Oystercatcher and the Egret
An American Oystercatcher traipses by while the snowy egret hunts in the shallow tide pool. American Oystercatchers are stunning shorebirds that specialize in extracting oysters, snails, etc from the protective shell. Gulls will sometimes watch these elegant shellfish specialists and dive in to steal their food after it's prepared. Egrets, on the other hand, simply snatch hapless fish as they pass. Puerto Penasco, MX.
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American Oystercatchers
American Oystercatchers are stunning shorebirds that specialize in extracting oysters, snails, etc from the protective shell. Gulls will sometimes watch these elegant shellfish specialists and dive in to steal their food after it's prepared.
Puerto Penasco, MX.
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Oystercatcher and the Snail
An American Oystercatcher carries about a hapless snail before brutally extracting dinner with his/her long bill. American Oystercatchers are stunning shorebirds that specialize in extracting oysters, snails, etc from the protective shell. Gulls will sometimes watch these elegant shellfish specialists and dive in to steal their food after it's prepared. Puerto Penasco, MX. Prints of this image are not currently available for sale. Please check back for updates!
American Avocets
Just before sunset and with the combined dramatic light from an approaching storm, these avocets cut a remarkable scene! American avocets sometimes hunt in a peculiar manner. Several will walk in the shallows, side-by-side, moving their beaks in unison. The bent beaks are specialized for the tiny creatures the avocets eat.
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Purple Profile
Purple gallinules are among the most entertaining water birds I've had the pleasure to observe. Disregard the spectacular colors, big goofy feet, and dumpy body structures, these birds are personality-plus! Purple gallinules spend their mornings traipsing across the lily pads of their aquatic homes. When another gallinule encroaches too far or vocalizes too loud, the intruder must be chased off. These chases are frequent, but short-lived. Everglades National Park, FL.
Swamp Walker
Purple gallinules are among the most entertaining water birds I've had the pleasure to observe. Disregard the spectacular colors, big goofy feet, and dumpy body structures, these birds are personality-plus! Purple gallinules spend their mornings traipsing across the lily pads of their aquatic homes. When another gallinule encroaches too far or vocalizes too loud, the intruder must be chased off. These chases are frequent, but short-lived. Everglades National Park, FL.
Purple Gallinule
Purple gallinules are among the most entertaining water birds I've had the pleasure to observe. Disregard the spectacular colors, big goofy feet, and dumpy body structures, these birds are personality-plus! Purple gallinules spend their mornings traipsing across the lily pads of their aquatic homes. When another gallinule encroaches too far or vocalizes too loud, the intruder must be chased off. These chases are frequent, but short-lived. Everglades National Park, FL.
Wood Rail
Hence the name, wood rails are quite fond of damp, dark woodlands. They meander along picking off insects, spiders, and other tiny creatures with a gait that closely resembles that of a chicken. Golfito, Costa Rica.
Sora
One of the strangest birds you may encounter, meet the Sora. This unusual water bird looks like a cross between a duck and a chicken, and will readily masquerade as either. I have seen them both stalking the shallows, and swimming in search of food. Photo taken in Tucson, AZ, USA.
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American Coot
Coots have some of the funniest feet of any bird! They remind me of medieval chainmail.
This fellow's are unusually visible as he/she balances on a log. Tucson, AZ. Prints of this image are not currently available for sale. Please check back for future availability!
Spotted Sandpiper
While observing the eared grebes from my rocky outpost and between visits from the patrolling marbled godwit, I was graced with the company of this sandpiper picking off insects from the rocks. Medicine Lake Wildlife Refuge, MT.
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Cormorants and Catfish
One of these neotropic cormorants snagged a catfish that was entirely too big to be swallowed in one try. Naturally, this drew the attention of a second cormorant who was able to steal the catch. This, of course, attracted a third and forth cormorant to the scene. By the time one of the birds finally managed to swallow the very dead fish, he / she had passed between 6 different beaks over the course of nearly two minutes. This was, of course, amidst much splashing, flailing, and biting. Gilbert, AZ, USA.
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A Swarm of Skimmers
In response to an approaching storm, hundreds of black skimmers danced in the turbulent winds. Joined by a plethora of other feathered friends, this magnificent menagerie moved in unison over the coastal waters. I've never before witnessed anything like it! Everglades National Park, Florida.
Skimmers and Friends
In response to an approaching storm, hundreds of black skimmers danced in the turbulent winds. Joined by a plethora of other feathered friends, this magnificent menagerie moved in unison over the coastal waters. I've never before witnessed anything like it! Everglades National Park, Florida.
Screaming from the Sky
Perched in the most exposed perch to be found, this stunning red-shouldered hawk proudly makes his / her voice heard. Everglades National Park, FL.
Harris Hawk
Harris hawks are quite unusual in being the only North American species known to hunt in groups. These groups are often closely-related, and coordinate their hunting to trap squirrels, rats, and other small creatures amidst the thorny labyrinths of our Sonoran Desert.
Ironwood National Forest, AZ.
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A Yucca Perch
I watched this Swainson's hawk for quite some time as he/she scanned the open grassland. Eventually, this amazing creature sluggishly stretched, evacuated, then took flight. Willcox, AZ.
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Caracara on a Cactus
Caracaras are primarily tropical birds. Nonetheless, these beautiful raptors can still be found within select Southern AZ habitats. Caracaras behave like a cross between vulture and hawk, readily gobbling down carrion, but also catching live prey when available.
Hunting Harrier
Harriers apply a unique hunting strategy. They glide slowly over wetlands and vast grassland habitat in search of prey. When a rodent, reptile, or small bird is within striking distance, the harrier quickly arcs downward to snatch up the hapless creature. Tucson, AZ.
Cactus Kestral
The American Kestral is considered North America's smallest "hawk." These agile little predators are just at home in the middle of the desert as they are in eastern farmlands. The common denominator seems to be a large, open swath with great visibility. Saguaro National Park, AZ.
Golden Ghost
Male harriers are often referred to as "grey ghosts" for their beautiful coloration and mysterious nature. The last traces of golden hour light magnificently grace this female northern harrier with the only lighting worthy of such an incredible raptor. Tucson, AZ.
Goggles Off
Raptors have an extra eyelid referred to as a nictitating membrane. This semi-transparent body part acts rather like goggles that we might wear to protect our visual receptors from wind and dust.
I watched this hearty red-tailed hawk atop Mt Lemmon, one of the highest peaks in Southern Arizona, as a storm brewed around us. When winds began to intensify, the eyelid came down to protect his / her eyes. As the turbulence subsided, the piercing eyes yet again became visible.
Perching Predator
A red-shouldered hawk perches proudly above the treeline as dawn light just begins to tantalize the sky. Everglades National Park, FL.
Cooper’s Catch
Like other accipiters, Cooper's Hawks are specialized bird hunters. More slender and agile than larger hawks, they can turn on a dime, accelerate quickly, and maneuver through absurdly dense foliage. While chatting in the shade of a large tree, a friend and I suddenly noticed this incredible, macabre sight playing out directly overhead. Tucson, AZ.
Caracara Couple
On an overcast dawn walk along the beach, the surf flirting with wet sand as it frothed around my feet. I was greeted by the presence of these two yellow-headed caracaras. Mother (white) was teaching her offspring to forage for crab remnants. They seemed to scavenge up quite a meal! Puerto Jimenez, Costa Rica.
Osprey Profile
When gazing into your eyes, I see alertness and intelligence. When standing so close I see a consciousness not so different than my own. Everglades National Park, FL.
Fields of Gold
Perched over a blooming coastal prairie, the male osprey daintily preens. Everglades National Park, FL.
