Not your average subject!

ran into this cute fellow about 10 miles offshore in open water. it's a greater shearwater and they're currently migrating north. I couldn't resist getting into the water with this guy since he didn't mind the boat whatsoever! Oddly, when he dove his feathers seemed to turn shiny & silver like mercury, making the blowout rate ridiculous. So fast too, really hard to shoot but so much fun.

Chris

Great set of photographs. Well done.

Most water birds have oil in their feathers to stop them from getting wet (or at least prolong the time it takes for them to get wet). Air also gets trapped in the feathers which helps with insulation. It is the oil and the trapped air that gives the silvery appearance underwater.

I'm sure you've heard the expression "like water off a duck's back".

Great pictures Chris, I especially like the second, very dynamic!

Bart

very cool! certainly not something you see everyday!

Nice shot on #2. I always have to remind myself to look up! So many times I've seen the best things above me.

Jack

I have seen penguins underwater at a dive site I frequent a few hours north of Sydney, but I have never had my camera with me when I have seen them. I doubt I'd get photos as good as these.