Snowy Day

**Hillbillygirl** · 02-19-2010, 10:52 PM

Well, we got out for a hike along the river looking for eagles. Seen five individual birds, three juveniles and two mature ones. Mature ones put on quite a show with their aeronautics chasing each other. Unfortunately, no photo ops as we watched at a distance through binoculars.
One hr. drive North and we were on the search for snow owls. Saw two, male and a female. Took a few shots, but nothing in flight or down at fence level, but still getting shots of these is always a thrill, for me anyway.
Saw one rough legged hawk also, but again, no photo as it was on the drive home and he flew as soon as we slowed down.
Well, here are a couple of the snowies. Just an amazingly beautiful regal looking bird. The female let us get within 70 ft of her.

Male at a bit of distance for the 70-200 lens, but not bad.

Female checking me out.

Parting shot of female.

**Bambi** · 02-19-2010, 11:09 PM

very nice HB Girl!! I love the last one

**casil403** · 02-20-2010, 07:58 AM

Wow HBG...these are just awesome...lucky you. Great stuff!

**Mad Aussie** · 02-20-2010, 04:32 PM

Such a beautiful owl! Nice work HB.

**Hillbillygirl** · 02-20-2010, 05:44 PM

Thanks everyone, not the greatest pics, as conditions not great. Last pic is my fave also Bambi. These are my favourite owl, especially since they are so rare around here. The male was so hard to capture as it was such an overcast day and he blended in so well.
Going to give it a try tomorrow for some eagles and some rough-legged hawks, (also a rarity only around here in winter), but such a beautiful bird. Supposed to be sunny tomorrow and in the + for temps.
Got rid of the 100-400L, so only using a 70-200 f2.8 for now.(can't wait for my 500mm f4L and 1.4x tc to get here!)