black grouse lekking

[greg cowle]

Not a close up, but a behavior and environment shot of black grouse lekking on a frozen bog near Oulu, Finland, April this year. The fully engorged wattles really stand out in the warm sun at dawn.
From a hide on the bog, gimbal mounted in the hide.
Canon 1DXII and 400/2.8II.
f4, 1/1600, ISO 1000. Minor adjustments in Lightroom.
Greg

[arash_hazeghi]

nice shot of the less common subject in winter habitat with nice soft light, I am not usually a fan of small bird in the frame for posting online but I can live with this one. In a perfect world both birds would have had their heads parallel to the back of the camera

[Glenn Pure]

Excellent small in the frame shot, Greg. The behaviour is fascinating as are the birds. The light is really wonderful too. The ice and the background forest add nice elements. And I simply love the fanned tail on the left bird and the detail you've captured there. Lots for me to like in this one.

[William Dickson]

Watching Black Grouse lekking from a distance is always a sight to see. Well done Greg. Love the 'arena' feel about it with the trees in the BG.

Will

[greg cowle]

Arash, Glenn and William, thanks for your comments on this frame. Probably TMI, but I like 'wildlife in the environment' photos, but personally find it difficult to achieve a compelling frame. In this situation, although I got some fine closeup and detail shots, I like the wider view. It is an amazing scene to witness if lucky enough.
Greg