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Daniel Proulx @thewizardslens.bsky.social · 07/01/2026

Quiet walk today. Not many birds once I went deeper into the forest, but this Pileated Woodpecker caught my eye. I managed to capture it while it was feeding on fruit. 🪶#birds

Male Pileated Woodpecker perched in winter branches, bright red crest visible, eating small berries during light snowfall in a quiet forest.

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Daniel Proulx @thewizardslens.bsky.social · 05/01/2026

So we saw three different species of owls on the same day. Incredibly lucky, as all of them were firsts for me, both to see and to photograph. The Northern Saw-whet Owl is such a cute little furball, sleeping in the open and very small, about the size of a grapefruit. 🦉 #bird #raptors #owl

A Northern Saw-whet Owl perched on a bare branch, fluffed up against the cold, eyes half-closed as it sleeps. The small owl shows brown and white spotted feathers with a softly blurred woodland background

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Daniel Proulx @thewizardslens.bsky.social · 04/01/2026

Yesterday I spotted 3 owl species, from the largest Great Gray Owl to the smallest Northern Saw whet Owl all in the same day. Here's the Great Gray. 🦉 #bird #raptors #owl

Great Gray Owl perched on a bare tree branch in winter facing the camera with intense yellow eyes surrounded by leafless forest.

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Daniel Proulx @thewizardslens.bsky.social · 21/10/2025

This year I found the spot where the teal are taking a break before their long journey south 🪶 It’s so nice to see them. Someone walking by said, “Oh look, baby ducks,” not realizing that at this time of year there are no babies and this was actually another species. #birds #wildlife #migration

Two teal ducks swimming side by side in a calm pond, surrounded by floating green and yellow lily pads. Their plumage is mottled brown with hints of green on the wings, and their large dark bills are partially submerged in the water as they forage.

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Daniel Proulx @thewizardslens.bsky.social · 20/10/2025

🪶 Wood Ducks, perfectly dressed for this season. #birds

Two colorful male Wood Ducks standing on a log at the water’s edge. Their iridescent green and blue feathers, red eyes, and bold white markings contrast with the muted browns of the marsh background.

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Daniel Proulx @thewizardslens.bsky.social · 17/10/2025

🪶 A mallard at sunset, sharing the pond with a teal, while the water reflects the last fire of the day. 📷 Canon R5 · 800mm · f/9 · 1/500s · ISO 4000 #birds #wildlife #nature #duck #canada #photography #ornithology

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Daniel Proulx @thewizardslens.bsky.social · 17/10/2025

🪶 Green-winged Teal (Sarcelle d’hiver)! They were in the shadowy part of the pond at sunset. 📷 Canon R5 · 800mm · f/9 · 1/500s · ISO 4000 #birds #wildlife #nature #duck #canada #photography #ornithology

Two Green-winged Teals swimming in the shadowy part of a pond at sunset. Their plumage is mottled brown with faint green speculum. Reflections ripple across the dark, cool-toned water, creating a twilight atmosphere.

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Daniel Proulx @thewizardslens.bsky.social · 17/10/2025

🪶 First time seeing a Green-winged Teal (Sarcelle d’hiver)! Light was so low I had to shoot at ISO 5000, otherwise no shot at all. The reflections on the water turned out more interesting than I expected. #birds #wildlife #nature #canada #photography 📷 Canon R5 · 800mm · f/9 · 1/500s · ISO 5000

Three Green-winged Teals swimming on rippling water in low light. Their plumage is mottled brown, with one showing a green speculum on the wing. Reflections of light and color ripple across the surface.

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Daniel Proulx @thewizardslens.bsky.social · 16/10/2025

🪶 Tyran tritri (Tyrannus tyrannus) perché sur de la salicaire pourpre (Lythrum salicaria). Eastern Kingbird perched on Purple Loosestrife. July 2023, One of my first wildlife photos with my very first zoom lens. #birds #wildlife #nature #ornithology #birdphotography #canada

A small black-and-white Eastern Kingbird perched on a tall spike of purple loosestrife flowers, with a blurred pink and green floral background.

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Daniel Proulx @thewizardslens.bsky.social · 14/10/2025

I prefer not to crop too tight when the background adds to the story. Here, the Goldfinch stands out against the sunflowers, the bloom above and seed head below make it a portrait of both bird and its environment. 🪶 #bird #wildlife #nature #photography

A bright yellow male Goldfinch perched on a dried sunflower head, with blurred green stems and a blooming sunflower above. The vertical crop shows both the bird and flowers, highlighting the contrast between new bloom and faded seed head.

