An Eastern Bluebird With Spider always catches my attention. This bird had a meal ready for nestlings and paused just long enough for a photo.
Eastern Bluebird With Spider at the Nest Box
I photographed this Eastern Bluebird in Arkansas on May 1, 2020. It was carrying a spider near the nest box in my yard.
The bird’s blue wings and tail stood out against the soft green background. The warm color on the breast also helped separate it from the weathered wood.
I see Eastern Bluebirds bring spiders to their nestlings often. This bird was part of that steady spring feeding routine.
Spiders may not look like much to us. To a young bluebird, though, they are part of the constant supply of food needed during nesting season.
Watching Bluebird Feeding Trips in My Arkansas Yard
Bluebirds can stay busy when young birds are in the nest. They move in and out with small prey, then return to hunt again.
This one landed on the nest box with the spider held firmly in its bill. I liked the way the bird leaned forward, as if ready to drop down toward the entrance.
The scene told a simple story. A parent bluebird had found food and was bringing it back to the young.
That kind of behavior is one reason I enjoy watching nest boxes. The small moments often say the most.
Photographing the Bluebird From My Yard Setup
I used my regular yard setup for photographing Eastern Bluebirds. You can read more about it here: My Eastern Bluebird Photography Setup.
For this type of work, I like to stay back and let the birds keep their routine. A long lens helps me get detail without crowding the nest box.
The linked setup explains how I photograph from my pickup truck with a bean bag rest. That keeps the camera steady and helps the birds continue their normal activity.
Camera settings for this photo:
- Location: Arkansas
- Date Taken: May 1, 2020
- Aperture: f/7.1
- Shutter speed: 1/320 sec.
- ISO: 1250
- Exposure Compensation: +1/3
- Exposure Mode: Aperture Priority
- Focal Length: 500 mm
- Lens: Canon EF 500 mm f/4L IS USM
- Camera: Canon EOS 7D Mark II
Why This Bluebird Moment Stuck With Me
This was not the first Eastern Bluebird I had photographed with a spider. Still, each feeding trip feels different.
The pose, the prey, and the worn nest box all came together in this frame. It shows a small piece of spring life in my Arkansas yard.