Heading South.

[Douglas Sherman]

It is that time of year when the Snow Geese, Sand Hill Cranes, and Ross's geese head south to Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge in New Mexico. That is where these birds are headed.

If you have never been there it should be on your bucket list. It is a sight to see and hear. The roar of thousands of wings beating as the birds lift off from their morning staging pool will stick with you for the rest of your life. It is spectacularly beautiful at sunrise.

At sunset the birds return in small flocks especially the Sand Hill Cranes which float in effortlessly on a slight breeze looking like Pterodactyls.

 

[AlanLichty]

Nice shots. I can see a need for perhaps wearing rain gear when waiting for your shot Looks like it might be a bit noisy as well. I like perspective in the second image - neat effect.

 

[Ben Egbert]

Beautiful a place I always wanted to visit when I was doing birds

 

[JimFox]

Super cool shots Doug! I like in #4 how it looks like with their feet dangling that they are walking on air. And I agree #2 is really special. What a cool series.

 

[Douglas Sherman]

Nice shots. I can see a need for perhaps wearing rain gear when waiting for your shot .Looks like it might be a bit noisy as well. I like perspective in the second image - neat effect.

Thanks, Alan. I have never been hit with anything yet. Actually it is really cold that time of year. Especially because you are just standing there next to your tripod and camera waiting for the liftoff in the cold morning air. I am usually wearing layers of long winter underwear, a fleece lined shirt, blue jeans, a down parka and a Carhart fleece lined hat with earflaps.

 

[Douglas Sherman]

Beautiful a place I always wanted to visit when I was doing birds

You should visit at least once, Ben even if you just watch a morning liftoff. It is one of natures marvels.

 

[Douglas Sherman]

Super cool shots Doug! I like in #4 how it looks like with their feet dangling that they are walking on air. And I agree #2 is really special. What a cool series.

Thanks for your kind comments, Jim.

 

[Anatoly]

Great shots, respect!

 

[Douglas Sherman]

Great shots, respect!

Thanks so much, Anatoly.