Mother Nature, in all of her beauty, is not always kind or gentle. We live part time near a remote small town on the Leelanau Peninsula in Michigan. It’s quite common to see porcupines, bobcats, skunks, many species of birds and coyotes.
This week, I witnessed the brutal dependency of nature’s food chain. I initially thought I was seeing an injured hawk being attacked by crows. I rushed to ‘rescue’ the crow only to discover that a rough-legged hawk had a very live and soon-to-be dinner crow in his talons.
Had I interrupted the process, it would mean a suffering crow that probably wouldn’t survive. Then there would be another needed food target for the hawk if he didn’t have this meal.
So, I decided to photograph the episode.
From capture, to defending his meal, he was he was doing what he needed to do to survive.As a bystander, I wanted to save the crow. I also wanted the hawk to eat.
The balance of nature. The balance of life. Nature in all her beauty has a side that is uncomfortable and painful.
As a photographer, I’m grateful to see and enjoy nature in her finest. I’m also grateful that she shares her reality – it’s up to us to ensure that the complete food chain, the balance, is protected.
I also appreciate that no matter how tough my week, or day may be – I’m not being eaten by a hawk. Mother Nature is one tough cookie!
Happy Shooting!
