Aves Stickers
Description: "Snowy Egret Wading in Shallow Water" This Snowy Egret had a serious attitude—standing tall and taking long strides through the shallows. The sunlight was perfect, letting me peek through the clear water and spot its vivid yellow foot. Captured from a boardwalk on South Padre Island, Texas. Copyright ©Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved 20260330_DSC1982 AI Text: A white egret is gracefully walking through shallow water, creating a mirror-like reflection on the surface. The bird's yellow eye stands out against its pristine feathers. 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: "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: Autumn season motifs characterize this local event theme set in Clarence New York. The composition features a large smiling jack-o-lantern, a rustic barn, a tractor, corn stalks, and maple leaves. This scene captures the harvest atmosphere of a countryside farm gathering during the month of October.
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: "Flycatcher with Dragonfly" On a recent birding trip to Oklahoma's Salt Plains National Wildlife Refuge, I lucked out with this close-up of a native Eastern Phoebe. I was waiting inside a bird blind when this little flycatcher landed right on the rusty top edge of the structure, perfectly posing with a freshly caught dragonfly in its bill. With the minimalist composition and warm, rustic textures, I think it would make a beautiful addition to a modern rustic gallery wall. Copyright ©Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved 20260508_DSC3797 AI Alt Text: A small bird perches on a rusty metal bar, looking into the distance. The simplicity of the scene adds to its charm. 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: "Black-bellied Whistling-Duck" Wader's Trail offers many opportunities for seeing a variety of water birds. This duck was close to the edge of Dowitcher Pond, one of several ponds on this trail. Photographed at Estero Llano Grande State Park, located in Weslaco, Texas, in an area of the state known as the Rio Grande Valley. ©Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved In My Collection: "Feathered Friends" 20260325_DSC0886 AI Text: A duck with distinctive plumage stands on a log near a pond. The surrounding grass creates a natural habitat feel.
Description: "Black-Necked Stilt by the Water's Edge" These are the cutest birds! I love their bubblegum colored long legs. Second-longest legs to body size of any bird, second only to the Flamingo. Photographed on South Padre Island at the edge of some wetlands in late March. Copyright ©Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved 20260330_DSC2036 AI Alt Text: A black-necked stilt stands gracefully by the edge of a body of water. The bird's long legs and striking black-and-white plumage make for a beautiful sight. Photography by Debra Martz
Description: "Close-up of a Chachalaca" I was walking the trails at the National Butterfly Center in Mission, Texas, when this Plain Chachalaca landed right beside me. So close that I couldn't get it completely, so I settled for a profile portrait. As for getting photos of butterflies that day, well, I wasn't as fortunate. Photographed at the National Butterfly Center, a private nature preserve operated by the North American Butterfly Association that serves as an outdoor butterfly conservatory. It is located adjacent to Bentsen-Rio Grande Valley State Park, near the city of Mission, Texas. It might be for the butterflies, but the area also attracts many birds. ©Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved 20260327_DSC15
Description: "Chachalaca with Spectacular Tail Feathers" I sat down on a bench along the walking trail and was very surprised by my visitor, the Plain Chachalaca, especially when it fanned its tail. Photographed at the National Butterfly Center, a private nature preserve operated by the North American Butterfly Association that serves as an outdoor butterfly conservatory. It is located adjacent to Bentsen-Rio Grande Valley State Park, near the city of Mission, Texas. It might be for the butterflies, but the area also attracts many birds. ©Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved 20260327_DSC1617 A close-up of a bird with striking tail feathers spread open against a blurred green background. The bird's plumage has a lo
Description: "Are We Staying In Oklahoma Or Heading North" It looks as if they are having a meeting of the minds! The yellow plate is growing on top of their beak, a characteristic change during breeding season. While most go north to their breeding grounds, it looks like this group might just stay in Oklahoma for the season. Photographed at the Great Salt Plains State Park in Northern Oklahoma. ©Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved In My Collection: "Feathered Friends" 20260225_DSC0556 (Camera picture control set to vivid for vibrant high-impact of colors) AI Text: A flock of majestic white pelicans floats gracefully on a serene body of water. The vibrant orange of their bills contrasts with the deep blue of the water.
Description: "Pelican Coming In For A Landing" It was October, and the migrating American White Pelicans were arriving in South Texas. When they land, it appears as if they are skiing with their wings spread wide and their legs and feet stretched forward like skis. Captured from a boardwalk over the wetlands along the Nature Trail in Port Aransas, Texas, mid-autumn. ©Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved In My Collection: “Feathered Friends” 20251017-DSC_9169 AI Text: A pelican gracefully skims over the water at sunrise, its wings outstretched. The calm water reflects the soft golden hues of the sky.
