This morning was the first time we’ve been out photographing since our Montana trip. I’ll post more images from Big Sky Country soon but I thought I’d break it up a bit with a couple of photos from this morning.
1/2500, f/5.6, ISO 500, 500 f/4, 1.4 tc
The juvenile Burrowing Owls were quite active at just the right time – when the sun was still low but high enough to give me enough light and shutter speed that I didn’t have to crank up my ISO too far. I haven’t had a lot of luck with Burrowing Owls in full flight so I was quite pleased with this shot even though I had to add a bit of canvas to the image for composition.
1/2500, f/5.6, ISO 500, 500 f/4, 1.4 tc
These youngsters are beginning to show some signs of maturing by the development of more color on the breast. As you can see, this is one of the young birds that has been banded.It’s very entertaining to watch these juveniles.
In the morning before it gets too hot they often fly from perch to nearby perch and when they’re on the ground they seem to enjoy manipulating objects like twigs and leaves and nibbling on flowers. They interact with each other with the enthusiasm of youth. The problem for the photographer is that when they’re on the ground it’s virtually impossible to get a clear shot of them through all the vegetation.
I really enjoy these little guys.
Ron
Exceptional work as always Ron. Another “home run” in quality, and a personal favorite bird of mine as well. Keep up the great work. I among many many others certainly enjoy your talents.
Those are very kind words Bryce and they’re much appreciated.
I adore these owls… They’re endangered (not protected enough, in many people’s opinions) in our area, and it’s rare to see them outside their burrows. Absolutely lovely captures!!
Christina, Generally, they’re declining throughout the west. The purpose of the bands on these chicks (and others) is to try to figure why. That helps me to appreciate the bands on one level at least (though as a nature photographer I’m not real fond of them).
Great shots and nice lighting.
Thank you Earl.
WOW!
Thanks Tana. I liked your “wow”.
Great shots, Ron. Beautiful bokeh. 🙂
Thanks a lot Bob. I liked the background too.