23 Comments

I am always amazed at your bird photos, Karen. I mean, ruby crowned kinglets?! They never stop! Or come out into the open. But this one looks peaceful and still, as if posing for you. Viewing the hawk take off gives me the feeling of being there in person. Thanks for that moment of blessing.

Expand full comment

Thank you Priscilla! Ruby Crowned Kinglets don't stop, except for a moment!

Expand full comment

The Cooper’s hawk risked much taking off from that thorny perch! And the feather “cowlings” on the hawk’s thighs are intriguing. What purpose do they serve? Insulation? Aerodynamics?

Also, how much insulation R-value percentage gain do our little feathered friends achieve when they puff up? Ill probably spend hours trying to find an answer.

This is the problem with your photos, Karen. While they are stunningly beautiful, and that is a gift, they are also finely focused and reveal details that raise all kinds of technical questions, which is also a gift, but requires answers. Who knows these things?

Beauty and function. They can keep a mind occupied for days on wonderful things.

Expand full comment

I'm sure there are people that know these things - or at least think they know these things! I'll look forward to hearing the answers. Thank you Switter.

Expand full comment

Absolutely saving the Cooper's hawk pics for knitting design inspiration! She is so beautiful! I think having feathers sounds very good! Thanks for all of the close-ups of the little birds! They do my heart so much good.

Expand full comment

Oh that's so cool! Cooper's hawks have great color schemes! Thank you Sandy!

Expand full comment

are the hawks lightening their loads to be more aerodynamically free? lol

Expand full comment

LOL - it sure seems like it. A lot of birds do that - as a photographer it's a cue they are about to take off!

Expand full comment

Karen, Your captures in this post are enthralling to me! Your comments help me see what you see with increased understanding. I wager your custom photographer’s hand wear will be a Godsend as winter thumbs its nose at fall. One detail I need your help with, Karen. Near the end of your post today, a pair of birds with sort of grey, elongated crests appear together. A dark colored detail outlines the sides of their heads, going under their necks. A horseshoe shape almost? Wishing you all the best in this Holy season.

Expand full comment

Thank you Gary! For your question - where were the birds (e.g. in the water, in a tree, etc.) and what size birds are you describing?

Expand full comment

In a tree. Positioned together with the dead limb in the background. They seem about the size of Robins.

Expand full comment

The sunrise, the owl, all of the photos! You have such an eye and such patience and skill. I don't always comment, but I always appreciate the moments you share. This animate planet is such a source of wonder, and you convey that with such beauty.

Expand full comment

Thank you Susan! I don't always comment either but I always appreciate your posts too. I love the way you see the world.

Expand full comment

Thank you! :)

Expand full comment

Beauiful images Karen! Awesome capture of the Barred Owl!

Expand full comment

Thank you Neil!

Expand full comment

The hawk and the owl- my favorites!!!

Expand full comment

Thank you Linda!

Expand full comment

Gorgeous…the all orange sunrise👍❤️ and glad you have some gulls returning 😍❤️🥰👍. Like your closing… I need some healing as I’ve had a terrible head cold (no fever thankfully) this week😳🙄🤷‍♀️

Expand full comment

I'm wishing you such speedy healing and all the rest you need!! Take good care of yourself! Lots of love to you.

Expand full comment

Thx so much…feeling better today…Carmella was sent home from school yesterday with a temperature 😳☹️🤷‍♀️

Expand full comment

Karen these are some of your best pictures ever! OMG the Cooper’s Hawk~!

Expand full comment

Thank you David! Honestly couldn't believe that hawk just sat there until I was a few feet away.

Expand full comment