Common Yellowthroat
This is one of my favorite warblers! Meet the common yellowthroat. These tiny songbirds thrive in brushy wetland areas, spending their time hopping around and picking off small insects. It was a delightful surprise to encounter him, exposed, in the middle of winter. Tucson, AZ.
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The Lost Feather
A stunning male verdin brandishes the feather of a much larger bird, then poses for the camera. I spent the better part of a week watching him delicately place sticks amidst treacherous cholla spines. Mr Verdin would take periodic breaks to hop around the nearby treetops, earnestly singing for a hypothetical lady. On multiple occasions, this feather was carried to the slowly-progressing nest, delicately placed, then shifted a few times before being blown away by the wind. Finally, while Mr Verdin was too far away to notice, the wind blew this prize away to never be retrieved again. Poor fellow! Photo taken in Tucson, AZ.
This is an extreme limited-edition, with only 24 / 25 prints of this image available. For ordering info, please contact me directly.
Wilson’s Warbler
One of the stunning migratory birds that pass through Tucson.
Meet the Wilson's Warbler. Here is another small, beautiful bird that we can thank for all the insects / spiders he consumes! Tucson, AZ.
Prints of this image are not currently available for sale. Please check back for future availability!
Red-Faced Warbler
This red-faced warbler perched a mere 10 feet from my post while awaiting a turn in the babbling stream. Spending a number of hours sitting near the only local source of flowing water, I was greeted with many a joyful visitor. Red-faced warblers were on a rotation with tanagers, jays, woodpeckers, thrushes, redstarts, and other warblers.
Madera Canyon, AZ. Prints of this image are not currently available for sale. Please check back for future availability!
Bridled Titmouse
Gloomy day wildlife photography can be uniquely frustrating. Moving subjects are hard to capture when light is so limited, but in this case, the dreary background created a wonderful effect! This bridled titmouse perched on the most beautiful flowery perch which just happened to be directly in front of me. Madera Canyon, AZ.
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Painted Redstart
Some of the earliest North American ornithologists described painted redstarts as "the most beautiful birds on the continent." Although beauty is quite the subjective term, it's hard to argue. These tiny summer migrants of Southern AZ favor areas near water where they snatch flies and other tiny insects from foliage and "on the wing." Madera Canyon, AZ.
Vermilion Flycatcher
Vermilion flycatchers specialize in catching flying insects "on the wing," often returning to the same favored perch sites. Males, cloaked in neon orange, certainly stand out in a crowd.
The golden cottonwood leaves made this scene all the inspiring! Tucson, AZ.
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Summer Tanager
Spectacular birds, tanagers are! Not unlike other tanagers, the summer variety enjoys a diverse diet of fruits, berries, and bugs. This fabulous fellow caught and gobbled down an enormous, pink grasshopper right in front of my wonderful companion and I as we meandered through the forest. Patagonia Lake State Park, AZ.
Home Flight
Hence their name, Cactus wrens choose the most sinister, yet well-protected nesting sites imaginable. The cactus spines provide an incredible defense from predators! While sitting at the edge of a campground with a tripod set up, watching the wrens, several passing humans tried to figure out what magnificent creature was hidden in the desert, far beyond the nest. Photographed at Rockhound State Park, NM, USA.
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Beautiful Bluebird
Unlike most desert birds, the Western bluebirds vibrant cloak certainly stands out in a crowd! These stunning Sonoran gems are quite fond of both berries and bugs. Tucson, AZ.
Black-Throated Sparrow
True denizens of the desert, black-throated sparrows seem to relish hot, dry areas in the valley. They favor sloped habitat with lots of thorny plants, offering sinister yet fortified nesting habitat. Saguaro National Park West, AZ.
Building a Nest
This stunning male verdin was entirely consumed by the construction of his nest, and what a sinister place he chose! I spent the better part of a week watching him delicately place spicks amidst treacherous cholla spines. Mr Verdin would take period breaks to hop around the nearby treetops, earnestly singing for a hypothetical lady. Verdins will often construct 5 or 6 decoys nests near the residence. Tucson, AZ. Prints of this image are not currently available for sale. Please check back for future availability!
Lovely Loggerhead
Shrikes have a sinister reputation for catching insects or lizards, then impaling the creatures upon cactus spines. Although gruesome-looking, this actually serves as their food storage for lean times. Photo taken in Joshua Tree National Park, CA.
Phainopepla
A fantastic female phainopepla spreading her tail feathers. These interesting birds will actually lay two egg clutches a year; once in the higher elevations, and once in the lower. They eat a lot of flying insects, but also appear quite fond of tiny berries, the ever-present mistletoe being a favorite. Their Picture Rocks, AZ.
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Catcher of the Fly, Perched Up High
Bathed in the brilliant light of golden hour, further enhanced by the yellow grass, the flycatcher (species unknown) surveys his territory. Photographed atop a yucca in Willcox, AZ.
Elegant Trogon
Have you seen the trogon? These words echo throughout Madera Canyon at springtime and early summer as birders frantically search for this stunning creature! Trogons are primarily tropical birds, but the elegant variety just so happens to migrate as far north as Southern Arizona, inhabiting only a few special locations. Their unique "song" resembles a barking chihuahua.
A Stellar Jay
Corvids are incredible intelligent birds, applying unique problem-solving, sometimes involving the use of tools.
This group includes crows, ravens, and jay.
Sitting in the mouth of an old mine site, this Stellar's Jay bridged the gap between light and dark. Madera Canyon, AZ.
Talkative Trogon
Late in the season, a juvenile elegant trogon calls to his sibling. Madera Canyon, AZ.
Yellow-Eyed Junco
Absent from nearly all of the US, the yellow-eyed junco can be encountered in select habitats nearly exclusive to Southern AZ. This ground-foragers are often quite human-tolerant, sometimes venturing quite close to calm, respectful homo sapiens exploring their habitat. This featured fellow was seconds away from plunging into the water for a cool bath! Madera Canyon, AZ.
A Graceful Bath
A Grace's Warbler plunges head first into the chilly stream. Photo taken at Madera Canyon, AZ.
Bird Bath
While plunging into his / her chilly bath, yellow-eyed junco casually watches the surroundings. Photo taken at Madera Canyon, AZ.
Phainopepla Face
In the winter, phainopepla rely heavily on the berries of desert mistletoe. They also nest amidst the dense branches. The mistletoe relies on phainopepla to spread their seeds in nutritious piles of fertilizer as these small birds cruise above the landscape. Tucson, AZ.
House Wren
Spring is an exciting time for Mother Nature. New plants emerge from the ground, mammals re-animate after hibernating, and birds celebrate with their songs. This house wren seemed to be staking out territory. Madera Canyon, AZ.
A Wonderful Warbler
The tiny, beautiful Townsend's Warbler frantically foraging amidst the foliage of an alligator juniper. Madera Canyon, AZ.
Emerald Toucanet
After a 5-hour bus ride delivered me to a hostel near Monteverde well into the night, morning 1 was wet and dreary. I expended precious energy battling the elements and contriving janky contraptions to protect the gear.
After admiring some neat insects, a brief sliver of sunlight graced my slow jaunt toward the cloud forest. This light was accompanied by an emerald toucanet! He / she emerged from the dark forest cover to pluck a low-hanging nut or three. After crushing this nourishment with the thick powerful bill, this stunning creature briefly surveyed the roadside scene. After one or two quick perch swaps, Mr or Mrs Toucanet disappeared into the shadows from whence this creature came.
Scarlet Macaws
Macaw pairs spend a lifetime together and share nearly every daily activity. The perched scarlet macaw soon followed his / her mate after take-off. Puerto Jimenez, Costa Rica.
Fiery Aracari
The term "toucanet" refers to approximately 12 species of "miniature toucans." Toucanets share similar lifestyles to their enormous cousins, consuming fruits and cracking nuts with their powerful beaks. Golfito, Costa RIca.
