Bearded Vulture

[Hendri Venter]

I created this image at Giants Castle, Drakenberg, SA in June this year. Midday light but the winter sun angle reasonable.

Canon 1D MK II
Canon 500 F4
ISO 640
SS 1/1600
F8
Aperture Priority
Exposure -0.3

www.digitalwild.co.za

[Arthur Morris]

Light does not look harsh at all. With the light from our right the top of the head is a bit bright. Missing: the view of the feet.

What brings these birds in close?

[Hendri Venter]

Thanks Artie. This one was a bit too close and the one with the feet visible the wings were more open and I clipped it.

What brings these birds in close?

Early morning before sunrise we put out marrow bones that we get from the lodge. A tradition I would say. So yes, they are "baited", sorry I should have mentioned it.

[Arthur Morris]

Thanks for the info Hendri. It is one amazing place.

[Bonnie Block]

Amazing Hendri,
love the light. You did very well!

[Robert O'Toole]

Amazing bird and great details and sharpness, good exposure job also Hendri.

I like it as is but of course seeing more of the feet would be great too as Artie points out.

Robert

[Troy Lim]

I wish the Vultures in FL look half way like the ones in your shot.
Great shot, TFS.

[Stu Bowie]

I like the symmetrical wing position, and you have captured good sharp detail. Well captured mate. Still kicking myself I couldnt join you guys on that trip.:(

[Hendri Venter]

Thanks folks. Stu do you think you would have felt any better if I did not invite you.:);)

[Kaustubh Deshpande]

Loved the pose and the comp. What a bird. All the captures that have seen from this place blow me away. real special place, it must be.

[Hendri Venter]

Thank you Kaustubh. This is indeed a special place. I will rate it as the very best bird hide in SA.

[denise ippolito]

Hendri, Feet noted but nice sharp details and I love the pose.:)

[Hendri Venter]

Thanks Denise.

[philperry]

Great stuff Hendri. Just love the adult's colouring and quirky pose.

Any secret to getting the Bearded vultures to land ? I have still only ever managed to photograph them in flight every time I have visited. I seem only to see jackal buzzards, Cape vultures and ravens (once a Verreauxs' eagle). Or just luck of the draw ?

[Hendri Venter]

Thanks Phil. I would say the luck of the draw. Only put out some marrow bones as usual. Did not see a JB though.

[philperry]

Thanks for that Hendri. I guess I will just have to go back more often - and stay longer. Still its a great photography location. Cheers. Phil