Kootenays Quietude

It's the last days of spring, and the snow-capped peaks of the Monashee Mountain Range hold onto the last of winter's white. In the valley below, in the first rays of sunlight, perches a resident crow in its regular morning ritual of keeping itself meticulously clean as it preens on an old sun-bleached, craggy stump. It's a marvelous Kootenays morning to stop and take in this quiet scene, sitting on a nearby log, enjoying this little intimacy offered by nature. Nakusp, BC.

Camouflaged by Nature

I had gone out with an open mind, simply hoping to find a wildlife subject to photograph, when I noticed some movement in a local waterway. Stopping to investigate, I was delighted to discover a family of river otters actively fishing and moving through the channel. I carefully made my way to the water's edge and spent some time observing their behavior as they surfaced and disappeared among the reeds and shoreline vegetation. At one point, this otter emerged near a small grassy island and paused long enough for me to capture a few frames. What caught my attention was how the otter positioned itself among the weeds, almost as if it were using the vegetation as camouflage while it watched its surroundings. The warm autumn sunlight illuminated its fur, bringing out the rich colors and textures while creating a beautiful contrast against the surrounding greenery. For me, this image captures the curious and elusive nature of river otters. Although they are constantly on the move, there are brief moments when everything comes together—the light, the setting, and the subject. The combination of the glowing fall light and the otter's natural behavior transformed a chance encounter into a memorable wildlife photograph.

The Boys

A group of rams size each other up and utilize intimidation during the rut in Jasper National Park, Alberta.

Moose Crossing

A female moose crosses the frigid Maligne River in Jasper National Park, Alberta.

Eyes Locked, Wings Steady

I spotted this Northern Harrier hunting over a farmer’s field, methodically working back and forth as it scanned the ground for movement. As it swept past my position, it subtly banked upward, briefly revealing its underside and turning its gaze directly toward me. In that instant, I was able to capture a frame filled with incredible detail—the fine feathering, the wing structure, and most strikingly, the intense expression in its eyes. The direct look creates a powerful, almost confrontational connection between bird and viewer. What I love about this image is the drama of the moment. The harrier is fully engaged in the hunt, yet for a split second it acknowledges my presence before continuing its search across the field. The combination of sharp detail, clean light, and that piercing stare makes this a particularly compelling encounter with one of the most graceful raptors in flight.

Hunting on Silent Wings

Northern Harriers have long fascinated me. There is something captivating about the way they fly low over the landscape, effortlessly following the contours of the terrain and changing direction in an instant as they search for prey. Their flight seems both deliberate and graceful, making them one of my favorite raptors to observe and photograph. On this day, I was actually searching for a Short-eared Owl when I spotted this harrier working a nearby farmer's field. I watched as it methodically quartered the landscape, using both sight and sound to locate potential prey hidden below. As the bird flew past my position, I was able to capture this detailed image. Its striking yellow eyes were fixed on the field beneath it, completely focused on the task at hand. With its wings spread wide, the harrier appeared to glide effortlessly, using the broad surface of its wings to maintain a steady height above the ground while expending very little energy. What I love most about this photograph is the detail and simplicity. The clean background allows the viewer to focus entirely on the bird—the intricate feather patterns, the intense gaze, and the elegant flight posture that make Northern Harriers such remarkable hunters. For me, the image captures the beauty and precision of a raptor perfectly adapted to life on the wing.

Red-throated Loons

This was a lifer sighting for me & seen in the Khutzeymateen area. They are the smallest and lightest loon species in the world

The Stare of a Silent Hunter

A friend had told me about a pair of Short-eared Owls hunting in a farmer's field not far from my home, so I decided to head out and see if I could find them. After arriving, I settled in and waited, scanning the field and sky for any sign of movement. Before long, one of the owls appeared, gliding low over the field as it searched for its next meal. I watched as it methodically surveyed the ground below, using its keen eyesight and hearing to hunt. As the owl gradually worked its way closer, I realized it was heading directly toward my position. In an instant, the owl swept past me, and I was fortunate enough to capture this image at just the right moment. What makes the photograph special to me is the way the owl appears to be looking directly at me as it flies by. Its bright yellow eyes seem to pierce through the air, creating an intense connection between the bird and the viewer. Short-eared Owls are fascinating hunters, and encounters like this are always memorable. The combination of the owl's focused gaze, graceful flight, and striking eyes creates an image that captures both the beauty and the intensity of one of our most captivating birds of prey.

