I never paid much attention to the road, even though I walk it almost every day, until I lost my job and had more time on my hands.

Aside from myself, very few people use the road. The local ranch hands, rock haulers and the occasional imbiber practicing his one-eyed navigation skills are about it. Otherwise, all you are likely to hear are birds, coyotes or the wind.

My interest broadened as I tried diligently to photograph a Northern Harrier, a type of hawk, that I first saw during its migration.

While waiting for a shot at the bird, I became more aware of life along the road.

It’s interesting how much life exists between the pavement and the fence, where most of these images were shot. I found it amazing what could be seen by simply taking the time to stop and look.

I’m sure that one day the land near the road will be developed. But for now, I enjoy it whenever I can by taking photographs of what I see while waiting for the elusive Harrier.

Story and Photography by Jim West