December birds

[jbird]

I had my camera in the truck and was near some decent birding areas so I took a walk with the camera. Man do I stink! I really need to invest some time with my buddy whos a wildlife photographer and learn some stuff. I learned that all those hawks you see hanging out along roads while cars go wizzing by, fly off the instant you stop and show interest in them.

A great number of the shots I took were useless. The rest are just barely worth a glance. But I am really having fun with it anyway. I love a challange in which the results are the gift of a beautiful image.

Heres a few from today that are barely worth a glance. :-)

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/jbird35/DSC_0133.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/jbird35/DSC_0135.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/jbird35/DSC_0136.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/jbird35/DSC_0179.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/jbird35/DSC_0182.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/jbird35/DSC_0190.jpg

As I pulled into my driveway I look up and see this little kestrel on the wire!

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/jbird35/DSC_0252.jpg

[Hairstacker]

Cool pictures Jay! Can't help but notice that kestrel looks like it has some useful feathers. :twisted:

[Ed Wahl]

:lol::lol: Look at the facial expression of the hawk in the first photo. "Hey, is that a camera that dudes pointing?"

Jay, anyone who can take the time for a Nuthatch is top notch in my book. I stop and watch them anytime I get the chance.

Don't sell yourself short those are some excellent bird shots, as usual.

Hey Mike, I rescued an injured Kestrel once. Weird, that little bird could stare all the way through your eyes to the back of your head. On first seeing it, everyone took a step back, including me.

Ed

[Darian]

Love photo's of birds. Raptors seem so professorial.... Just think how many new birds you're going to be able to photograph in Wisconsin.... Looking forward to seeing them. :nod:

[jbird]

Thanks guys. I do appreciate the compliments. I spent the afternoon at Curtis' house talking photography. He whipped out his new telephoto lense. This thing was GIGANTIC. I think you could pass a soccer ball thru the lense hood. It had to weigh 20lbs. He told me the price and it was at that moment I knew I will always remain a recreational photo hack. If I ever have that kind of money to spend, Ill buy a nice boat.

Darian. You read my mind. Ive already been google searching wisconsin birds. Should be a fun new adventure!

[Larry S]

Good job jbird. You need to keep posting those photos when you get back to the
MidWest. Cardinals,bluebirds, orioles, etc. Grouse along the streams.
Best, Larry S

[jbird]

Im working on a car door mount so I can capture roadside photos quickly and with no vibration, which should equal some sharper images. In the mean time, Im headed to Wisconsin tonight for Christmas. I get to see my wife!!!!!!!!

I may shoot a little while Im there if the conditions allow.

[coolrivertx]

Don't sell ur self short. those are some great pix!!!!!!!!!!!!!