In June 2018, I had the opportunity to photograph this Common Grackle at the Sequoyah National Wildlife Refuge in Oklahoma. The bird perched on a metal rail sticking out of the water in the Miner’s Cove area, providing a perfect moment for a close-up shot. I was parked along the tour road, using my vehicle as a makeshift blind to avoid startling the bird.
Camera Settings and Setup
To capture this image, I used my Canon EOS 7D Mark II with a Canon EF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS II lens. The camera was rested on a bean bag draped over the open window of my pickup, providing stability for the shot. Here were the camera settings:
- Shooting Mode: Aperture Priority (AV)
- Shutter Speed: 1/200 sec
- Aperture: f/5.6
- ISO: 1000
The aperture of f/5.6 allowed for a shallow depth of field, which blurred the background and highlighted the grackle’s iridescent plumage. The shutter speed of 1/200 sec was just enough to capture the bird’s stillness, although a faster speed would have been ideal if the bird had made any sudden movements. The ISO setting of 1000 helped maintain a well-exposed image under the lighting conditions.
About the Common Grackle
Common Grackles are large, blackbirds with glossy, iridescent feathers that can appear blue, purple, or green depending on the light. Their bright yellow eyes give them a striking appearance. Grackles are known for their varied diet, which includes insects, seeds, fruit, and even small aquatic animals. At Sequoyah National Wildlife Refuge, they can often be found near water sources, searching for food or bathing.
During the summer, grackles form loose colonies, often gathering in groups near wetlands or open fields. They are highly adaptable birds, capable of thriving in both rural and urban environments. Their vocalizations are a mix of harsh calls and whistles, which can be heard echoing through the refuge.
Tips for Photographing Common Grackles
- Capture the Iridescence: Grackles’ feathers have an iridescent quality that changes with the light. Position yourself to make use of natural light to highlight this feature.
- Use a Telephoto Lens: A telephoto lens allows you to capture detailed shots without disturbing the bird.
- Choose a Fast Shutter Speed: If the bird is active, increase the shutter speed to 1/500 sec or higher to freeze movement.
- Get a Low Angle: Shooting from a low angle or eye level with the bird can create a more intimate composition.
Sequoyah National Wildlife Refuge: A Birdwatcher’s Paradise
The Sequoyah National Wildlife Refuge provides a diverse habitat for many bird species, including the Common Grackle. Its wetlands and wooded areas create a rich environment where birds can find ample food and nesting sites. Miner’s Cove, where this photo was taken, is a particularly good spot for observing a variety of bird behaviors.
Photographing this Common Grackle at Sequoyah reminded me of the unique beauty found in even the most common species. With their shimmering feathers and bold gaze, grackles offer plenty of opportunities for striking photographs when approached with the right technique. This encounter was a reminder to appreciate all aspects of nature, from the rarest species to the everyday birds that surround us.