A Male Dark-eyed Junco at Charleston Lake

As a passionate Wildlife Photographer, I recently visited Charleston Lake in Charleston, Arkansas in search of stunning shots of birds. After capturing some incredible images of Double-crested Cormorants expertly catching shad in the lake, I was excited to spot several Dark-eyed Juncos and a pair of Eastern Bluebirds feeding in the grass in front of my pickup truck.

A Dark-eyed Junco at Charleston Lake
A Dark-eyed Junco at Charleston Lake

The Dark-eyed Junco, a small sparrow native to North America, is a fascinating bird to capture on camera. These birds are known to inhabit wooded areas, but can also be seen in open spaces and backyards in search of food.

To photograph this striking bird, I had to lean out of my pickup truck and brace my camera and lens on the door frame, as the Junco flitted about in the grass.

With its distinctive black and white coloring and sharp beak, the Dark-eyed Junco is a remarkable subject for wildlife photographers. Capturing these beautiful creatures on camera and sharing their beauty with others is always a thrill, and I feel fortunate to have had the opportunity to photograph them at Charleston Lake.

Gear Used:

  • Camera: Canon EOS R7
  • Lens: Canon RF 800 mm F11 IS STM

Technical:

  • Location: Charleston City Lake (Arkansas)
  • Date and Time Taken: February 12, 2023 (10:23 A. M.)
  • Aperture: f11 (Fixed)
  • Shutter speed: 1/1600
  • ISO: 1000 (Auto)
  • Exposure Compensation: -1/3
  • Focal Length: 800 mm (Fixed)