Description: "Snowy Egret Morning Reflection" The morning light was perfect as this Snowy Egret stood in the shallows at South Padre Island, Texas. A soft breeze teased its breeding plumes while the blue water captured a cool reflection. I love photographing these birds; sometimes elegant, and other times full of territorial attitude. Copyright ©Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved 20260330_DSC2008 AI Text: A snowy egret stands elegantly in calm blue waters. Its reflection is visible on the surface, creating a serene and peaceful scene. Photography by Debra Martz
Description: "One of the rewards of exploring South Padre Island's wetlands is encountering moments like this. This Great Egret paused in perfect light, its flowing breeding plumes catching the slightest movement of the air. For a few moments, it seemed less concerned with finding its next meal and more interested in demonstrating why egrets are among the most graceful birds along the Texas coast. Copyright ©Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved 20260330_DSC2189 Alt Text: A stunning egret stands in shallow water, showcasing its elegant white feathers and long, slender neck. The bird's keen gaze is focused on its surroundings, emphasizing its serene and majestic presence. Photography by Debra Martz
Description: "Anhinga Profile Portrait" A walk on the trail along Alligator Lake most often rewards the bird watcher with a variety of birds, and yes, sometimes alligators! This Anhinga was on the edge of a tree limb on the bank. Though the wind was moving leaves and twigs back and forth, I was still able to get some good photos of this beautiful bird. Photographed at Estero Llano Grande State Park, located in Weslaco, Texas, in the area known as the Rio Grande Valley. ©Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved In My Collection: "Feathered Friends" 20260325_DSC0787 AI Text: A beautifully photographed bird showcasing its distinctive long neck and sharp beak. The bird's intricate plumage is highlighted against a soft-focus background.
Description: "American White Pelican Wings Open Wide" It was October, and the migrating American White Pelicans were arriving in South Texas. They were coming in one after another, and making gentle landings with their wings open wide for braking. Captured from a boardwalk over the wetlands along the Nature Trail in Port Aransas, Texas, mid-autumn. ©Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved In My Collection: “Feathered Friends” 20251017-DSC_9170 AI Text: A pelican stretches its wings wide as it gracefully lands on a shimmering water surface. Another pelican glides serenely in the background.
Description: "Banded Reddish Egret At South Padre Island Texas" Photographed from a boardwalk near the Convention Center on March 30, 2026, and noticed that this Egret had been banded. I reported it to USGS.gov and received a certificate back from them with information on the banding. It was too young to fly when it was banded on 06/09/2021 by Dr. Michael C. Green, near Riveria, Kleberg County, Texas. Copyright ©Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved 20260330_DSC2241 AI Alt Text: An Egret stands gracefully on one leg by a sandy shoreline. Its feathers exhibit a blend of blue and brown hues under the sunlight. Photography by Debra Martz
Description: "Shy Shoveler Looking Away" Where I live, I see the Northern Shovelers when in their breeding plumage. But this was October in South Texas, so they looked very different in their non-breeding colors and patterns. There were many, but I was looking for the one that had moved away from the group to photograph. Captured along the Nature Trail in Port Aransas, Texas, mid-autumn. ©Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved In My Collection: “Feathered Friends” 20251017-DSC_9221 AI Text: A duck stands by the edge of a pond, with water ripples reflecting the sunlight. The lush green grass adds a vibrant contrast.
Description: "Lesser Black-backed Gull at the Spillway" This was the 3rd year in a row that I saw this species of Gull in Oklahoma. It was floating on the middle tier of the lake's spillway, which flows into the Salt Fork of the Arkansas River. Photographed at the Great Salt Plains State Park in northern Oklahoma. ©Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved In My Collection: "Feathered Friends" 20260105_DSC0115 AI Text: A lone gull floats peacefully on calm water, its reflection mirrored below. The water appears golden with hints of blue ripples.
Description: "Flying Egret in a Clear Sky" I had been watching several Reddish Egrets, both the dark morph like this one and a white morph, wading in the wetlands at Charlie's Pasture Preserve. This one was finished with the mingling and took flight over the boardwalk I was walking. Photographed in Port Aransas, Texas. ©Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved In My Collection: "Feathered Friends" 20251018-DSC_9267 AI Text: A Reddish Egret gracefully soars through a clear blue sky, its wings spread wide. The sunlight highlights the bird's detailed plumage.
