Gray Catbird on a stump – Nikon D500, f7.1, 1/640, ISO 640, Nikkor 500mm VR with 1.4x TC, natural light
While I was up in the Wasatch Mountains two days ago I photographed an adult Gray Catbird on a stump that is stuck close to a creek bank.
I’d been hearing Gray Catbirds all morning but they were mostly hidden from my view. I had an excellent opportunity earlier to photograph a catbird out in the open on top of a serviceberry shrub but by the time I placed my finger on the shutter button that bird disappeared too.
When this catbird first showed itself it was more to the right of where it is seen in this photo and unfortunately for me it had a strong shadow across its back caused by some vegetation. I was delighted when it moved because that shadow was no longer a problem for me.
This Gray Catbird didn’t stay out in the open for very long. It is their nesting season and these catbirds always seem to be on the move.
Very soon the fruits of the Black Twin Berry Honeysuckles will ripen and I hope to obtain more images of the catbirds feasting on the berries. Over the years I have learned that I can take high quality images of the catbirds when they are noshing on the honeysuckle berries. The appetite of the catbirds for those berries seems to overcome their wariness about being out in the open.
It was almost 9 a.m. when I took this image and by then the sun was already getting high in the sky. I thanked the catbird and moved up the road before I started to head down the mountains towards home.
Life is good.
Mia
Click here to see more of my Gray Catbird photos plus facts and information about this species.
Great image. I was surprised we did not see any along the Snake River in Idaho.
Beautiful shot!
Nesting season must be very very busy. I am glad that you were able to capture this shot. Thank you.
Very nice and detailed view of the catbird. I also liked the color and geometric pattern on the dead wood as it added interest to the image.