Frosty adult female Northern Harrier in flight – Nikon D500, f7.1, 1/2000, ISO 1000, Nikkor 500mm VR with 1.4x TC, natural light, not baited
I saw a few harriers on the wing yesterday at Farmington Bay WMA and I was able to take a few photos of a female Northern Harrier that still had frost on her nape.
Frost can accumulate on the outermost feathers of birds during long winter nights which means it isn’t unusual for me to see frosted owls, hawks, eagles and wading birds first thing in the morning here in northern Utah especially in the marshes that surround the Great Salt Lake because of the higher humidity in the air. I’ve seen frost on smaller songbirds too but it isn’t quite as noticeable in photos as it can be with the larger birds.
This adult female Northern Harrier didn’t have as much frost on her as I have seen on other birds at times but the frost on her nape did sparkle in the morning sunlight and that caught my eye. This is my first frosted harrier of this winter but she most likely won’t be my last.
I also found, identified and pointed out a lifer bird for a friend yesterday morning when I spotted a Common Grackle preening on a Russian Olive tree near Glover Pond. I have seen and photographed that species before back east. The Common Grackle yesterday was my first in Utah and while they aren’t rare enough to be reported to the Utah Birds Record Committee finding one is still great because they are uncommon here in the state.
Life is good.
Mia
Click here to view more of my Northern Harrier photos plus facts and information about this species.
Another powerful image! I love how you caught the Harrier’s eye. Thanks Mia.
You found one who co operated a bit!
A lovely day both for you and for your friend.
I have seen songbirds with frost on their feathers here. And have marveled.