Posted on

Feathers and Friends

Scroll down to see more content

Have I been missed? It’s been so long since I’ve been here (at least it feels that way to me). Blame the Forest. I just can’t keep away. I’ve taken so many pictures that if I posted all of them, well, let’s just say, we’d be here forever and a day.

Obsessed I have been with Wood Ducks. These ducks do not wish to be seen and do their ultimate best to avoid people. One day I was actually hiding behind a tree waiting for a male and female to come out from some bushes they were in. Meanwhile on the other end of the pond, two very loud (yak yak yak) people with a very ugly and threatening looking tripod were making these poor ducks shake with fear.

Blatant disrespect for Nature brings out my Inner Warrior. 

So, I came out from where I was hiding, swiftly walked all the way around this pond and stood next to these two folk, asking them if they had any idea how much water magnifies sound and that their talking sounded as if they were using a megaphone. Stunned I witnessed them not even caring how scared they had made these ducks, but instead just kept on with the loud.

The moment these two ignoramuses left, however, these Wood Ducks skeedaddled out of hiding and you betcha, I got ‘um! Sure they knew I was there! And they trusted me. Bless them!

Here’s my gallery of Wood Ducks. Please please don’t miss this! These ducks were on the endangered species list and have slowly been coming back in number. Their beauty astounds me! Besides, it took me hours just to find them in the park I go to. Click on first picture to gain access to the Wood Duck Gallery.

Yep! This male Wood Duck was wayyyyy up in a tree. Who knew ducks perched on trees? I sure did not!
My attempt at flying Wood Ducks. At least I tried.
Another attempt at a flying Wood Duck.
Male Wood Duck in hot pursuit of a female.
Stunning male!
Lovers … Male and female Wood Duck who came out of hiding for me to be able to take their picture.
Another male Wood Duck.

 

Lots of turtles have been around. And lots of pictures I took as well. For you, however, two I chose.

Turtle sunning … cool reflection
Reflections in this picture wayyyyy cool. Here are two turtles hanging out
Close-up of the 2 turtles

 

Birds. Wow! If I showed all of the birds I saw …. but not! Here are some for you to enjoy. Click on first image to get into gallery.

Female Red Bellied Woodpecker
Male Red Bellied Woodpecker
Female Flicker
Female Golden Winged Warbler
Thrasher (???)
Male Cardinal
Turkey Vulture
Bald Eagle that flew over Hubby and I as we stood in our driveway. By the time I got my camera, this is what I saw. This is a SIGN Bella made it HOME.

 

Lastly, I have some more ducks to show you.

Male and female Mallard Ducks
Hooded Merganser
Male Mallard Duck
Female Buffleheads
Male Bufflehead

I’m not telling which ones are what, but there are pictures in this post taken with my new Canon EOS 5D MarkIV camera. I set only the bare minimum on this camera so that I would be able to use it yesterday. It is going to take me a while to understand fully this machine. Wow!! I am impressed! And I am sooooooo grateful that I now am using one of my Dreams. May all of you have a glorious Sunday!!

