A Wildlife Photographer’s Christmas in Arkansas

Christmas morning started overcast, windy and cool here in Arkansas. Even without snow, the day felt right for getting outside. I look forward to a Wildlife Photographer’s Christmas in Arkansas every year because the quiet trails and lakes make wildlife easier to spot.

Christmas Morning Wildlife Activity

Most people stay indoors, which means the parks and waterways stay calm. I like to use that quiet time to see which birds and mammals move through the area. On days like this, I often find waterfowl, songbirds and the occasional deer near open fields. I stay hopeful for a fox or bobcat slipping along the edge of the timber.

Simple Beauty in Winter Scenes

Even without a winter storm, the bare trees, gray sky and still water create clean backgrounds for photos. This is when shapes and behavior stand out. The winter light helps me tell the story of a Wildlife Photographer’s Christmas in Arkansas in a more subtle way.

A Few Christmas Day Wildlife Images

Here are some of the images I captured on Christmas Day:

Whitetail Buck photographed during a Wildlife Photographer’s Christmas in Arkansas
Whitetail Buck Standing In A Pasture
Red-tailed Hawk during a Wildlife Photographer’s Christmas in Arkansas
Red-tailed Hawk Perched on the Bare Branch of a Tree
Bald Eagle soaring on a Wildlife Photographer’s Christmas in Arkansas
Bald Eagle Soaring Overhead Against The Winter Sky

Finding Balance on Christmas Day

I enjoy getting outside with my camera, but I also set time aside for family. Christmas is a day for connection. I make sure my photography trips fit around meals and time with the people I care about.

Learn More About Arkansas Wildlife

If you want to explore more winter behavior, take a look at my post on the Great Blue Heron Winter Adaptations. It shows how birds handle cold conditions in the Natural State.

Merry Christmas from the Natural State

Thank you for following along on this Wildlife Photographer’s Christmas in Arkansas. I hope your holiday is filled with calm moments outdoors and warm moments indoors. Merry Christmas from the Natural State.

4 thoughts on “A Wildlife Photographer’s Christmas in Arkansas”

  1. Thank you for a lovely essay, and the photos – all wonderful Christmas gifts. Merry Christmas to you and best wishes for 2024.

    Reply

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