I love ravens. I know, they have a bad reputation in some circles, but they are smart birds, and their behavior can be fascinating.

My dogs told me about a raven in the cottonwood tree across the street this morning. For some reason, every dog I’ve ever had has gone into a barking frenzy whenever they see a raven or crow nearby.

I told the dogs to shush, grabbed my camera and trotted out the front door to start shooting.

The raven was well up in the tree — 30 feet or so, accompanied by a couple of magpies. I had to concentrate on holding the camera steady.

Meanwhile, the raven was calling up a storm, a mix of traditional raven “croaks!”, with it’s head thrust out and showing it’s hackles; a burbling sound that it made while dipping it’s head; and even a little softer mewling sound. All of which made me wish I spoke raven, but also made it hard to get a good focus on the bird as I tried to hold the camera steady in my hand. The branches surrounding were confusing my autofocus as well.

I decided to move to the side to see if I couldn’t get a clearer shot. I eased over, keeping my eye on the bird. And … I hit a patch of ice. Whoops!

It was one of those slow motion moments in which I was able to plan how I landed — “protect the camera! Protect the camera!” — and was luck enough to damage only my pride.

These are the first photos I took after I fell. Is the raven laughing at me? You tell me …

Soon after, the raven flew off. It returned a few hours later, this time in the company of crows. And this time, I took my tripod out.

Always use a tripod if you can. Watch your footing. And don’t forget to enjoy the bird!