Conservation Programs
My image was used in this article – “Conservation agreements try to head off endangered species listings” by High Country News.I’ve observed and documented grouse species for the past 11 years and sadly witnessed their rapid decline. In Missouri, the decline of greater prairie-chickens is found everywhere. Heath hen was one of the first species Americans attempted to save from extinction through legislation and conservation efforts. Despite the efforts, the species became extinct in 1932. The last Heath Hen, called “Booming Ben,” endured alone for 3...
read moreMy Gunnison Sage-grouse photos as award
In 1995, Dr. Clait Braun and Dr. Jessica Young proposed that the Gunnison Sage-grouse was a distinct species, and along with Drs. Jerry Hupp, Sara Oyler-McCance and Tom Quinn, they published their findings in the scientific journal. The American Ornithological Union recognized the Gunnison Sage-grouse as a new species in 2000. While trying to gain access for photographing the Gunnison Sage-grouse (which was almost a mission impossible), Dr. Young has helped me tremendously and became a good friend. The love, passion, and energy I see from these people are always inspiring. Last April,...
read moreOne of the most endangered species, Gunnison Sage-grouse
April 2 – April 9 With all grassland grouse I’ve photographed, Gunnison Sage-grouse are by the far the most difficult to work with. They are unpredictable and constantly wary of intruders. Unlike other grouse, when they are spooked by something, Gunnison Sage-grouse won’t return until the next day. Often, I had to get to my blind by 4 a.m. before the birds arrived. Even then, if there was a full moon, the birds often showed up at midnight, making it impossible for me to get to my blind. I set my blind out in the ranch in Gunnison valley; the last place on Earth where more than 100...
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