A Western Grebe in early morning, smokey light
For nearly a week now smoke from western wildfires from other states has hung over the northern Utah and it created some odd lighting conditions two days ago at Bear River Migratory Bird Refuge early in the morning. The sun has looked red when it has been rising and setting and for a brief period of time the birds I photograph not long after dawn seem to glow differently than they do on a smoke-free day. This Western Grebe was preening and flapping on the Bear River in that glowing, smokey light not long after dawn.
Bear River Migratory Bird Refuge and Smoke from Western Wildfires – Cell phone photo
This is what it looked like about half way out to the auto tour loop at Bear River Migratory Bird Refuge two days ago as the sun came over the mountains. The thing is that the smoke has been worse than this on other mornings. I hope the states where the wildfires are the most active see some relief soon. Very soon.
Life is good
Mia
Click here to see more of my Western Grebe photos plus facts and information about this species.
Mia – the smoke does make for interesting light, and you’ve really captured it here with that beautiful grebe. I’ve really been enjoying reading your blog, thank you for sharing so many beautiful images as well as your insightful and thoughtful writing.
Ellie Baby said it all….
Interesting light – but oh my heart goes out to the animals, the birds, the plants, the people affected by the fires. I hope they can be brought under control quickly.
Quite different and beautiful. love the smoky glow.