I’ve been seeing the Chukars on Antelope Island regularly since the snow started to stay on the ground. I read yesterday that this recent storm has dumped quite a bit more out there yesterday and I can’t wait to get back on the island to photograph the birds and animals.

Chukar fluffed up against the coldChukar warming in the morning light – Nikon D300, f9, 1/800, ISO 640, -0.3 EV, Nikkor 200-400mm VR with 1.4x TC at 350mm, natural light

I photographed these Chukars three days ago, there was a bevy of them hunkered down and all fluffed up against the cold that were basking in the warmth of the rising sun.

Chukar warming up in the morning lightFluffed up Chukar on a rock – Nikon D300, f9, 1/500, ISO 640, -0.3 EV, Nikkor 200-400mm VR with 1.4x TC at 400mm, natural light

It is going to be bitter cold for the next few days so I imagine I will be seeing more fluffed up Chukars when I go to the island.

It is almost hard to believe that in just two months these Chukars will be fighting for territories as they begin the mating season while there is over 9 inches of fresh snow on the ground where I live this morning.

Life is good.

Mia

Click here to see more of my Chukar photos plus facts and information about this species.