Yesterday morning while photographing male Brewer’s Blackbirds I took my eye away from my viewfinder and found a Eurasian Collared-Dove directly in front of me. Of course, I felt I had to photograph it.
Winter Eurasian Collared-Dove portrait – Nikon D500, f7.1, 1/1250, ISO 1000, +0.3 EV, Nikkor 500mm VR with 1.4x TC, natural light
The dove was so close that my only option was to take portraits of the bird. Even if I had taken my 1.4x TC off I still wouldn’t have been able to photograph the whole bird. I would have clipped the bird’s long tail.
Besides, I love portraits of my subjects. Why not take them when a bird or animal comes in close? Or, maybe the better question is, why wouldn’t I take portraits of them when they are that comfortable in my presence?
This portrait shows fine plumage details that would be harder to see if the bird were father away. Plus, I had a terrific view of the cherry red iris of this species.
And yes, I know Eurasian Collared-Doves are not native. They are now in North America in such large numbers that not much can be done about it. I accept their presence. I’m not going to complain about having these doves in my viewfinder. They are birds and I love birds.
Winking Eurasian Collared-Dove portrait – Nikon D500, f7.1, 1/1250, ISO 1000, +0.3 EV, Nikkor 500mm VR with 1.4x TC, natural light
After taking the first portrait I continued taking a few more and laughed out loud when I saw the dove blink. It looks more like a wink than a blink on this photo but I liked it. I liked it enough that I couldn’t resist sharing the winking dove in the hope it will make one of you smile or laugh. The dove may look a little cross, but I’m not.
Happy Spring!
And what better way to welcome the first day of spring than with a smile or laugh? Spring makes me smile!
Life is good.
Mia
Click here to see more of my Eurasian Collared-Dove photos plus facts and information and information about this species.
Nice shots, Mia. I’m picturing “stink eye” in the second shot — this one is NOT amused that even though it’s spring, there’s snow in the forecast for SoCal mountains!
Marty, it thundered snowed here today. And rained and lightninged. Mother Nature has a wicked sense of humor. That is probably why I love her!
A subtle charmer. Whose species didn’t ask to be introduced and has made it work for them.
I like your dove shot. The red eye is stunning and the other colours are soft and lovely. I think your winker just looks sleepy. He must have been very comfortable and relaxed if he could close his eyes so close to you. And yes, he did make me smile, or was it your exuberance that coaxed the smile. Maybe both.