Clouded Sulphur

A clouded sulphur butterfly warms itself with the morning sun in the early morning.

Camouflaged by Nature

I had gone out with an open mind, simply hoping to find a wildlife subject to photograph, when I noticed some movement in a local waterway. Stopping to investigate, I was delighted to discover a family of river otters actively fishing and moving through the channel. I carefully made my way to the water's edge and spent some time observing their behavior as they surfaced and disappeared among the reeds and shoreline vegetation. At one point, this otter emerged near a small grassy island and paused long enough for me to capture a few frames. What caught my attention was how the otter positioned itself among the weeds, almost as if it were using the vegetation as camouflage while it watched its surroundings. The warm autumn sunlight illuminated its fur, bringing out the rich colors and textures while creating a beautiful contrast against the surrounding greenery. For me, this image captures the curious and elusive nature of river otters. Although they are constantly on the move, there are brief moments when everything comes together—the light, the setting, and the subject. The combination of the glowing fall light and the otter's natural behavior transformed a chance encounter into a memorable wildlife photograph.

Power in Flight

This bald eagle was perched on a weathered tree stump in a creek where salmon return each fall to spawn. I had carefully worked my way into position, moving slowly to avoid disturbing the bird while giving myself an opportunity to capture a few images. As I photographed the eagle, the situation changed unexpectedly when another eagle arrived and forced it from its perch. The displaced bird launched into the air and flew directly past me, creating a fleeting opportunity that I hadn't anticipated. With my camera already trained on the eagle, I was able to capture this detailed flight shot as it passed by. The timing couldn't have been better, with snow-covered mountains providing a dramatic backdrop that helped frame the bird and emphasize the wild setting in which the encounter took place. What I love about this image is the combination of power and detail. The eagle's piercing gaze, outstretched wings, and intricate feather patterns stand out against the distant mountain landscape. It's a photograph that came from an unexpected moment—one eagle's challenge becoming another photographer's opportunity—and serves as a reminder that some of the best wildlife images happen when nature writes its own story.

Speed and Focus

While walking our dogs along a local dike, I spotted a Cooper's Hawk perched quietly in a nearby tree. As we approached, the hawk suddenly launched into flight, giving me only a brief opportunity to react. Fortunately, the light was perfect, and I had my camera settings ready with a fast shutter speed. As the hawk swept past, I was able to capture a tack-sharp image in flight, freezing a moment that would have otherwise passed in an instant. What I love most about this photograph is the intensity in the hawk's eye. Even in flight, its gaze is unwavering—completely focused on the world below as it searches for its next meal. The sharp detail in the feathers, combined with the direct look from this skilled predator, highlights the precision and purpose that make raptors such remarkable hunters. For me, this image captures the essence of a Cooper's Hawk: fast, agile, and intensely focused. It's a reminder that some of the best wildlife encounters happen when you least expect them, even during something as ordinary as a walk with the dogs.

Two Eagles, One Reflection

n the fall, I took a friend to one of my favorite local spots to photograph bald eagles feeding on salmon returning to spawn. As we arrived, I immediately noticed this eagle standing over a dead salmon in the shallow water. The conditions were perfect—the water was completely still, creating a mirror-like surface that caught my attention right away. The eagle kept its head low as it carefully scanned the area, watching for any rivals that might try to steal its meal. There was an unmistakable intensity in its stare, a reminder that even with food secured, competition is never far away during the salmon run. What drew me to this scene was the reflection. The calm water created a near-perfect mirror image of the eagle, making it appear as though a second bird was standing below, equally eager to claim the salmon. Meanwhile, the reflection of the fish blended into the rocks beneath the surface, creating an interesting visual illusion that rewards a closer look. For me, this image is about more than an eagle feeding. It's about the combination of behavior, light, and reflection coming together to create something unexpected. The still water transformed an ordinary feeding scene into a photograph that invites the viewer to pause and take a second look, revealing details that aren't immediately apparent at first glance.

