How 'bout a few more bluebird pictures?

And here he almost did...

But then he changed his mind

And stayed where he was.

End of story.

On closer examination, I think "he" may be a "she." Sometimes it's hard to tell but I don't see too many blue feathers on the wings.

She is adorable Dave! I love the little ones.

Mighty fine photos, Dave. Are you pleased with the outcome using the extension rings ? I have never tried them.

Well, yes and no, Charlie. I dug out the rings to use when shooting hummingbirds with the 500mm lens from a distance of about 8 feet, and it works fine for that. Ordinarily the 500mm will not autofocus on anything closer than about 15 feet. But when a larger bird shows up I either have to move back, which usually spooks the bird, or take the shot and get only half of the bird in the frame.

And it seems there is often something interesting off in the distance and the ring(s) also limits the maximum distance the lens will focus. Of course, I keep another camera handy for those situations. With the setup I was using I could not focus on anything beyond 25 feet or so. So my range was 4 feet to 25 feet.
.
The rings work much better on something smaller like a 50mm; effectively giving you macro capability.

Dave

Another beautiful series Dave and I love the addition of the Titmouse! I know how much you love the Blues but are you relieved to have the nesting season over? Ours successfully nested 4 times this year and the final two fledged last week for a total of 17 or 18 and I am happy to wait 'til next year!!

I can't put into words how much I appreciate the documenting of your Blues and what a lesson in photography you present with your images!

Thank you Rose, and Congratulations!

You are sure doing your part to promote the growth of your State bird.

Considering the shaky start mine got off too, I am happy with nine little ones and cannot imagine having twice that number. I did not realize yours went for number four.



Dave

You are most fortunate to have 9 little ones considering all that happened. It was a miracle how New Papa fed and raised the step babies...such a kind bird he turned out to be. If Papa had to be replaced I am glad it was him.

I didn't mention the fourth nesting since I was in shock when they built, laid and incubated again. Unfortunately I missed the fledging last week as we had company but I see them up in the upper tree line where they spend their time when they are not here eating sunflower hearts or berry mix.

We need more of your photos!!

Well, here are a few of the blues from yesterday First one of the males from the earlier nesting. He was 91 days old and is quickly losing his baby feathers.

And here is the one female from the five.

Another of the males.

Another one, in the pear tree.

Another in the tree. You can tell it is a different one -- less blue on the head.

This message was edited Sep 9, 2009 11:36 AM

And in the very top of the pear tree, one of the younger birds, now 41 days old.

Same bird, as he flew.

Not the greatest shot, but at least you can see his face.

One of the 91 day olds climbing into the feeder.

And finally, here's Mama, slowly moulting.

Here's a bonus: just happended to fly in front of my camera.

Another non-bluebird.

Well, I can't leave you with that. Here's one of the younger ones. Nothing special but at least it is a bluebird.

Wonderful shots Dave! They all look beautiful and I love the one in the photo called "Same bird as he flew". Great capture; I love the way one toe is still touching the leaf!

Wonderful series Dave. I just loved them all.

I was just admiring your bluebird photos Dave, they are stunning! After viewing several of them, I finally noticed that you too are from F'burg! Wow!

I was trying to catch up on reading the whole thread, and maybe I missed it somewhere, but what type of camera do you use? I saw the conversation on the extension rings.

Your work is excellent! Thanks for sharing!

Hi Wild Rose
Nice to see someone else from the 'burg. Actually, I live just across the river in South Stafford, but close enough.

I use several Canon cameras and lenses. Most of the pics you see on this thread were taken with the Canon EOS 1D Mark III and a 400mm f/4 lens. Some were taken with the Canon EOS 40D and a 200mm f/1.8 lens.

Thanks for the kind words. If you like bluebirds, you might want to check out my galleries on SmugMug.

Dave

http://www.secondcousindave.smugmug.com

Here are a few from today. First one is a juvenile 93 days old. Still moulting.

Papa. Also still moulting.

Mama. Still has a long way to go.

I like the footwork on this one.

One of the younger birds, 42 days old

One more and I must quit. Way past my bedtime.

Love that footwork too Dave! Wonderful pics!

Wonderful little Blue Birds!

Really sweet shots!

Thanks Dave... I will definitely take a look at your photos!

I have Canon cameras too, but not as high-end as yours! I just purchased the T1i... I really like it so far, but I still have alot to learn.

My family and I spend alot of time at Chatham in south Stafford! It's very peaceful there and we always have lots to photograph, no matter what the season.

I will be watching this forum more closely, and may hit you up for advice sometime! Keep up the good work!

:o)

For some reason the bluebirds were on the sundial a lot today. Maybe because I filled it with water. (Duh...)

The bluebirds definitely prefer the shallower water. And the wannabee's just tag along and watch.

Next shot