On this fall morning, I’m sharing three American White Pelican images from Bear River MBR taken earlier this week and a bonus flock photo from last year.
Fall American White Pelican in a marsh at Bear River MBR – Nikon D500, f8, 1/1600, ISO 640, Nikkor 500mm VR with 1.4x TC, natural light
Most of the American White Pelicans that were here over the spring and summer have already migrated. I was happy to see a few at the refuge on Monday while I drove around the auto tour loop.
The large, white waterbirds have always fascinated me. Having the pelicans is my viewfinder is a joy.
American White Pelican in the fall – Nikon D500, f8, 1/2500, ISO 640, Nikkor 500mm VR with 1.4x TC, natural light
The lighting conditions I had that morning were great for photographing these snow-white birds. I didn’t have to worry about my exposure.
Of the pelicans I saw at the refuge, only three were close enough for me to take photos of.
Fishing American White Pelican in fall – Nikon D500, f8, 1/2500, ISO 640, Nikkor 500mm VR with 1.4x TC, natural light
This last pelican was farther away from me than the first two, but I liked how this image showed more of the marsh. I also like how it showed the pelican fishing.
Flock of American White Pelicans on the bank of the Bear River – Nikon D500, f9, 1/1250, ISO 400, Nikkor 500mm VR with 1.4x TC, natural light
I took this bonus photo of a flock of American White Pelicans on the banks of the Bear River at the refuge last September. For some reason, I hadn’t shared it yet, and I wanted to do so today. There is also a Great Egret in the frame.
I worry that future generations might not have the opportunity to see American White Pelicans as much as I have. The Great Salt Lake is still in danger of dying, and if it does, these pelicans will be forced to live elsewhere.
Life is good. It could be better here in northern Utah if people would conserve more water so it can get to the lake.
Mia
Click here to see more of my American White Pelican photos plus facts and information about this species.
Wonderful pics. The contrasts are great. I’m a bit surprised that pelicans gather in flocks like flamingos or crows. I always thought of them as somewhat solitary birds. When we see them in San Diego they are either by themselves or with a small group of other pelicans. Interesting. As my nephew in Texas would say…”Ya larn sumpin’ nu ever dye.” Thanks Mia.
The egret makes me think of a teacher on recess duty keeping an eye on the kids as they play. 😉
Thank you. Fortunately brown lawns became a source of pride here in one of our big droughts. Another is predicted for this summer. We have water restrictions in place and while I mourn my garden I understand.
And I always delight in pelicans and have never seen more than a couple at a time…
Yep and as moist and cool as it is people still had sprinklers on all last week, with the harder freeze last night I hope they will turn the things off! I have not watered my lawn since the end of September when I normally stop watering lawns and flower beds. I hand water the pots and vegies but the rest are fine when we get into cooler nights and shorter days.