Burrowing Owl in Flight!!!

[Doug Brown]

I've been trying for a while now to get a decent flight shot of a burrowing owl. Here in New Mexico, they usually fly low to the ground for short distances. Contrast is decidedly low, and focus lock is extremely challenging. Today, I finally got a flight shot against a blue sky. Not my favorite wing position, but I only got one photo; I hadn't switched the camera to burst mode.



Canon 1D Mark III, 700mm, f/10, 1/2000, ISO 800, no flash, handheld

[Gayle Clement]

Terrific, Doug. I've never seen one fly. Nicely extended wings.

[Steve Maxson]

Hi Doug. It looks like you made the most of your one image. I'd be happy to have this - not an easy image to capture, as you well know. I like the wing position. The owl is angled slightly toward you which is a plus. You might try another round of USM. Well done.

[gary rouleau]

Great capture Doug, I like the wings. you probably would have gotten a few more in blast-mode!

[Michael Stern]

Dear Doug,
Yes, wonderful image and I agree that they are difficult to capture in flight...if they decide to fly.. and in focus! congrats!
Michael

[Geurt Bloem]

Lovely subject and well captured here. The wing position and angle a huge plus for me as well.

[Mike Tracy]

Nicely done under the circumstances. I also like the wing position but was wondering how he would look with a tad of canvas added underneath him.

[Glenn Bartley]

Just excellent. Nice and sharp and a decent wing pose.

[Bonnie Block]

Very well done, Doug! Making the most of this. Very sharp. Hope you get some more chances soon!

[Kobus Tollig]

What a great sharp shot. Well exposed and good colour and comp well done on this

[Philip Pietri]

No nits! Excellent as posted!

[Freddy Franzella]

Love the clarity and detail! also love that wing blur!

[Steve Canuel]

Congrats Doug. Most of my attempts at flight shots of these guys was from the back side. I like the slightly rising body angle.
Steve

[Tim Cee]

Very nice. Owl captures are on my list of wants.

[david cramer]

I know how difficult it is to catch a flight shot of these critters. Not only do they fly low, but also they are erratic, with up and down swings. Very good catch here, Doug.