Usually winter has been the best time for me to photograph Northern Harriers but my opportunities with them have been relatively sparse this year. So with the season rapidly coming to an end I was delighted to find this cooperative bird yesterday morning near the Great Salt Lake.
1/2000, f/7.1, ISO 500, 500 f/4
The harrier allowed a close approach while hunting and this time the light was favorable too. Occasionally the bird would look up and provide good eye contact.
1/1600, f/7.1, ISO 500, 500 f/4
I found it difficult to get anything but sky in the background but for this image it dipped down low enough for me to get the lake as a backdrop.
1/2500, f/7.1, ISO 500, 500 f/4
The sun was high enough that the far wing was usually shaded while in the down position but I think there’s still enough light and detail there to make this work.
1/2500, f/7.1, ISO 500, 500 f/4
Here the bird was a little past me but the slight look back I got helped to compensate for that.
It’s very possible that this was my last good harrier opportunity until next winter so I’m appreciative of yesterday’s serendipitous encounter.
Ron
Beautiful shots Ron. Hard to believe spring is on the doorstep.
Great to see your success Ron. Keep up the exceptional work!
These are, as usual, amazing. If they are your last chances for this winter, going out on a high note like this one has to help.
Wow!! Superb shot, Ron. Were you by any chance with Mia for these shots. She got one similar. Both of you have some super opportunities. Can I come join you. 🙂
Thanks Bob. Mia and I ALWAYS shoot together – we’re a team. I’m the driver but she’s the co-pilot and the better pair of eyes.