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1. Carl T. Bergstrom (ct_bergstrom@fediscience.org)'s status on Saturday, 08-Apr-2023 08:01:05 UTC Carl T. Bergstrom

   I'm fascinated by the reciprocal nature of #birdwatching.

   Birds are every bit as much watching us as we are watching them.

   In my photography I try to capture bidirectional interaction in my photography.

   I photograph birds watching me, but only when they can freely approach, and freely depart. I'm interested in their curiosity, not their fear.

   This is a wild bird that approached me.

   #birdphotography #photography #naturephotography

   • Carl T. Bergstrom (ct_bergstrom@fediscience.org)'s status on Saturday, 08-Apr-2023 08:01:04 UTC Carl T. Bergstrom

     in reply to

     Below, a fledgling Anna's hummingbird that left the nest only hours before. My shots were taken with an 800mm lens from a distant concealed location.

     But then other birders arrived, standing 2 meters away from the bird, using loud mechanical shutters. The mother panicked and stopped feeding.

     I protested. They argued—"they eat from my hand in my yard!" and stepped back to 3 meters. Useless.

     Photographers, respect your subjects. Learn their behavior. Your shots are not worth a bird's life.

   • Carl T. Bergstrom (ct_bergstrom@fediscience.org)'s status on Saturday, 08-Apr-2023 08:01:05 UTC Carl T. Bergstrom

     in reply to

     During nesting season, birds don't have the option of freely approaching and freely departing.

     If you approach a nest, you are moving into their space and creating intense stress.

     I'm discouraged by how many birders—who should know better—ignore this. We, of all people, have to do better.
     within 6 feet of the

     Ricardo repeated this.