Capturing the Curlew Sandpiper in Migration
The outskirts of Gurgaon are a paradise for birdwatchers, especially during the migration season. Among the numerous avian visitors, one particular bird that grabs attention is the Curlew Sandpiper. I recently had the opportunity to capture this magnificent species using my Canon EOS 90D and Sigma 150-600mm Contemporary lens, and the experience was nothing short of spectacular.
The Setting: Chandu Budhera
Chandu Budhera, a tranquil area on the fringes of Gurgaon, turns into a birdwatching haven during migration periods. The water bodies and wetlands make it an ideal pitstop for migratory birds, offering a respite from their long journeys.
The Gear: Canon EOS 90D and Sigma 150-600mm Contemporary Lens
The Canon EOS 90D, with its exceptional speed and versatility, combined with the Sigma 150-600mm Contemporary lens, offers a fantastic range for capturing distant subjects with great clarity. The lens’ optical stabilization comes in handy when you’re standing amidst tall grasses, focused on capturing the perfect shot of the Curlew Sandpiper.
Spotting the Curlew Sandpiper
A medium-sized wader, the Curlew Sandpiper stands out with its distinctive bill, shaped like a miniature curlew bill, and its striking plumage. During my expedition, I was fortunate enough to witness a flock of these beautiful birds foraging in the mudflats, their rich, rusty-colored feathers blending perfectly with the natural hues of the landscape.
Capturing the Moment
The Canon EOS 90D’s fast autofocus system allowed me to lock on to the rapidly moving birds easily. The Sigma 150-600mm lens provided the essential reach to capture detailed shots without disturbing the flock. With its fast shutter speed, I managed to freeze the intricate movements of the Curlew Sandpiper as it searched for food, its bill submerged in the mud.
Post-Processing
The images captured were RAW, providing ample scope for post-processing. The Canon EOS 90D’s dynamic range preserved the details in both highlights and shadows, enabling me to bring out the nuances of the Curlew Sandpiper’s plumage.
The experience of photographing the Curlew Sandpiper during its migration through Chandu Budhera was enriching, to say the least. The Canon EOS 90D, paired with the Sigma 150-600mm Contemporary lens, proved to be the ideal combination for this venture, capturing the bird’s beauty in all its glory. If you’re a birdwatching enthusiast looking for a spot rich in avian biodiversity, Chandu Budhera in Gurgaon should undoubtedly be on your list.
