Photography

Brandon Holden Photography

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The Peregrine Falcons of Niagara Falls

Over the past few years, I have been lucky to spend a few days each summer at Niagara Falls . While thousands of eyes and video camera’s are pointed at one of the seven natural wonders of the world, my eyes were pointed at one from the animal world.

Peregrine Falcons have nested in the area for several years now, and although the nest location has changed a few times, the photography has been reliably good. The young typically fledge in late June and early July, and I find that for the first two weeks of flying lessons typically result in the best action for photography.

While bringing a big lens to a “wonder of the world” can be an entertaining experience (people seem to think you can operate their point & shoot better than they can). The Niagara Falls tourist area is a unique area place for the bird photographer. The nest is located deep down in the gorge, recently on the old hydro building that can be seen far below.

Below, I will list some factors I look for in order to capture the birds in flight, or perched.

FLIGHT: is actually somewhat easy to predict on good days. With the strong winds in the gorge, the rock walls produce strong updrafts which the falcons ride (often passing by at eye level, very close to the edge). The updrafts typically rise in the same location throughout the day, as long as the winds stay roughly the same. Not only that, but the large plethora of gulls in the area will be riding the same air currents. When you see 80% of the gulls rising up from below, in the same location, then 80% of the time the Peregrines will come up here too! (Giving top-side photography opportunities before the rise to high overhead). It should be noted however, that some wind conditions do not cause the updrafts, and a bit of extra planning or luck may be required to get the shots. I've yet to figure the best/worst conditions, however I can say that strong winds are usually better than no wind.

PERCHED: not really predictable, but when the birds are sitting, you typically have more time to maneuver into position. I’ve found that early in the morning, the birds tend to land in “better” locations, closer to the walkway and/or more in the open. In the morning, you can often get a good light-angle, most of the time. In the afternoon, the birds might be shaded, or you might have better luck getting the perfect light angle. If you’re making a trip, it may be worth spending both the morning and afternoon here. The adults tend to chose perches that are are along the rock face, and can be difficult to photography. Hanging with your gear over the handrail can lead to some images, but also not to be attempted by those with a fear of heights (or heavy gear). Hopefully you’ll get lucky!

I’ve also added in some things to consider when photographing in the area. Most are straightforward, but I thought it would be worth noting.

- Do not leave your gear standing anywhere, even for a second! –
I’ve had people argue that it’s their turn to look through the camera, and that I should stop hogging it. People from all over the world, with different languages, makes it difficult for you to keep things under control. Also, having the camera gear means you will be asked several times to take family pictures with their cameras. It's hard to say no, until someone starts man-handling your gear while you're doing your good deed!

- Mist! –
The falls produces a ton of mist, and when photographing the birds riding the updrafts, it can sometimes bring a torrent of mist up in your face as well. I’ve yet to figure out a method to the mist-madness, seemingly different even on days under the same conditions. Normally things are fine, but I would still prepare for the possibility of wet gear, even on the nicest of days.

- Light! –
Morning light (normally) isn’t very good for flight shots, but I’ve been lucky getting good images during this time. I find I start shooting much earlier in the afternoon (~2pm), because when you’re shooting birds from above, light angles and shadows are not as important. Also, the light leaves much earlier in the afternoon than what you might be used to. The gorge produces shadows, and buildings/trees close to the gorge block sun a few hours earlier than sunset (maybe ~7pm it would be shaded).

- Mid-day Doldrums -
Not only is the light typically not as good in the mid-day heat, but the birds typically stop as well. I’ve found that sitting under the shade of a tree, and enjoying the falls. If not, bring a book, a laptop, or find some other attractions to visit during your stay! After an early start, even a nap is possible!

- Parking -
Parking close to the falls is expensive. Very. Parking farther away is less expensive. Parking at Dufferin Island is free! And as long as its not a long weekend, you should be able to get parking here. (probably guaranteed if you arrive early in the morning). Search "Dufferin Island, Niagara Falls" in google maps if you need to know how to get there. It's a bit of a walk with your gear, but free. Follow your typical measures to deal with potential break-ins (as with any location). As a side note, if you arrive very early in the morning (~6am) parking lots near the falls are not attended, and youwould be able to park for free for the day (as long as you don't leave) - although you didn't hear this from me!

- Goat Island, the Wildcard -
One aspect I have yet to explore, is trying photography from Goat Island in the morning (the American side of the falls), where it meets the main horseshoe falls. I have seen excellent pictures taken from here, but I’m not sure if this was because the birds frequent this area, or if these were the years when the birds actually nested on Goat Island . The shots I have seen from here include excellent perched images. This area is something I hope to explore more this year.

Overall, I have found that its hard to go wrong photographing these birds. Peregrine Falcons as a species tend to be realitivley tame, and the massive number of people these birds see on a daily basis only increases their boldness. The unique situation of having the entire top of the gorge as public access (as a large walkway), just means more opportunities for the photographer.

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