I haven’t posted this image in the past because of the vegetation in front of the bird and the less than ideal light. But it’s beginning to grow on me a little.
1/1250, f/7.1, ISO 500, 500 f/4, 1.4 tc, natural light, not baited, set up or called in
Getting close to a wild Prairie Falcon usually isn’t easy but I had a couple of things going for me here. This bird was used to hunting near traffic and wasn’t particularly leery of vehicles. And as you can see from the frost and ice encrusted perch it was very cold and the falcon was also wet which I believe made it a little reluctant to fly.
With all the incredibly hot weather we’ve had for most of the last few weeks I was ready to post something that reminded me that it really can get cold around here…
Ron
Note: I’m on the road again for a few days and I’ll have no computer access so I won’t be able to respond to any comments in a timely fashion, though I do enjoy reading those comments in the email notifications I get on my phone.
Thanks for sharing, Ron. How fortunate you are that you were able to get so close to this beautiful creature! Greetings from rainy Mexico City!
The eye to eye contact makes this shot. It should be considered a keeper.
if the heat is not temporary, perhaps we have all shifted to another plane?
This is a beautiful bird (which you knew) and a wonderful shot too.
Your current weather would have me hunkered down inside trying to become a troll (and only come out at night). I hope that you and Mia get some cool relief – and have a wonderful time away.
WOW! So glad you posted it. I think it is Magnificent!!!
I think it’s a wonderful shot!!! Glad it grew on you so we could see it! I love everything about this shot!
Charlotte Norton
I love everything about this shot…the beautiful bird, the chill of the diamond encrusted rock, the contrasting warm colors of the spikey twigs and how they complete the composition. I think you and Mia are pretty cool already but enjoy your trip to the mountains. I hope this heat breaks soon. It’s causing a lot of suffering.
Very nice of you to say that, Patty. Thank you.
The full eye contact with this bird makes the vegetation a whole lot less noticeable that it would have been in a profile shot. This bird is just gorgeous! And I hope you get some cool.
Thanks, Susan. Me too!
I’m with you Ron, need to be reminded that this heat is temporary!
Very nice shot of a beautiful bird.
I sure hope the heat is temporary, Dick. I’m heading for some higher elevations this morning in an attempt to escape some of it. It’s supposed to be between 100 and 105 degrees here in the valley for the next three days. Too darned hot!