WildView™

July 29, 2024

A Member of Nature’s Symphony

- as seen by -

Stacy Ratel @back_yard_birdie

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On a dark and cloudy day, I embarked on a hike, the distant rumble of thunder setting an ominous tone. Equipped with my camera gear, and a rain jacket and umbrella both hastily stuffed into my satchel with its broken zipper, I found myself standing on a trail overlooking a silent creek. The water below mirrored the towering trees, creating a serene and reflective scene. At the center of the creek, a fallen tree limb could perhaps provide a perfect perch for a warbler.

As I continued, I navigated through a dense thicket of thorny briars. Each step was a challenge, with the thorns clinging stubbornly to my clothes. The ground beneath me turned treacherous, and I nearly lost my boots to the suction of the soft quicksand. The thunder grew louder, edging closer with each passing minute.

When the rain began, it started as a gentle drizzle. I quickly covered my equipment with a mangled garbage bag, donned my rain gear, and popped open my umbrella. The rain intensified, yet thankfully, there was no wind to battle against. Undeterred, I pressed on.

Amidst the downpour, I was serenaded by the calls of prairie warblers and a cuckoo. Then, cutting through the symphony of nature, I heard a mellifluous melody that filled me with excitement. It was the song of the special species I had been hoping to photograph: the beautiful Prothonotary warbler (Protonotaria citrea).

Found near forested wetlands like I had just hiked, this bright yellow warbler is vulnerable to habitat loss and human development of their breeding grounds. By conserving their habitats, we not only preserve these beautiful creatures but also ensure a healthier ecosystem for all species, including ourselves. Every small action we take to protect warblers today will ripple through generations, leaving a legacy of natural beauty.

Canon R5 with 100-500 lens and 1.4 extender

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