Victoria Crowned Pigeon Strutting in Rain

Pale blue-grey feathers of a Victoria crowned pigeon stand out against the dark, wet ridge near Setif. Heavy rain creates a sheet of droplets that blur the background while highlighting the bird's iridescent neck. A sweeping beam of artificial light cuts through the predawn darkness, illuminating the crest of slate-blue feathers and the red eye ring. The bird's scaly legs grip the slick, rocky ground as it moves with deliberate caution. Water beads on the plumage, clinging to the intricate lace-like patterns of the chest. The light fades quickly at the edges, leaving the surrounding stones in deep shadow. One droplet slides down the curve of a dark grey stone.