Palm Provisions
While traipsing down a dirt road adjacent to Corcovado National Park, I came upon 5 scarlet macaws foraging palm fruit. They had a very specific protocol to ensure everyone got their servings. Despite enough space on the fruit cluster to likely accommodate two parrots at a time, they never crowded the buffet. One parrot would fly in and snatch a single berry, promptly relocating to a nearby perch before the next parrot flew in, concisely following suit. No one went hungry and there didn't seem to be the slightest hint of impatience! Their etiquette was astounding! Osa Peninsula, Costa Rica.
Fruit Frenzy
While traipsing down a dirt road adjacent to Corcovado National Park, I came upon 5 scarlet macaws foraging palm fruit. They had a very specific protocol to ensure everyone got their servings. Despite enough space on the fruit cluster to likely accommodate two parrots at a time, they never crowded the buffet. One parrot would fly in and snatch a single berry, promptly relocating to a nearby perch before the next parrot flew in, concisely following suit. No one went hungry and there didn't seem to be the slightest hint of impatience! Their etiquette was astounding! Osa Peninsula, Costa Rica
The Flying Macaw
Having just plucked a delicious palm fruit (I couldn't resist tasting one the parrots had rejected), Mr / Mrs Macaw makes room for a hungry companion. Osa Peninsula, Costa Rica.
Mealy Parrots
Parrot pairs, these mealy types included, show all manner of affection from spending most of their time together, to cleaning, cuddling, and foraging together. Despite the love and tenderness, they still have an occasional squabble which tends to be quickly resolved after some raspy squawking. Osa Peninsula, Costa Rica.
The Nesting Parrot
A mealy parrot tenderly nurtures her eggs. Like other birds, parrots are wonderful parents, devoting the entirety of nesting season to caring for chicks and protecting them from danger. Osa Peninsula, Costa Rica.
Flight of the Parrot
As humans, we often elevate ourselves above other creatures, presuming the right to confine them within cages and label them "pets." These majestic creatures deserve lives of freedom, not confinement. Wild capture and collection is still a major issue and is driven almost entirely by the pet trade. Imagine a 20-year-old creature being taken from his / her mate after a decade of foraging, nesting, and rearing chicks together. Imagine chicks being stolen from a nest. Imagine your reaction, as a parent or lover, being in the position of a captured parrot. Please, please, please never purchase a bird. These creatures deserve to feel the wind in the wings and the freedom of their native homes.
Mealy Parrots photographed in Costa Rica's wild Osa Peninsula.
Parrot Palooza
The three amigos! The two scarlet macaws on left cuddled, preened, and kissed (locking beaks for brief stints). The third fellow, appearing lonely, as also cuddled and preened a bit. He / she seemed to encroach in the lovebirds' space more and more until they got fed up and told him off in raucous parrot song. Osa Peninsula, Costa Rica.
Majestic Macaws
Like other birds, parrots form extremely strong bonds with their mates. Not unlike other parrots, scarlet macaws do everything together, from cuddling and locking beaks in a manner that might be interpreted as kissing, to foraging. Scarlet macaws behave just like humans who are deeply in love. They may be even more compassionate, as parrots resolve their differences rather than harboring resentment or asserting expectations. Let us be more like parrots!
Osa Peninsula, Costa Rica.
Scarlet Macaws
Like other birds, parrots form extremely strong bonds with their mates. Not unlike other parrots, scarlet macaws do everything together, from cuddling and locking beaks in a manner that might be interpreted as kissing, to foraging. Scarlet macaws behave just like humans who are deeply in love. They may be even more compassionate, as parrots resolve their differences rather than harboring resentment or asserting expectations. Let us be more like parrots!
Osa Peninsula, Costa Rica.
Great Blue Heron
Relaxing peacefully at the edge of a frozen pond, this great blue heron made the perfect photography subject! Great blues are really versatile hunters.
I have personally watched them catch enormous fish and frogs, as well as small minnows.
One a particular occasion, I watched a blue heron stalk across a cow pasture, seemingly snatching rodents.
Photographed in Lewisburg, PA, USA.
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Cooperation is Key
Naturally, these wonderful parents were both invested in the integrity of their nest, but could simply not reach an agreement on the placement of this stick. Each cattle egret wrestled with the stick, attempting to place it where they wanted. It was yanked back and forth a fair bit before finally being jammed haphazardly into the nest by both parents. Puerto Jimenez, Costa Rica.
Halloween Heavens
The last remnants of light ignite the sky in vibrant orange as a flock of sandhill cranes fly across the horizon. Willcox, AZ
Crane Silhouettes
Silhouetted by the setting sun, a flock of sandhill cranes moves to their roosting spots for the night. Sandhill cranes often assemble in huge numbers throughout the winter in specific sites. Around sunset, they will make the most primordial sounds, often rising into the air en-masse. Willcox, AZ, USA.
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Sandhill Silhouettes
A few sandhill cranes looking spectacular soon after sunset at Willcox, AZ. Sandhill cranes often assemble in huge numbers throughout the winter in specific sites. Around sunset, they will make the most primordial sounds, often rising into the air en-masse. Prints of this image are not currently available for sale. Please check back for updates!
Flying Cranes
A trio of sandhill cranes fly across the beautiful background of the Chiricahua Mountains. Sandhill cranes often assemble in huge numbers throughout the winter in specific sites. Around sunset, they will make the most primordial sounds, often rising into the air en-masse. Willcox, AZ.
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Sandhills in the Setting Sun
Bathed in the stunning golden hour sunlight, two sandhill cranes posture at each-other. Sandhill cranes often assemble in huge numbers throughout the winter in specific sites. Around sunset, they will make the most primordial sounds, often rising into the air en-masse. Willcox, AZ.
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Green Heron
Green herons are extremely clever.
They have been observed dropping insects into the water, or gently twitching a small stick to entice fish. Tucson, AZ
Green Heron in a Green Swamp
A green heron spearing fish from his shadowy perch. Look closely, and you may notice something grasped in the bill. Green herons are extremely clever.
They have been observed dropping insects into the water, or gently twitching a small stick to entice fish. Photo taken near Harrisburg, PA, USA.
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Frog Feast
....or perhaps "a feast of frogs" would be more apt. In the chilly morning, the bullfrogs were all but immobile, ie: easy pickings. This little guy ate not one or two, but three American bullfrogs, each so large that he can barely swallow the slippery snack. After the feast, he sauntered into the cattails for a long nap. Tucson, AZ.
An Elegant Egret
A most stunning snowy egret sits perfectly still for his / her portrait. Everglades NP, FL.
American Bittern
An American Bittern takes off from it's perch among the cattails. These birds have mastered the camouflage of their vegetated homes. Bitterns will often sit amidst the reeds, beaks pointed up.
They even tend to sway in response to a breeze. Tucson, AZ.
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Snowy Egret
The easiest way to distinguish snowy from great egrets is to look at their feet! Great egrets have black feet. These angelic wading birds often stand in the shallows, picking off small fish. Tucson, AZ.
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Yellow-Crowned Night Heron
True to his namesake, the yellow-crowned night heron showed up at his fishing grounds only minutes before all light had vanished. Everglades NP, FL.
Yellow Heron, Yellow Prairie
Soon after the onset of night, a juvenile yellow-crowned night heron stalks the coastal prairie in search of food. Everglades National Park, FL.
Fuzzy Yellow Crown
After an intimate exchange with the powerful surf, the yellow-crowned night heron looked quite disheveled! Everglades NP, FL.
Heron of the Night
In addition to unique patterning, juvenile black-crowned night herons can be distinguished from adults by their stunning orange eyes. The eyes of an adult black-crowned night heron are deep crimson. Tucson, AZ.
