Bird’s-eye view: Lyman Museum presents renowned photographer of native feathered friends

Have you ever wondered what it takes to produce one of those magnificent photographs of a native forest bird or how many frames are wasted before capturing the perfect shot?

Renowned Hawaii photographer and biologist Jack Jeffrey will share the experiences of filming our islands’ native birds during a presentation titled “The Joys — and Challenges — of Native Bird Photography in Hawaii” from 7-8:30 p.m. Monday and 3-4:30 p.m. Tuesday at the Lyman Museum.

Most native forest birds in Hawaii are seldom seen, and even more rarely photographed. Found only at high elevation in remote rain forests, many of these birds are critically endangered, with just several to a few hundred individuals of each species remaining in the wild.

Their habitats — where the weather is often wet, foggy, cold and clammy (not to say squally, drizzly, blustery and otherwise uncomfortable) — present extreme conditions that are good for neither camera equipment nor intrepid photographers. These forests are often accessible only by helicopter or by hiking many hours along muddy slopes and trails.

Through personal stories and breathtaking photos of these elusive creatures in their habitats, Jeffrey brings us (in every respect) into the real picture of wildlife photography.

The presentation is part of the museum’s Saigo Public Program lecture series. Admission to this program is free to museum members, $3 for nonmembers. Space is limited; first come, first seated.

Doors open at 6:30 p.m. for Monday’s program. Additional parking is available next door at Hilo Union School on Monday evening only.

The nationally accredited and Smithsonian-affiliated Lyman Museum showcases the natural and cultural history of Hawaii. Located at 276 Haili St., the museum is open 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Monday through Saturday. For more information, call 935-5021 or visit www.lymanmuseum.org.