Crusty

Birds are quite adept at recognizing threats, and ones that are not, after some experience being around them, them being humans. In my case, I am out in the same areas taking photographs and do not have a dog with me.

I often meet people walking their dogs, asking me what I am taking photos of with a big lens etc.

I say; "birds' and they mostly respond that there are no birds that they see, must be why I use a big lens..

I am a dog owner, but I would never walk my dog in a  wildlife reserve or wetlands sanctuary. The birds are long gone before you are even aware of them if you have a dog with you.

This Green Heron landed about 12 feet from me, checked me out nervously, then went about his fishing while I sat and watched, and took pics.

Impressive!  I wished I lived out in the country, somewhere peaceful. 

It is a choice I made after deciding to leave city life, wearing a suit, and going to work with my back against the wall all the time.

I was just fortunate enough to find/have  a woman that supported my walking away from a pretty good job.