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Dramatic Drake
A single eye peers over his wing as Mr Merganser dramatically flails his wings in the hope of drawing the attention from a hen. Unfortunately, there was not a single hooded merganser lady within sight! Tucson, AZ.
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Horned Grebe
A horned grebe drake, showing off his striking breeding plumage. Two of these handsome devils spent some time fishing directly in front of me. Grebes spend much of their time underwater, hunting fish. They can disappear for long periods of time, sometimes emerging over 100 meters away, something I personally witnessed on a chilly winter day. Photo taken at Montour Preserve, PA, USA.
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Northern Shoveler
Never be afraid of showing your beauty to the world! Northern shoveler drakes are downright stunning birds, especially when they spread the wings wide and show off the brilliant colors! Named for their vast bill, thse ducks routinely "shovel" the wetland floor in search of aquatic plants and other food items. Tucson, AZ. Prints of this image are not currently available for sale. Please check back for future availability!
Ringneck Raft
Bathed in the beautiful light of early morning, this raft of ringnecked ducks approaches my post. Virtually unedited, their color contrast to the soft glow on the water was surreal. Ringnecked ducks often travel in large flocks and will move across the water in unison, diving under to gobble aquatic vegetation. Tucson, AZ.
Ringneck Trio
As the lingering light begins to disappear, three ringnecked ducks float by. I've always found their name rather comical, considering the ring is around their beaks rather than necks! Perhaps "ring-billed" might be more appropriate? Phoenix, AZ.
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Dazzling Ducks
Bathed in the beautiful light of early morning, this raft of ringnecked ducks approaches my post. Virtually unedited, their color contrast to the soft glow on the water was surreal. Ringnecked ducks often travel in large flocks and will move across the water in unison, diving under to gobble aquatic vegetation. Tucson, AZ. Prints of this image are not currently available for sale. Please check back for future availability!
Golden Sunrise
A raft of american wigeons floated atop the water just as dawn light began to grace the landscape with her golden glow. Willcox, AZ.
Ruddy Ducks
No colors have been altered in the representation of this group of ruddy ducks. Just after sunset, the colors gracing their watery home are unreal! Willcox, AZ
Dawn Ducks
A raft of american wigeons floated atop the water just as dawn light began to grace the landscape with her golden glow. Willcox, AZ.
Mr Merganser
Right before springing into the air with furious territorial wing flaps, a hooded merganser will flare out his beautiful crest. This drake had no reservations about making his presence known, but lacked any fellow ducks in his audience. Tucson, AZ. Prints of this image are not currently available for sale. Please check back for future availability!.
Melodramatic Merganser
When I inquired about the size of his recent fish catch, Mr. Merganser replied by gesturing "this big" with his wings! Hooded mergansers are wonderful fisher ducks that can stay underwater for a fair span of time while pursuing hapless fish. Their thin, serrated bills help to capture and constrain food. Tucson, AZ. Prints of this image are not currently available for sale. Please check back for future availability!
Stillness
Stillness is not a time or place. It does not come from any external situation. Stillness is a state of mind, a place of joy and peace. Over the last few years, it has become the most important intention within my life (and a grand struggle, you can be assured). This stunning hooded merganser drake, floating peacefully across the serene water is (at these moments, anyway) the embodiment of stillness to me. What thoughts or images come to mind when you imagine stillness? Tucson, AZ.
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Trio of Teal
Three cinnamon teal take flight as the waning light vanishes from water.
Cinnamon Teal
One of the most brilliant ducks to be encountered in the US, this shy species sometimes hesitates to allow for photos. This stunning drake, however, was remarkable accommodating!
Tucson, AZ. Prints of this image are not currently available for sale. Please check back for future availability!
Terrific Trio
This redheaded duck was such an ambitious dabbler, often retrieving half his body mass in aquatic vegetation. The following coot, entirely disinterested in a 2nd redhead drake, relentlessly pursued this fellow, attempting to rob his loot. Tucson, AZ
Morning Swim with the Family
A mother wood duck guides her family away from the shore, and perceived danger of my camera. This made for an adorable black/white shot! Wood ducks were once nearly extinct as a result of excessive hunting, particularly for "sport" and clothing fashion.
As a result of increased conservation and habitat restoration, they are slowly making a brilliant comeback! If you live anywhere within their breeding range, installing a nesting box along wetland habitat may be a small contribution to their recovery story!
Photographed at John Heintz NWR, PA, USA.
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Flying Flock
How many species can you see? Sometimes, it's not always ducks of a feather who stick together. Willcox, AZ.
Wood Duck Drake
In a surreal setting, a wood duck drake floats by in the early morning light. Wood ducks were once nearly extinct as a result of excessive hunting, particularly for "sport" and clothing fashion.
As a result of increased conservation and habitat restoration, they are slowly making a brilliant comeback! If you live anywhere within their breeding range, installing a nesting box along wetland habitat may be a small contribution to their recovery story!
Tucson, AZ.
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Glorious Goldeneyes
These beautiful ducks are known as barrow's goldeneyes. A first-time sighting for this fellow, they looked beyond magnificent in the early morning light. Yellowstone National Park, WY.
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Gadwall
In black and white, a gadwall furiously beats his wings. This is often perceived as a territorial display.
Tucson, AZ.
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Pied Grebe
When exhibiting the right facial expression, these adorable little divers can actually look quite sinister. Grebes spend much of their time underwater, hunting fish. They can disappear for obscenely long periods of time, sometimes emerging over 100 meters away, something I personally witnessed on a chilly winter day in the rural Pennsylvania. Pied grebe photographed in Tucson, AZ, USA.
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Mallard Flight
As this mallard duck drake flies toward me, his beautiful head coloration and the subtle water droplets on upon his chest are vividly displayed. Despite their relative abundance, mallard drakes (males) are absolutely stunning, especially when light accentuates the purples and blues on their lovely green heads. Photographed in Lewisburg, PA, USA.
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Dapper Drake
Well, aren't you a dapper drake, Mr Merganser! When living in PA, I can't even venture a guess at the number of hours I spent in the freezing cold, sitting in bird blinds at Montour Preserve just as the ice was beginning to thaw. I saw many stunning hooded mergansers but these spectacular ducks always kept their distance. They really are one of, if not my all time favorite species! With that in mind, ya'll can imagine the excitement when this handsome fellow shows up at a beautiful park just outside of Tucson! He was entirely unphased by humans and put on a number of wonderful shows during my 3 visits. Thank you so very much, Mr Merganser! Tucson, AZ.
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Wing Waving
America's quintessential duck, the mallard can be seen just about anywhere with a body of water. Despite their relative abundance, mallard drakes (males) are absolutely stunning, especially when light accentuates the purples and blues on their lovely green heads. This fellow seemed to be conducting an orchestra. Photographed near Lewisburg, PA, USA.
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Blue-Eyed Beauty
Behold, the stunning profile of an acorn woodpecker! Chiricahua National Monument, AZ.
Angry Acorns
Acorn woodpeckers have always struck me as the clowns of Southern Arizona's Sky Islands. They're absurdly vocal, funny-looking, and have really interesting social dynamics! Large family groups will occupy a territory, working collectively to fend off invaders and protect their precious caches of acorns which are stashed in the trunks of dead trees. The woodpeckers will bore a single hole per acorn that requires housing, resulting in the tree becoming downright covering with these small cavities. This shot was snapped right after two others had flown from the perch. Chiricahua Mountains, AZ.
Acorn Woodpecker
Acorn woodpeckers will form tribes which defend territory and cache sometimes thousands of acorns, each contained within it's own tiny, perfectly-shaped hole of a dead tree. These food stores often sate them through lean times, such as winter. Madera Canyon, AZ.