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Daniel Proulx @thewizardslens.bsky.social · 14/10/2025

I was just cleaning some old cards and found so many photos I had taken but never looked at. This one is from July 2024 of an Indigo Bunting. It was the first time I encountered one and there’s a bonus snail. 🪶 #birds #wildlife #nature #photography

A vibrant male Indigo Bunting perched on a thorny branch, with a small snail clinging to the stem just above it. The bird’s feathers are a striking blue, standing out against the dark blurred background.

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Daniel Proulx @thewizardslens.bsky.social · 10/10/2025

This yellow-rumped warbler was feeding on nearby autumn seeds. 🍂 Watching these small birds in action reminds us how much we can learn about our environment through photography. #birds #warbler #wildlife #photography #nature #naturalist #autumn #fallcolors #birdwatching #canada

A Yellow-rumped Warbler perched on a branch, surrounded by warm sunset autumn tones.

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Daniel Proulx @thewizardslens.bsky.social · 10/10/2025

Justin the Beaver, caught in Canada’s autumn glow. 🍁🦫 Quite possibly the most Canadian photo I’ve ever taken. #beaver #wildlife #wildlifephotography #nature #naturephotography #canada #canadianwildlife #autumn #fallcolors #animals

A beaver swimming across water glowing bright red from autumn leaf reflections, its head and ripples breaking the smooth mirrored surface.

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Daniel Proulx @thewizardslens.bsky.social · 01/10/2025

Three Wood Ducks sharing the same pond, each with their own colors and patterns, yet moving together in harmony. Nature reminds us that diversity is not something to fear but something that gives life its beauty. In a time when division is loud, the quiet water shows another way. #birds 🪶

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Daniel Proulx @thewizardslens.bsky.social · 01/10/2025

Last evening I watched egrets glide across the sky, their wings glowing in the last light. Migration is natural and timeless, a movement for survival and renewal. In a world of borders, birds remind us that migration is life itself. #birds 🪶

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Daniel Proulx @thewizardslens.bsky.social · 01/10/2025

A few Wood Ducks as the sun was setting. In the soft light of fall their colors came alive, the green crests shining and the chestnut feathers glowing against the water. The reflection in the warm golden surface gave the scene a painterly look. It almost felt surreal to be in that moment. #birds 🪶

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Daniel Proulx @thewizardslens.bsky.social · 23/09/2025

Spotted what I thought were bees entering a tree high above the ground. Rare to see a hive in the wild since most of the time it’s wasps. Took the shot despite the distance and caught one entering the hive. Look closely near the entrance… 🐝🌿 #photography #naturephotography #wildlife

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Daniel Proulx @thewizardslens.bsky.social · 23/09/2025

Almost missed this Green Heron at sunset, perfectly hidden in the shadows until the light caught its eye. #bird 🪶

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Daniel Proulx @thewizardslens.bsky.social · 13/09/2025

Took this shot a few days ago. I’ve noticed that merlin falcons often come to the marshes in late summer to feed on dragonflies, since many of the small birds they usually hunt have already migrated south. It’s always fun to watch how agile they are. #birds #Raptors 🪶

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Daniel Proulx @thewizardslens.bsky.social · 02/09/2025

Osprey and its Carp. Carpe Diem, seize the day, seize the fish. #Raptors #birds

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Daniel Proulx @thewizardslens.bsky.social · 01/09/2025

A few weeks ago, a young Merlin falcon landed on my roof with its fresh catch. Pausing for a meal and a short rest right above me. #raptors 🪶 #bird

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Daniel Proulx @thewizardslens.bsky.social · 01/09/2025

Every year the Merlins visit us, and this was the last time I saw the couple that nested nearby. Each year we have a nest close to us, and just hearing them every day makes me happy. I look forward to seeing them again next year. #birds #raptors 🪶

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Daniel Proulx @thewizardslens.bsky.social · 01/09/2025

I feel very lucky this Downy Woodpecker was just there enjoying some unripe Red Elderberries. Always fun to learn more about birds through photography. 🪶 #bird

A Downy Woodpecker hangs upside down from a leafy branch, picking pale greenish-white elderberries from bright red stems. The background is soft green foliage.

