Black Skimmer Slicing Autumn Water Near Rome

Low-angle perspective shows a black skimmer skimming the dark water surface at the edge of a reed bed. The bird's lower mandible cuts a thin, bright line through the ripples while its upper beak remains above. Distant town lights glow softly on the horizon, casting a faint blue hue over the water. Golden and brown autumn leaves scatter across the reeds and drift in the wake of the bird. The reeds stand tall and dry, their tips bending slightly in the wind. The water reflects the dim sky and the distant glow, creating a shimmering path. One leaf rests on the surface near the bird's trailing wingtip.