Yesterday morning we decided to visit Bear River Bird Refuge to see if we could find some interesting photo opportunities with birds but we were largely unsuccessful (at least I was). The drought and hot weather (and some dike construction) have reduced access to birds at the refuge quite dramatically so we headed even further north to where we knew some Burrowing Owls were active.
The burrow of these owls is at the base of this huge (you can only see part of it) lichen-encrusted rock and the owls seemed to enjoy perching on it. These juveniles were having a blast with their flight maneuvers. They perched, launched and returned to the rock repeatedly.
1/3200. f/8, ISO 500, 500 f/4, 1.4 tc, natural light, not baited, set up or called in
In this image one juvie has taken off while another is incoming. That bird can’t be seen but the evidence is in the shadow on the rock at lower right and the following gaze of two of its siblings on the rock.
This isn’t a typical image for me (I usually post individual birds, large in the frame) but I liked the behavior, the bird in flight, the interesting rock, the shadows of the two birds in flight and the upward gaze of the two siblings.
Besides, it’s almost unheard of for me to get this many birds sharp and see all of their eyes too…
Ron
An amazing shot. It triggered activity in the very small space in my brain devoted to remembering info about statistics. Ignoring the shadows, what’s the probability of getting a shot of one bird in flight with wings down AND good eye contact AND having simultaneous eye contact with four adjacent perched birds? It must be extremely unlikely.
How wonderful catch and shot Ron! Thanks so much for sharing. doubtless I will never see 5 owls and a shadow of a six again! I so truly appreciate your shot!
Charlotte Norton
Wish I could have been there and seen this behavior. I do know from watching Kestrels learning to fly and experimenting on a windy day, that it really is fun to watch.
I enjoy looking at the juvies everyday.
We do not have burrowing owls here so that makes it more special.
The flower makes it better yet.
Thanks
This is a wonderful shot. Are they all juveniles? They look like they are enjoying themselves immensely, and I thank you for this image.
I love these little guys….they’re so awesome!
Tim
Thanks, Tim. Me too.
Ron, you have no idea what I would give to come upon this scene. “Delightful” seems the only apt word. And what perfect documentation of young faces and flight.
“Delightful” works perfectly for me, Ingrid. Interesting that when you’re watching them with the naked eye they’re far enough away that it’s difficult to appreciate what’s happening (especially with my marginal eyesight) but through the lens it’s another story.
This is an amazing photo. There is so much to see in this one picture. These juvies are adorable and their personality really comes through. Thank you Ron so much for sharing.
I’m glad you like it, Debbie. Thank you.
They look like they’re lining up for clearance from ground control before taking off. How fun!
Great analogy, Sharon!
Mesmerizing behavior captured in the beautiful scene! A little family outing, how fun! Excellent focus throughout the whole scene. Love it.
Thanks very much, Debbie.