Ker-lick! The Capture

I may have just spotted a Southern emu-wren, says Kierkegaard. Over there in that bush.

He hands the binoculars to Gaius.

Gaius looks through them. He makes a small adjustment of focus.

I believe you're right, says Gaius. Shall we try for a photo?

He takes out his phone.

What you need is a proper camera, says Vello.

Yes, says Terence. I wish you had a proper camera.

One with long distance high resolution features, says Vello.

That would be useful, says Kierkegaard.

The phone will suffice, says Gaius. It's just for the record.

Can I do it? asks Terence.

No, says Gaius. You will make noises, and the Southern emu-wren will be frightened.

What noises? asks Terence.

Never mind, just be quiet, says Gaius.

He holds up his phone.

Ker-lick! Ker-lick! He takes two, just in case. He reviews them.

It's flying off, whispers Vello.

No, it's stopped a bit further away, whispers Kierkegaard.

Drat! says Gaius. The leaves are in focus, the bird isn't.

That's what I find with these phones, says Vello. The phone decides what's important.

What noises? asks Terence.

Ker-lick, says Kierkegaard.

He thinks it's funny.

I wouldn't say that, says Terence.

It was a joke, says Kierkegaard. Gaius's phone made a clicking noise and the bird was startled. Luckily it hasn't gone far. There it is, see?

Gaius can't see the bird, or the joke.

I can! cries Terence. Let me take a photo!

But Gaius is reluctant.

Vello gives Terence his phone.

Try mine. Press the camera icon, then press here, says Vello.

Terence runs out of the bird hide with the phone, straight up to the bush in which the emu-wren is perching.

It turns its flimsy wee emu-tail towards him.

Terence presses the camera icon. Then the click button.

Ker-lick!

P-lip, goes the emu-wren.

See, says Terence. We all make noises.

The emu-wren hops down and runs like a mouse through the low vegetation

Terence returns with his photo.

Ha ha, brilliant! laughs Vello, when he sees it. You chose your moment.

Let me see, says Gaius. Interesting. He flicks his fingers across the screen to enlarge it.

The tiny bird poo reveals some of its secrets.

The ant legs of Max.