First, I admittedly struggle with mastering the focal points on my 90 D camera and trying out a new lens, Sigma 100mm - 400mm. Consequently, they aren't up to standards.

I, however, wanted to share an extraordinary moment: seeing my first baby squirrel! Since I photographed a mating, I had hoped to see some babies, so I was thrilled when I saw this little guy. While checking out the area, I spotted what I thought was a small squirrel. I tossed it a peanut, and the next thing I knew, this tiny one was barreling straight for me. Since I’ve been working with this group, quite a few have come towards me, but this one was getting so close that I stepped back as I wasn’t sure where Mom was. Easily distracted, it went exploring. Mom did come on the scene, but shooting continuously missed that.

Quite adorable, I’d say, and the start of a beautiful tail!

Pulled the trigger and received this lens today. I had been lusting after this lens for some time now. 18 months ago I almost pulled the trigger on a II version of this lens @ $3800. Now, with less money to spend, I saw this near mint version I for $1500 and splurged ! This first version was released in late 2001 - my copy was made in 2005. The improved version II was released in 2014 and $4K seems to be the going price for a used one if you can find one.

This is a yearling juvie Great Blue Heron. Canon 80D and 400 DO, 1/250, f4, ISO 800, hand held/braced from car, 35% crop, in late afternoon thin overcast/low contrast light. This is with the lens straight out of the box - no tuning done yet.

Thanks to ALL for stopping by and for comment ! .....Larry