A Gray Ghost – Nikon D300, f6.3, 1/1000, ISO 800, +1.3 EV, Nikkor 200-400mm VR with 1.4x TC at 270mm, natural light, not baited
Three years ago on a very gray morning I photographed this male Northern Harrier; the Gray Ghost, in flight along the causeway to Antelope Island State Park. The lighting conditions were poor at best but the harrier was cooperative and made several passes close to the edge of the road, some times so close I had to zoom back to get the entire harrier in the frame.
Three years ago it was common for me to be able to photograph harriers along the causeway to and from the island but this past winter seeing them there hasn’t been common at all. It might be because the lake has receded far from the shoreline, this incredibly mild winter, a low vole population or a local decline in the population of Northern Harriers. I can’t be sure, it might be all of the reasons listed.
What I can be sure of is the excitement I feel having a Gray Ghost in my viewfinder, gray day or not.
Life is good.
Mia
An incredible shot…looks like you were flying right along side of that magnificent bird!
Magnificent photo of Northern Harrier-Your photo skill is better and better all the time–actually it couldn’t ever get any better-Excellent!
Outstanding image Mia. Thanks for posting and the info too.
HI love the bird he lives in my Magical world for sure! Thank you for sharing!
What a beautiful, magnificent bird!!!
A beautiful, beautiful capture, Mia!!! Magical!!!