*First picture is Pussy Willows, a sure sign of Spring*
~~~~~~~

Photography/ “Feathers And Friends”/ April 2019©AmyRose
http://www.herladypinkrose.wordpress.com

 

110 thoughts on “Feathers and Friends”

    1. You are so welcome! I’m so happy you stopped by to see this post. It was not easy to choose which images to show you. Life at this time of year happens so quickly and my camera with me is flying. Have a great Sunday today!! 🦋🦋🦋

      Like

      Reply

    1. You should see the ALL that I documented. Hundreds of pictures. I am so fortunate to have this beautiful park so close by. It is so convenient for me to be able to jump out of a busy schedule for a few hours. I’m so very happy you came by to see what Mother has shown to me. May you have a wonderful Sunday! 🦋🦋🦋

      Liked by 1 person

      Reply

  4. Hi Amy! So good to see you again and with all our feathered friends in tow. The photos are gorgeous. Loud people in the silence of the woods is the bane of my hubby’s existence. I’m so glad you have a new walking companion and using it makes you happy. I know that feeling well. Enjoy, my friend!

    Liked by 1 person

    Reply

    1. Thank you, Cheryl. I’ve been recovering from the incredible strikes life had for me. Thank you for saying my photos are gorgeous. I’m still a bit “off” with my eye and my steady hands, due to what life brought into my life. But I’m getting there. As for loud people in a park, especially this one that is a preserve park, my angst comes to the surface. Why this park does not post signs saying …. “Remember whose home you are in. Please be quiet.” is totally behind me. People just don’t get it, dear friend. Forests deserve the silence and Peace that is rightfully theirs. And yes my new companion is my dream come true. Have a great Sunday today!! 🦋🦋🦋

      Liked by 2 people

      Reply

  5. Loving the wildlife photos! I’ve never seen a wood duck before. They are beautiful! People – really? Anyway, at least they didn’t carry on talking so you could get these great shots! I couldn’t tell which photos were from your new camera – I’d need a trained eye!! Have a lovely day! Much love, Donna

    Liked by 1 person

    Reply

    1. Thank you, Donna. Now you know why I’ve been so quiet. (smile) Yeah … people. Why should they respect Nature when they don’t even respect people? My presence next to them spoke volumes …. I purposely made them uncomfortable. I sighed a huge sigh of relief when they left as did too those ducks. No worries about not being able to tell which photos are from what camera. Even I had a hard time. Have a great day and much Love to you!! 🦋🦋🦋

      Liked by 1 person

      Reply

    1. Thank you, Amy! This camera is complex! Oh my goodness! Just to figure out all of its functions will probably take me years. I am SOOOOO fortunately to have been able to achieve my dream camera. YAY! And I am really thrilled you enjoyed my feathers and friends. Much Love to you!! 🦋🦋🦋

      Liked by 1 person

      Reply

    1. Thank you so much, Cathy. I’ve been at this park almost every day, and every day I feel stronger and better after all I’ve been through. Shooting over 300 pictures with each visit, or thereabouts, it was not easy to choose the “few” that I have shown here. SO glad you enjoyed this post!! Thank you so much for stopping by and commenting! Happy Sunday! 🦋🦋🦋

      Like

      Reply

  10. Hello my beautiful friend! My…how busy you have been! The shots are STUNNING!! And it doesn’t surprise me that the ducks trusted you. I know you have a connection with nature that is honest and truthful! So here’s to you and your new DREAM MACHINE!! Wow…what you will create…I can’t wait to see it.
    So happy that you are seeing signs of spring…it seems that she is taking her sweet time! Much love and light to you, dear Amy!! ❤ ❤

    Liked by 1 person

    Reply

    1. I’ve been busy, Lorrie. You bet I have. And this what you have seen is only the tip of the iceberg. I’ve officially walked away from my cellphone and tons of time have opened up for me.

      SOOOOOO happy you came by for a feast for your eyes and senses, and Heart. Oh yes Mother allows me entrance into Her world because yes I can be trusted. And about my camera ….. some of the pictures on this post were taken with them. (Canon EOS 5D MKIV) Perhaps I’ll show it on a future post so that everyone can see my amazing machine!

      I agree that Spring is sure taking Her time this year. Did you notice the snow in the pic of the pussy willows? And today it’s pouring rain and freezing. Sigh. Much Love and Light right back at you! (((HUGS))) 🦋🦋🦋

      Liked by 1 person

      Reply

      1. I’m happy you found a way to free up some time. It never ceases to amaze me at how fast time seems to be moving. I, too, need to find more time to accomplish all that I want to do.
        Sweet blessings my friend! Enjoy your time with your new “machine!” Much love 💜💜☀️☀️

        Liked by 1 person

    1. I LOVE those Wood Ducks, Holly. One day I searched hours high and low in every single pond for a sign of these ducks. There must be at least 12-13 ponds, at least. Finally a woman crossed paths with me and I asked her if she saw any and she gave me a clue where to look. These ducks hide. They see you coming and they fly off. Or they go in bushes in swampy ponds so you can’t photograph them. They are super smart but I managed to finally get shots of them. They are mating and nesting right now and are very very nervous around people.

