Head First

 This Greater Yellowlegs is still hanging around at Virginia Lake. In the early morning hours it was feeding feverishly, showing more urgency than in the summer months. Perhaps, it is fattening up for an upcoming journey.

Extremely apt, it grabbed this  little stickleback-like fish on its first attempt. The fish did not go easily.

 A futile struggle ensued.

 Adept, the Yellowlegs continued to manage its meal until it was turned in just the right direction for swallowing.

 Birds ingest fish head first to prevent the fins from opening up on the way down. Head first means smooth sailing down the throat.

Mission accomplished!