A Winter Quest

I am on a quest. A mission? Perhaps an adventure of sorts. Regardless, this winter my goal is to find and snap a picture of an owl, but not just any owl, the best of owls, a snowy owl.

It’s my first year searching for this elusive bird - I’ve scoured local birding groups online along with asking around at local birding events seeking precious intel on where to begin my adventure. Fortunately for me, I’ve learned that a pair hangs out about 30 miles north of my home on the shoreline of Lake Michigan.

In late December, I headed for the lake shore - it was a rainy, foggy, wet afternoon. I didn’t have a lot of hope but my goal wasn’t to find the owl but to find out where they are. You see, I’ve never been where they frequent and wanted to get acquainted with the area.

A Common Goldeneye - Fujifilm X-S20 | 600m | f5.6

Success, at least in finding the location - it’s right on the lakeshore, with plenty of open area to scan for birds and sit cozily in my vehicle while I wait for the birds to show. Unfortunately, they never did. However, I was able to capture a Common Goldeneye along with some Redheads. None of the pictures really turned out too well, but that’s OK.

I really hate being cold and it’s been quite a cold winter already. This has prevented me from wanting to get out and snap pictures. I truly appreciate how this new adventure will enable me to get out there, capture some memories and stay warm in my car!

Next step…Head out in a few days when the sun is out, the sky is blue and the sun is rising. I’ll be sure to keep you in the know on my adventure.

A rainy, snowy, cold day… Fujifilm X-S20 | 600mm | f5.6

While I wait for this adventure to carry on, back-yard birds will have to do…

Until next time, thanks for reading.

-Nathan