African darter in flight

African darter in flight, a photo by andiwolfe on Flickr.

Sitting on the rim of the vlei at DeHoop Nature Reserve in South Africa, I saw many of the local birds flying by. Our campsite was about 10 meters or so above the vlei, which was a perfect perch for watching darters, herons, cormorants, gulls, terns, ducks, hammerkops, and flamingos in flight.

African darters are rather elusive birds for a photographer - they are usually very aware of one trying to sneak up to make a photo. This was the best view I had of an African darter during my entire three week field season.

Sand pattern

Sand pattern, a photo by andiwolfe on Flickr.

Back to South Africa for my photo today. I made this photo of beach grass on a sand dune at DeHoop Nature Reserve. I spend a lot of time in sand dune systems during my field seasons to study a parasitic plant (Hyobanche). I've come to appreciate the stark beauty of this landscape, the wind and rain patterns on the dunes, and the attempts of vegetation to reclaim the space.

Gigi

Gigi, a photo by andiwolfe on Flickr.

DeHoop Nature Reserve in South Africa: September 12, 2013. Camping at this reserve is a real treat for botanical exploration, birding, and for lovely scenery. The headquarters area has a restaurant and gift shop - both are welcome respites from roughing it.

This photo is of the lawn area in front of HQ. There's a Morton Bay Fig there. Near sunset, the gate was in a golden glow, and the air was calm, the birds were active, and it was a magical moment.