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Daniel Proulx @thewizardslens.bsky.social · 08/02/2025

Last summer, I had a special encounter with a Common Yellowthroat. I stayed still, blending into my surroundings, and with patience, the birds came to me. Observing them up close is always rewarding! 🪶 #birds

A Common Yellowthroat perched on a branch, its bright yellow chest contrasting with its olive back and distinct black mask. The bird is alert, surrounded by lush green foliage.

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Daniel Proulx @thewizardslens.bsky.social · 08/02/2025

Last year, I had the chance to see many Baltimore Orioles at a new spot, and it was such a joy to observe them! They usually stay high in the trees, and their song is so distinct. I can't wait to go back again this year! 🪶 #bird

A Baltimore Oriole with striking black and orange plumage perches on a branch among golden spring leaves, its beak slightly open as if calling. The bright background highlights its vivid colors.

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Daniel Proulx @thewizardslens.bsky.social · 30/01/2025

After landing, this Turkey Vulture spread its wings perfectly, giving me the ultimate shot. A stunning display of power and elegance. Nature always rewards patience! 🪶 #birds #raptors

A Turkey Vulture perched on a dead tree branch with its wings fully spread against a bright blue sky. Its dark feathers fan out symmetrically, showcasing intricate patterns and impressive wingspan. The red, featherless head and sharp beak add to its striking presence

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Daniel Proulx @thewizardslens.bsky.social · 29/01/2025

Last summer, I finally saw a Turkey Vulture up close after years of only watching them soar. It landed on a dead tree in my brother’s backyard, giving me the perfect shot. A reminder that with patience, luck finds us. 🪶 #birds #raptors

A Turkey Vulture perched on a dead tree branch against a clear blue sky. Its dark feathers contrast with its red, featherless head, and its sharp, curved beak is visible. The sunlight highlights the intricate patterns on its wings and the powerful talons gripping the branch.A Turkey Vulture perched on a dead tree branch against a clear blue sky. Its dark feathers contrast with its red, featherless head, and its sharp, curved beak is visible. The sunlight highlights the intricate patterns on its wings and the powerful talons gripping the branch.

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Daniel Proulx @thewizardslens.bsky.social · 28/01/2025

Captured a serene moment in nature last summer. 🌿 This little marvel, perched elegantly among the whispers of the reeds, reminds us of the quiet beauty that surrounds us. Take a moment to breathe, observe, and connect with the natural world. Every creature, no matter how small, has a story. #birds 🪶

A Marsh Wren, a small bird with brown, white, and black plumage, is perched between two cattail stalks, gripping them with its feet while spreading its legs wide. The background consists of blurred green reeds and foliage. The bird's head is slightly tilted, and its beak is pointed forward. The texture of the cattail stalks contrasts with the smooth feathers of the bird. The overall color palette is earthy and natural, with shades of green, brown, and beige.

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Daniel Proulx @thewizardslens.bsky.social · 24/01/2025

Captured this shot of an Eastern Kingbird parent feeding its young a massive dragonfly!! The size of the dragonfly was incredible, this little one must have been satisfied for quite a while after! Moments like this remind me why I love wildlife photography. 📸🪶 #birds

Image shows four Eastern Kingbirds perched on a thin branch surrounded by green foliage. A parent bird is feeding a large dragonfly to its young. The dragonfly looks oversized compared to the birds, making the feeding interaction particularly striking. The background is bright and leafy.

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Daniel Proulx @thewizardslens.bsky.social · 19/01/2025

The barred owl’s feather patterns around its eyes are mesmerizing. I captured this close-up just meters away as it focused intently on movement in the snow, unaware of my presence. An unforgettable moment! #raptors #birds 🦉🪶

Close-up of a barred owl's face, showcasing its intricate feather patterns and large dark eyes. The owl's curved beak is prominent, and the detailed texture of its feathers is clearly visible.

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Daniel Proulx @thewizardslens.bsky.social · 13/01/2025

This is a close-up of the barred owl I saw yesterday, such an incredible sight! Its feather patterns and gaze are mesmerizing. Thanks for the recovery wishes! My knee is healing slowly but surely. Moments like this make me want to get back out there and appreciate nature’s beauty. #birds 🪶

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Daniel Proulx @thewizardslens.bsky.social · 12/01/2025

After two months of staying in due to my knee injury, I took my camera out, hoping to spot a snowy owl after seeing three the day before. Instead, I saw my first barred owl ever. It stayed still, focused on hunting, a reminder that luck and patience often lead to magical wildlife moments. #birds 🪶

Close-up photo of a barred owl with detailed brown and white plumage and striking dark eyes, surrounded by a soft blurred background of snow and trees. The owl's gaze is intense, giving a sense of focus and serenity

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Daniel Proulx @thewizardslens.bsky.social · 15/12/2024

A serene moment captured late last fall: a heron standing still amidst cold weather, its reflection blending beautifully with autumn hues. I hoped it would soon find a warmer place. #birds 🪶

A great blue heron stands still in shallow water surrounded by autumn foliage with orange and brown tones. The bird's reflection is visible in the water, creating a serene scene. The environment suggests late fall, with bare branches and a crisp atmosphere.

