Preening Western Grebe and reflection – Nikon D500, f7.1, 1/2500, ISO 640, Nikkor 500mm VR with 1.4x TC, natural light
Migrating Western Grebes are already being reported at Utah Lake, Bountiful Pond and Farmington Bay WMA and before too long they will be found at other locations here in northern Utah. I have missed seeing these black and white birds and their cherry red eyes over the winter. I have also missed hearing them call.
After the phragmites were burned last year at Bear River Migratory Bird Refuge in an attempt to control the invasive vegetation I have to wonder if these grebes will find the refuge suitable to nest in this year because there isn’t much vegetation left in some areas for them to use to build their floating nests at the water impoundments close to the auto tour route or if we will all have to wait for that to happen until enough native vegetation grows back which might mean a season or two. I also wonder if they will be seen rushing and displaying this year at the refuge.
Preening Western Grebe covered in water droplets – Nikon D500, f7.1, 1/3200, ISO 640, Nikkor 500mm VR with 1.4x TC, natural light
Even if I have to wait a season or two to see rushing, displaying and nesting Western Grebes I will be happy to photograph them wherever I can find them. They are such interesting, beautiful and elegant birds.
Both of these photos were taken last year at Bear River Migratory Bird refuge in April as the grebe preened on a bright, sunny day. I liked how the water droplets on the grebe sparkled in the sunlight and I couldn’t resist sharing the head on image simply because it made me laugh when I saw it.
Maybe I will find a Western Grebe today or sometime this week, who knows?
Life is good.
Mia
Click here to see more of my Western Grebe photos plus facts and information about this species.
Don’t know which I like best with these birds…their ruby red eyes or their hair styles….