      I’m so happy you came by to see this post. It represents many many trips to this Sacred Forest to gain sanity and health back. May your Sunday be a great one for you!! 🦋🦋🦋

      Liked by 1 person

      Reply

      2. You might get Wood Ducks, Holly, and don’t know it. They do not show themselves easily. I had NO idea we had them here until someone last year told me about them. And I again thank you for your compliment. SOOO do appreciate your kindness!! (((HUGS)))!!

        Liked by 1 person

  13. We are having a blizzard today. All day. Sigh. Your pictures are beautiful and people are horrible. How awful to scare the ducks, and everyone else . It’s one thing to not realize that you’re being loud but when someone TELLS you that you’re hurting the wildlife and they keep doing it…THAT’S why we can’t all be friends. Hope you’re feeling okay.

    Liked by 1 person

    Reply

    1. Gigi, believe me, some of what I see in this NATURE PRESERVE makes me want to shake some sense into people. There are social photographic groups that go there that are more interested in moving their mouths then their fingers on the shutter buttons. This park has been getting a lot of funding, thus the increase in people, people who have NO respect for Nature. They actually have tours now with noisy misbehaving kids and the tour guides say nothing! These geese, ducks and birds are mating and nesting right now, and are very nervous as it is. IMO this park should post signs all over the place that say …. “Remember whose home you are in. Maintain quiet at all times.” Again and again I’ve gone into the office to say something, and their attitude is a shrug and “What are ya gonna do?” type of thing. Grrrrrrr ….. When I see someone disrespecting Nature, I say something.

      Anyways …. “steps of the stage” … it’s pouring here, and temps in the 30’s. Sorry about your snow, by the way. BUMMER! Thank you for coming on over to see my beautiful pictures. I will continue to be an advocate for Wildlife and animals at large. Someone someday is bound to HEAR me. BIG HUGS, dear friend. Your comment made my day!!! 💞🌈💞

      Like

      Reply

  15. I love the wood ducks❤️I really understand that you are in the woods, it is so peaceful and amazing beeing in it🦋
    I enjoy reading this, and the pictures you are taken, is amazing. I see birds and animals that we do not have in Norway and it is so beautiful. Lucky I am who can follow and read your blog, thank you very much❤️🌹
    Bless you❤️

    Liked by 1 person

    Reply

    1. I’m gaining my health and sanity and strength back in that Forest, Lillian. The weather has turned ugly as of today and I’m hoping it clears up so I can get back into the Forest. Blogging is so cool in that we can share what we have and vice versa. My face is smiling as I write this to you. Thank you so much for seeing this post. Bless you! 🦋🦋🦋

      Liked by 1 person

      Reply

      1. I am so grateful to you❤️I understand you so well to going out in that forest🦋it is a peace to your soul, I think. It is that to me. I hope the weather is better now. Enjoy your day and filled with love🌹
        Hugs🦋❤️

        Liked by 1 person

    1. I’ve been consistently with my passion, Ann. I just haven’t been here for a while. I’d rather be out in the Forest then blogging right now. My Heart requires much healing. Blessings to you and (((HUGS)))!! 🦋🦋🦋

      Liked by 1 person

      Reply

    1. Aw, gee, thank you, Erika. I just am not able to get enough of this park right now. I’m healing in so many ways. I’m so happy with a smile on my face …. I Love showing what I LOVE. (((HUGS)))!! 🦋🦋🦋

      Liked by 1 person

      Reply

      1. I can feel how deep this all reaches inside of you and what a depth gets conveyed in your posts. Truly a renewal process. Spring is such a healing time. Lots of love to you, dear Amy💖

        Liked by 1 person

  18. These are magic Amy, it must be beautiful to wander around with all of that nature to be a part of ❤
    Your new camera will take a bit of time to get used to. My last camera I was setting up perfectly (on a stand) but each time I took a picture it was blurry. I couldn't work out what was going wrong. It wasn't until the 'camera man' told me that because of the fine area I was focusing on, that each time I pressed the button I was just slightly moving the camera. He got me to use a remote button and the problem went away. I was amazed, and glad that I could begin to take pictures properly. He also said there is no such thing as never learning anything, it is a world all its own 😀
    Thank you for sharing your world (and new camera 😀 ) dear lady, I'm looking forward to it ❤

    Liked by 1 person

    Reply

    1. Oh thank you so much, Mark. I put a lot of effort into this post and could have posted more pictures but I said, that’s enough. As for cameras …. I noticed that with some of these pictures the super sharp tack on image wasn’t there. I thought it was me being a bit shaky. Boy was I relieved to find out that the Image Stabilizer on my long lens was set on the wrong setting! Somehow it got changed and because of that one little change, I should see a big improvement the next time I use my camera. This machine is a dream come true. I LOVE the way it feels in my hands, and my hands already know where to go. It’s as though I was made for this camera. I have this huge manual (almost 500 pages) to read and to learn how to properly use this camera. I set only the bare minimum so I could use it yesterday but even with those I goofed too. I had to go back and fix my “mistakes”. It’s a learning process and I’m willing to do it. I really LOVE this form of art. And you are so very welcome for my sharing. I have a huge smile on my face right now! Bless you, Mark, for this comment! 🦋🦋🦋

