This image shows a male Indigo Bunting singing on a wild grapevine in the morning. It was taken taken earlier this week at Sequoyah National Wildlife Refuge.
When I arrived in Arkansas, it was still a bit early to see Indigo Buntings, but they soon migrated into the area.
Male Indigo Bunting singing on a wild grapevine – Nikon D500, f8, 1/1000, ISO 800, -0.3 EV, Nikkor 500mm VR with 1.4x TC, natural light
I have enjoyed hearing the buntings singing, watching the males chasing each other, and having them in my viewfinder again. This male was right next to one of the roads at the refuge.
I was able to photograph him by stepping out of Steve Creek’s pickup and using a beanbag draped over the pickup window to focus on him through my viewfinder.
I’m pretty sure the wild grapevine is a Muscadine Grape. I had those growing in my garden in Virginia, but I need to do more research on the grapevine to be sure.
Indigo Bunting male perched on a wild grapevine – Nikon D500, f11, 1/320, ISO 800, Nikkor 500mm VR with 1.4x TC, natural light
It was a thrill for me to watch this male bunting.
Then, a Yellow-billed Cuckoo flew in and landed on the other side of the road, and I focused on it for a bit. By the time I turned my attention back to the bunting, he had flown off.
I suspect that I will have many more opportunities with this bunting species this year when I leave for Oklahoma. Hopefully, I will also have Painted Buntings in my viewfinder too. They appear to be quite numerous here and where I will soon be living. I’ll be going bunting hunting with my camera as soon as I can!
Life is good.
Mia
Click here to see more of my Indigo Bunting photos plus facts and information about this species.
Feathered enchantment.
Muscadine . . . the only native grape in the US, and wonderful.
“Decoration” is the perfect group term for these beautiful birds. I especially enjoy the singing shot. 🎶🎵
Beautiful bird and photos Mia Wow! Keep it up!