alectoris chukar – Page 3 – Feathered Photography

Chukar – Wish For It And It May Happen

Recently while photographing birds on Antelope Island I remarked to Mia that I’d like to photograph a Chukar doing a wing-stretch, something I’d only seen once in the past.

Calling Chukar (and the frustrations of bright perches)

Photographically, perches can be as problematic as the bird.

Chukar Negotiating A Slippery Slope

Chukars prefer not to fly and they don’t like to slip and fall so they’re very careful when negotiating slippery, steep surfaces.

One Giant Step For A Chukar

In the past I’ve referred to Chukars as “rock hoppers”. This image gives some indication as to why.

Chukars – A Pair

After a long time where they’ve been difficult to find on Antelope Island I’m finally beginning to see Chukars again.

Sidelit Chukar

Sometimes it really is “all about the light”.

Chukars – Fighting Takes Its Toll

Springtime fights between male Chukars can be vicious affairs that sometimes leave the participants looking like they’ve stepped on a land mine.

Chukars – A Probable Mated Pair

Chukar pair bonds are forming now and I believe these two birds to be a mated pair.

High-stepping, Far-falling Chukars

The roly-poly Chukar doesn’t look very athletic but they’re incredibly agile while maneuvering on the rocks they like to perch on this time of year.

Finally! – Another Cooperative Chukar

Yesterday morning I finally found another Chukar willing to pose for me – my first since late last year.

Chukars continue to be one of my preferred subjects during the winter and spring due to their distinctive and colorful plumage and their often comical behavior. They are abundant on Antelope Island and even somewhat approachable there – at least in comparison to their skittish and wily ways elsewhere (hunters consider them to be among the most challenging of upland game species).