      Liked by 1 person

      Reply

      1. Be proud of what you are achieving Amy, you are also trying to do the one thing that will test any photographer…motion. Some of your shots are amazing in how you catch things mid flight etc, the hardest thing to do 😀
        Mind you, your gift allows them to come close with no fear and present their best sides too 😀

        Liked by 1 person

      2. Bless you for the encouragement. I read in a camera book that the hardest thing to photograph is a bird in flight. I’ve yet to use my new camera to see if I can improve, but you know me, you bet I will try! And yes …. Mother’s Creations trust me because Mother Herself allows me entrance into Her World in ways that many do not know about. 🌈🦋🌈

        Liked by 1 person

    1. Aw, thank you so much, Zia! I absolutely have zero doubt that the Eagle was a sign. I’ve never seen one fly as low as this one did, and right over us. Bless YOU for the encouraging words about my photographs. It helps motivate me to keep on doing what I am. What I don’t say in these posts is the all I go through at times just to capture wildlife. Small story …. My path crossed that of 3 women and they were blown away at the size of my camera/lens. They each wanted to hold my camera/lens because I told them how heavy it was. The look of astonishment on all their faces was priceless! All of them said they did not know how I did what I do. (smile) Told them this keeps me in shape. LOL Have a great day!! 🦋🦋🦋

      Liked by 1 person

      Reply

  22. Amy, the Wood Duck is spectacular! All your shots are capturing our wonderful Mother Earth, beautifully. It was a great visit here, today.
    My deepest sympathies about Bella. (Diamonds are forever)
    Sending love and all the best!
    -Resaxx

    Liked by 1 person

    Reply

    1. THANK YOU, Resa, for again visiting! Lately I’d rather be out in the Forest then on my computer. Just cannot get enough of Nature …. and yes I’m healing. Bless you what you said about Bella. This time, due to the fact we took our time to say goodbye and we handled her body personally, AND we have known for a while she was going downhill, even though it’s only been 2 weeks since she died, ALL in this house are doing amazingly well. There have been some deaths within this family when these cats get so ill and I basically collapse. I am SO relieved this time, that is not happening. Much Love to you and BIG (((HUGS)))!!! XO PS That is not saying I don’t miss her! Oh Lord, do I!! 🐾🐾🐾

      Liked by 1 person

      Reply

      1. Our babies are our babies! When they’re gone, they’re missed. 💙💔💙
        I know what you mean about having places you’d rather be than on the computer. For you it’s nature/forest taking pics. For me it’s walking, looking for street art, taking pics. Or, hidden away in my studio, no phone on, etc. just music and making a gown. Sending big hugs!!! xoxoxo

        Liked by 1 person

  23. The wood ducks are fabulous — I always enjoy those. And turtles, too. What a great woods to play in 🙂
    Today my family laughed at me when I got the binoculars to watch the expectant robin on the apple tree. She was just bursting with babies to be, and I got a right good look at her, I don’t care if they laughed. I thought of you and how you’d break out some fab camera and get the shot, but on my end, it was just me and my binoculars in a kitchen of laughter! 😛 I guess she’s nesting in the adjacent pine, so maybe we’ll see wee birdies soon!

    Liked by 1 person

    Reply

    1. I am SO lucky to have this Nature Preserve literally right around the corner from us, Joey. And you can tell your family from me, that they do NOT know what they are missing. Nature is where it’s at. Good for you for taking the jibes and insisting on looking at Mrs. Robin. Tell family that I watched and yes photographed one male goose who protected his mate from TWO males. The fight was ferocious! It lasted about 10 minutes. At one point the goose pushed his mate under water to get her away from the two attacking males, and a collective gasp was heard from the group of people I was standing with. “Where is she? Is she OK? Did she drown?” And we watched, holding our breaths hoping to see her again. She did pop back up far away from the fighting geese. They really meant business! Never have I seen anything like this. And yes that one male goose won, not only keeping his mate safe, but their nest as well. I hope to be seeing little geese soon just as you are hoping to see little Robins soon. You’re the SMART one. In my humble opinion! GO, Joey!! 👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼

      Like

      Reply

      1. Your work not only takes our breath away, but reminds us of the wonder and beauty of this world. So, thank *you* for sharing the love and inspiration. Even during challenging times. ❤

        Liked by 1 person

