Long-tailed Jaeger
Stercorarius longicaudus

6 November 2004
Gulf of Mexico, ~40 miles east of Port Isabel, Texas
Canon EOS 10D, 100-400mm IS lens, 1.4X extender.

Our boat approached this bird as it intently pursued a small passerine. Before our eyes the jaeger captured the smaller bird in its bill and beat it senseless. The jaeger abandoned its meal, however, as our boat drew nearer. It circled the boat several times affording many excellent looks.

All images are copyrighted by Chris Merkord, all rights reserved