Sharp-tailed Grouse two males interacting
This image shows a dramatic and infrequent example of contact between two displaying male Sharp-tailed Grouse. This unfolded at a lek (accessible by permission) in southern Alberta, Canada. It is a privilege to be able to visit this place, although on this most recent occasion we were surprised and disappointed to have people who had clearly not made the required arrangements show up after the birds had started displaying (which could have potentially caused the Sharp-tailed Grouse to abandon a longstanding lek). This is a species sensitive to disturbance, which has lost many sites in recent times.
In another breach of the required etiquette, the same people who arrived late (and set up a tent rather than use the provided blind) left before the displays were completely finished — another possible cause of loss of this rare site. This represented a further instance of thoughtlessness, apparently prompted by the desire to get a few photos. I’m a bird photographer myself, and this appalling behaviour is what can alienate people who then judge others by this kind of selfish nonsense.
Hopefully such inconsideration will not recur and the birds at this amazing location will continue to utilize it for their essential breeding activity, while thoughtful and cooperative people will have the opportunity to experience a powerful aspect of Nature’s ways
Sharp-tailed Grouse two males interacting
This image shows a dramatic and infrequent example of contact between two displaying male Sharp-tailed Grouse. This unfolded at a lek (accessible by permission) in southern Alberta, Canada. It is a privilege to be able to visit this place, although on this most recent occasion we were surprised and disappointed to have people who had clearly not made the required arrangements show up after the birds had started displaying (which could have potentially caused the Sharp-tailed Grouse to abandon a longstanding lek). This is a species sensitive to disturbance, which has lost many sites in recent times.
In another breach of the required etiquette, the same people who arrived late (and set up a tent rather than use the provided blind) left before the displays were completely finished — another possible cause of loss of this rare site. This represented a further instance of thoughtlessness, apparently prompted by the desire to get a few photos. I’m a bird photographer myself, and this appalling behaviour is what can alienate people who then judge others by this kind of selfish nonsense.
Hopefully such inconsideration will not recur and the birds at this amazing location will continue to utilize it for their essential breeding activity, while thoughtful and cooperative people will have the opportunity to experience a powerful aspect of Nature’s ways