I was really taken with the Nēnēs, Hawaii’s state bird, also known as the Hawaiian Goose, when we photographed them the other day. It was thrilling to see this flock of endangered birds float down directly in front of us in the most perfect setting imaginable. Our long lenses created a dreamy background and the patch of tiny white flowers made the perfect foreground. The golden light from the sinking sun kissed the birds’ tawny feathers. We stopped shooting when the light disappeared but we stayed until we had barely enough light to walk out because we didn’t want to disturb the flock or cause them to flush. I never thought I’d be charmed by a goose, but charmed I am. I hope they flourish again.