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Berry Delicious
This red-naped sapsucker was a very gracious photo subject. He/she hopped around for quite some time. The saga began with this stunning sapsucker plucking berries off a pyracantha bush.
He / she eventually migrated to a sycamore tree right next to me which Mr or Mrs. woodpecker spent some time closely inspecting. Prints of this image are not currently available for sale. Please check back for future availability!
Sapsucker Profile
This red-naped sapsucker was a very gracious photo subject. He/she hopped around for quite some time. The saga began with this stunning sapsucker plucking berries off a pyracantha bush.
He / she eventually migrated to a sycamore tree right next to me which Mr or Mrs. woodpecker spent some time closely inspecting.
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Williamson’s Sapsucker
Bird watchers tend to flock to their favored areas when a locally rare species is documented. Myself and my beloved companion happened to be sitting in the forest just appreciating our surroundings when we noticed an unfamiliar woodpecker species pecking away at a nearby alligator juniper. We snapped a few pictures and watched this cryptic creature for some time. A week later, I learned that birders had been very interested in the exact Williamson's sapsucker we had been so fortunate as to meet. Madera Canyon, AZ.
Gila Woodpecker
Gila woodpeckers are the most common inhabitants of Southeastern AZ's desert valleys. They eagerly bore holes in the iconic Saguaro cactus for food as well as nest holes, but also take full advantage of metal human signs to proudly announce territorial dominance. This fellow is checking up on the nest! Saguaro National Park, AZ.
Red-Headed Woodpecker
These wondrous redheads fascinate me! Absent from large swaths of land across the Eastern US, they tend to be downright abundant in ideal habitat. I have observed red-headed woodpeckers in large meadows, along creeks, and saturating coastal, longleaf pine forests. Despite the variety of homesteads favored by these peculiar peckers, redheads seem to be absent from much of the region surrounding where the woodpecker in question resides. What's the common denominator? The only factor I can pinpoint is that everywhere I've seen redheads boasts an abundance of dead, standing trees, entirely absent of bark. Carolina Beach State Park, NC.
Fighting Flickers
While traipsing through a grassy meadow, I noticed these two flickers behaving quite strangely. They would repeatedly hop around this isolated rock, occasionally bobbing heads at each other. Every so often one would chase the other a few feet away before going right back at it.
Apparently, this peculiar "dance" is a well-known part of flicker courtship. Apache National Forest, AZ.
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Pileated Pecker
My first introduction to a pileated woodpecker was in childhood. This enormous bird my family had never seen before landed on a deciduous tree along our small woodland. Ever since, I have been completely smitten with this impressive creatures. Carolina Beach State Park, NC.
Arizona Woodpecker
This lovely lady was very busy pecking away at the wildflower stalks. Although I have previously watched downy woodpeckers behave similarly in the Eastern US, the behaviour of this Arizona woodpecker was a new experience.
Much easier to excavate than a tree, I would imagine! Chiricahua Nat Monument, AZ.
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Bird of the Grasslands
A lone scaled quail surveys his territory from the the vantage of a weathered, wood plank. Scaled quail are true grassland specialists. Willcox, AZ.
Scaled Quail
Can you venture a guess at why he is called a scaled quail? This beautiful fellow and his mate walked right by my camping site, presenting this extraordinary photo op! Photographed at Rockhound State Park, NM, USA.
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Trash Bird
Atop an old, rusty drum, stands one of the most beautiful birds of Southern Arizona. The spectacular scaled quail cuts quite the contrast, standing atop an old piece of human garbage. Willcox, AZ
Nervous Nightjar
While walking down a rural road, I came upon this nightjar just off the pavement. He / she appeared to have a broken wing, so I felt obligated to capture this beautiful creature and make a delivery to the nearest wildlife rehabber. Meeting such a neat bird so intimately was incredible, but the scenario redefined "mixed emotions." Winfield, PA.
Ravenous Roadrunner
Roadrunners are true badasses of the Southwest. These ground prowlers can be seen just about anywhere in the Arizona deserts and won't hesitate to gorge themselves on rattlesnakes, scorpions, and spiders.
Montezuma Quail
After countless visits to habitats one might consider ideal for the rare Montezuma Quail, my very last visit before moving far away yielded a sighting. Perfectly exposed along the Chiricahua Monument's visitor center was a lone quail. I had scoured this entire valley many times over, and just two weeks before relocating to North Carolina, today was the day. I could hardly imagine a more delightful send-off!
Quail Hen
Gambel's quail seem like such silly, defenseless little birds, but these desert specialists are uniquely drought-tolerant. They are not only an important source of food for many carnivores, but quail populations are a major determiner of plant populations due to the large number of seeds the gulp down. Tucson, AZ.
Dusky Grouse
While exploring Arizona's White Mountains, I nearly stepped on this dusky grouse hen. Taking several steps backward and sitting down, she soon resumed sauntering along. Greer, AZ.
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The Portrait of a Quail
Male gambel's quail can be differentiated from their female companions by the stunning black mask and red cap. Tucson, AZ.
Roadrunner
Amidst the a sprinkle of spring wildflowers, the roadrunner bashes an enormous grasshopper. After several assertive smashes, the bird swallowed down his / her prize on carried on with the relentless pursuit of food. Saguaro National Park, AZ.
Ruffed Grouse
A ruffed grouse breaks from drumming on his log. During courtship, in early spring, male ruffed grouse will choose a log often next to a forest clearing. They will repeatedly drum on the log with their powerful feet. This process goes on for hours, days, sometimes weeks until a mate shows up and embraces his persistence. Bald Eagle State Forest, PA.
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Gloomy Hummingbird
More heavily edited than my usual style, this broad-billed hummingbird makes a fantastic gloomy subject. Often found higher in the mountains amidst deciduous forest, broad bills do sometimes make their rounds through Tucson, especially during wintertime, when the high-elevation cold can be intolerable. Madera Canyon, AZ.
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Grumpy Owl
An Eastern Screech Owl of the rufous (red) color phase, catches some pre-sunset illumination. Wood duck nesting boxes have been a wonderful assist in the recovery of a beautiful species humans nearly eradicated.
These boxes are also perfectly-sized for screech owls, who will readily accept such warm, sturdy homes to start a family.
Photographed near Turbotville, PA.
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Gloomy Magnificence
Hummingbirds are uniquely tough to photograph on overcast days. Their colors, however, really pop. This Rivoli's (formerly magnificent) hummingbird kept perching on a stick right in front of me. Towering more than a third over other local hummingbirds, the Rivoli's certainly stands out in a crowd!
Considering their size and absolutely breathtaking colors, it's little wonder that "magnificent" was once their common name. Madera Canyon, AZ.
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Eyes in the Dark
When the light had all but disappeared, this father great-horned owl's eyes continue to glow as he watches over his nearby children. Great horned owls are often referred to as "tigers of the sky" for their ferocious inclination to attack nearly any bird that encroaches in their space. They have been documented attacking eagles and even larger owls.
Tucson, AZ. Prints of this image are not currently available for sale. Please check back for future availability!
The Call of a Meadowlark
These beautiful denizens of the grasslands have one of the most beautiful songs as well. Medicine Lake Wildlife Refuge, MT.
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Posing Prothonotary
Named after the golden-yellow robes the early Roman prothonotaries used to wear, these beautiful warblers spend their days foraging and defending brushy territory, often bordered by water.
These were among the birds I most hoped to see while exploring Southern Georgia. After several days of paddling the canal banks with only brief glimpses and songs, I felt pure joy when this fellow burst into the open. He conspicuously showed off gorgeous plumage for several minutes before yet again disappearing. Prothonotary Warbler photographed in Okefenokee NWR, GA, USA.