Description: "Couch's Kingbird on a Bare Branch" Similar to several other Kingbirds, especially the Tropical Kingbird, where its call becomes an important ID...and we did hear it. Photographed at Estero Llano Grande State Park, located in Weslaco, Texas, in the area known as the Rio Grande Valley. ©Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved In My Collection: "Feathered Friends" 2026-03-26_DSC1007 AI Text: A striking yellow bird perches on a bare branch against a vivid blue sky. Its feathers are bright and contrast beautifully with the simplicity of the background.
Description: "Cormorant Splashing in the Water" One moment, it was peacefully floating on the water, and the next, there was a sudden frenzy of loud splashes! Captured along the Nature Trail in Port Aransas, Texas, mid-autumn. ©Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved In My Collection: “Feathered Friends” 20251016-DSC_9123 AI Text: A cormorant vigorously flaps its wings, creating an energetic splash in the water. The bird's wet feathers glisten in the sunlight.
Description: "Ibis Hunting in the Wetlands" This White-faced Ibis was one busy bird, running and hopping with its wings spread as it searched for its prey in the pond. Photographed at the Estero Llano Grande State Park in Weslaco, Texas. Part of the area known as the Rio Grande Valley of Texas. ©Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved In My Collection: "Feathered Friends" 20260325-_DSC0704 AI Text: An ibis stands in shallow water with wings spread. Its plumage displays rich iridescent colors as it hunts for food.
Description: "Hooded Oriole Santa Ana NWR Texas" I was out looking for a male Hooded Oriole, hoping to find the bright orange adult since they’re starting to show up in South Texas. Instead, I came across a first-year male—vivid yellow but still missing the black bib. Photographed at Santa Ana National Wildlife Refuge in the Rio Grande Valley. ©Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved 20260326_DSC1029 Alt Text: A vibrant yellow bird perches gracefully on a rough tree branch. The background is softly blurred, focusing attention on the bird's striking colors.
Description: "The Ever-Singing Dickcissel" I captured this stunning moment from my car window on June 3rd while exploring a quiet, rural dirt road. Perched high on a delicate branch against the soft morning sky, this beautiful male Dickcissel (Spiza americana) was completely lost in his melody, pouring his heart out into the open prairie air. You can practically hear his buzzing, rhythmic call through the crisp details of his vibrant yellow chest, black throat bib, and rich chestnut shoulders. The best place to find Dickcissels is in overgrown pastures, savannahs, and croplands in the central Great Plains. I photographed this one while out birdwatching on the back roads in Northern Oklahoma, near home. Copyright Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved 202
Description: "Little Blue Heron Perched" Due to drought, the water level of the Dowitcher Pond was quite low. However, there was enough water for some foraging by the birds. This Little Blue landed on this snag as we were walking the trail along the eastern side of the pond. Photographed at Estero Llano Grande State Park in Welaco, Texas, in late March. Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved In My Collection: "Feathered Friends" 20260325_DSC0750 AI Text: A little blue heron stands gracefully on a branch against a blurred background of greenery. Its sleek, dark feathers contrast with the vibrant surroundings.
Description: "Not Showing My Face Today" This young American Herring Gull was lifting off from the spillway with its wings covering its face. Photographed at the Great Salt Plains State Park in northern Oklahoma. ©Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved In My Collection: "Feathered Friends" 20260225-_DSC0561 AI Text: A seagull gracefully skims the water's surface, leaving ripples in its wake. The sunlight catches the bird's wings, highlighting its delicate feathers.
Description: "Shy White-tipped Dove" The White‑tipped Dove has the largest range in the Americas of any dove, spanning from Texas to Argentina. Shy and unobtrusive, it forages on the forest floor among leaf litter; in the U.S., it’s limited to South Texas. Though it looks to be resting, it was gently preening its feathers. Photographed at Estero Llano Grande State Park, located in Weslaco, Texas, in the area known as the Rio Grande Valley. ©Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved I2026-03-25_DSC0936 AI Text: A small bird is seen preening itself in a natural setting with dry leaves scattered around. The bird's feathers show a mix of soft, earthy shades.
Description: "Little Blue Heron Landing" Due to drought, the water level of the Dowitcher Pond was quite low. However, there was enough water for some foraging by the birds. This Little Blue landed as we were walking the trail along the eastern side of the pond. Photographed at Estero Llano Grande State Park in Welaco, Texas, in late March. ©Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved In My Collection: "Feathered Friends" 20260325_DSC0734 AI Text: A heron is seen wading through marshland, surrounded by tall grasses. Its wings are slightly spread, displaying its elegant plumage.
