Bird Photo Dump - Nov. 2023

November was full of birds and photo opportunities!

Newport News, VA

Can you spot him? This is one of my favorite photos I took at Newport News Park – a prime photo spot for fall foliage, and, as it turns out, yellow-rumped warblers. At first I thought it was a new bird because of its brown head, but on further research it seems to be just the warbler’s winter plumage.

Savannah, GA - Nikon P950

I took my camera with me on a visit to Savannah, GA to take advantage of a backyard known to be replete with many a foul.

I didn’t know this, but mallards have brilliant blue (speculum) feathers!

This one was more than happy to show me.

I had to test the limits of the zoom, but I managed to take some pictures of a majestic great blue heron. I like how disproportionate they look when their necks are stretched out.

They also have a rather, ahem, unique noise that has to be heard to be believed.

A snowy egret also flew into view. It’s uncommon to see them this time of year. What a treat!

Savannah, GA - Canon EOS 7D

On a separate trip to Savannah, I took my boss’s Canon EOS 7D DSLR with a 75-300mm lens, which he loaned me for the holidays.

A flock of Canadian geese were less-than-willing subjects.

Have you ever seen a goose from head-on? Rather ominous, no? The lighting on this one doesn’t help, either.

Much better! Profile angles only for you!

Female mallards also have blue speculum feathers!

Watch out! He saw you checking out his girl.

Tallahassee, FL

For Thanksgiving, I brought my camera with me to Tallahassee, FL, enticed by the possibility of capturing many more species of well-fed backyard birds.

I was so excited to capture my first red-bellied woodpecker. Such striking colors!

Spotted! He didn’t seem to like being disturbed during his afternoon snack.

There were a lot of tufted titmice, but it was hard taking good pictures of such flighty (hehe) creatures. This one just looks like a statue; rest assured, he was gone within the half second.

This Carolina wren was a right grump when I asked (politely) to take his photo.

The blue jays were definitely the boldest and bravest of the bunch.

I managed to catch the Carolina wren in a better mood on a brighter day. This one liked to dance; he turned this way and that for at least 10 minutes before hopping from his perch. Or maybe he wanted to be sure I got his best side. What do you think; did I do a good job?

We took a walk down to the lake, and happened upon some white ibises rooting around for a meal. Such pretty birds! Another uncommon find for the area and time of year.

And finally, the noble male Northern cardinal, staking his claim. Thanks for joining me on my birding adventures!