Photo Opportunity - Birds of Prey and Tropical Bird Shows

Birds are a favorite subject of many photographers. For many the long lenses required to capture birds of prey in the wild are cost prohibitive however. And tropical birds are hard to find outside of zoos for those not living in tropical countries. There is a good way to find these birds however. Across the country, groups such as EarthQuest Environmental Education are caring for orphaned, injured, and abandoned birds while making them available to the public at shows performed at various locations. Usually, groups such as this set up the tropical birds in an open viewing area of some kind that has been designed to have the feel of a tropical climate. This is good for photographers because you can get close to the birds without cages in the way and backgrounds are usually reasonable. The birds of prey are generally presented to the public in shows by trained handlers. Because many of these shows are outdoors and at "small" venues, you have a great opportunity to photograph these majestic birds up close. Most of these groups are generally very friendly and love talking to people about their birds.

Tips for getting the best shots include:
Take time to talk to the handlers
Be friendly but do not become a nuisance
Arrive early to get the best seating at shows
If shows are scheduled throughout the day plan to attend a show when lighting conditions are optimal

Finding Bird Shows
Events such as RenFests and nature fundraisers generally offer these types of shows
Check bird organization websites for their traveling schedule
Subscribe to a local nature organization newsletter - they often announce visiting groups
Local parks (such as Callaway Gardens) often offer bird shows