High Uintas

Juvenile Red-naped Sapsucker in the high Uintas

By Mia McPherson, on March 1st, 2013%

Juvenile Red-naped Sapsucker – Nikon D200, tripod mounted, f6.3, 1/180, ISO 320, Nikkor 200-400mm VR with 1.4x TC at 400mm, natural light

This juvenile Red-naped Sapsucker image was taken on my first camping trip in the high Uintas in Summit County, Utah not far from Christmas Meadows. I heard a noise and looked up to see this immature bird clinging to a conifer well within range of my 200-400mm lens.

The campsite was close to the Bear River where I could hear the breeze in the tall trees and willows as I fell asleep at night. I’d lived as a flatlander in Florida for far too long so it was truly a delight to be back in the mountains with crisp air and fresh water where I didn’t have to worry about Alligators lurking near to the shoreline.

It was an awesome location for my first camping trip in Utah!

Mia

Pine Siskins

By Mia McPherson, on February 12th, 2012%

Nothing but cruddy weather here again today, I hope it at least brings some snow to the Salt Lake Valley but on gray days like this I start thinking about spring’s arrival, what the spring migration will bring and camping!

This Pine Siskin image was taken the first time I went camping in the high Uintas of Utah. The campsite was very close to the Bear River with willows on the shoreline and huge pines that shaded the campsite plus it was warm enough that I could take off my shoes and stick my feet into the water. It is an amazing location.

Pine Siskin (Carduelis pinus) in the high Uintas
Nikon D200, f6.3, 1/500, ISO 320, Nikkor 200-400mm VR with 1.4x TC at 400mm, natural light

While exploring the area and it’s breath taking beauty I spotted a large flock of Pine Siskin’s feeding on the seedheads of Mule Ears (Wyethia amplexicaulis).

Pine Siskins are in the Finch family and can be found where there are conifers, spruces and pines and quite often in parks and suburbs. There were well over 100 birds in this flock and it was a challenge to keep up with the fast moving Siskins. They may not be as flashy as their American Goldfinch relatives but they are beautiful, fascinating birds.

Mia

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