Not This Time...

[David Roach]

When I started as a birder, many years ago, I loved seeing a new species for the first time or for the first of a season; but I never really cared about the count (competition). As I started getting into photography, about six years ago, with a zoom instamatic, it suited me better as there was more time to sit and observe and learn (regardless of # of species). This was a case in point. I arrived at Wako the other evening about two hours before sunset. I wanted to get this family one more time before the chicks fledged. As these chicks are getting close to maturity, it's interesting to watch the parent's behavior. On a different nest, with even further along chicks, the parent would actually stand on a perch about 10ft from the nest and seemed to be teasing the chicks who were trying their wings and looking for a handout. This parent, who did feed them once, would make a fly in (repeatedly) and stand like this without any offering and let the chicks beg away. Without ever turning toward the chicks, off again she/he would go.
1DMKIIN 100-400 1.4xtc ISO 400 F8@1/1250

[Axel Hildebrandt]

Very interesting behavior captured and thanks for sharing the story. Light and details look great, a slightly lower angle would have been great if that was an option.

[Ed Cordes]

We were at Wako about 3 weeks ago. It is amazing how much these chicks have grown! Image is very nice with good sharpness and nice BG.

[Arthur Morris]

A beautifully designed and framed image, three perfect head angles, soft warm light, and a good story to go with it. Well done and thanks for sharing all.