wildlife photography

Spotted: My First Barred Owl

After three days in a row of searching, I finally came across this absolutely beautiful Barred Owl.

She was perched in the hollow of a tree taking a nap without a care in the world.

I spent 5 minutes in awe snapping photos, and got on my way so as not to encroach too much on her territory.

Owls have been having a bit of a hard time right now because since the pandemic, the popularity of birding has taken off, meaning more bird species are being harassed by humans more than usual.

Another couple was there, and the lady kept shuffling her feet loudly and stomping on snow to get it to open its eyes for her husband’s photo 🤦‍♂️

Needless to say, the well-being of the wildlife you encounter is always more important than the photograph. Don’t be that lady.

🦉🌲

Camera: Nikon Z6

Lens: Nikon 300MM F4 AF-S

Settings: 1/1000, F4, ISO 800

Mother Moose and her Calf in the Hautes-Gorges-de-la-Malbaie

This past weekend, I spent Friday afternoon to Monday morning in the Hautes-Gorges-de-la-Malbaie national park.

Every morning of the trip, we woke up at 6AM for the opportunity to catch the sun rise over the mountains or capture some small wildlife. On our first morning, while the skies were cloudy, we were so lucky to cross paths with a Moose and her calfs crossing the road right at dawn.

They crossed the road slowly, the mother crossing first and giving us a very intent and intimidating stare. After assessing that we were not a threat, she beckoned her calfs to cross the road. They quickly disappeared into the forest moments later.


The next morning, we returned to see the same family eating in a small clearing not far from the road. This is my first time seeing moose in the wild. So magnificent, and so Canadian.

Camera: Nikon Z6 Mirrorless Camera

Lens: Nikon F4 300MM AF-S

Settings: 1/500, f/ 4.5, ISO 1600