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Daniel Proulx @thewizardslens.bsky.social · 07/12/2024

Saw this Wood Duck dashing across the water, so I decided to take a shot. Later realized he was hunting dragonflies! 🦆✨ Nature never fails to amaze. #Birds 🪶

A vibrant wood duck running across the surface of the water, its wings slightly spread and droplets splashing around. The duck appears focused, mid-chase, as it hunts for dragonflies skimming above the water. The scene captures the energy and elegance of the moment.

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Daniel Proulx @thewizardslens.bsky.social · 02/12/2024

When visiting my family in France, I spotted this bird on a church tower. At first, I thought it was a regular crow, but it turned out to be a jackdaw, "choucas des tours." These clever corvids love nesting in towers and are known for their striking pale eyes. Such a delightful discovery! #Birds 🪶

A jackdaw, a small black bird from the corvid family, is perched on an intricately carved stone detail of Église Sainte-Marie (Notre Dame) in Lonzac, France. The bird's glossy black feathers shimmer in the sunlight, and its pale, striking eyes stand out against the golden-hued lichen covering the aged stone surface.

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Daniel Proulx @thewizardslens.bsky.social · 30/11/2024

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Daniel Proulx @thewizardslens.bsky.social · 30/11/2024

The elusive Virginia Rail was a highlight of my year, a near-legend, rarely seen but often heard through its distinctive calls. Capturing it was a true privilege, as it stayed still for only a few seconds before vanishing into the reeds. Moments like this are unforgettable. #birds 🪶

A close-up photograph of a Virginia Rail in its natural wetland habitat. The bird's reddish-brown plumage, streaked markings, and orange-red bill stand out vividly against the lush green reeds. Its sharp, focused eye and detailed feathers capture its elusive and secretive nature.

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Daniel Proulx @thewizardslens.bsky.social · 29/11/2024

This is a photo I captured this year of a swallow feeding its young. It's amazing to witness how tirelessly these birds work to keep their fledglings nourished, hunting and delivering food nonstop. Nature's dedication at its finest! 🐦 #birds 🪶

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Daniel Proulx @thewizardslens.bsky.social · 27/11/2024

I had an amazing close encounter with a Canada goose in a marsh I love to visit. It was calm at first but became alert and vocal when it spotted a nearby dog. This moment allowed me to capture the incredible details of its bill and tongue. #wildlifephotography #birds 🪶

Close-up image of a Canada goose's head with its beak open, showcasing serrated edges on the bill and tongue. The bird's black and white plumage contrasts against a soft, blurred background, capturing a moment of alertness and vocal expression.

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Daniel Proulx @thewizardslens.bsky.social · 26/11/2024

Every wildlife photography outing brings new lessons. This image captures a Tree Swallow perched with a feather it collected. I discovered that these birds often gather feathers from other species, such as Canada Geese, to make their nests softer and more comfortable. #birds 🪶

A Tree Swallow with iridescent blue feathers on its back and white feathers on its chest is perched on a branch. The bird is holding a large white feather in its beak, likely collected to line its nest for added comfort. The background is plain white, emphasizing the bird's vibrant colors and delicate features.

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Daniel Proulx @thewizardslens.bsky.social · 25/11/2024

After a successful day of wildlife photography, this image highlights stunning layers: birds in the foreground, seals lounging on rocks in the sea, and a distant church silhouetted on the horizon. I’m not usually a scenery photographer, but this eerie and serene view was unforgettable. #photography

An image of a coastal scene at sunset. In the foreground, shorebirds are visible scattered among rocks and shallow water. Further out, seals rest on a rock in the sea. In the background, a church silhouette stands on a distant point, framed by a vivid orange and yellow sky. The image conveys layers of tranquility and mystery.

