[Leica] IMG: Barrow's Goldeneye

[Doug Herr]

Winter visitors to Sacramento County's wilder areas include Common Goldeneye and the relatively scarce Barrow's Goldeneye, both diving ducks who breed in the northern areas of the continent.

I located a spot where the Barrow's Goldeneye like to feed, with good lighting, backgrounds, few humans and easy access. The access factor turns out to be as critical as the others because I've had to make several visits to the site to get any photos I like.

On my first visit to scout the location I didn't have a blind with me so the birds had wanted nothing more than to stay away.

On my second visit, I brought camouflage netting which showed some promise but I had limited time available.

On my third visit I brought the netting and a comfortable ground-level seat but the netting was insufficient to allow the ducks to be comfortable with the two-legged intruder.

On my fourth visit I brought the seat and a more substantial portable blind. This did the trick. And I was glad I'd kept a comfortable backpack in the camper.

http://www.wildlightphoto.com/birds/anatidae/bucephala/bagold03.html
http://www.wildlightphoto.com/birds/anatidae/bucephala/bagold04.html
http://www.wildlightphoto.com/birds/anatidae/bucephala/bagold05.html

All: Sony a7rIII, FE 100-400 GM

All comments are welcome.

Doug Herr
Birdman of Sacramento
http://www.wildlightphoto.com
http://doug-herr.fineartamerica.com