Yesterday morning, at Bear River Migratory Bird Refuge, the first bird I photographed was an adult American White Pelican in early morning, golden light.

American White Pelican facing golden morning light, Bear River Migratory Bird Refuge, Box Elder County, UtahAmerican White Pelican facing golden morning light – Nikon D500, f7.1, 1/1000, ISO 640, Nikkor 500mm VR with 1.4x TC, natural light

Yesterday was the first time I had been to Bear River MBR since late April. I missed the entire nesting season and almost all of spring migration.

I had been missing the playa, marshes, wetlands, and the views of the Wasatch and Promontory Mountains from the refuge. In addition, and perhaps more importantly, I had been longing to see, hear, and photograph the birds that I find there.

Adult American White Pelican in golden light, Bear River Migratory Bird Refuge, Box Elder County, UtahAdult American White Pelican in golden light – Nikon D500, f7.1, 1/1000, ISO 640, Nikkor 500mm VR with 1.4x TC, natural light

This pelican was my refuge ‘greeter’ yesterday. At first, it was simply swimming away from me on the calm Bear River. When it reached the golden light beyond the shadow of the bridge, the pelican turned around. At that moment, its snow-white feathers were kissed with gold.

Golden light on an American White Pelican, Bear River Migratory Bird Refuge, Box Elder County, UtahGolden light on an American White Pelican – Nikon D500, f7.1, 1/1250, ISO 640, Nikkor 500mm VR with 1.4x TC, natural light

I savored finding this American White Pelican in beautiful, warm, golden light at the refuge. I enjoyed having the pelican in my viewfinder. That is joy. It’s all good.

Life is good.

Mia

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