Hummingbird Flight
A male broad-billed hummingbird briefly pauses to tout his brilliant colors! Often found higher in the mountains amidst deciduous forest, broad bills do sometimes make their rounds through Tucson, especially during wintertime, when the high-elevation cold can be intolerable. Madera Canyon, AZ.
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A Magnificent Profile
This Rivoli's hummingbird (formerly known as the magnificent hummingbird) was kind enough to allow a few seconds for his head shot. Towering more than a third over other local hummingbirds, the Rivoli's certainly stands out in a crowd!
Considering their size and absolutely breathtaking colors, it's little wonder that "magnificent" was once their common name. Photo taken at Madera Canyon, AZ, USA.
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Anna in Flight
A male Anna's hummingbird, occupied by the never-ending search for nectar. Prior to the popular use of artificial hummingbird feeders, these beauties were largely seasonal migrants of Southeastern Arizona.
I think it's safe to say that many of us have no opposition to Anna's hummingbirds sticking around all winter long! Photo taken at Madera Canyon, AZ.
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Rivoli’s Hummingbird
Hummingbirds are uniquely tough to photograph on overcast days. Their colors, however, really pop. This Rivoli's (formerly magnificent) hummingbird kept perching on a stick right in front of me. Madera Canyon, AZ.
Prints of this image are not currently available for sale. Please check back for updates!
Purple-Throated Mountain Gem
Sit very still in a strategic location and the nature experiences can be amazing! Respect the wild creatures and they will view you differently than another noisy human.
So often, photographers chase after "the perfect shot," stressing out their subjects and ultimately missing the most captivating photo-ops that only emerge with patience. Just outside of Costa Rica's Monteverde Cloud Forest, I sat very still next to a hummingbird feeding station. All manner of exciting species landed just inches away with little effort on my part, and no stress to the subjects!
Soaring Sabrewing
A far larger hummingbird than most, these beauties also seemed unusually evasive. Monteverde Cloud Forest, being a largely intact high-elevation rainforest and isolated by tropical lowlands, is a treasure trove of unique species. Just outside of Monteverde Reserve, Costa Rica.
Sunlit Iridescence
When bathed in bright sunlight, a broad-billed hummingbird's beautiful spectrum of colors are hard to overlook. Often found higher in the mountains amidst deciduous forest, broad bills do sometimes make their rounds through Tucson, especially during wintertime, when the high-elevation cold can be intolerable. Madera Canyon, AZ.
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A Broad-Billed Portrait
Behold: The intricate detail of a broad-billed hummingbird! These magical little forest fairies are exclusive to the western hemisphere. The tropics of Africa and Asia have insects and small birds which satisfy comparable ecological roles, but nothing quite like hummingbirds! Madera Canyon, AZ.
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Violet Ear, Violet Flowers
Like other pollinators, hummingbirds rely on flowers as a source of food. Considering how much energy they expend beating those tiny wings, the average hummingbird must visit 1000-2000 flowers in a single day. No matter where you live, keep this in mind while considering whether to allow those colorful "weeds" to encroach just a wee bit further into the yard. Every native plant has an important role and wildflower gardens, in particular, contribute so much important food to hummingbirds, bees, and butterflies. Curi-Cancha Reserve, Costa Rica.
Anna’s Profile
The beautiful array of colors on the gorget of an Anna's Hummingbird. These hummingbirds are often considered "pink," but an overcast day highlights so much more. Anna's hummingbirds tend to stand out in a crowd, given their vibrant pink necks, and plump perching posture.
Tucson, AZ.
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Green Violetear
Sit very still in a strategic location and the nature experiences can be amazing! Respect the wild creatures and they will view you differently than another noisy human.
So often, photographers chase after "the perfect shot," stressing out their subjects and ultimately missing the most captivating photo-ops that only emerge with patience. Just outside of Costa Rica's Monteverde Cloud Forest, I sat very still next to a hummingbird feeding station. All manner of exciting species landed just inches away with little effort on my part, and no stress to the subjects!
Bird and Bromeliads
By comparison, this little violet-eared hummingbird appeared so tiny alongside the large bromeliad plants! Curi-Cancha Reserve, Costa Rica.
Bee and the Violetear
This little snippet of drama did not at all play out in the manner one might think. The beautiful violet-eared hummingbird, rather than snatching the small bee, quickly vacated his perch when the buzzing encroached too near. Curi-Cancha Reserve, Costa Rica.
Gem of the Mountain
Illuminated by a gentle flash, the female purple-throated mountain gem hardly seems to fit her name. Monteverde Cloud Forest, Costa Rica.
Violet Sabrewing
A far larger hummingbird than most, these beauties also seemed unusually evasive. Monteverde Cloud Forest, being a largely intact high-elevation rainforest and isolated by tropical lowlands, is a treasure trove of unique species. Just outside of Monteverde Reserve, Costa Rica.
Violet-Crowned Woodnymph
Immediately after watching a pair of scarlet macaws make love, I felt in very high spirits. Awareness now higher, I noticed this violet-crowned woodnymph buzzing around in the shadows. Dos Brazos de Tigre, Costa Rica.
Blue-Throated Goldentail
Like other pollinators, hummingbirds rely on flowers as a source of food. Considering how much energy they expend beating those tiny wings, the average hummingbird must visit 1000-2000 flowers in a single day. No matter where you live, keep this in mind while considering whether to allow those colorful "weeds" to encroach just a wee bit further into the yard. Every native plant has an important role and wildflower gardens, in particular, contribute so much important food to hummingbirds, bees, and butterflies. Osa Peninsula, Costa Rica.
Barred Owl
The barred owls in Okefenokee Swamp often perched in small trees (sometimes only a few feet above the swamp). This vantage point allowed the owls to maintain a constant vigil for potential food, day or night. This includes lizards, snakes, eels, frogs, and small rodents. Being a species that I consider very secretive, it was unusual to see barred owls exposed in broad daylight. Georgia, US.
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Ambush
Pictured are two short-eared owls. The individual in flight decided to dive-bomb the perched owl in what struck me as a territorial stunt. Short-eared owls migrate to a handful of northern states in order to escape the even-more-brutal winters of the arctic.
They hunt by soaring low over large meadows, grabbing prey "on the wing."
Photographed near Washingtonville, PA, USA.
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Cottonwood Mask
On this windy day, the colorful cottonwood leaves kept blowing in front of the owl's face. This fearsome great-horned owl sat only 10 or so feet above the ground at a city park. Incredibly adaptable, great horned owls can be found almost entirely throughout the Western Hemisphere.
They seem to thrive in nearly any habitat aside from the dense jungles of Central / South America. This fellow resides in Tucson, AZ.
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Great-Horned Owlets
In an apartment complex in the middle of the city, there sits a great pine tree. This tree offered the perfect urban nesting site for a a pair of great-horned owls and their family. It's amazing how many species thrive in cities, cleaning up the rodents that would otherwise be spreading disease.
Please abandon the use of rodent poison.
An owl who catches just one mouse that has indulged in such toxins is likely to die a nasty death, thus giving the mice or rats a green light for population explosion!
Protect these beautiful birds! Tucson, AZ.
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Pygmy Baby
The look adorned upon this fledgling northern pygmy owl's face is beyond adorable! He/she was watching mom in the hopes that the recent lizard catch would be passed along. Mother, instead, used the meal to entice her baby into his / her very first flight!
Madera Canyon, AZ, USA.
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Little Owl, Big Meal
A female northern pygmy owl shows off the remaining half of her lizard lunch. Pygmy owls tend to be far more diurnal (daytime active) than many other owl species. Madera Canyon, AZ.
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Northern Pygmy Owl
Like many birds, northern pygmy owl parents use food to incentivize their young into flight. The parents spent quite some time trying to lure this hungry little fellow off the branch.
