I have arrived at Bosque del Apache in New Mexico for the annual Festival of the Cranes week. I was honored to be asked to be one of the speakers presenting programs and workshops through the week. Thousands of people come for this special event, to view and experience the thousands of snow geese and sandhill cranes who migrate through this area.
The fall migration is massive. The birds are attracted here because of the large ponds and surrounding fields that provide much needed food.
This shot was taken at the dawn liftoff of snow geese. As if responding to a silent signal, they all lift off together at sunrise, creating a cacophony of sounds. The sheer mass of life is awe-inspiring. The sound of their honking and wing beats surrounds you, envelops you, and the entire show lasts all of 45 seconds before they are gone, flying off to the fields to feed for the day.
It is an amazing show and one that is exciting day after day. It is a treat to be here, both for the Festival and for my private bird photography workshop that starts next week.
TECH SPECS
1/1000 sec. at f/11, ISO 800. Canon 500mm lens on Canon 5D Mark III body. Gitzo tripod with ball head and Wimberley Sidekick.
TODAY QUOTE: "Birds are a miracle because they prove to us there is a finer, simpler state of being which we may strive to attain." --Douglas Coupland
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