A Close Encounter with a Northern Cardinal Fledgling

One summer morning in 2017, I had a remarkable encounter with a Northern Cardinal fledgling resting on the edge of a birdbath in my backyard. I had emptied the birdbath for cleaning when I noticed the young bird perched on the rim, its parents and another fledgling close by. This moment provided a rare opportunity to photograph the beauty of a young cardinal up close.

The Charm of Northern Cardinal Fledglings

Northern Cardinal fledglings have a unique, endearing charm that appeals to birdwatchers and photographers alike. Their scruffy feathers, oversized beak, and curious expressions make them irresistible. At this stage, their plumage is a mix of soft down and emerging feathers, lacking the vibrant red that adult male cardinals are known for. The fledgling I encountered had a mottled appearance with brownish tones, characteristic of young cardinals before they molt into their adult plumage.

Camera Settings and Technique

To capture this moment, I used a Canon EOS 7D Mark II paired with a Canon EF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS II lens. I opted for aperture priority mode to maintain control over the depth of field. Here were my camera settings:

• Shooting Mode: Aperture Priority (AV)
• Shutter Speed: 1/320 sec
• Aperture: f/8
• ISO: 1000

The aperture of f/8 allowed me to keep the fledgling in focus while gently blurring the background, drawing attention to the young bird. The shutter speed of 1/320 sec was fast enough to capture the fledgling’s subtle movements without introducing motion blur. Given the moderate light conditions, I set the ISO to 1000 to maintain a balanced exposure while minimizing noise.

The Developmental Stage of Fledglings

Northern Cardinal fledglings typically leave the nest about 9-11 days after hatching. At this stage, they are not yet able to fly proficiently and depend on their parents for food and protection. The parents continue to feed the young birds for several weeks, offering insects and other protein-rich foods that are essential for growth. During this time, the fledglings gradually learn to find food on their own and strengthen their flight muscles.

The fledgling in my backyard seemed to be exploring its surroundings with a mix of curiosity and caution. It is during these weeks that young birds are particularly vulnerable to predators, such as cats, hawks, and snakes. Observing the parents nearby, I noticed they were keeping a close watch on their offspring, ready to defend them if needed.

Backyard Birding: A Gateway to Nature Photography

Encounters like this remind us of the incredible wildlife that can be found right in our backyards. You don’t have to travel far to experience moments of natural beauty; sometimes, they happen just outside your door. Setting up birdbaths, feeders, and natural cover can attract a variety of species, providing opportunities for wildlife photography and birdwatching.

Here are some tips for observing and photographing fledglings in your backyard:

• Provide Water Sources: Birdbaths can attract birds, especially during the hot summer months. Clean and refill them regularly.
• Use Natural Light: Shoot in the early morning or late afternoon for softer lighting.
• Maintain a Safe Distance: Young birds can be easily stressed. Use a telephoto lens to keep your distance while still capturing close-up details.
• Observe Without Disturbing: Avoid handling fledglings or interfering with their development. Let nature take its course.

The Significance of Capturing Moments Like These

Photographing this Northern Cardinal fledgling was a reminder of the beauty and resilience of wildlife, even in seemingly ordinary places. These small encounters help foster a deeper appreciation for nature and encourage us to create spaces that support local wildlife. Moments like this highlight the delicate balance in nature, where even the smallest creatures play a role in the ecosystem.

If you’re a nature enthusiast or a photographer, I encourage you to take time to observe fledglings and other wildlife in your area. You’ll gain not only great photo opportunities but also a deeper understanding of the natural world that surrounds us.