It is hard to describe, exactly, how this scene affected me as I made this photograph. I was in the Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge near Socorro, New Mexico, one of my very favorite places to photograph. I find the entire refuge to have a large and diverse range of wildlife in it, and as you are there you never know quite what you will see.

This day, however, the refuge was fairly quiet. The inhabitants who were there preferred to stay hidden, which was a pity. It was early fall, too early yet for the majority of migratory birds to arrive, so seeing any bird this trip was something of a rarity. Still, there was plenty to see and I enjoyed myself thoroughly.

My trip that day was done, and I decided to sit by the shore of a pond and enjoy the last of the day, for it would be dusk soon. As I sat, I simply relaxed, enjoying the sun, enjoying the day, and mostly, enjoying the few canada geese who were at the far side of pond. It was a time of peace, solitude and reflection; the rest of the day began slipping away even quicker than before. When I look at this photograph I am reminded of that time; of that peace and quietude, that perfect afternoon in the bosque. I hope that you feel much the same, and may the peace of the bosque be with you.

Welcome, Elk

Soaring Eagle

There is nothing, perhaps, more incredible than a bird, wings outspread, soaring high above. Oh, to be free from the constraints of the ground! To be able to spread your wings wide, catch the faintest of all breezes and survey your kingdom from high above. No pity is given to those stuck on the ground.

There is nothing, perhaps, more awe inspiring than a bird of prey, a raptor, with wings outspread, soaring high above. Wings spread wide, eyes intent upon the ground for prey, the hunt happens silently from high up above. For those on the ground safety is not assured.

There is nothing, perhaps, more majestic than a bald eagle, with wings outspread, soaring high above. The sight of one upon the hunt takes one’s breath completely away; the eagle itself takes no notice and remains focused entirely upon the task at hand. Back and forth, it swoops up and dives down, all the while its eyes directly intently upon the ground.

At long last, the eagle returns to its catch, resting momentarily. Without warning, its wings unfurl, catch the breeze, and the eagle soars again.

Two Searchers

Inquisitive Kestrel

The American Kestrel is the most common falcon in North America, and can thrive in a vast variety of habitats. For the most part, put it about anywhere and it will do well… from the forest to the open field, the Kestrel is at home everywhere.
This particular female American Kestrel is actually a rescue animal, but she is perched here in front of an open field in the late fall at the Valles Caldera National Preserve in New Mexico. Although it is late autumn here, it is also a bright sunny day and the opportunity for a tasty meal may yet present itself. With her head cocked “just so,”, it appears that she is inquisitive and intent on the meal, and as time went by she became no less inquisitive. Also, with the head cocked, the unique dual vertical black bars, which appear only on the Kestrel, are easily seen in this capture
The Kestrel is not a large bird–not by a long shot. What they lack in size, however, they more than make up for in fierceness as they are superb hunters. Often perching and waiting patiently, they will make a beeline for the meal, which is often on the ground. Snatching it up quickly they are back off to the air. What this one has her eye on is not yet known… but soon will be!