Swimming among Diamonds in Siouxland, rural Thurston County, Nebraska

Swimming in a pond of “diamonds” two Canada geese are silhouetted with backlight shining onto a pond seen Monday, April 17, 2023 seen in rural Thurston County, near Winnebago, NE. (photo by Jerry L Mennenga©)

It’s always fun photographing in Siouxland to watch the “light play” that can occur depending on the time of year, day and whether or not Mother Nature grants a reprieve so the sun shines, and it’s also a clear day.

With the recent wacky weather seen this spring, the Siouxland weather also changes capriciously. And I was glad it was no hallucinations one day when I saw some Canada geese and other waterfowl swimming among diamonds on a pond that I check out from time to time. Rich in the moment of light, if not in wealth, the day just shone a bit brighter.

Jerry Mennenga

Sioux City, Iowa

It’s All in the Technique in Siouxland, rural Thurston County, Winnebago, NE

A Great Blue Heron takes off from a pond in rural Thurston County, Nebraska near Winnebago, NE Thursday, July 28, 2022. (photo by Jerry L Mennenga©)

When out driving around in Siouxland I will at times come across wildlife and then feel fortunate that I could take some photos of them “au natural”. Just watching them and seeing how they behave and go about their daily lives always leaves me feeling amazed. Most of the birds I have photographed show such amazing grace, although it may not be true, it appears that way. Personally I am not “fleet of foot” or graceful, and so it’s a joy to watch and wonder and be amazed.

Jerry Mennenga

Sioux City, Iowa

A Great Blue Heron lands on a partially submerged tree branch in a pond in rural Thurston County, Nebraska near Winnebago, NE Thursday, July 28, 2022. (photo by Jerry L Mennenga©)

A Great Blue Heron perches on a tree branch in a pond near Winnebago, NE Monday, August 29, 2022. (photo by Jerry L Mennenga©)