Ruby-crowned Kinglet on a Shed Antler

Capturing the Ruby-crowned Kinglet’s Elusive Red Spot

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Capturing the vivid red crown of a Ruby-crowned Kinglet is a rare and rewarding challenge, and I was thrilled to seize this fleeting opportunity. These small, active birds occasionally visit my yard, and on this particular morning, I had my camera ready when one appeared near my bird feeder.

Ruby-crowned Kinglet on a Shed Antler
A Ruby-crowned Kinglet perches on a shed antler, its vibrant red crown on display—a rare and striking moment captured near a bird feeder in Arkansas.

This image was taken from a simple setup: my camera and lens mounted on a tripod, positioned near the feeder to take advantage of the morning light, an uncluttered background, and the birds’ usual perching spots. The Kinglet chose a shed antler as its perch, adding a natural element that complemented the scene. The warm morning light made the red crown pop beautifully against the neutral background of soft browns and muted earthy tones.

Gear and Settings

  • Camera: Canon EOS-1D Mark III
  • Lens: Canon EF500mm f/4L IS
  • Mode: Aperture Priority
  • Aperture: f/5.6
  • Shutter Speed: 1/3200 sec (determined by the camera)
  • ISO: 500
  • Exposure Compensation: 0
  • Focal Length: 500 mm

Location and Timing

  • Location: Lavaca, Arkansas
  • Date and Time: February 22, 2011, 9:23 A.M.

Observations and Techniques

Capturing the red spot on a Ruby-crowned Kinglet requires a mix of patience and luck. These birds are constantly in motion, darting between perches and rarely staying still. On this day, I observed the Kinglet closely and took advantage of the bright light, which helped highlight the vivid red crown against its otherwise muted feathers.

Preparation was key. I adjusted the tripod for optimal stability, ensured the feeder was within the lens’s focal range, and pre-focused on likely perching spots to respond quickly when the Kinglet appeared. The high shutter speed helped freeze its movement, while the aperture allowed for a sharp focus on the bird while softly blurring the background.

Tips for Photographing Kinglets

  • Set up near a feeder or an area they frequent to increase your chances of a close encounter.
  • Use a tripod for stability and quick adjustments.
  • Opt for a high shutter speed to capture their fast movements.
  • Observe their behavior to anticipate when they might pause, revealing their red crown.

This photo serves as a reminder of how preparation and patience can yield rewarding results when photographing wildlife. These principles apply broadly—whether capturing a shy deer at dawn, a flock of birds in flight, or the intricate details of smaller creatures. Being ready and observant can make all the difference. With a bit of persistence, you might capture a similarly unique moment in your own backyard.