Male Northern Cardinal, his size guarantees quick access to a bird feeder and respect by any finch or sparrow.
It was a cold morning (-4ºF /-20ºC) and the temperature never got higher than 9ºF /-13ºC in our neighborhood today. With still plenty of snow on the ground the birds have a high demand to eat and keep their energy level up to withstand these cold temperatures. Well, we do our share to support them and keep all bird feeders around the house filled and provide fresh water in three heated bird baths. Sunflower seed and suet feeders are heavily used by the birds and often they are waiting on a nearby perch until it is their turn.
Downy Woodpecker, waiting for its turn to access a suet feeder that was occupied by a much larger Red-bellied Woodpecker.
I spent a couple hours in my warmest winter clothing and tried to make a few clicks during the late morning. The goal is to keep the bird feeders out of the frame, but sometimes that doesn’t work and some final cropping of the picture in post process is required. I practiced with the relatively new BENRO monopod again and slowly but surely the handling becomes an unconscious task and my mind can be focussed on the story telling aspects of the photo again. Nothing spectacular today, but I hope you find some enjoyment by looking at today’s photos from a cold Sunday.
Nikon Z6 III, Nikon NIKKOR Z 600 f/6.3 VR S, BENRO MSDPL46C SupaDupa Monopod, Monopod Gimbal Head, some images shot with Westscott FJ80 II speed light.
The best singer during the winter season, the Carolina Wren. Very happy to have a pair in the neighborhood.
A not so common guest below the bird feeders, a Fox Sparrow. They are bigger than any of the other sparrows or finches.
It’s impossible to count the American Goldfinches on a day like this. They are constantly on the move. Although in their winter plumage, the males can still win any beauty contests.