I was delighted yesterday when I had the chance to photograph a young Northern Mockingbird that landed in a nearby oak tree. Naturally, I took photos.
Young Northern Mockingbird in Arkansas – Canon R7, f8, 1/640, ISO 1600, +0.3 EV, Canon 100-500mm at 500mm, natural light
The immature mockingbird left the oak tree, flew to the ground, and stayed there long enough for me to take about six images. I do wish the young mockingbird had stayed longer and been closer, but I am still thrilled to have seen the young bird.
The young Northern Mockingbird’s big, dark eyes drew my attention. I thought it had such a sweet look on its face, maybe even an innocent one. It had a cute appeal.
Fierce looking adult Northern Mockingbird – Nikon D500, f7.1, 1/800, ISO 3200, +0.7 EV, Nikkor 500mm VR with 1.4x TC, natural light
Grown-up Northern Mockingbirds? I’d never call them cute or sweet. They look fierce to me—really fierce at times. Especially when they are protecting their nests or chicks.
They will dive-bomb dogs, cats, hawks, and people who get too near them. Some mail carriers in Florida had to take to wearing hard hats to protect themselves from mockingbird attacks. The probably happens in other states too.
I’ve also seen mockingbirds get aggressive with other birds. So yes, I’d call them fierce.
One day, the young Northern Mockingbird I photographed yesterday will look as fierce as the adult in my photo above. They will also be fiercely protective of their nest and young.
For now, though, at this stage of their life, they do look sweet, and this young mockingbird was only thinking of where its next meal was coming from. The adults are still feeding this immature bird, but it is also foraging on its own.
Life is good.
Mia
Click here to see more of my Northern Mockingbird photos plus facts and information about this species.
I love both shots but that 2nd pic of the adult Mockingbird is terrific! Talk about a serious stink-eye! Thanks Mia.
Such a transition – but a necessary one.