Big Presence

A fantastically large crab spider ascends a tall weed, looking for prey.

A Head on Encounter

Some friends had discovered a pair of Barred Owls in the rainforest near a local park and invited me to join them in photographing these beautiful birds. The owls appeared to be a mating pair and spent much of their time calling back and forth to one another from different perches throughout the moss-covered forest. This particular owl had been perched deep within the branches, so well hidden that only its face was visible through the tangle of moss and foliage. I spent several minutes watching its behavior, sensing that it might not stay put for long. Suddenly, the owl launched from its perch and flew directly toward me. Anticipating the possibility of takeoff, I had already dialed in my camera settings and was ready when the moment unfolded. In a fraction of a second, I was able to capture the owl with its wings fully raised and its eyes locked directly on me as it passed through the forest. What I love about this image is the intensity of the connection. The owl's direct gaze, combined with the dramatic wing position and the surrounding rainforest setting, creates a powerful portrait of a bird perfectly adapted to its environment. Moments like this are what make wildlife photography so rewarding—when preparation, timing, and a bit of luck come together to capture a fleeting instant that might otherwise have been missed.

Forest Ghost

Some friends had discovered a pair of Barred Owls in the rainforest near a local park and invited me to join them in photographing these beautiful birds. The owls appeared to be a mating pair and spent much of the time calling back and forth to one another from different perches throughout the moss-covered forest. This particular owl had settled onto a branch tucked deep within the rainforest. Surrounded by layers of hanging moss and dense foliage, much of its body was hidden from view, leaving only its face clearly visible. The forest seemed to be doing its best to conceal the owl, a reminder of just how well these birds blend into their surroundings. What drew me to this scene was the way the owl's dark eyes and distinctive facial markings emerged from the sea of green moss. Despite being partially hidden, its presence was unmistakable. The image captures the secretive nature of Barred Owls and the magic of exploring a coastal rainforest, where wildlife can be hiding in plain sight. For me, photographs like this are a reminder that some of the most rewarding encounters come not from what is immediately visible, but from taking the time to look a little closer.

Grey on Green

Some friends had discovered a pair of Barred Owls in the rainforest near a local park and invited me to join them to photograph these beautiful birds. The owls appeared to be a mating pair and spent much of the time calling back and forth to one another from different perches throughout the moss-covered forest. This particular owl settled onto a mossy branch below where I was standing, giving me an unusual angle that I don't often have the opportunity to photograph. Instead of looking up at the owl, I was able to look slightly down on it, creating a perspective that helped showcase both the bird and its lush surroundings. What I love most about this image is the contrast. The vibrant greens of the rainforest moss frame the owl perfectly, while the soft grey tones of its plumage stand out against the rich forest backdrop. The scene captures the essence of the coastal rainforest—ancient trees draped in moss, filtered light, and a secretive owl at home among it all. For me, this photograph represents one of those special wildlife encounters where habitat and subject come together to tell a complete story.

The Sleeping Bee

A sleeping bumblebee holds tight to a goldenrod flower in the early morning.

Mutual Shock

In October, I visited a local fish lock hoping to find some bear activity during the salmon run. After spending some time watching and waiting, a black bear appeared upstream and began working its way toward the locks. It moved through the pools below the structure, patiently searching for salmon and occasionally chasing fish through the shallows. For a while, the bear's efforts seemed unsuccessful as it stalked fish up and down the river. Then, in an instant, everything changed. The bear suddenly emerged with a large salmon clamped in its jaws, the fish hanging awkwardly from its mouth. What immediately caught my attention was the expression on both animals. The bear appeared almost as surprised as the salmon, as if neither had expected the encounter to end quite that way. The salmon's mouth was wide open, creating the impression of a desperate plea for help, while the bear seemed to pause for a moment to process its good fortune. It was one of those rare wildlife moments where the scene almost felt humorous despite the reality of nature unfolding in front of me. Eventually, the bear settled down and began playing with its catch before carrying the salmon into the riverside brush to enjoy its hard-earned meal. For me, this photograph captures both the drama and the unpredictability of the salmon run—a fleeting moment when predator and prey seemed equally astonished by the outcome.

