I’m thrilled with the photos I took of a male Indigo Bunting at Sequoyah National Wildlife Refuge in Oklahoma yesterday morning near the Arkansas River.
Why?
Because this species is uncommon in northern Utah and my only images of them there have been taken from long distances. I was happy to see them in Utah but I am over the moon with these images because the bird is much closer.
Male Indigo Bunting near the Arkansas River – Canon R7, f11, 1/1000, ISO 1250, +1.0 EV, Canon RF 800 mm, natural light
Every time I see an Indigo Bunting male I am reminded of the times I took my sons, William and Christopher, bunting hunting in Georgia and Virginia when they were children. We looked for buntings to observe, we didn’t cause them harm. Those are such happy memories that I can’t help but smile.
I introduced my sons to birds and nature at a very young age. Both sons are still nature lovers to this day. William is getting into nature and bird photography now along with his wife Lisa. Christopher and his wife Sabrina also send me nature photos from wherever they are. I guess it runs in the family.
Male Indigo Bunting next to the auto tour route at Sequoyah NWR – Canon R7, f11, 1/1000, ISO 1250, +1.0 EV, Canon RF 800 mm, natural light
My thanks go out to Steve Creek for letting me use his R7 and his RF 800mm lens. He’s been terrific about sharing his favorite locations and his photo gear while I am visiting him, especially since the only cameras I have with me right now are my cell phone and tablet. I was having serious bird photography withdrawals before I arrived in Arkansas since it had been more than a month since I took any bird photos.
Friends like Steve? They are as precious as gold. Thanks again, Creek.
Life is good.
Happy Summer!
Mia
Click here to see more of my Indigo Bunting photos plus facts and information about this species.
What a beautiful bird. The color and detail you captured is, as always, remarkable; especially since you were using a camera you’re not entirely familiar with. [In your case, however, you could shoot with a Kodak Brownie from the ’50’s and the pics would still be fantastic.] Thanks Mia.
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Beautiful images of a wonderful bird, I love the vine twisting on the stick too.
What a beautiful blue!—Jeri
Beautiful birds, precious family memories & cherished friends! Thank you for sharing!
Beautiful bird. Beautiful photos!
What a gorgeous bird. Thank you (and Steve).