PINK FRAPPE DIERRIERE 👣

Gently stretching its wing and leg back just above water, a flamingo slowly awakens to a twirling pink mist.

Pink "frappe dierriere" refers to a similar position and step of a ballet dancer.

They were motionless. Only the occasional sound of a seagull squawking in the background broke the soft pinkish mist that twirled around the early morning scene of the visiting statuesque figures. The small flamboyance of flamingos had recently landed and stood on the far banks of the lagoon. Their renown beauty seemed endorsed by a glassy surface that was crafted by gentle ripples created by a cool breeze that wafted across intermittently. The flamingos remained steadfast in their huddle, continuing to rest with their heads tucked into their warm, feathery wings, protecting them from the cooler elements of the day. Finally, the center-placed adult lifted his head and, getting ready, stretched his wing and leg back in one flowing movement. Scrutinizing the breaking pink surrounds, his motion seemed to stir the others nearby into action for the days feeding ahead.

I had just gotten there after hearing they had finally landed. Not many, but various smaller groups or flocks (actually, they are called flamboyance) of flamingoe were spotted moving in. I had been awaiting their arrival for some months already, and this year it seems they came a little later than previously. They may be semi-grating somewhere, but the location seems to have attracted their attention again for now. These beautiful birds add an incredible touch of nature to any scene and their statuesque-like shape and movement make them a firm favorite for many twitchers, wildlife and bird photographers, and nature lovers alike.

Sadly, however, it must be said that in just the past decade alone, the water quality of our lagoon and other waterways in our land has been almost irreversibly impacted by pollution and the unthinking actions of humankind. These once-natural and ecologically-balanced preserves are now extremely fragile and delicate. So it's difficult to imagine what the future holds for these environments, but it's clear that their survival is in jeopardy. This realization struck me hard as I went about taking this photograph. I was standing on a sandy bank surrounded by plastic waste, nappies, bottles, and bags. It was truly a disheartening sight, but I chose to make a small effort to help by picking up some of the trash as I left. Although it may not have made a big impact, every little bit counts and its now clearly up to us as individuals to do our bit where we can.

FEATHERED FRIENDS COLLECTION

Welcome to our feathered friends, with their flights of fancy, twitchers' delight, and the lightest touch.

Ever-present in our lives, birds fill the skies, settle in tree branches, and thrive on the ground. Their movements fill us with delight and awe; their silence is broken by delightful songs or anxious craws. This collection celebrates these moments in time with our feathered friends.