A little over a week ago I said I was hopeful about taking Red-breasted Nuthatch photos in Arkansas. I have and these photos are from yesterday at the birdbath!
Red-breasted Nuthatch at a birdbath – Canon R7, f8, 1/2500, ISO 800, Canon 100-400mm at 400mm, natural light
I’ve taken more images of Red-breasted Nuthatches here, but these are my best to date. The others were taken in low light, so I had to set my ISO high enough for a fast shutter speed, which introduced some noise in those photos.
But these Red-breasted Nuthatch photos? I had beautiful light on a gorgeous fall day.
Red-breasted Nuthatch landing on a birdbath – Canon R7, f8, 1/2000, ISO 800, Canon 100-400mm at 400mm, natural light
The Red-breasted Nuthatch flew in a second time, and I was able to photograph the small bird as she or he landed on the rim of the birdbath.
I liked the wing position, and even though it’s hard to see at web-sized resolution, there is a small catch light in the nuthatch’s eye. The splashing water droplets are a bonus.
The fall color in the background comes from a layer of pine straw beneath the trees.
Red-breasted Nuthatch taking off from a birdbath – Canon R7, f8, 1/2000, ISO 800, Canon 100-400mm at 400mm, natural light
This Red-breasted Nuthatch didn’t stick around very long at all, but I was able to photograph her or him as they got ready to take off from the birdbath.
Because of the richness of the rusty color on the flanks, neck, and belly, I believe this is a male. If I am wrong, please let me know—I would appreciate the assistance.
I’m thoroughly delighted to have taken these Red-breasted Nuthatch photos, and I am looking forward to seeing, hearing, and photographing more of these nuthatches during the fall and winter here.
Life is good.
Mia
Click here to see more of my Red-breasted Nuthatch photos plus facts and information on this species.
Lovely images, I miss seeing them. Used to be regulars.
Beyond beautiful.