Kootenays Quietude

It's the last days of spring, and the snow-capped peaks of the Monashee Mountain Range hold onto the last of winter's white. In the valley below, in the first rays of sunlight, perches a resident crow in its regular morning ritual of keeping itself meticulously clean as it preens on an old sun-bleached, craggy stump. It's a marvelous Kootenays morning to stop and take in this quiet scene, sitting on a nearby log, enjoying this little intimacy offered by nature. Nakusp, BC.

Camouflaged by Nature

I had gone out with an open mind, simply hoping to find a wildlife subject to photograph, when I noticed some movement in a local waterway. Stopping to investigate, I was delighted to discover a family of river otters actively fishing and moving through the channel. I carefully made my way to the water's edge and spent some time observing their behavior as they surfaced and disappeared among the reeds and shoreline vegetation. At one point, this otter emerged near a small grassy island and paused long enough for me to capture a few frames. What caught my attention was how the otter positioned itself among the weeds, almost as if it were using the vegetation as camouflage while it watched its surroundings. The warm autumn sunlight illuminated its fur, bringing out the rich colors and textures while creating a beautiful contrast against the surrounding greenery. For me, this image captures the curious and elusive nature of river otters. Although they are constantly on the move, there are brief moments when everything comes together—the light, the setting, and the subject. The combination of the glowing fall light and the otter's natural behavior transformed a chance encounter into a memorable wildlife photograph.

The Boys

A group of rams size each other up and utilize intimidation during the rut in Jasper National Park, Alberta.

Moose Crossing

A female moose crosses the frigid Maligne River in Jasper National Park, Alberta.

Eyes Locked, Wings Steady

I spotted this Northern Harrier hunting over a farmer’s field, methodically working back and forth as it scanned the ground for movement. As it swept past my position, it subtly banked upward, briefly revealing its underside and turning its gaze directly toward me. In that instant, I was able to capture a frame filled with incredible detail—the fine feathering, the wing structure, and most strikingly, the intense expression in its eyes. The direct look creates a powerful, almost confrontational connection between bird and viewer. What I love about this image is the drama of the moment. The harrier is fully engaged in the hunt, yet for a split second it acknowledges my presence before continuing its search across the field. The combination of sharp detail, clean light, and that piercing stare makes this a particularly compelling encounter with one of the most graceful raptors in flight.

Hunting on Silent Wings

Northern Harriers have long fascinated me. There is something captivating about the way they fly low over the landscape, effortlessly following the contours of the terrain and changing direction in an instant as they search for prey. Their flight seems both deliberate and graceful, making them one of my favorite raptors to observe and photograph. On this day, I was actually searching for a Short-eared Owl when I spotted this harrier working a nearby farmer's field. I watched as it methodically quartered the landscape, using both sight and sound to locate potential prey hidden below. As the bird flew past my position, I was able to capture this detailed image. Its striking yellow eyes were fixed on the field beneath it, completely focused on the task at hand. With its wings spread wide, the harrier appeared to glide effortlessly, using the broad surface of its wings to maintain a steady height above the ground while expending very little energy. What I love most about this photograph is the detail and simplicity. The clean background allows the viewer to focus entirely on the bird—the intricate feather patterns, the intense gaze, and the elegant flight posture that make Northern Harriers such remarkable hunters. For me, the image captures the beauty and precision of a raptor perfectly adapted to life on the wing.

Red-throated Loons

This was a lifer sighting for me & seen in the Khutzeymateen area. They are the smallest and lightest loon species in the world

The Stare of a Silent Hunter

A friend had told me about a pair of Short-eared Owls hunting in a farmer's field not far from my home, so I decided to head out and see if I could find them. After arriving, I settled in and waited, scanning the field and sky for any sign of movement. Before long, one of the owls appeared, gliding low over the field as it searched for its next meal. I watched as it methodically surveyed the ground below, using its keen eyesight and hearing to hunt. As the owl gradually worked its way closer, I realized it was heading directly toward my position. In an instant, the owl swept past me, and I was fortunate enough to capture this image at just the right moment. What makes the photograph special to me is the way the owl appears to be looking directly at me as it flies by. Its bright yellow eyes seem to pierce through the air, creating an intense connection between the bird and the viewer. Short-eared Owls are fascinating hunters, and encounters like this are always memorable. The combination of the owl's focused gaze, graceful flight, and striking eyes creates an image that captures both the beauty and the intensity of one of our most captivating birds of prey.

