Adult Song Sparrow trying to keep its balance in a wind – Nikon D500, f7.1, 1/1000, ISO 500, Nikkor 500mm VR with 1.4x TC, natural light
Two days ago I was photographing an adult Song Sparrow in a Wasatch Mountain canyon when a wind came through which not only made it difficult for the sparrow to keep its balance it also made it challenging for me to keep the bouncing sparrow in my viewfinder. The sparrow was perched in a serviceberry away from the road and if I had been any closer to it I would have missed quite a few shots while the wind bounced the bird and the top of the bush around.
Song Sparrow singing in a wind – Nikon D500, f7.1, 1/1000, ISO 500, Nikkor 500mm VR with 1.4x TC, natural light
During slight breaks in the wind the sparrow seemed compelled to sing before the next gust of wind bounced it around some more. I have to admit there were a few times that I felt a little dizzy trying to track the bouncing bird with my long lens while trying to keep the bird in focus.
Song Sparrow perched on a Serviceberry in a wind – Nikon D500, f7.1, 1/1000, ISO 500, Nikkor 500mm VR with 1.4x TC, natural light
Just seconds after I took this photo I think the Song Sparrow decided it had had enough of the wind because it took off and left the bouncy serviceberry perch. I can’t say as I blame the sparrow, the wind was bothering me too.
Life is good.
Mia
Click here to see more of my Song Sparrow photos plus facts and information about this species.
Usually, birds seem to face INTO the wind…it must have come up too quickly for it to adjust…
There are decided disadvantages to being lighter than air.
Great series of the windswept charmer.
I am surprised he did not turn to face the wind.
Cutest shots yet!
Liz and I went the same direction. Mia, I figured both you and the sparrow could use a Dramamine. Thank you for including the wonderful song.
The poor Song Sparrow was probably getting “sea sick”. I love their song. Great shots, especially in that wind.