Adam Burton Photography

Frozen and Thawed

Patagonia, Argentina

Ref: BB017094
Gallery: Argentina

One of my most awe inspiring encounters with nature happened right here while I was photographing this location.  I had been concentrating my attention on composing my image, when for some reason I suddenly felt compelled to look behind me.  I was completely shocked to see a bird the size of a small plane heading straight for me - it was an Andean Condor and it was gliding about 5 metres above the ground.  My initial reaction, bizarre as it may sound was to protect myself, so instinctively I held my tripod up above my head as the huge 3 metre wingspan Condor glided directly above me, literally right over my head!  As it passed over I could hear the whoosh as the air passed through its feathers, and could make out every detail on its bulky body.

I have no idea why it was flying so low, and why it flew directly above me.  I guess because I had been standing still it thought I was carrion and so was coming in for a closer look!  Whatever, the reason it was an incredible encounter and one that I am very fortunate to have experienced.  And before you ask, unfortunately I didn’t take any shots of it!