Yesterday (July 8, 2024), the weather forecast suggested a storm was on the way, so I decided to stay home. Despite the impending rain, I managed to have a wonderful morning photographing birds and a cottontail rabbit from the comfort of my deck.
A New Feeder Setup
The day before, I revamped my bird feeder setup, eager to see how the changes would attract different birds. I placed the suet feeder on a large piece of driftwood I had collected from the banks of the Arkansas River. I planted the driftwood vertically in the ground, with the feeder positioned a couple of feet from the bottom. My hope was that woodpeckers would land at the top and work their way down, giving me an opportunity for some fantastic shots.
Woodpecker Visit
As I set up my camera and waited, it didn’t take long for the Downy and Red-bellied Woodpeckers to notice the relocated feeder. They quickly adapted to the new setup, and I was able to capture some stunning photos as they moved down the driftwood, just as I had hoped.
Surprise Guests
I also had a few unexpected visitors. A young Tufted Titmouse used the driftwood as a perch while waiting for its turn at the sunflower seeds nearby. It wasn’t interested in the suet but seemed perfectly content to wait its turn.
The Red Wasp
A red wasp landed on the driftwood, and I couldn’t resist taking a photo. I know, photographing a wasp might seem a bit odd, but I have a habit of capturing just about everything that catches my eye.
Hummingbird Moments
My hummingbird feeder, situated near the suet setup, provided another great photo opportunity. My friend Mia suggested I attach a stick to the feeder to give the hummingbirds a place to rest. After some time, a female Ruby-throated Hummingbird perched on the stick, and I snapped a picture. I also managed to get some shots of both the female and male hummingbirds in flight.
A Brief Goldfinch Appearance
A Goldfinch made a fleeting appearance, giving me just a few seconds to get a photo before it flew away. I’m hoping this little visitor will return for a longer stay next time.
The Cottontail Rabbit
In addition to the birds, a Cottontail Rabbit ventured close enough for a photo. I watched as it nibbled on the top of a plant that my dad used to call saw grass. Whether or not that’s its true name, it was delightful to see the rabbit munching away, and I captured the moment with my camera.
Wrapping Up
By 10 a.m., the rain started to move in, and I ended my photo session. Despite the weather, it was a fantastic morning. I’m so fortunate to have a place like this to photograph birds and other wildlife.
I’m grateful for every opportunity to observe and photograph the wildlife around me, even on rainy days. Each moment spent in nature is a gift, and I cherish every one of them.
Steve, Your little oasis is very impressive. The birds are saying thank you for such a quaint home.