In the process, he/she became so hungry that gnawing on a leaf was perhaps a not-so-subtle message to the parents that food was desired! Madera Canyon, AZ.
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Ghost of the North
There are moments in life which transcend the physical experience, moments you are sure to carry through this journey of life to one day revisit on your death bed. Meeting this great grey owl was such an experience.
My dear friend, Matt and I were watching this ghost of the north from a great distance away in the bitter cold of early morning at the peak of Minnesota winter. The previous day had wrought an intense snow storm which had effectively suppressed nearly all wildlife activity within the bog. Being a mostly auditory hunter who relies on sound to catch voles deep beneath the snow, this great grey had likely not eaten in a good while.
The owl was mostly stationary but would periodically swap perches among the distant trees. After some time and heavily-motivated by fingers and toes that had lost all sensation, Matt and I decided to move along. We explored a small portion of the bogs' 300 square miles, returning after an hour or two. The great grey was still out and about, this time much closer to the road!
Several photographers and birders had gathered to watch this regal predator. The temperatures had now climbed to a delightful -20 F. Before long, our small band had mostly departed. A Lakota American Indian fellow with whom Matt and I had been chatting, however, suggested what we wait just a few more minutes. This fellow had a beautiful, calm presence that made one feel immediately at ease.
Despite rapidly-renumbing digits, the three of us sat in the snow and watched. Only a few minutes passed before this beautiful creature, seemingly out of nowhere, flew toward us and landed atop a small tree perhaps 40 feet away. When he / she looked straight into my eyes, it felt as I was looking into the face of God. The gaze of this sentient creature penetrated my soul. For a few minutes every construct of humanity was forgotten and I found myself truly alive in a state of pure presence.
Reflecting on the transcendent experience even now, the rawest feelings of joy surface in such a way that I feel nearly compelled to break down in tears. Thank you, thank you, thank you! Prints of this image are not currently available for sale. Please check back for future availability!
Conspicuous Concealment
Great grey owls have phenomenal camouflage! Even when perched in the middle of an open meadow, this large, stunning owl blends perfectly with his / her environment! Sax Zim Bog, MN. This is an extremely limited edition picture. Only 25 prints will ever be produced. Please contact me directly for ordering info! Thank you.
Great Grey Day
There are moments in life which transcend the physical experience, moments you are sure to carry through this journey of life to one day revisit on your death bed. Meeting this great grey owl was such an experience.
My dear friend, Matt and I were watching this ghost of the north from a great distance away in the bitter cold of early morning at the peak of Minnesota winter. The previous day had wrought an intense snow storm which had effectively suppressed nearly all wildlife activity within the bog. Being a mostly auditory hunter who relies on sound to catch voles deep beneath the snow, this great grey had likely not eaten in a good while.
The owl was mostly stationary but would periodically swap perches among the distant trees. After some time and heavily-motivated by fingers and toes that had lost all sensation, Matt and I decided to move along. We explored a small portion of the bogs' 300 square miles, returning after an hour or two. The great grey was still out and about, this time much closer to the road!
Several photographers and birders had gathered to watch this regal predator. The temperatures had now climbed to a delightful -20 F. Before long, our small band had mostly departed. A Lakota American Indian fellow with whom Matt and I had been chatting, however, suggested what we wait just a few more minutes. This fellow had a beautiful, calm presence that made one feel immediately at ease.
Despite rapidly-renumbing digits, the three of us sat in the snow and watched. Only a few minutes passed before this beautiful creature, seemingly out of nowhere, flew toward us and landed atop a small tree perhaps 40 feet away. When he / she looked straight into my eyes, it felt as I was looking into the face of God. The gaze of this sentient creature penetrated my soul. For a few minutes every construct of humanity was forgotten and I found myself truly alive in a state of pure presence.
Reflecting on the transcendent experience even now, the rawest feelings of joy surface in such a way that I feel nearly compelled to break down in tears. Thank you, thank you, thank you! Prints of this image are not currently available for sale. Please check back for future availability!
Grasshopper Gala
Watching burrowing owls can be a very tiresome endeavor. Despite my strong adoration for owls these little cuties spend an inordinate amount of time simply standing in front of burrows. Even more so than many other creatures, burrowing owls have suffered extensively at the hands of humans. Our cars, pesticides, aggressive agricultural practices, and outdoor cats have all played a hand in their losses. Something as simple as keeping your sweet kitty indoors can save an entire population from eradication. Chandler, AZ.
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Western Screech Owl
During a nighttime population survey for Tucson Audobon Society, a friend and I encountered this beautiful western screech owl. In an effort to minimize stress, we used a flashlight and slower exposure rather than a camera flash. Saguaro National Park East, AZ.
Tiger of the Sky
Often referred to as "tigers of the sky" for their ferocious nature, great horned owls are truly ferocious raptors. They will capture prey as imposing as hawks and skunks. Vail, AZ.
Spotted Owl
A Mexican Spotted Owl watched a small fence lizard scamper across a nearby branch. Beyond passive curiosity, the owl hardly seemed motivated to budge from his / her cozy perch for such a tiny lizard.
Mexican Spotted Owl
The Mexican spotted is considered one of the United State's rarest owls. With an estimated population of only 15,000 individuals spread across the US and Mexico, it's little wonder why. With this in mind, you can imagine my astonishment when one of these owls surprised my hiking companion and I. Bursting from cover some distance ahead, the spotted owl allowed Matt and I to approach just a short distance away. Read on in the next photo....
Creature of the Shadows
.....The owl briefly watched us before falling into a gentle slumber. I felt overwelmed by emotion as we sat on the ground, eye level with this stunning phantom. After hiking along, we returned to this spot several hours later to find this mystical creature had not moved. Galliuro Mountains, AZ.
Early Development
There is nothing quite like watching a baby owl slowly develop over the coarse of two months. When Brittany and I first encountered this nest, only mom was visible from our eye-level vantage point. She was very calm and only casually regarded our visit. The next time around, several weeks later, a single, helpless chick was now visible. View photos to read on....
Fledging
A busy month passed before we could yet again make the two-hour (one way) drive to this location. I had a hunch the youngster would be fledging or already fully fledged by now. To our delight, not just one, but three nearly-fledged youngsters now filled this large nest.
Fledging Perspective Two
As we enjoyed the scene from two different angles, the babies watched with evident curiosity. We fully enjoyed this scene but left before too long, not wishing to overstay our welcome. The knowledge that we would be moving across the country in just a couple short weeks made this experience all the more special. Good luck out there, owlets! Cochise County, AZ.
Posing Prothonotary
Named after the golden-yellow robes the early Roman prothonotaries used to wear, these beautiful warblers spend their days foraging and defending brushy territory, often bordered by water.
These were among the birds I most hoped to see while exploring Southern Georgia. After several days of paddling the canal banks with only brief glimpses and songs, I felt pure joy when this fellow burst into the open. He conspicuously showed off gorgeous plumage for several minutes before yet again disappearing. Prothonotary Warbler photographed in Okefenokee NWR, GA, USA
Indigo Bunting
After years of salivating over the locally abundant, yet oh so elusive indigo bunting, the Universe finally provided! Interestingly enough, and like most brilliant gifts, we are rewarded only after the seeking ends, when we are in a place of receptiveness. I cannot fathom how many indigo buntings I had previously met from very far away in the meadows of Central PA, but one fateful dusk hike in the mountains of NC brought Brittany and I to a tranquil hilltop meadow. As golden hour quickly transitioned to dusk, several of these small, stunning, songbirds made themselves visible atop nearby trees. Chimney Rock, NC.
Prothonotary Warbler
These were among the birds I most hoped to see while exploring Southern Georgia. After several days of paddling the canal banks with only brief glimpses and songs, I felt pure joy when this fellow burst into the open. He conspicuously showed off gorgeous plumage for several minutes before yet again disappearing.
