Bird Behavior (#67)

When visiting the Venice Rookery, the hope is that birds will be flying, gathering nesting materials, "fighting", or somehow engaging in photogenic behavior. There are two clues as you approach the viewing area,
1. The behavior of the birds
2. The behavior of the photographers

OK, last Monday as I drove up, I saw quite a number of cars.



A good sign. But, uh oh, look at the photographers!



They are spread out along the entire viewing area. Not a good sign. I don't have to look at the birds. Clearly, there is no area of good activity, or the photographers would be clustered there. This is a good time to go behind the rookery and look for songbirds, squirrels, etc.

Sometimes it's worse. Cameras on tripods are unattended; photographers are in a huddle talking f stops, politics, football, etc. A good morning for that third cup of coffee, or a quick Wal-Mart stop before it becomes too crowded.

You can anticipate bird behavior by observing the birds, or by observing the people who observe birds. Your choice.

Bob