As a wildlife photographer, I’m always on the lookout for interesting birds to photograph. On September 11, 2021, I had the chance to take some shots of a young Common Grackle.
Young Common Grackle
Common Grackles are a familiar sight across much of North America, recognizable by their glossy black feathers and piercing yellow eyes. But this particular grackle caught my attention while I was walking through the Sequoyah National Wildlife Refuge in Oklahoma.
Perched on a low tree branch, the young grackle eyed me curiously as I approached. He didn’t take flight like the other grackles when I drew near. His head cocked from side to side, studying me intently, as if trying to figure out what I was doing there with my camera.
I slowly crept closer, camera ready. The grackle continued to watch me, turning his head this way and that to get a better look. When I got within several feet, he hopped to a higher branch, still fixing me with a questioning gaze.
As I focused my lens, the morning sun glinted off his iridescent feathers, showing hints of deep blue and purple amidst the black. I marveled at the grackle’s vibrant plumage and how the colors shifted in the light as he moved.
I was able to get a shot of the grackle before he’d had enough of my presence.
Although our encounter was brief, I was happy to have captured the beauty and attitude of this young Common Grackle. This image showcases not just the grackle’s handsome feathers but also his bright-eyed curiosity. It was a joy to see one of these common birds up close and personal.
Gear Used:
- Camera: Canon EOS R5
- Lens: Canon EF 800 mm f/11
Technical:
- Location: Sequoyah National Wildlife Refuge (Oklahoma)
- Date and Time Taken: September 11, 2021 (8:31 A.M.)
- Program Mode: Manual
- Aperture: f11 (Fixed)
- Shutter speed: 1/2500
- ISO: 5000 (Auto)
- Exposure Compensation: 0
- Focal Length: 800 mm
