Bosque del Apache
Read MoreCranes on the Rio Grande River at Sunset
Cranes and snowgeese gather to roost at sunset on the Rio Grande river. Cranes are the oldest birds alive today with fossil records going to nearly 3 million years back. It is humbling to realize that we are witnessing a scene from a prehistoric times.
Wintering sandhill cranes gather to feed and socialize on a harvested corn field in late afternoon at the Bosque del Apache NWR. While not as gregarious as snowgeese, socializing such as seen here is an important part of their daily lives. I liked the light from the setting sun, and the chaos and dust created by the cranes for a pleasing scene.
Sandhill Crane Banking to Land
A sandhill crane banks as it lands in a cornfield at the Bosque del Apache NWR. I liked the topwing view of the crane framed by the Chupadera mountains in background.
Snowgeese Liftoff Abstract at Sundown
Snowgeese take off to roost after feeding and socializing at dusk at the Bosque Del Apache NWR. Snowgeese are highly gregarious birds and their flocks usually number in the thousands. Their liftoff in unison is accompanied by high pitch calls and rush of wings, and is a sight to behold.
Sandhill Cranes Takeoff Abstract
A group of sandhill cranes take off past sundown to their roosting spot at the Bosque del Apache NWR. I was shooting long exposure panning shots and liked the combination of the cranes against the cornfield they were feeding on, especially in the evening light.
A flock of Canada geese feeding in grass along with a sandhill crane at Bosque Del Apache NWR. Occasionally all the birds would all raise their heads to scan their surroundings for danger. Non-predatory birds usually feed in flocks where several pairs of eyes are available to spot signs of danger. Here, I found the scene with golden grass and distant cottonwood trees very attractive.
Sandhill Cranes Feeding at Sunset
Sandhill cranes actively feed on the Rio Grande river at sun down. Their food consists of grains, vegetation, insects and molluscs. I was drawn to the texture of the water in the evening light.
Snowgeese and Sandhill Cranes Flying in to Roost
Cranes and geese fly in to roost at dusk in Bosque del Apache. With its brilliant skies and number of birds, the place provides a perfect setting for birdscapes.