Black-necked Swan

This might be the most appropriately-named bird in history! The striking species is common throughout Chile and Argentina, and this subject was one of seventy-some that I intersected on the northern end of Chiloe Island. The flock was very wary, but I worked my way into shooting range by crawling 40 yards across a rocky beach, my elbows and knees throbbing throughout. Looking at this result and the accompanying headshot after the fact, the pain was totally worth it. This was the best Christmas ever. No presents or holiday nonsense. Just me and the birds!

Chiloe Island, Los Lagos, Chile, 12/25/21
Canon 600mm f/4 IS II + 1.4x III on EOS R5
1/4000 at f/5.6, ISO 640