September 4 is National Wildlife Day in the United States. It is a day for the creatures we share the planet with. This Bald Eagle, perched on a bare branch against a clean blue sky, is the photo I chose for it.
Why National Wildlife Day Matters To Me
The day honors the species that live in our lands and waters. I feel a deep connection to the natural world, and I count myself lucky to photograph these animals in their own homes. Watching an animal go about its life, and catching a moment of it through my lens, never gets old. Every species has its place, from tiny frogs to whitetail deer.
Bald Eagles are high on my list whenever one sits still for me. If eagles are your thing too, here is one of my favorite perch shots: Bald Eagle Taking Off From a Favorite Refuge Perch.
The Threats Wildlife Faces
A lot of animal populations are going down, and the reasons are plain. Habitat loss and pollution do real damage. Climate change and poaching add to it.
I think the day is a good time to look at our own impact and own up to it. Small steps help more than people expect. Recycling, using less plastic, and backing conservation organizations are all within reach, and simple acts add up.
How I Photograph Without Getting In The Way
Out in the field I try to be mindful of the animal first and the photo second. An animal that is resting or feeding does not need me crowding it. My goal is to witness a fleeting moment without causing the animal any stress, and then share that glimpse with you.
Our lives are tied up with theirs. I want these species around for the generations coming after us, and I feel lucky to share these glimpses of the wild with you.
Camera settings for the eagle photo:
- Camera: Canon EOS R7
- Focal length: 800 mm
- Aperture: f/11
- Shutter speed: 1/1000 sec
- ISO: 1250
Tell me in the comments how you plan to mark the day.