    1. I’ve never seen a duck in a tree before! I honestly could not believe my eyes. Perhaps this is why these ducks are called Wood Ducks? I don’t know. But to see this duck perched wayyyyyyy up (pic is cropped) blew me away. I’m so happy you enjoyed my images. It is a pleasure to bring you along with me. Bless you!! 🦋🦋🦋

      Liked by 1 person

      Reply

    1. Aw, thank you, Eliza! I’ve been in this Forest so often of late, just allowing the “energy” to heal my crying Heart. And while there, I am seeing the most amazing things!! SO happy you came by to see what I have been. Nature is just awesome, and will be until my last breath! 🦋🦋🦋

      Liked by 1 person

      Reply

  27. I love the photographs although the Hooded Merganser is a Ring-necked Duck in my opinion. I wish I could help you with the bird that you think is a thrasher but that is beyond my knowledge, I’m afraid.

    Liked by 1 person

    Reply

    1. Hmmmm …. I got my information from others in the park, John. I actually looked up what a Hooded Merganser looks like and truthfully the pictures I saw were not exactly what I photographed. Thank you for the correction. It is not easy to ID these feathered ones. I’m glad you enjoyed this post. May your day be a wonderful one! 🦋🦋🦋

      Like

      Reply

    1. Ahhhh, thank you, Sonia. It’s so good to be back at this Moment. I’m humbled that you come here to see what I do. Mother is so generous to me and I LOVE to share what She gives me. 💖🦋🌹🌱💝

      Liked by 1 person

      Reply

  30. Your pictures are fantastic AR….I am thinking the ones with real clarity are from your new camera? I didn’t know you were going to get it so quickly! Good for you 🙂 Now if the rain would just stop I know where you will be! Have a fun time and let life flow through you and your lens…Have a great week and don’t forget to eat and sleep aside from picture taking! Hugs to you with love…VK ❤

    Liked by 1 person

    Reply

    1. Thank you, VK, and yes, most of the ones that have the better clarity are from my new camera. When I make up my mind to do something, I do it. That is why I received my camera so quickly. Rain here too but the sun just came out which means I have to spray my tulips so the deer won’t eat them. I hope you are doing OK. You have been on my mind and in my Heart. Take care!! BIG (((HUGS))) to you!! XOXO

      Liked by 1 person

      Reply

    1. I’ve literally been in the Forest as much as I can, Dan. I have so much healing to do and so far, much has been healed. Mother has been so generous to me and it is my JOY that I share that with you. I’m so glad you enjoyed this post. Yep, a lot. You should see the 100’s of pictures I didn’t show. LOL

      Liked by 1 person

      Reply

    1. Diana, if I did not have the outdoors I would not be sane. If I could I would find a cabin deep in the woods far far away from wi-fi and people. I crave the forest. I crave my flowers. To spend time there brings me into my Zone, my Bliss. Please do go outside and really see the Beauty that exists. Much Love to you! 🦋🦋🦋

      Liked by 1 person

      Reply

  33. Hi Amy. These photos really bring me close to your love of nature’s creatures. The photo of the duck on the branch is really intriguing. The curvature of the branches beautifully accentuate this lovely duck. Hope you have a glorious Easter weekend. ❤

    Liked by 1 person

    Reply

    1. Oh, Olga, I am so happy you enjoyed this post. I was shocked to see ducks high up in a tree. But then again, what do I know as I am just a baby birder? LOL Thank you for your compliment which meant a lot to me. May you as well have a glorious Easter weekend!! 🦋🦋🦋

      Liked by 1 person

      Reply

    1. THANK YOU, Julie! Bless you for what you said about the duck in the tree cuz a fellow photographer laughed at me when I said I’ve never seen a duck in a tree before. As for the Flicker …. new post today showing two Flickers in a mating dance. Have a great day! 🦋🦋🦋

      Liked by 1 person

      Reply

    1. I’ve been having many adventures in the forest lately, Christy. Between my flowers and the forest, I’m gaining healing for my broken Heart. You are so welcome! I’m more then happy to share what I am seeing. Have a great Sunday today! 🦋🦋🦋

      Liked by 1 person

      Reply

  36. You inspire me in so many ways 🙂 The inner warrior, the truly patient eye for beauty and how you connect me with the wonders of this seemingly other world that I have now begun to notice more keenly around me.

    Liked by 1 person

    Reply

    1. Inspiration works both ways you know. (wink!) I am SO overjoyed that you are beginning to notice more in Nature! Just seeing you on that log today over at your blog told me so. OHhhhhhhhh you are on an amazing Journey, one that will keep unfolding more and more, giving you more awe of what you experiencing. Darn but I am doing a Happy Dance here for you!! YAY!! That seemingly other world is where Truth lies and all Wisdom as well. (((HUGS)))!!! 🦋🦋🦋

      Liked by 1 person

      Reply

      1. You broke me into a smile and happy laugh to myself 🙂 🙂 Thank you so much for that Happy Dance for me, you are such a dear friend 🙂 You help me become more and more comfortable in my Being.

        Liked by 1 person

      1. I see it for sure because He makes it plain to see. Grateful for eyes to see and for ears to hear….

        Liked by 1 person

What we think and write and say become our reality ....