I didn’t see anything too exotic or out of the ordinary on today’s shoot but I had some nice light in the early morning hours. It’s always good to see the young owls are doing well, too.
[Be sure to click once on the thumbnails for a larger, more detailed view of the images].
My first shot is of a Mallard preening in the morning light. Taken near post #2. (6:15 a.m.)
Here’s a video of the scene.
A few minutes later, a Red-winged Blackbird poses for me near post #3. (6:23)
In all the years I have been visiting the Ridgefield NWR, I have not seen as many Killdeer around. Here’s one out in the partially drained marsh at post #3. (6:43)
I had to check on the Great Horned Owlets while I was here and they stayed in the same spot all day long. Although they were not very close, I took a lot of shots and video of them. (7:00)
One is either bored or tired!
Here, a colorful Wood Duck gives me a photo op. (7:09)
At post 11, I’m greeted by a Canada Goose and goslings. (7:16)
I believe this is a Gadwall. I really liked the colors reflected in the water here. (7:18)
Just past post #12, I approach a sign with a Wilson’s Snipe perched on it. Knowing the distant greenery in the background will give me so sweet bokeh, I hope the bird doesn’t fly as I carefully position my truck across the road from the sign. I’m fortunate to get within about 20 feet of the bird. Here are a couple shots and a video of the bird calling out. (7:28)
I stop by the owls again and take some more video. (8:35)
Continuing on through the Ash tree area, I spot a Great Blue Heron on a tree brach across the water. This bird appeared to be half asleep. (9:24)
And a couple more shots of the owlets. (9:35)
Thanks for stopping by and hope to see you back for a look at my June 14, 2012, photo shoot!