Chirps and Cheeps

A Photo Journal of My Birding Adventures & Observations

My birding blog site


  Hummers

Published: June 15, 2011
Tags: My Feeders, Ruby-throated Hummingbird, hummer, praying mantis, WNY, homemade feeder, Birds and Blooms, Wild Birds Unlimited

We were gifted with a glorious weather day here in WNY today - and finally, feeling caught up with my work (first time in WEEKS), I decided to set out and seriously attempt to capture some hummingbird photos.  They've been regularly coming to the homemade feeders I made about a couple of Sundays ago (read this post from Birds and Blooms on how to make your own: Homemade Hummingbird Feeder).

I set up my camera on the tripod outside my office window and played around with the lighting, ISO, speed, and all that good stuff.  When I felt I had a good combination, I went back inside to watch and wait - holding onto my little remote shutter release.  I was so pleased with the results! The hummers kept returning throughout the day, allowing me to try all kinds of settings and craving more beautiful photos. I think I'll be clicking that shutter release in my sleep tonight!

By the way, did you know a hummingbird can't walk? It's true; their legs are too weak. I was amazed to find that out - as well as the fact that they also eat insects and that they can be prey to a praying mantis.  More interesting hummingbird facts can be found here: Wild Birds Unlimited Hummingbird Facts.

Anyway, these little jewels are even more gorgeous up close and personal. I hope you enjoy the photos!

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Female Ruby-throated Hummingbird

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Male Ruby-throated Hummingbird

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I was beginning to lose the light by this shot, but I think it's still good enough to post.

Reply from: L on 6/28/2011 8:03 AM
 These photos are amazing. How cool that you got such close up shots of these fast-moving birds. Very nice. The colors are so pretty.


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