The young ones

While the heat has made everyone a bit scarce these days, there are still quite a few young ones out in the morning, following their parents around, and taking advantage of the cooler temperatures (if one can call 80 cool!). Click on pictures to enlarge.

 

Starlings

© Chris Taylor

Robin

© Chris Taylor

Northern Cardinal

© Chris Taylor

Gray Catbird

© Chris Taylor

 

 

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What is vegan nature photography?

I have seen quite a few articles lately regarding using electronic devices and other means to call birds. This activity is done by both birders and bird photographers to get a closer view of the bird. This act is at best selfish and unethical. At worst, this practice can put birds’ lives in danger. Given how many people think this behavior is acceptable, I thought this would be a good time to explain what vegan nature photography is.

Do not intentionally flush birds

While walking down paths, it is often impossible not to unintentionally flush a few birds. If this happens, back up a bit and try to avoid creating any additional stress. Never intentionally flush groups of birds to “get a better look.”  Particularly during migration, birds are stopping to rest on a very long journey. Avoid causing them more stress.

Stay on the path

Many animals nest on the ground or use ground material for cover in the winter. Avoid straying off paths so you do not disturb anyone.

Do not use electronic devices to call birds

“Playback” is never ethical. Playing bird song to get a closer look causes a great deal of stress for birds. If one cannot see the birds from the path, etc., and does not have the time to wait, use the “better luck next time” philosophy. Go home; try again later. (I would go as far to say that a photographer who uses these devices to attract birds for pictures is not much of a photographer.)

Be respectful of nests and dens

If you run into a nest, den, or any other home, be respectful of that animal’s space. Most humans would not be too happy about people coming by and opening the doors to their houses just to see what/who is inside. Have the same respect for nonhuman animals. Do not open nest boxes (unless you are the caretaker for that nest box).

Always use digital photography

No matter how much of “purist” one thinks he or she is, using a film camera is not vegan. Film and film processing are not vegan. Use digital equipment and vegan photo paper. Canon and several other companies make acceptable photo paper. When getting prints elsewhere, just ask the company what kinds of paper they use.

It is our responsibility as photographers to not only share our vision with others so they can appreciate the world through our lens, it is also our responsibility to take care of the community that provides us with these beautiful images. Without them, we have no pictures. Please help take care of this world, for all of us.

© Chris Taylor

 

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Tomato thief

I am very happy to share with the squirrels. We regularly put out apple cores and other goodies. However, this  young squirrel delights in green roma tomatoes. While, I watched, he ate about half of one and discarded it. He then started back toward the patio for more with no regard that I was standing right in front of the plant. I couldn’t stop laughing. He stopped short of taking another one while I was there, but of course, he came back later.  Click on pictures to enlarge.

 

© Chris Taylor

© Chris Taylor

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Bountiful Bunnies

We are privileged to have a yard full of rabbits right now. At one time or another, we’ve counted four babies, at least four juveniles, and two adults. It’s wonderful to watch the young ones playing and eating, and eating, and eating. Click on pictures to enlarge.

© Chris Taylor

© Chris Taylor

© Chris Taylor

© Chris Taylor

© Chris Taylor

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