Sandhill Crane

[Geoffrey Montagu]

This image was captured two days ago, at a cool 17˚F, as the sun was about to set. This is a favorite corn field for a small group (8), of annual visiting Sandhill Cranes. The alert look on this ones face is because for the moment it is the sentry as the others dine. A similar look of alertness from all 8 occurred as a Red Fox was approaching, but on the hunt for smaller prey, and once it saw the Cranes, made an abrupt left turn and ran off. C&C welcome.

D700, Nikon 500mm + 1.4 tc, 1/400, f 7.1, ISO 320, Hand Held.



Geoffrey

[William Dickson]

Fantastic light Geoff. I like the colours of the bird blending with both the BG and FG Cool:S3: Well done

[Ian Wilson]

Nice light and composition. You captured the alertness of the sentry so well. A little more direct sunlight on the bird's face would really make it for me. Regards, Ian

[annmpacheco]

nice composition but the shadowed area has a bit of noise to it... I really like the alert pose you captured.

[Grace Scalzo]

Wish that the bird's face was in the light.

[keith mitchell]

That bird is not missing a thing, great alert pose.

Keith.

[Arthur Morris]

Sharp with a good exposure but the shadows don't do it for me. Lots of problems occur when you work off light angle. Strive in most cases to work with your shadow pointing at the subject so that it is well and frontally lit.

[Geoffrey Montagu]

Thanks everyone. C&C appreciated. Arthur your points are well taken. Forgot to mention this is a lifer for me. After several years of persistence I was able to capture images of these beauties. I do have some images with the sun on the face of the sentry while others were feeding.


Geoffrey