Some of my favorite bird photos happen right at home. This Red-breasted Nuthatch gave me a quick, clean moment on the rim of my backyard birdbath here in Arkansas.
Wildlife Notes
What I saw at the birdbath
I was hoping to catch the nuthatch taking a drink. Instead, it paused on the birdbath rim, then kept an eye on the feeder nearby.
That is pretty normal for how these visits go in my yard. The nuthatches tend to show up fast, check everything, grab what they want, and move on.
ID cues I look for
On this bird, the rusty-red underparts stood out right away. The bold dark stripe through the eye also helped, especially with that pale face and clean contrast.
(General note) Nuthatches are often quick and acrobatic around feeders. They can cling to edges and shift positions in a heartbeat, so I try to be ready before they land.
Photography Notes
Setup and support
I photographed this from my deck with a beanbag on the deck rail for support. That let me stay steady without a tripod and react quickly as the bird moved between the birdbath and feeder.
Camera settings used
- Camera: Canon EOS R7
- Lens: Canon RF 100–500mm F4.5–7.1 L IS USM
- Focal length: 500mm
- Aperture: f/7.1
- Shutter speed: 1/800 second
- ISO: 500
- Exposure compensation: 0
What I was aiming for
My main goal was a clean look that showed the bird’s markings. I also wanted the birdbath included, since that is what brought the nuthatch into the open in the first place.
Closing
I never get tired of seeing these small birds show up with big energy. When they pause long enough for a portrait, I take it and I am grateful for it.
If you want to see another look at this species, here is a related post: Red-breasted Nuthatch on a Log