As an avid Wildlife Photographer, I often find myself captivated by the beauty and grace of the creatures that visit my bird feeder in Arkansas. One particular visitor that I always look forward to seeing is the Carolina Chickadee. With its distinctive black cap and bib, this small songbird is a true delight to watch.
Despite being a frequent visitor to my feeder, the Carolina Chickadee can be quite elusive to capture on camera. I’ve often found myself frustrated as it flits straight to the sunflower seeds without pausing on the nearby branches that would make for a great photo opportunity.
However, I recently had a stroke of luck when this little bird landed on a nearby branch just as I had my camera at the ready. I was able to snap a photo just in time, capturing its vibrant colors and intricate markings.
What makes the Carolina Chickadee such a special visitor to my feeder is not just its stunning appearance, but also its unique behaviors. For example, this particular species is known for its curious and inquisitive nature. It is not uncommon to see a Carolina Chickadee boldly investigating its surroundings, even coming quite close to human observers.
In addition, the Carolina Chickadee has a variety of distinctive calls and songs that it uses to communicate with others of its kind. These vocalizations range from a clear “fee-bee” to a more complex series of whistles and trills. By paying close attention to these sounds, birders can often identify the Carolina Chickadee even if they cannot see it.
All in all, I feel incredibly fortunate to have the opportunity to observe and photograph these amazing birds in my own backyard. The Carolina Chickadee, with its striking appearance and engaging behavior, is just one of the many natural wonders that make wildlife photography such a rewarding pursuit.
Gear Used:
- Camera: Canon EOS R7
- Lens: Canon RF 100-500 mm F4.5-7.1 L IS USM
Technical:
I photographed this Carolina Chickadee from inside my pickup parked in my driveway. I had my camera and lens resting on a beanbag draped over an open window.
- Location: Lavaca (Arkansas)
- Date and Time Taken: March 13, 2023 (11:00 A. M.)
- Exposure Mode: Manual
- Aperture: f8
- Shutter speed: 1/2500
- ISO: 500 (Auto)
- Focal Length: 500 mm
I love this little cutie!