slender toes that it uses to walk across vegetation, often on floating vegetation. I love their bold markings, and long ago I nicknamed it "candy corn" for its vibrant face shield. Photographed from a boardwalk along the Nature Trail in Port Aransas, Texas. Copyright Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved 20261012_DSC7177 AI Alt Text: A bird with a bright red beak stands amid lush green vegetation. Its dark plumage contrasts strikingly against the vibrant surroundings. Photography by Debra Martz
Description: "Golden Light and Emerald Eye" A Neotropic Cormorant swims through the waters of the Laguna Madre at South Padre Island, Texas, bathed in warm natural light. The bird’s vivid turquoise-green eye provides a beautiful contrast to its dark feathers, while gentle ripples and reflections enhance this peaceful coastal wildlife scene. ©Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved 20260330_DSC1851 Alt Text: A cormorant with glossy feathers swims gracefully in shimmering water. The bird's vivid eyes and detailed plumage are prominently featured. Photography by Debra Martz
Description: "Green Heron on a Weathered Perch" Photographed at Salt Plains National Wildlife Refuge in early May, this Green Heron chose a weathered, leafless branch as its perch despite the surrounding spring greenery. The contrast between its rich plumage and the stark, twisting branches produced one of those shots I hope for but don't always get. I can't make a bird land where I want, yet on this day, it did just that. ©Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved 20260508_DSC3791 AI Alt Text: A small bird is perched on a bare branch against a plain background. The image captures the simplicity and elegance of nature. Photography by Debra Martz
Description: "Lark Sparrow on a Country Road Post" I often like to drive the rural roads in search of birds, and I am often successful in finding at least a few that are perched. It was early May, yet without the normal Spring rains, the remains of winter twigs surrounded the old wooden post where the Lark Sparrow was taking a break on this back road in North Oklahoma. Copyright Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved 20260509_DSC4546 AI Alt Text: A small bird perches on a wooden post amidst dry, slender twigs. The background is a clear, light sky, enhancing the scene's tranquility. Photography by Debra Martz
Description: "Blazing Sunrise At Port Aransas" The morning started with a very vibrant blue dawn. As the sun rose above the horizon, the blue disappeared, and the sky blazed a vibrant orange. Photographed from the beach at Port Aransas, Texas. Copyright Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved 20261012-DSC_3975 AI Alt Text: Vibrant hues of orange and yellow illuminate the sky above the ocean. The gentle waves reflect the warm colors of the sunrise. Photography by Debra Martz
Description: "American White Pelican Soars By" I waited quietly at Leonabelle in Port Aransas, Texas, as the first birds arrived with the morning light. Soon, the wetlands were alive with a wonderful variety of visitors. With a few pelicans already settled in, I focused on this one coming in for a landing. Copyright Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved 20261012_DSC7101 AI Alt Text: A pelican gracefully flies low over a calm body of water. Lush greenery provides a serene backdrop against the bright, open sky. Photography by Debra Martz
Description: "Heron at the Mangroves – South Padre Island" I photographed this Great Blue Heron standing quietly along the mangroves of South Padre Island. It lifted one foot at a time with slow, deliberate focus as it searched the water for prey. The stillness, the soft water, and the tangle of mangrove roots created a calm moment on the Texas coast. Copyright ©Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved 20260402_DSC2733 AI Alt Text: A heron stands gracefully among tall grasses in a wetland. The background features lush green foliage, creating a serene natural setting. Photography by Debra Martz
Description: "American White Pelican Landing at Leonabelle" Leonabelle is a wonderful nature area in Port Aransas, Texas, for bird watching. Walking the boardwalks there right at or just after sunrise offers ample opportunities to watch the early birds that fly in for early morning feedings. This pelican was landing near one of the observation decks along the nature boardwalk. Copyright Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved 20261012_DSC7151 AI Alt Text: A pelican with wings spread wide gracefully descends onto a shimmering lake surface. The setting sun casts a warm reflection on the water.
