Thanks to some generous readers, we now have about four batches of wildlife photos. But we always need more, you know.
I’m delighted today to welcome back ace bird photographer Colin Franks, who contributed a batch of photos that haven’t been published here. Colin’s website is here, his Facebook page is here (lots of new bird photos), and his Instagram page is here. His text and IDs are indented below:
It’s been a little over three years since my diagnosis of PLS (a form of ALS). In spite of major changes in my life due to that, and a steady decline of my balance and walking, I continued with my bird photography as long as I could. Back in July of this year I made my final post on FB and IG, as I could no longer negotiate the terrain required. It was a very sad time. About a week ago I discovered and purchased an “All-Terrain” walker, and this has allowed me to once again visit some of my old haunts. There is still much in the way of gnarlier terrain that I cannot traverse, but at least I can keep on a little while with this great pastime. Here are some older shots not yet shared on WEIT.
American Kestrel (Falco sparverius):
Common Yellowthroat (Geothlypis trichas):
Spotted Towhee (Pipilo maculatus):
Great Blue Heron (Ardea herodias):
Barred Owl (Strix varia):
Long-billed Curlew (Numenius americanus):
Anna’s Hummingbird (Calypte anna):
Cedar Waxwing (Bombycilla cedrorum):
Marbled Godwit (Limosa fedoa):
Barn Swallow (Hirundo rustica):
Western Sandpiper (Calidris mauri):
Black-bellied Plover (Pluvialis squatarola):
Osprey (Pandion haliaetus):
These are really great, thanks! So glad that you are able to continue to engage in what brings you joy. And that you generously share it with us here.
Amazing photos! You captured more than the physical beauty of the birds, you also gave us an insight into their behavior and personality. So glad you can continue to get out there and keep taking these Wonderfull photos!
Gorgeous!
Glad to hear some technological assistance means a bright outlook – I suppose “drone” photography would be too noisy or dangerous for the birds/other wildlife – or perhaps there is clever “drone” tech just for wildlife applications?
Drones are great for landscape photography, and while they might work well for overhead shots/video of whales and such things, they are generally very disruptive to animals, especially birds.
Just lovely, Colin. Thank you! Sad to hear of your decline, but glad that you have found some assistive technology to get you back out a bit.
These are just sensational! I’m so glad you have found a way to continue even though you have limitations.
Thank you for this incredible post.
Beautiful photographs. Glad you have found a way to continue your work.
I would happíly sell my children into slavery to be able to take such great pix.
Hah! I second that sentiment, and would ALMOST sell my cats to be able to take such surreally wonderful photos.
Incredible photos.
All I can say is Wow!
So beautiful. And I’m glad that you’re still able to enjoy your amazing pastime.
These photos are absolutely gorgeous and breath-taking! I especially love the cedar waxwing with its mouth full of perhaps dragon fly?
It’s incredible that you can still do this level of photography, and you are an inspiration! Thank you.
Magnificent photos of beautiful birds. I love how you captured several of the subjects lighted against solid-color backdrops.
Absolutely beautiful.
Thank you for bringing these incredible images to us! It made my day so much richer.
These photos make me speechless. Also, bless the all terrain walker for giving you some of your old haunts back. .
Stunning photographs! Thank you.
Gorgeous photos Colin! You are a master. Thank you for sharing these.
I’m so glad you found that aid to your movement. And I am sorry for your loss of mobility (a terrifying prospect to me). Hang in there!
Beautiful shots of birds in action! Thanks Colin!
Nice shot of the tomia in the beak of the Black-bellied Plover. I didn’t know that they had those.
These are absolutely awesome. Thank you.
Hey thanks very much for that. Nice post.
Thank you so very much for these absolutely gorgeous photographs (actually they are works of art). They have made my day (and week) richer, and I hope you continue to be able to get out in whatever way possible to enrich both your life and ours.
These photos reward close inspection, that’s for sure! Maybe someone can help me out as to what the Osprey is carrying, but regardless, it’s a great photo, as are the rest.
It’s a flounder/sole. A flat fish common on the west coast.
Terrific photos. I especially liked the two barn swallows – a wonderful balletic composition.
Fantastic images Colin!
Kudos to you!
Just one more “thank you” for these. Super special photos! Love all the action you caught. Beautiful shots.
Phenomenal!
These were so incredible that I guessed you must have a photography website and was delighted to find you did. I haven’t had time to look through it all yet, but have bookmarked it for further captivating browsing. Gorgeous! Thank you!
Colin, thank you for these beautiful photos! They helped me to identify a bird I’ve been seeing around here… the Long-Billed Curlew!