Birds in Nature - images of wild birds by Richard Ditch

Subject: Gambel's Quail (Callipepla gambelii)
Place: Bosque del Apache NWR, NM, USA
Date: December 2003
Equipment: Nikon N90S, Nikkor AF-S 300/2.8 & TC20E (= 600/5.6), tripod window
Film: Fuji Sensia 100
Exposure: Aperture priority matrix metered, natural light
Scan: Minolta Dimage, 80% of frame

Commentary: Frequently heard in the southwest, and usually seen scurrying across the road, this abundant and widespread bird can be difficult to photograph. This was one of two quail that fed right in front of the observation window at the Bosque del Apache Visitor Center. Although the window glass was very dirty and the light was from behind the bird, I thought the setting and opportunity was too good to pass up.