Natures turn…….
I visited the Smith Oaks Rookery in High Island early February of this year but never had a chance to get back. I missed out on seeing a lot of the babies as they grew and vide for attention. Well, this past weekend I had a chance to make a quick run out there. With the front entrance gate now locked I had to enter from a side entrance. It was hot as in Hot as I made my way on a long walk. As I walked up on the levy it wasn’t the usual chatter of birds. Most had all ready raised their young and were gone. I made my way along the levy stopping at different locations to grab a few pictures. Even though it was hot it was still pretty nice being all alone with all the remaining birds as all the usual crowds were now gone. Even with fewer nesting birds it still offered a number of opportunities. These twin Roseate Spoonbills had just been feed as their parent had flown off. The parents quickly feed the young and then fly off. They wouldn’t hang around because the young ones wouldn’t give them any piece just a constant picking, nudging wanting more. Probably within a few days these will have to leave the nest for the lesson in finding food. Sooner or later everyone grows up. Or, that’s the way it’s suppose to be.
Nikon D4, 500mm, f/4, 1/8000, ISO 400 (made adjustment afterwards to bring the shutter down)
Recently the Blue Angels performed at Wings Over Houston. My friend Doug Haass invited me to shoot with him from a unique vantage point – the end of the runway. What an awesome place to be set up as they came so close. We actually climbed up on a large mound of mulch. Yes, mulch, we had to tromp down the top where we were to give us a small base for footing. It was like standing on a water bed as everything seemed to float. I’d do it again!
The main group of four took off away from us and climbed high. Shortly after the last two started their run from the opposite of the runway heading our way. One took off about mid way and this one stayed low to the ground. As he got the end of the runway he pulled up hard and accelerated straight up. I wanted to look so bad but stayed focused on him. I couldn’t even begin to explain the excitement I was feeling as it snapped straight up. The vibration and roar was just spectacular!
Nikon D4, 500mm, f/5.6, 1/2500, ISO 320
Nikon D4, 500mm, f/5.6, 1/3200, ISO 320
There were about two dozen hummingbirds around a feeder. They didn’t seem to mind me being close so I set up a Day Lily potted plant about three feet from the feeder. After setting up my camera I rotated the plant until I liked what I was seeing in the view finder. I looked at the background and knew it was far enough away to give a pleasant blur. It wasn’t long before several started checking out the flower giving me several different captures. They are always fun to watch.
Nikon D300s, 500mm, f/4.0, 1/1000, ISO 200, filler flash
This is a Red-headed Woodpecker recently taken in Huntsville, Texas. I was looking out the kitchen window and noticed some frequent visits from a couple of these beautiful birds. Their colors are vibrant and stand out. Hard to pass up an opportunity for a few captures. After setting up it didn’t take long before they came back for a visit. There were other birds in the mix but these were the stand outs that I had been wanting to take for some time. Between all the rain we have been having here in south Texas it was a good weekend.
Nikon D800, 500mm, f/5.6, 1/800, ISO 800
Sometimes you’re just too close or you chop off some toes. Before I delete any pic I try to look at it several times just in case I see something different. Just a few nip and tucks. Hope you like it.
Nikon D4, 500mm, 1/3200s, f/5.6, ISO 200
Neotropic Cormorant – High Island, Texas. Not one of the most photographed birds but I still think with the right amount of light you can get a few good captures. This years season at Smith Oaks Rookery in High Island has arrived early. The birds are in full swing staking out their nesting site. Early on there are a lot of opportunities to catch in flight shots as they bring in nesting material. We have had a few cool days but for the most part I’d say so far winter has passed us by.
Nikon D4, 500mm, f/5.6, 1/3200s, ISO 200
Nikon D4, 500mm, f/5.6, 1/3200s, ISO 200
Wishing everyone Peace, Joy and Health!
Nikon D4, 500mm + 1.4tc, f/5.6, 1/2500, ISO 1000
Finally one of those useless questions is answered. How does a wood stork poop in flight? He lowers his legs hoping it keeps it’s feet clean and lets it fly. Taken at Brazoria National Wildlife Refuge and I barely escaped.
David Alaniz Photography 