Feathered Photography

Meadowlark Take-off (and some of the challenges facing the photographer for shots like this)

Western Meadowlarks are now singing by the gazillion from their elevated perches on Antelope Island so I’m getting some opportunities for take-off shots.

Sage Thrasher Bilateral Wing Display

Male Sage Thrashers perform what is called the “Bilateral Wing Display” during courtship and territory establishment. Yesterday morning I was able to photograph the behavior on Antelope Island and though I wish I’d been a little closer I had decent light, a pretty good view of the bird and he performed for me for several minutes so I shouldn’t complain.

Note To Self – Don’t Ignore The “Common Species”

I have to constantly remind myself that just because a particular bird is common doesn’t mean that it isn’t a worthy photo subject. I seldom post images of species like House Finches, American Coots and Horned Larks simply because they’re ubiquitous and that’s my shortcoming, not theirs.

Magpie – Anticipating Take-off Direction And Getting Lucky

Typically this is a shot I would have missed because I’d have anticipated the wrong direction for take-off.

Prairie Falcon Hunting Grasshoppers In A Storm

Grasshoppers are not typical prey for Prairie Falcons. Studies indicate that the main foods taken are other birds (Horned Larks and meadowlarks are favorites), small mammals and lizards but in a pinch they do consume flying insects, including grasshoppers. This bird was intent on doing just that.