Description: "Gliding Into A New Day In Oklahoma" It was my birthday, and what did I want to do? Get up before dawn, chase the early-morning colors around the lake, take in the beauty of the new day, and of course, wait for the sun to make its appearance later. Photographed at the Great Salt Plains State Park Lake in northern Oklahoma. The area is known as Sandy Beach, with views of the earthen dam rising to the horizon where the full sun would soon appear. Copyright Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved 20260509-DSC_4231 AI Alt Text: Two birds glide across a serene lake during sunset. The sky is a gradient of warm colors, reflecting beautifully on the calm water. Photography by Debra Martz
Description: "Brown Pelican Gliding Over Water" I had been watching this Pelican fish in the canal behind my house, and after a while it just drifted around on the water. Thankfully, I had my camera ready when it took off, and the evening light colored its wingtips gold! Copyright Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved 20160130-DSC_1712 AI Alt Text: A pelican is captured mid-flight, elegantly skimming over the water's surface. The sunlight accentuates its feathers and the gentle ripples below. Photography by Debra Martz
Description: “Fargo ND Theater” The Fargo theater opened in 1926, is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and in March 2026 held its 100th-year celebration. This iconic venue, located in the heart of downtown Fargo, is known for its beautiful Art Deco design, which has been meticulously restored. Originally part of a vast vaudeville network, linking small towns to larger cities. Today, it hosts independent films, live concerts, comedy shows, and community events. Copyright Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved 2025-08-09_0657
Description: "Boardwalk Complaints" ....seemed like the perfect title for this Great-tailed Grackle that landed beside me on a South Padre Island boardwalk and immediately began voicing what appeared to be strong objections to my presence. The only problem with its argument was that I had arrived first. Copyright Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved 20260330_DSC2137 Alt Text: The image captures a grackle with its beak wide open, showcasing its vibrant dark feathers. The background is softly blurred, emphasizing the bird's striking appearance. Photography by Debra Martz
Description: "Savannah Sparrow in Golden Morning Light" I found this Savannah Sparrow perched on a slender reed while birdwatching at the Salt Plains National Wildlife Refuge in northern Oklahoma. The warm morning light was catching its feathers just right, and for a brief moment, it sat quietly against the soft prairie sky, allowing me to capture this peaceful scene. ©Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved 2026-0105_DSC0173 Alt Text: A small bird is delicately perched on a reed against a soft blue sky. The background features blurred wild grasses and plants. Photography by Debra Martz
Description: "Spotted Sandpiper Walking the Shoreline" Enjoyed watching this sandpiper in breeding plumage as it teetered along the shoreline, a motion they are known for. Photographed at the Great Salt Plains Lake in Northern Oklahoma in mid-April. Copyright Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved 20260419_DSC3257 AI Alt Text: A small bird with speckled feathers walks along the shoreline. The gentle waves create a serene backdrop as sunlight reflects off the water. Photography by Debra Martz
Description: "Northern Cardinal in a Rain Puddle" It was Springtime in Texas, and rather hot and humid after a rain shower. The birds didn't mind, though; they actually enjoyed the fresh water. Some were drinking, some were splashing, and some simply enjoyed cooling their feet! Photographed in the Bentsen Rio Grande State Park in South Texas. Copyright Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved 2026-03-27-_DSC1373 AI Alt Text: A striking red cardinal stands beside a small stream, casting a clear reflection in the water. The sunlight highlights the bird's vivid plumage against the earthy background. Photography by Debra Martz
Description: "Carved by Rain and Time" While exploring Theodore Roosevelt National Park, I was captivated by these dramatic Badlands formations shaped by rivulet erosion. Countless rains carved delicate channels into the soft earth, creating a landscape of striking textures, curves, and rugged beauty. ©Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved 20250806-DSC_2879 Alt Text: Natural erosion has created intricate ridges and formations in the badlands' rock face. Sparse vegetation grows atop the rugged cliffs. Photography by Debra Martz
Description: "Constable's Gateway Entrance to Dover Castle" This is one of two visitor entrances to the castle, known as Constable's Gateway, located at the uppermost level. The castle looms over the harbor from a site above the White Cliffs of Dover, which can be seen from most anywhere in town. It isn't just a castle; it's a massive complex of fortifications dating back to Roman times that includes not only strongholds but secret underground tunnels. Copyright Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved 20260717-DSC_4823 . AI Alt Text: A grand stone castle stands under a cloudy sky, with a sturdy entrance bridge leading to the main entrance. The structure features tall towers and ivy-covered walls. Photography by Debra Martz
Description: "Wood Ducks on Tree Branch" I couldn't believe my eyes when I saw this pair of Wood Ducks on this large dead tree. Yes, they do nest in trees, but this wasn't the closest place to water, as the marshes in this area of the refuge tend to dry out this time of year. Oh yes, it was my birthday, so I considered this my gift from nature :-) 📍Photographed at the Salt Plains National Wildlife Refuge in northern Oklahoma. ©Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved 20260509_DSC4588 Alt Text: A pair of wood ducks perched on a tree branch. The vibrant colors of the male contrast with the neutral tones of the female. Photography by Debra Martz
