Sandhill Crane

[Downrigger]

Had an enjoyable morning at the nearby Bear River Migratory Bird Refuge. C&C welcomed - but to me the main problem is it's just a portrait. She's not doing a courtship dance or lofting into the air.

[NorthernFocus]

Watching/shooting sandies can be maddening. Hours of standing/walking around and moments of doing something "interesting". And of course always when your attention is elsewhere. But it's always a nice way to spend a morning.

The frosty leaves look like feathers on the ground. Like there was a huge pillow fight gone bad

[IzzieK]

I was about to comment on those white stuffs on the ground too...Very nice separation from the background and its feathers looks like a painting... pretty bird...are there a lot there where you were?

[deetheturk]

Nice capture Mark

[bnnrcn]

Very nice composition and although she doesn't dance her posture looks good

[Downrigger]

Thanks much for visits and comments, all. The white stuff is a crust of dried Great Salt Lake. It periodically backs up into the low areas of the Bear River delta, and when it departs it leaves behind a rime of Salt.

Yes, Izzie - they are numerous here during migration, but getting very finding and getting near them in this extensive mucky wetland is a matter of patience and good luck.

[Barbara Ponder]

Nice photo! I miss seeing them here.

[Shadowman]

Nice capture.

[Downrigger]

Thanks, John. Barbara - you do so wonderfully with birds I'm sorry you don't have opportunities to work on these distinctive creatures. My map (http://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/sandhill_crane/id) suggests they do appear in much of Texas, including wintering in coastal areas near you.

[Brownbear]

Hi Mark,

Just to say that I adore this image for the colours, and especially the background (personally I love the look of the feathers against the layers of colours). I also love how you capture the Cranes foot off of the ground... ie; a true sense of walking.

[Barbara Ponder]

Thanks, John. Barbara - you do so wonderfully with birds I'm sorry you don't have opportunities to work on these distinctive creatures. My map (http://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/sandhill_crane/id) suggests they do appear in much of Texas, including wintering in coastal areas near you.

Mark they just left here. I was lucky enough to get a few sets with them.