Named for the golden-yellow robes of the early Roman prothonotaries, these beautiful warblers spend their days foraging and defending brushy territory, often bordered by water. Prothonotary Warbler photographed in Okefenokee NWR, GA, USA.
Finches in the Thistle Patch
Goldfinches, dispersed amongst the pasture thistles. They seemed to be quite fond of the seeds! If you want more lovely finches to visit your yard, perhaps convert a small portion into wildflower garden?
Not only will this draw in more butterflies, but finches adore the seeds of cone and susan flowers.
Photographed in Michaux State Forest, PA, USA.
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Simplicity
If you want more lovely finches to visit your yard, perhaps convert a small portion into wildflower garden?
Not only will this draw in more butterflies, but finches adore the seeds of coneflowers and black-eyed susans.
This goldfinch is perched atop a thistle stalk. Photographed in Michaux State Forest, PA, USA.
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Screaming Swallow
These common, yet beautiful birds are the bane of many a barn or shed owner, owing to their unusual habit attaching their mud nests to the sides of support beams. Swallows are, however, brilliant insect control! They fly at high-speeds, picking off untold numbers of mosquitoes, gnats, and flies. If you didn't get bitten by a mosquito today, perhaps thank a swallow? Even if you did, thank him/her that you weren't bitten by more! Photo taken at John Heinz National Widlife Refuge, PA, USA.
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Eastern Bluebird
A fan favorite, this shot was taken at the edge of a cow pasture, in late autumn.
Although some never leave their cold northern homes in winter, many bluebirds do.
Naturalists often see them as an indicator of springtime's approach.
Photographed in Winfield, PA, USA.
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Swallow Profile
A close-up “profile” shot of the beautiful American Tree Swallow. Already a lovely bird, the bright sunshine really helped to intensify his gorgeous coloration. Swallows are, however, brilliant insect control! They fly at high-speeds, picking off untold numbers of mosquitoes, gnats, and flies. If you didn't get bitten by a mosquito today, perhaps thank a swallow? Even if you did, thank him/her that you weren't bitten by more!
Photo taken at John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge, PA, USA.
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Blue-Crowned Motmot
One particularly special morning meander through the rainforest brought me to these keel-billed motmots almost immediately after venturing onto the trail. At first, only one was visible, proudly displaying the fuzzy caterpillar clutched within his beak. For the first few minutes, he was cautious toward my presence, sticking within the even darker shadows of the rainforest undergrowth. As I sat a respectful distance away, careful to avoid sudden movements, he became progressively more comfortable, hopping to more exposed perches. Soon, his "friend" (likely a rival suitor, seeking the affection of a lady hidden nearby) also began to conspicuously show off the beetle within his beak. They put on a spectacular show, occasionally swapping perches and singing. Eventually, the caterpillar carrier even chose a perch within a small, nearby clearing where his brilliant colours were beautifully accentuated by the morning light. I never did see the lady motmot, but suspect she chose the beetle bringer as that motmot disappeared, the other fellow shallowing his caterpillar in short order. Curi-Cancha Reserve, Costa Rica.
Motmot Mouthful
One particularly special morning meander through the rainforest brought me to these keel-billed motmots almost immediately after venturing onto the trail. At first, only one was visible, proudly displaying the fuzzy caterpillar clutched within his beak. For the first few minutes, he was cautious toward my presence, sticking within the even darker shadows of the rainforest undergrowth. As I sat a respectful distance away, careful to avoid sudden movements, he became progressively more comfortable, hopping to more exposed perches. Soon, his "friend" (likely a rival suitor, seeking the affection of a lady hidden nearby) also began to conspicuously show off the beetle within his beak. They put on a spectacular show, occasionally swapping perches and singing. Eventually, the caterpillar carrier even chose a perch within a small, nearby clearing where his brilliant colours were beautifully accentuated by the morning light. I never did see the lady motmot, but suspect she chose the beetle bringer as that motmot disappeared, the other fellow shallowing his caterpillar in short order. Curi-Cancha Reserve, Costa Rica.
Moody Motmot
One particularly special morning meander through the rainforest brought me to these keel-billed motmots almost immediately after venturing onto the trail. At first, only one was visible, proudly displaying the fuzzy caterpillar clutched within his beak. For the first few minutes, he was cautious toward my presence, sticking within the even darker shadows of the rainforest undergrowth. As I sat a respectful distance away, careful to avoid sudden movements, he became progressively more comfortable, hopping to more exposed perches. Soon, his "friend" (likely a rival suitor, seeking the affection of a lady hidden nearby) also began to conspicuously show off the beetle within his beak. They put on a spectacular show, occasionally swapping perches and singing. Eventually, the caterpillar carrier even chose a perch within a small, nearby clearing where his brilliant colours were beautifully accentuated by the morning light. I never did see the lady motmot, but suspect she chose the beetle bringer as that motmot disappeared, the other fellow shallowing his caterpillar in short order. Curi-Cancha Reserve, Costa Rica.
Pine Grosbeak
If anyone tells you Minnesota has pleasant wintertime temperatures, do not trust them! Despite the sub-zero temperatures, there was magic to be seen everywhere in this land of frigid beauty. Featured is a pine grosbeak. They have a uniquely-shaped bill which allows this cold-tolerant birds to crack hard nuts and seeds with relative ease. Sax-Zim Bog, MN. Prints of this image are not currently available for sale. Please check back for future availability!
Common Redpoll
Unlike this common redpoll, my human body lacks the appropriate insulation to survive temperatures of -30. It never ceases to amaze me how such a tiny creature can endure such a hostile environment! Common redpolls are considered "irruption birds," meaning that a variety of environmental factors will sometimes motivate them to migrate south from Canada in extensive numbers. My encounter with this beautiful fellow was on such a wonderful winter. Sax-Zim Bog, MN.
Prints of this image are not currently available for sale. Please check back for future availability!
Black-Capped Chickadee
Chickadees are fascinating birds with a complex communication style. The oh-so-familiar "dee dee dee" of their song, based on pitch and the number of "dees," provides other chickadees with all sorts of local news such as a potential predators, the threat-level of this predator, food abundance, and no doubt countless other details we have yet to explore! Sax-Zim Bog, MN. Prints of this image are not currently available for sale. Please check back for future availability!
Red-Legged Honeycreeper
On many occasions, I have been asked "How do you find all of these incredible animals?" It's really quite simple. For starters, place yourself in nature. Any vegetated habitat will have some creatures who call it home, the more intact the better! Next, engage all of your senses. Admittedly, this can be quite difficult if you're surrounded by human noise. Connect to the area as deeply as possible. Listen to all the sounds, smell the fragrances, gently touch the plants (perhaps even feeling the earth beneath your feet), and of course, observe every tiny detail. Be as present as possible. Any obtrusive thoughts from elsewhere will sap your energy and only act as a distraction from the wonderful experience you are having. The more able you are to connect with the land without an agenda (and the longer you stay), the better to observe every living thing around.
This beautiful, tiny fellow is called a red-legged honeycreeper. Curi Cancha Reserve, Costa Rica.
Yellow-Faced Grassquit
Hence their appropriate name, grassquits literally "quit" grass seeds. In addition to grass seeds, they thrive on a diet of small berries and select insects. Monteverde, Costa Rica.
Gnatcatcher and the Seed Pod
While watching and snapping pictures of this blue-gray gnatcatcher, I had no idea why it kept hopping closer and closer, until a gnat flew into my eye. I then suddenly realized that I had brought a smorgasbord of buggy snacks. Photo taken near Richmond, VA, USA.
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Mouthful of Fluff
An eastern kingbird proudly displays a mouthful of likely nesting material before flying far from sight. Lake Lure, NC.