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Eagle Flying over Legends Ranch

Grandmas Angel

I came upon this scene while hiking along the Coast Guard Trail near Hamlin Lake. Staying as quiet as possible, not to appear threatening to the fearless hawk, I slowly set up my camera and tripod. The hawk accepted my presence and began the grisly process of eating its prey. The fur from the squirrel's beautiful tail fluttered in the wind. As is often nature’s way, the scene was a visual and emotional paradox; so deadly, yet so beautiful. I went away saddened but exhilarated, focusing on the beauty and knowledge that what I had just witnessed was natural and necessary.

Open water is often difficult for Michigan waterfowl to find during the heart of winter. This mute swan rests on the ice on Lincoln Lake while taking a break from feeding in adjacent open water.

No book featuring the wildlife of Ludington State Park would be complete without the official Michigan state bird

It was a picture that looked like a Monet painting. I was reminded of Monet's garden series as I made this photographic "painting" of a pair of mute swans and their newborn cygnets in a marshy cove on Lost Lake. Monet observed that the water lilies in his pond were "merely the accompaniment." And that's the way it was on this occasion on "my" pond at Ludington State Park.

Michigan's official bird appears out of place after one of the heaviest snowfalls of the winter. I am thankful for the robin's decision to head north early and to pick such a beautiful perch this morning. My West Shore Community College photography students and I photograph the cool bird for several minutes while it stays frozen in place. F13.0 at 1/160, ISO 200, 80-200 mm lens at 165 mm

Brad and I have watched closely how man and nature have coexisted at Ludington State Park. With few exceptions, we have been impressed with how well they have shared the space. State Park management and staff and state conservation officers set the tone and the rules. But they cannot be everywhere at all times. So many times Brad and I have witnessed people truly appreciating and respecting the park and its wildlife residents. Lovers of the park

I don't consider myself a great wildlife photographer. When I think of some of the all-time greats, I think of Carl Sams, Jim Brandenburg, and Franz Lanting. I was excited this morning when I watched over twenty bald eagles fight over a couple of dead deer north of Custer. I came home with one photograph I was proud of. F5.6 at 1/1600, ISO 800, 600 mm lens with 1.4 extender at 850 mm

Indigo Bunting

Attention on deck! A family of Canada geese appears at full alert along the north bank of the Sable River on a summer afternoon. Perhaps they are watching for the fox that lives just around the bend, or perhaps they have already spotted the sly predator.

With a good perch and a good view, a heron fishes on a pond near Lincoln Lake.

Intense Stare

Few creatures in nature stand out like mute swans. This proud bird was finding winter refuge in some open water on the Pere Marquette River. Mute swans have become a common sight in northern Michigan but one that continues to rivet my attention.

Sunrise on the Pere Marquette River—designated by Congress a National Wild and Scenic River—revealed a scene to match the designation. The affectionate sand hill cranes did not appear to notice my presence. I remained as motionless as possible while frequently shooting as their positions and the light constantly changed.

Mary the Albino Robin

Mary the Albino Robin

The wake being made by a male mallard ripples the glassy surface of a pond turned golden by the setting sun. The tranquil scene reminded me of the wonderful Hamlin Lake outings I enjoyed with my parents and my brother Budde while growing up.

This morning I photographed the old clothing factory on Whittier Street in Ludington and made three photographs of pigeons flying out of the abandoned elevator shaft. Every single person on Facebook that responded picked this photograph as his or her favorite. F4.0 at 1/250, ISO 800, 70-200 mm lens at 140 mm