Clouded Sulphur

A clouded sulphur butterfly warms itself with the morning sun in the early morning.

Camouflaged by Nature

I had gone out with an open mind, simply hoping to find a wildlife subject to photograph, when I noticed some movement in a local waterway. Stopping to investigate, I was delighted to discover a family of river otters actively fishing and moving through the channel. I carefully made my way to the water's edge and spent some time observing their behavior as they surfaced and disappeared among the reeds and shoreline vegetation. At one point, this otter emerged near a small grassy island and paused long enough for me to capture a few frames. What caught my attention was how the otter positioned itself among the weeds, almost as if it were using the vegetation as camouflage while it watched its surroundings. The warm autumn sunlight illuminated its fur, bringing out the rich colors and textures while creating a beautiful contrast against the surrounding greenery. For me, this image captures the curious and elusive nature of river otters. Although they are constantly on the move, there are brief moments when everything comes together—the light, the setting, and the subject. The combination of the glowing fall light and the otter's natural behavior transformed a chance encounter into a memorable wildlife photograph.

Power in Flight

This bald eagle was perched on a weathered tree stump in a creek where salmon return each fall to spawn. I had carefully worked my way into position, moving slowly to avoid disturbing the bird while giving myself an opportunity to capture a few images. As I photographed the eagle, the situation changed unexpectedly when another eagle arrived and forced it from its perch. The displaced bird launched into the air and flew directly past me, creating a fleeting opportunity that I hadn't anticipated. With my camera already trained on the eagle, I was able to capture this detailed flight shot as it passed by. The timing couldn't have been better, with snow-covered mountains providing a dramatic backdrop that helped frame the bird and emphasize the wild setting in which the encounter took place. What I love about this image is the combination of power and detail. The eagle's piercing gaze, outstretched wings, and intricate feather patterns stand out against the distant mountain landscape. It's a photograph that came from an unexpected moment—one eagle's challenge becoming another photographer's opportunity—and serves as a reminder that some of the best wildlife images happen when nature writes its own story.

Speed and Focus

While walking our dogs along a local dike, I spotted a Cooper's Hawk perched quietly in a nearby tree. As we approached, the hawk suddenly launched into flight, giving me only a brief opportunity to react. Fortunately, the light was perfect, and I had my camera settings ready with a fast shutter speed. As the hawk swept past, I was able to capture a tack-sharp image in flight, freezing a moment that would have otherwise passed in an instant. What I love most about this photograph is the intensity in the hawk's eye. Even in flight, its gaze is unwavering—completely focused on the world below as it searches for its next meal. The sharp detail in the feathers, combined with the direct look from this skilled predator, highlights the precision and purpose that make raptors such remarkable hunters. For me, this image captures the essence of a Cooper's Hawk: fast, agile, and intensely focused. It's a reminder that some of the best wildlife encounters happen when you least expect them, even during something as ordinary as a walk with the dogs.

Two Eagles, One Reflection

n the fall, I took a friend to one of my favorite local spots to photograph bald eagles feeding on salmon returning to spawn. As we arrived, I immediately noticed this eagle standing over a dead salmon in the shallow water. The conditions were perfect—the water was completely still, creating a mirror-like surface that caught my attention right away. The eagle kept its head low as it carefully scanned the area, watching for any rivals that might try to steal its meal. There was an unmistakable intensity in its stare, a reminder that even with food secured, competition is never far away during the salmon run. What drew me to this scene was the reflection. The calm water created a near-perfect mirror image of the eagle, making it appear as though a second bird was standing below, equally eager to claim the salmon. Meanwhile, the reflection of the fish blended into the rocks beneath the surface, creating an interesting visual illusion that rewards a closer look. For me, this image is about more than an eagle feeding. It's about the combination of behavior, light, and reflection coming together to create something unexpected. The still water transformed an ordinary feeding scene into a photograph that invites the viewer to pause and take a second look, revealing details that aren't immediately apparent at first glance.

