There’s a kind of magic that happens when you step into the quiet embrace of nature. For me, being in nature has always been a source of healing, especially during difficult times. Recently, I found myself on the edge of grief after losing my dog Baylee. As I navigated this sorrow, I turned to the lens of my camera, seeking moments of connection that might ease the ache in my heart. What I found was an incredible gift—the chance to observe and photograph two remarkable birds: the Greater Yellowlegs and the Killdeer.
The Greater Yellowlegs is a striking bird with long, slender legs that give it an almost elegant appearance as it wades through shallow waters in search of food. Its distinct, high-pitched call cuts through the silence, drawing your attention even before you see it. Watching this bird, with its deliberate movements and sharp focus, was mesmerizing. It felt like a fleeting moment of clarity in the midst of emotional fog—a reminder that even in the small details of life, there is beauty to be found.
These encounters are more than just opportunities to snap a photo; they’re moments of connection that offer a brief respite from grief. There’s something deeply healing about observing nature. It’s like nature knows exactly what you need—a pause, a breath, a chance to step away from the weight of sorrow and be reminded of the beauty that still exists in the world.
In this photo, I was trying to capture the reflection of the Greater Yellowlegs in the water as it stood on a log. The bird kept flicking its tail back and forth, almost like it was doing a little dance. I’m not sure what the movement was about, but it was both adorable and challenging to photograph. Such a stunning bird!
Then, there’s the Killdeer. This plucky little bird is full of personality, with its bold black and white stripes and the famous "broken-wing" display it performs to protect its nest. The energy and determination of the Killdeer is a sight to behold, especially when seen in person. It's one thing to read about these behaviors or watch them on TV, but there’s nothing quite like being there, in the moment, witnessing it with your own eyes. The connection you feel is indescribable—a wordless understanding between you and this wild creature.
Can you spot it below? It was pretty far away. Thank goodness I had my 200-600mm lens with me.
Nature doesn’t just provide these moments; it invites you to be fully present, to appreciate the silence, and to be grateful for the experience. There’s an unspoken exchange that happens when you stand quietly in nature, simply observing. It’s as if the world slows down, allowing you to realign yourself with the rhythms of life.
Photographing wildlife has become more than just a hobby for me; it’s my soul’s purpose. Capturing these fleeting moments with birds like the Greater Yellowlegs and the Killdeer helps me process emotions I can’t always put into words. It reminds me that there’s still so much life to be experienced, even in the midst of loss.
Bonus: I spotted two different Rufous Hummingbirds. These little guys are incredibly fast! Hummingbirds are like tiny, living jewels, their iridescent colors shifting and sparkling as they dart through the air. The magic of their colors is due to the microscopic structure of their feathers, which reflect light at different angles, creating that dazzling display.
I managed to capture one perched in the bushes, guarding something with that characteristic fierceness they’re known for. The second hummingbird was a challenge—I could only capture it as a silhouette in flight against the bright blue sky. Their agility is unmatched; with wings beating at incredible speeds, they can hover, zip forward, or reverse in an instant. Witnessing this firsthand is nothing short of awe-inspiring, as their flight feels more like a dance than a simple movement. Being able to observe and photograph these moments brings such joy and reminds me of the vibrant energy that still pulses through nature
I believe that this healing power of nature isn’t just for me—it’s something that can benefit anyone willing to step outside, observe in silence, and be present. Nature offers a kind of wisdom and perspective that’s hard to find anywhere else. If you take the time to immerse yourself in it, to appreciate the beauty and the stillness, you might find that same healing.
So, the next time you’re feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or lost in your thoughts, try stepping into the wild. Find a quiet spot, observe the creatures that call it home, and let nature work its magic. The world outside is teeming with life, and each encounter is a reminder that we’re all part of something greater. For me, these connections—whether with a bird in flight or a small creature going about its day—are what bring healing to my soul.
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