There’s something about these birds that I just love. I know, they are not the prettiest. But I do love to watch them. This Turkey Vulture was busy feasting on a dead carcass when I snapped this image.
He (or she) shuffled off the feasting area long enough to stare back at me. Then, slowly strolled back over to finish lunch. Now, I used a long lens to take this photo. But the Turkey Vulture was still unsure of me. So, I snapped a couple more photos and went on my way. I did not want to disturb his meal too much.
Last week was freezing here in mid-Michigan. The Polar Vortex gave us unbelievably frigid temperatures. Along with biting cold, the bone-chilling wind chills made me want to stay indoors. Then, we had a brief warm up to almost fifty degrees. And, now…well…we have ice everywhere. I am afraid to ask what Mother Nature has in store for us next.
I just know he (or she) is telling me, “Excuse me can you fill your bird feeders? So I can sit out here, eat, and drive your dogs insane.”
I took extra care on keeping my feeders full. I had numerous winged visitors and a few furry ones.
I think the bird was giving me the evil eye because I was interrupting lunch. Notice the thin layer of ice on the branches?
Even though, I generally do not mind winter. I mean, the changing seasons is why I enjoy Michigan. But, I must admit, I am looking forward to Spring.
Right now, the water is extremely high. Leaving me to stick close to my house. One good aspect, I get to watch the birds “play” out by my feeders. I admit the little Downy woodpecker is one of my favorites. He just seems to scamper up the pole with ease.
When I am outside taking photos, I cannot help but wonder if he is watching me as much as I am watching him.
After the snowy weekend, I was happy to see the snow plow finally come down my road today. I could complain and whine over the snowfall. But, I can’t help myself, I find the snow beautiful. Of course, I was right out in the middle of it. Watching the snowfall is peaceful.
Photographing the birds was a big part of my weekend fun. At one time, I had over 30 Mourning Doves at my feeders. One of my grandpa’s favorites, the doves are always fun to watch.
The Tufted Titmouses often provide comical relief. I didn’t even notice the second one, until after I uploaded the photos to my computer.
Litte Nuthatch was eyeing me as I put the food in the feeders.
If the feeders were empty or low, the Chickadees expressed their opinions. For a small bird, they are noisy.
I also had Cardinals, Bluejays, Sparrows, Crackles, and more. So if you ever get a chance to play in the snow, take time to watch the birds.
When I first spotted the large winged bird, I was hoping to see a Golden Eagle. I have been told there is one in the area where I like to take photos. But it was a juvenile Eagle feeding on the old deer carcass. Don’t get me wrong, I am not disappointed. He (or she) was stunning to watch.
“I go to nature every day for inspiration in the day’s work.” –Frank Lloyd Wright
–Frank Lloyd Wright
Setting new temperature records, Michigan had six extremely hot days last week. Taking advantage of the lowering river flats, the various birds enjoyed snacking on the plentiful amount of fish and other water creatures.
Today was the first time I was able to photograph a Pied-billed Grebe in the wild. I loved it. I could have spent my entire day watching this unique water bird. He (or she) kept diving under the water to catch fish or bugs.
I am sure this bird has been in my area before today. But I was so happy to capture the moment on camera.
Today, January 5, 2017, is known as National Bird Day. How can you not love an entire day dedicated to our fine feathered friends? As a nature lover, I find birds fascinating. Every species seems to have a unique personalities and behavior patterns. During the colder winter months, I sit and watch the birds from the warmth of my home.
When the feeder is low or empty, the little Chickadees are very vocal.
Whereas the little Sparrows line up and stare at me from the edge of the roof or the nearby shrubbery bush, both methods get my attention. I am usually adding seeds to the feeder immediately.
The little Sparrows watching me.
After the feeders are full, the Mourning Doves cautiously gather seeds on the ground.
Another Dove waiting patiently for the seeds.
When the Blue Jay comes to the feeder, all the other birds fly away.The Blue Jay’s presence always seems larger in life. The site of the deep red Cardinals against the snow covered ground is always breathtaking.
The older I get, the more I love to watch the birds. Yes, I photograph them too. But there are days where I just like to observe. Of course, my observations usually end up in one of my stories. I mean, how can you not imagine little fairies or other small woodland spirits riding on the back of the birds to defend Mother Nature and the rest of the natural realm.
I am use to people not wanting to smile for photos. In fact over the weekend, I photographed a gorgeous outdoor wedding. I think I told people to smile half the day. Well, not the bride and groom, they were grinning from ear to ear as their beautiful day unfolded. Every time, I mentioned the word smile, the person I was photographing instantly grinned which made the day easier for me.
Now, I could be imagining things. But this bird looked like he (or she) did not want me to take a picture. I can’t really tell a bird to smile. Can I?
Rebecca's Writings and Photography 