Adult male Broad-tailed Hummingbird stretching his wings – Nikon D500, f7.1, 1/1000, ISO 500, Nikkor 500mm VR with 1.4x TC, natural light
The past couple of times I have headed out to two mountain ranges to the east and west of where I live I have heard the distinctive sounds of hummingbird wings as they zipped past me. The wildflowers and flowering shrubs are beginning to bloom in the mountains and canyons and for me that means it’s time for hummingbird photography.
Knowing which wildflowers and flowering shrubs these tiny flying jewels use as a nectar source throughout their breeding season is a huge help in locating them. Finding those nectar sources where I can pull over safely to sit and wait for the hummingbirds is an added bonus.
It takes patience to photograph these diminutive birds and I don’t think that I can say that often enough. There are times that I wait 15 to 20 minutes or longer in between their feeding forays to certain shrubs and clumps of wildflowers. There is no certain way to know when the hummingbirds will show up to feed so I am always paying attention.
During early spring in the higher elevations I know that wild currant shrubs are a great source of natural nectar for hummingbirds and I have seen some that are already in bloom.
Over the years I have learned that some male hummingbirds have favorite perches they sit on to watch over their territories and when I can find a favorite perch that is out in the open and where it is safe to pull over in a “mobile blind” I will take advantage of knowing that particular hummingbird’s preferences and behaviors. It is a great way to get landing and take off images as well as photos of the hummingbirds at rest, preening, stretching and sometimes even sleeping.
Hummingbird photography isn’t just about finding the birds, it is about knowing them too.
I get excited about photographing the hummingbirds that breed, nest and rear their young in northern Utah. I am thrilled that they have returned.
Life is good.
Mia
Click here to see more of my Broad-tailed Hummingbird photos plus facts and information about this species.
Looks tough….snd they are!!!
What a fabulous photo!
This hummingbird really shows personality: focus, determination,…..
Wow!
Sue
As you have clearly shown us over the years ANY bird photography is about knowing them. And thank you for sharing that knowledge.