06/07/2026
The Story behind this shot .
June 7, 2025 (this day last year )
I start irrigating one of the hayfields and a Wilson Snipe flew up in my face multiple out of the same area by a ditch multiple times I soon came to realize there was a little nest with eggs in there so I put an orange irrigation stake in close by so I could make sure to not disrupt it or drive on it while we irrigated the fields , meanwhile kept a eye on them .
Today was my lucky day. She has a nest of 4 . I’m so happy I caught them when I did because I guarantee you in a day or two , they’ll be following her around everywhere and chances to see them again will be zero . I have never seen little their ones and I may never again , what a cool rare opportunity.
I’ve spent a lot of time outdoors and around wildlife, but I had never seen baby Wilson’s Snipes before. I may never get the chance again. What an incredible and neat moment to witness.
One thing I’ve noticed over the years is how much wildlife depends on irrigated agriculture. As soon as the water starts flowing, the birds arrive. Irrigation creates habitat and provides food during the dry summer months. When the water disappears, many of them move on.
People can be quick to criticize ranchers and farmers, but moments like this remind me that they are some of wildlife’s biggest allies . Every year when we irrigate, the birds , bugs and wildlife show up . I’m reminded that these birds need us just as much as we need them.
The truth is, ranchers aren’t a threat to wildlife—they’re an asset. The water, grass, habitat, and open spaces that support countless birds, animals, and pollinators often exist because someone is actively caring for the land. Ranchers and farmers are stewards .
Stewardship and agriculture go hand in hand more often than people want to realize.
