These are gorgeous birds with their colourful bills and soft grey feathers. They have a wing span of more than 7 feet! They are very difficult to photograph as they nest on very steep slopes. There is only one place on South Georgia where you can approach them with safety. They don't seem to mind humans at all. There numbers are said to be holding, but an accurate census is difficult as they nest in small and scattered colonies. Enjoy. Don
Rob Tillyer wrote:
Nice job Don, must take quite an effort for them to get airborne.
Rob
Thanks Rob. Albatross need big winds for flight. That's why they live in the south and endure the wildest winds on earth. It allows them to get airborne very efficiently. They are great to watch trying to take off in low wind conditions. Don
Gorgeous shots, Don. Just thought I'd update you on the conservation status of these magnificent animals. The IUCN classifies this bird, the Grey Headed Albatross, as vulnerable due to rapidly declining numbers.
In my humble opinion, I find it essential for all us nature/landscape photographers to do what we can to support conservation of the subjects we love.
802walker wrote:
Gorgeous shots, Don. Just thought I'd update you on the conservation status of these magnificent animals. The IUCN classifies this bird, the Grey Headed Albatross, as vulnerable due to rapidly declining numbers.
In my humble opinion, I find it essential for all us nature/landscape photographers to do what we can to support conservation of the subjects we love.
Thanks. (not sure of your name). I think travelling to these areas and sharing our images is the best way to save these animals. Our guides seemed to have a more positive view of the status of these birds. Thanks for the info. Don
KirkB wrote:
2 and 4 are both really good Don. You were quite close to these guys on the incoming flight shots.
Kirk
Thanks Kirk. The wind was blowing so hard it almost knocked you over. I had to hand hold my 500mm lens and the wind made it very difficult to stay steady. Don
