Adult female Northern Harrier in flight over the flats at Farmington Bay – Nikon D500, f6.3, 1/1250, ISO 500, Nikkor 500mm VR with 1.4x TC, natural light, not baited
Last week I had a few opportunities to photograph Norther Harriers in flight at Farmington Bay WMA before the gate south of Goose Egg Island was closed for the waterfowl nesting season and I’m glad I had those chances.
At first I didn’t care for this photo too much but that is because of the background. I grow weary of browns, tans and bleached out beige colors after the fall and winter and ache for brighter or perhaps more “lively” colors. The background of this photo is created by distant mud flats at the WMA that are devoid of vegetation at this time of the year. Now, if there had been snow or green spring growth covering those mud flats I would have been much happier with the background but that is just me and my personal tastes.
The adult female Northern Harrier was in flight in wonderful, warm morning light and I couldn’t resist raising my lens and taking photos of her as she flew past. She sure did look gorgeous as she floated on the breeze past me.
Life is good.
Mia
Click here to view more of my Northern Harrier photos plus facts and information about this species.
My Wife and I saw a pair of red shouldered hawks yesterday (3/320). They are attracted by the massive bird feeding stations in our back yard. We are also looking forward to the return of the Prairie Falcons this year.
This is a beautiful shot!!
She is simply gorgeous and I think that muted background suits her well.
Yes, she is gorgeous!
What a wonderful pic! I think the muted background really highlights the Northern Harrier well. The detail is extraordinary and seeing how the Harrier’s wings have captured the breeze calls to mind the lyrics to “You Are The Wind Beneath My Wings.” Beautiful song; beautiful image. Thanks Mia.
I think the light on the harrier with the subtle dark background is sublime.
Love the curve of the leading edge of her wings, the flared tail, and the spread primaries. What a gorgeous creature!!! I’m so glad you got this shot.
Wonderful photo, Mia
Excellent image of this Northern Harrier female! The very soft brown background makes the detail on the bird look even sharper. I quite like the background.