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Daniel Proulx @thewizardslens.bsky.social · 24/11/2024

A Great Blue Heron in action! After waiting an hour, I captured this moment when it struck the water with precision. Their beak is like a lance, perfectly adapted for hunting. Patience paid off for both of us! 🪶#birds

Image of a Great Blue Heron standing among vibrant green lily pads with white water lilies scattered around. The heron has its wings partially spread as it uses its sharp beak to catch a fish from the water. Droplets splash around, highlighting the precise and dynamic moment of the hunt.

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Daniel Proulx @thewizardslens.bsky.social · 23/11/2024

The Indigo Bunting was on my wishlist for a while. We heard one was spotted nearby and rushed to see it. Within just 30 seconds, we spotted it, we joked, 'Mission accomplished, let’s go home!' but ended up staying a few hours exploring. This vibrant blue beauty made the trip so worth it! #birds 🪶

An Indigo Bunting perched on a branch surrounded by a lush green background. The bird's vibrant blue feathers are striking and detailed, with subtle darker and lighter shades creating a textured appearance. Its small beak and sharp eyes are prominently visible as it looks calmly into the distance.

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Daniel Proulx @thewizardslens.bsky.social · 22/11/2024

Last year, I captured this stunning Great Blue Heron amidst the vibrant autumn foliage. I loved how still and focused he was, patiently waiting for movement in the water below. He looks majestic, as if he’s surveying his kingdom. #bird 🪶

A Great Blue Heron stands gracefully in a shallow pond surrounded by vibrant autumn foliage. The heron’s long neck is upright, and its blue-gray feathers contrast beautifully with the yellow, orange, and red leaves around it. The calm water reflects the colors, creating a serene and picturesque scene.

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Daniel Proulx @thewizardslens.bsky.social · 22/11/2024

My wife Catherine creates beautiful bird illustrations inspired by my photography this year. I framed one to hang on our wall because I love her art. I encourage her to share it online, but she doubts its worth. Her creativity paired with my photos makes it extra special to me. #Birds #Art

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Daniel Proulx @thewizardslens.bsky.social · 21/11/2024

Capturing the essence of the ordinary, this photograph showcases a pair of common pigeons, revealing their extraordinary beauty. It's a testament to finding wonder in the mundane, a reminder that beauty is all a matter of perspective. #Birds 🦉

A close-up of two pigeons sitting side by side, their heads slightly tilted toward each other, conveying a sense of intimacy and connection. Their iridescent feathers shimmer with vibrant shades of green, purple, and blue, while their bright orange eyes stand out against their soft plumage. The gentle background highlights their bond as a pair.

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Daniel Proulx @thewizardslens.bsky.social · 21/11/2024

This is a picture i took long time ago with my old camera. Water ripples, sunlight and rocks. #Photography

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Daniel Proulx @thewizardslens.bsky.social · 20/11/2024

This summer, I had a magical moment with a Black-and-white Warbler. Known for their gravity-defying moves, walking upside down on branches with ease, they’re usually too quick to photograph. But this one landed near me, just long enough for a shot. I stayed still, and luck was on my side! #birds 🦉

A close-up photo of a Black-and-white Warbler perched on a branch, surrounded by lush green foliage. The bird’s striking black-and-white striped plumage is vividly detailed, showcasing its unique patterns. It appears calm and still, providing a rare moment of clarity for a typically fast-moving species.

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Daniel Proulx @thewizardslens.bsky.social · 20/11/2024

Throwback to when I first met Leonard, my Bengal cat. From a tiny kitten to 12 years of adventures, he’s been a fighter. This year, he dropped to 7.5 lbs, and I feared losing him. Now, at 12.5 lbs and thriving, he’s healthy and happy. Grateful for every moment with my little leopard! 🐾💖 #Cats

Close-up of a tiny Bengal kitten with big blue eyes and spotted fur, being held gently in a hand. The background shows a bright and airy kitchen. The kitten looks curious but slightly grumpy, with its small paws extended forward.

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Daniel Proulx @thewizardslens.bsky.social · 19/11/2024

While visiting family in France, I spent the whole trip hoping to capture a raptor on camera. They stayed elusive until the last day, when this stunning Kestrel Falcon landed in a tree in my cousin’s backyard. Sometimes the perfect shot comes at the very last moment! 🦅 #birds🪶

A close-up photograph of a Kestrel falcon perched on a moss-covered tree branch. The bird has speckled plumage with soft brown and gray tones, bright yellow feet, and sharp talons. Its keen gaze is directed upward, with vibrant green foliage blurred in the background.

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