Birding and Bird Photography

Mating pair

 

Anyone good with IDs? I shot this guy a few weeks back, was massive, way bigger than the herring gulls that were around and he kept just circling, never really landed. Can't quite get a solid ID on him. Seems too big for a gull, I know the photo doesn't show it's size. About the size of an osprey, maybe bigger? Not quite bald eagle size to my eye.

 

That is a gull species for sure. They can be quite difficult with all the different plumages per year (1st year alternative different than 2ncd year alternative, etc) until they're an adult and cycle between two plumages a year. Many similar looking species, hybrids, etc. Where was this taken and in what month? I may be able to help.

 

Nampa Idaho a couple weeks ago. The size is what struck me, but markings don't look like an albatross but the size was peculiar.

 

Herring gull - light eye, pink legs, 1 big mirror

 

He would be exceeding the size I would expect for one which is why it I struggle to pin point it. The markings fit though, even the red on the beak. He must be eating well.

 

My wife took a quick shot of a black oystercatcher this afternoon.

 

Found this guy again. Always a treat to see him hunting.

Also spotted this blue bird while in Utah.
and while in Utah this Says Phoebe

 

Been trying to get a good bufflehead picture this year, seen plenty but haven't been in the right light or they were too far away. Finally was able to snap this guy a few times after work today. Also took some other pictures of course. Enjoy!

 

Had some friendly warblers earlier this week who came in for some close ups.

 

Double created cormorant was a treat today

 

Another good evening in the park.

 

Love the Kingfisher!! I don't have a lens that would allow me to get that close, they're very skiddish... Nice photos.

 

I've been trying to get I'm for a few weeks now. He flew in close for a few moments and then was gone. These shots are almost all done on my 100-400 lens, occasionally with the 1.4x extender. I still find that I have to be pretty close even with that setup to get images that I like. What lens are you currently using?

 

Just a 24-105mm f4.0 kit lens...

 

That's an amazing lens but yes, not going to give you the punch you need to reach birds. I like my 100-400 with the 1.4x extender but at the end of the month going to take the 150-600 sigma for a spin. The 100-400 was $1700 and the sigma is $800 (used prices). I'll be curious to see how the two compare.

 

Outnumbered!!!

 

The 150-600 is nice, what I mainly use.

 

Tried a new marsh today and got real lucky.
Black Necked Stilt


And a pair of White Faced Ibis.

 

Excellent captures! I'm jealous...