The Bird That Started It All

Birding and bird photography started for me in the winter of 2005. The bird responsible for this was the Snowy Owl. In recent posts I have commented on the owls being seen again this year, but I had not actively gone out for photos until today.

I headed out to Boundary Bay at sunrise this morning. I was somewhat surprised to see 10-12 photographers already out at the edge of the marsh along the shoreline. I met a couple of fellow birders and we walked together while heading west along the dyke. We could see the Snowy Owls all seemed to be located at the waters edge. Carrying on past where the group of photographers were we could still see some owls out there. I realized if I wanted photos, I was going to have to make the trek out through the marsh. This seemed as good a spot as any. As all the other photographers were further east, I could proceed on my own and not have to worry about approaching as part of a group.

Now it was just a matter of finding a cooperative bird or two on this frosty morning.

This Snowy Owl was roosting on a hummock at the waters edge.

It would occasionally give me the odd glance.

Up next was this Snowy Owl perched at the end of a log.

It allowed me to get a little closer,

… where I just stayed low on my knees.

The owl then stood up briefly providing a view of the feathers all the way down and over the feet/talons. This was more of an alert posture.

Something off to my right seemed to have its attention and it then flew off.

Not having the proper foot wear, my feet were now wet and getting cold, it was time to head back in. Just as well though as you want to limit your time with these birds and minimize the amount of disturbance.

So it took almost six years before getting some more time with these beautiful birds. Well worth the wait and the hobby they got me started on.