The Drummer
I debated for quite a while on whether or not I should post this. It was taken under extremely harsh lighting conditions. Although It is not quite fully back-lit, I was shooting into at least quartered light. And I have to admit to doing a bit of post processing to pull out some definition.
I finally gave in and posted it because, although the lighting is off, I rather liked the pose and perch. Additionally, I wanted to share an experience that was a first for me. When I initially saw this fellow he was drumming on the log. In fact, I doubt I would have spotted him if it had not been for the wing movement
If you look at the dried golden rod stalk in the background and compare it to the color in his rump-ruff you can see why these guys are virtually impossible to detect in ground cover.
I have heard grouse drumming from a distance but never witnessed the action --- it was utterly amazing.
He drummed and strutted along the log for a minute or so allowing me to click away .........Then jumped off the back side and quite literally melted into the surrounding autumn foliage. Meanwhile, I stood there dumb struck wondering if I had simply conjured his visit.
I did get another image or two that showed the wing action and some of his dance steps. But I felt they were to washed even for documentary shots. However, I am grateful for having witnessed this phenomenon and at least wanted to share the experience.
The Drummer
I debated for quite a while on whether or not I should post this. It was taken under extremely harsh lighting conditions. Although It is not quite fully back-lit, I was shooting into at least quartered light. And I have to admit to doing a bit of post processing to pull out some definition.
I finally gave in and posted it because, although the lighting is off, I rather liked the pose and perch. Additionally, I wanted to share an experience that was a first for me. When I initially saw this fellow he was drumming on the log. In fact, I doubt I would have spotted him if it had not been for the wing movement
If you look at the dried golden rod stalk in the background and compare it to the color in his rump-ruff you can see why these guys are virtually impossible to detect in ground cover.
I have heard grouse drumming from a distance but never witnessed the action --- it was utterly amazing.
He drummed and strutted along the log for a minute or so allowing me to click away .........Then jumped off the back side and quite literally melted into the surrounding autumn foliage. Meanwhile, I stood there dumb struck wondering if I had simply conjured his visit.
I did get another image or two that showed the wing action and some of his dance steps. But I felt they were to washed even for documentary shots. However, I am grateful for having witnessed this phenomenon and at least wanted to share the experience.