Big Presence

A fantastically large crab spider ascends a tall weed, looking for prey.

A Head on Encounter

Some friends had discovered a pair of Barred Owls in the rainforest near a local park and invited me to join them in photographing these beautiful birds. The owls appeared to be a mating pair and spent much of their time calling back and forth to one another from different perches throughout the moss-covered forest. This particular owl had been perched deep within the branches, so well hidden that only its face was visible through the tangle of moss and foliage. I spent several minutes watching its behavior, sensing that it might not stay put for long. Suddenly, the owl launched from its perch and flew directly toward me. Anticipating the possibility of takeoff, I had already dialed in my camera settings and was ready when the moment unfolded. In a fraction of a second, I was able to capture the owl with its wings fully raised and its eyes locked directly on me as it passed through the forest. What I love about this image is the intensity of the connection. The owl's direct gaze, combined with the dramatic wing position and the surrounding rainforest setting, creates a powerful portrait of a bird perfectly adapted to its environment. Moments like this are what make wildlife photography so rewarding—when preparation, timing, and a bit of luck come together to capture a fleeting instant that might otherwise have been missed.

Forest Ghost

Some friends had discovered a pair of Barred Owls in the rainforest near a local park and invited me to join them in photographing these beautiful birds. The owls appeared to be a mating pair and spent much of the time calling back and forth to one another from different perches throughout the moss-covered forest. This particular owl had settled onto a branch tucked deep within the rainforest. Surrounded by layers of hanging moss and dense foliage, much of its body was hidden from view, leaving only its face clearly visible. The forest seemed to be doing its best to conceal the owl, a reminder of just how well these birds blend into their surroundings. What drew me to this scene was the way the owl's dark eyes and distinctive facial markings emerged from the sea of green moss. Despite being partially hidden, its presence was unmistakable. The image captures the secretive nature of Barred Owls and the magic of exploring a coastal rainforest, where wildlife can be hiding in plain sight. For me, photographs like this are a reminder that some of the most rewarding encounters come not from what is immediately visible, but from taking the time to look a little closer.

Grey on Green

Some friends had discovered a pair of Barred Owls in the rainforest near a local park and invited me to join them to photograph these beautiful birds. The owls appeared to be a mating pair and spent much of the time calling back and forth to one another from different perches throughout the moss-covered forest. This particular owl settled onto a mossy branch below where I was standing, giving me an unusual angle that I don't often have the opportunity to photograph. Instead of looking up at the owl, I was able to look slightly down on it, creating a perspective that helped showcase both the bird and its lush surroundings. What I love most about this image is the contrast. The vibrant greens of the rainforest moss frame the owl perfectly, while the soft grey tones of its plumage stand out against the rich forest backdrop. The scene captures the essence of the coastal rainforest—ancient trees draped in moss, filtered light, and a secretive owl at home among it all. For me, this photograph represents one of those special wildlife encounters where habitat and subject come together to tell a complete story.

The Sleeping Bee

A sleeping bumblebee holds tight to a goldenrod flower in the early morning.

Mutual Shock

In October, I visited a local fish lock hoping to find some bear activity during the salmon run. After spending some time watching and waiting, a black bear appeared upstream and began working its way toward the locks. It moved through the pools below the structure, patiently searching for salmon and occasionally chasing fish through the shallows. For a while, the bear's efforts seemed unsuccessful as it stalked fish up and down the river. Then, in an instant, everything changed. The bear suddenly emerged with a large salmon clamped in its jaws, the fish hanging awkwardly from its mouth. What immediately caught my attention was the expression on both animals. The bear appeared almost as surprised as the salmon, as if neither had expected the encounter to end quite that way. The salmon's mouth was wide open, creating the impression of a desperate plea for help, while the bear seemed to pause for a moment to process its good fortune. It was one of those rare wildlife moments where the scene almost felt humorous despite the reality of nature unfolding in front of me. Eventually, the bear settled down and began playing with its catch before carrying the salmon into the riverside brush to enjoy its hard-earned meal. For me, this photograph captures both the drama and the unpredictability of the salmon run—a fleeting moment when predator and prey seemed equally astonished by the outcome.