Coyote running in drifts of snowCoyote running in drifts of snow

And it won’t be long before I am photographing wildlife in drifts of snow and birds on perches covered in white.  Stretching my abilities and pushing my gear to the limits in low light situations or in the light reflected by blinding snow. I look forward to those challenges every winter. Even though it didn’t snow yesterday where I live I know it is coming soon.

Male Ring-necked Pheasant in the snowMale Ring-necked Pheasant in the snow

Colors seem to look brighter against a canvas of white. Especially when the air is clear and the smog has been blown out of the valley. Last winter was pretty harsh and there was plenty of snow but who knows what this winter will bring.

Buffalo Point covered in snowBuffalo Point covered in snow

It won’t be long before I see Antelope Island State Park with a covering of snow, Buffalo Point and Frary Peak are two of my favorite places on the island and even more so with snow on them.

Dark morph Rough-legged Hawk on a dreary winter dayDark morph Rough-legged Hawk on a dreary winter day

Then there will be the birds I see primarily in winter like the Rough-legged Hawks that are making their way south as I type this post.

I’ll get cold hands, a blush on my cheeks that doesn’t come in a plastic container and I will feel like the Pillsbury Dough Boy in layer upon layer of clothing. I’ll curse the smog and sing with joy on those beautifully clear morning where the light seems to make everything it falls on glow.

I love it when there is snow in the Salt Lake Valley.

Mia

PS: I still haven’t figured out what I am going to do about my copyright watermark but wanted to thank you all for your thoughts on it. I appreciate it very much.