Several years ago, when I began walking the Dry Canyon Trail in Redmond, Oregon, I came across a small ranch. Looking around, I didn't see anything worthwhile to photograph and I continued on my way.
A couple of days later, I went by the ranch again and this time, found a female Osterich sitting, possibly on a nest. So I shot a few photographs.
As I stood there watching the bird, I became aware of a thumping sound to my left. Turning in that direction, I saw a male Osterich thundering in my direction.
He continued heading my way, and I continued shooting him as he got closer.
And closer...
And closer...
And closer...
And closer...to the point I felt him near me.
After I shot the photo above, I lowered my camera just in time to see the head and beak of the bird coming straight for me. I jumped back from the fenceline and then watched the obviously upset male start flapping his wings while wagging his head back and forth in front of me. Either he was trying to get me to come closer so he could nail me with his beak - hehe - or he was just trying to warn me off the female - most likely. Either way, I was a still a little freaked from what I saw when I lowered my camera, that I snapped a few shots and continued on my way.
A week or so later, I again went by the ranch and this time the female was near the fenceline, the male far enough away not to be a problem and I was able to get a nice portrait shot of her.
If you liked my critter photos, head to Misty Dawn's Camera Critterpage and check out some of the other entries. And if you have the time, join in on the fun!
10 comments:
Oh my goodness! Great photos and I loved the story, glad you didn't get attacked.
Great storyboard. These can e so vicious.
unique encounter sandy
Very unique photos! They're GREAT:)
Super captures of the Ostrich Ashrunner! You are one lucky dude, putting that camera down when you did! That could have been a costly photo session in more ways than one!
Wow, great photos. You are quite brave.
Boy you were lucky that he didn't wack you with those wings. I love the photos. Did you ever get to see the babies after they were hatched?
how wonderful they are!!
good on the male for taking care of his family - he did look a bit angry didn't he
you really got some great shots - and lived to tell about it :)
Those photos are absolutely AWESOME! But, the story, my friend, is priceless! I can just picture the whole thing happening. bwaaaaaaaahahahahahaha No, Bear, I'm not laughing AT you - I'm laughing WITH you... HONEST! *snicker*
the male looks like he has an afro all around his middle ;)
The male and female really look different!!
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