This “Gray Ghost” was giving me a look that said he truly didn’t trust me.
- This is an older image that I posted years ago. When I ran across it again last night I realized I didn’t like the way I had processed it back then so I’ve reprocessed it and then decided to publish it once more.
1/1250, f/5.6, ISO 800, Canon 7D, Canon EF 500mm f/4L IS USM + EF 1.4 III Extender, not baited, set up or called in
Because of the position of his feet and legs some might assume the bird had just taken off but that’s not the case. He had been in the air for some time as he hunted very “low and slow” – so slow that he’s in danger of stalling in flight which accounts for his widely flared tail and leg position. He had been looking down most of the time but as he got closer to me he would occasionally look in my direction to make sure I wasn’t a threat.
This dubious look is similar to one I used to get from my ex-wife (deservedly so, I’m sure) and it always makes me smile. I hope my readers will enjoy it too.
Ron
Wow, wonderful picture. My Hubby says I give him the same look.
They do not need to be EX to generate looks like that.
Wonderful image and enjoyable commentary Ron…just an amazing capture!
Thanks very much, UBL.
LOVE that look. I may have to amend today’s to-do list and set aside significant amounts of time to practising it. While mourning the lack of talons to back it up.
Just the look is usually enough, EC… 🙂
WOW!! Now there’s some eye candy and what a spectacular capture!!
Have I ever mentioned that I love stink eye? Seriously, I do, despite the fact that it means that I COULD be prey (especially for the Kestrel!). Granted, I change my behavior immediately if not sooner (unless I’m cleaning the mews chambers). I KNOW I’m edible. But it’s just such CLEAR communication. The Queen is displeased and that’s never good 🙂
Thank you, Laura.
Hey! I try to GIVE that look sometimes!!! So what’s it to you!!!??? Used to give it ti my kids…now I only have my husband to glower at…I feel deprived!!!
Not too deprived…give it to the TV, along with howls of outrage, everytime the orange idiot appears….
Watch Rachel Maddow! VBG!
I love Rachel!! 🙂
As yoo may have figured, so do I!! : ))
We love her too!! 😀
Dare I say birds of a feather? Speaking of feathers, spend the day with two 12-day-old Harris’ hawks! YAY! I love raptors (birds in general and critters, but y’all know that…LOL!)
Bahahahaha! The story behind this shot is so much fun!
🙂
Your photographic skills are unequaled!
That’s high praise, Linda. Thank you.
My cat gives me that look sometime, too! But it’s a lot more menacing coming from this guy. Amazing image — so glad you reposted it.
Thank you, Chris.
“gear down” and ex-wives. Thank you Ron, your near daily posts continue to amuse and educate.
Amusement and education – a great combination IMO. Thanks, Kelly.
I love those eyes, and love them on your owl shots too, thanks Ron! 😊
Agreed, the eyes of adult male harriers are pretty neat!
Wow, such an intense look! Great picture, Ron!
Thank you, Susan.
A beautiful photography and funny comment. Love the “ex-wife” joke. 🙂
Thanks, Joanne. Are you sure it was a joke…? 🙂 🙂
Man, if looks could kill…
Yup…
A wonderful image, but it makes me feel like a vole….that bird means business!
He was very serious about his hunting, Patty and I don’t think he appreciated me being that close to him.
What’s not to enjoy about this image? It’s always wonderful to see a Gray Ghost, even when they give you that kind of look. Wish I could get that close to one!
Thanks, Susan. I don’t get this close very often (actually he came in close to me…)
My ex-wife used to look at me that way at times, too, but her talons weren’t relaxe: like this when she did so.
🙂
Beautiful bird and shot, Ron. 🙂 They can go amazingly slow as I watched one do over a hay field recently! It’s a universal “look” 🙂
It’s surprising they can stay in the air at that speed!
Gee I get that look all the time!! VBG!!
Great shot Ron.
I used to, Dick and I don’t miss it now…
Life is too short to be stressed by those looks!
Great pose & capture! Thanks for sharing.
I’m glad you like it, Elmer.
Sensational shot Ron!
Charlotte
Thanks, Charlotte.