I've mentioned in the past the excitement of the newly designated Beaver Island Birding Trail that has the whole island buzzing. I had great hopes of adding bird photography to my repertoire this summer but sadly, as you can tell from my albums, it hasn't happened yet. But today, I spotted this rare bird that is very hard to find, and even when seen, rarely stays still long enough to be photographed. Imagine my shock when it allowed me to photograph it from several angles. Even more amazing, I walked away from it before it flew off. It may be the best bird photo I am ever able to capture and post! Of course, best on black to see the incredible details of this rare sighting. Habitat of the Rusty Woodpecker: http://365project.org/taffy/365/2014-07-25
Thanks to all of you for your support that put Light Dancing at the top of TT. And my clouds over Lake Michigan at the bottom. An amazing way to start the day, the weekend. I so appreciate your views, comments, and favs.
A totally awesome capture of this rare and unusual species. I believe these to be a highly endangered species, whose natural food sources have been vanishing due to human interference.
My gosh, that's a really rare bird Taffy, well done, you'll be a fully-fledged twitcher soon. This shot is definitely worth a gold star and elephant stamp for your stalking and photographic skills. More seriously, this is a great shot, especially on the black background. The colours and textures really stand out very well. I've found I can look at others' shots and make comments, replies etc, but haven't posted anything while I've been away - and may not do until I get home again. I've taken hundreds of shots though!
Lucky you to be able to stalk and capture such a unique bird. There's hidden talent as a bush ranger hidden behind that camera! Love the humour in the story Taffy and the texture of the woodpecker that shows up so well on black
Ha!Capturing a bird like this doesn't take less skills than with a real one!And you did it very beautifully!Love the tones and contrast!Stunning rusty image!Fav!
@golftragic Thanks Marnie, for your inspiring confidence in my ability to become a birder. I should mention that following advice of sister-in-law, I even have the birder binocs needed (and harness) for finding those birds! Hoping for more rare sightings of ones that hold still (and where I don't have to awake at 4:00 a.m. for the event.
hehe. Get out there and look for birds, but LISTEN first. It's almost always the tell (and the movement of leaves). I am so jealous of your environment!
They are such a beautiful bird so you were quite privileged to see it. Of course, I think you should tag it for the 31 Days of Rust as well. (31daysofrust)
Is this "rare bird" just not *the best*! To my delight, I found a sanctuary for such as this in the nearby location of Mahone Bay. The ones I loved most, I discovered had traveled across the continent from Beaverton, WA, I secured 2 ravens and an owl, returning one to it's west-coast habitat; I'm told it has yet to reproduce. I'm also awaiting a proper perch for this local owl and raven as Ken says they tend to be messy birds if allowed too close to the house... When I have them properly tethered, perhaps I can share a photo as well. They're all simply charming, and they pose well... ♥