We’ll have a slightly truncated version of the RWPs today as there’s a longer post on Dobrzyn and Włocławek, including my hike in the woods with Leon. And who better to turn to than regular Stephen Barnard of Idaho, a reliable source of great photos? Here are a few of his most recent contributions, starting with two shots of a Northern Flicker, Colaptes auratus (Stephen’s notes indented):
This woodpecker is one of the most difficult birds to capture in flight that I’ve encountered. They’re shy and spook easily, and as their name implies they have an erratic, unpredictable flight. Their call is loud and distinctive, though, and gives their presence away.
Companion shot to the Northern Flicker, flicking. This is the same bird in repose, moments earlier.
And here’s a turkey vulture (Cathartes aura).
If you can get over the head these birds are quite striking.
An immature red-tailed hawk (Buteo jamaicensis):
This hawk wasn’t spooking. It was landing. Notice the position of the primaries — completely uncharacteristic of a bird taking off.
And a Swainson’s hawk (Buteo swainsoni):
Excellent pictures. I always like to spend time just staring into the little feathery details of Stephen’s photos.
I love flickers! great shots!
Flying Flicker – fortuitous, fabulous foto!
Beautiful birds…the flicker’s plumage is gorgeous. We have a lot of those around here, you’re right, they never seem to sit still.
I would like to add that the best vulture pictures are the ones that show their nose piercing, like this one.
These are breathtaking and masterful.
I admire your talent, Stephen!
Beautiful photos Stephen.
The flicker ones are magic. I agree: They are hard to get close to. I just saw one flash through our neighborhood this weekend.
Fantastic Flicker flight photo!
Vultures have the best wings ever. Well, maybe next to albatrosses.
+1 for the sentiment and the alliteration.