American Robin perched on a barren hawthorn – Nikon D500, f6.3, 1/1600, ISO 500, +0.3 EV, Nikkor 500mm VR with 1.4x TC, natural light
I took a few American Robin photos yesterday morning high in the Wasatch Mountains in two counties and two very different settings. The day was bright, the sun felt warm, and even though robins are such abundant birds I still felt lucky to have found them.
The first American Robin I photographed I found perched in a barren hawthorn next to the road. The robin called at irregular intervals and its calls were delightful to hear. I hoped the robin would burst out into a full song but that didn’t happen.
It will only be a few weeks before this hawthorn leafs out and its soft, delicate white flowers will follow soon after that. Hawthorns provide food and fuel for the migratory and nonmigratory birds in the mountains later in the year. Come September the American Robins will stuff themselves with ripe, juicy hawthorn berries.
Adult American Robin in a late winter horse pasture – Nikon D500, f6.3, 1/1250, ISO 500, Nikkor 500mm VR with 1.4x TC, natural light
The second American Robin I photographed was busy foraging in a horse pasture when I spotted it. I had been photographing a Red-tailed Hawk in a distant tree when I saw the robin on the ground. Just a few weeks ago this pasture had a thin blanket of snow on it. As our temps have warmed and spring approaches there are signs of new spring growth and the grasses have started to green up. I missed the Red-tailed Hawk lifting off from the tree because I was focused on the robin. I am perfectly fine with that.
I saw other birds yesterday in the mountains and on the way home I also spotted a herd of elk high up on a rocky cliff. The elk were a thrill for me to find. I simply don’t see them as often as I would like.
Life is good.
Happy First Day Of Spring!
Mia
Click here to see more of my American Robin photos plus facts and information about this species.
I’m always a fan of American Robins. This post is perfect timing for the first day of Spring. 🙂
I love these pics. Robins have always been among my faves. I remember them from my earliest childhood. (My wife will tell you that was just yesterday.) Thanks Mia.
Spring! Happy Spring to you, too. I can hear the robins calling. Very nice.
Happy Spring – to you and to all of the birds and critters.
Hi sweetie! Happy Spring! Your photos are great! The background brings out their colors so clear! Have a great day!