House Wren peeking out of its nesting cavity – Nikon D500, f7.1, 1/1000, ISO 500, Nikkor 500mm VR with 1.4x TC, natural light
This winter has been so gray that I keep finding myself thinking of spring, of cloudless skies, warmth and nesting birds. It won’t be all that long before winter loses its grip in the Salt Lake Valley and a while later the snow will begin to melt in the high country including the Uinta Mountains. Creeks and rivers will flow swiftly from the snow melt, alpine meadows will turn green, the leaves of trees will unfurl and the voices of singing and calling birds will fill the air.
Spring may happen earlier than normal this year because it really hasn’t been that much of a winter at all down here in the valley. As much as I enjoy photographing birds in winter and how it can test my skills, I am more than ready for bright, sunnier days right now.
These nesting House Wren photos were taken two years ago at the end of May high up in the Uinta Mountains where stands of aspens are used as nesting trees. The House Wrens were still busy bringing in nesting materials when I took these photos.
Adult House Wren on the outside of its nest – Nikon D500, f7.1, 1/500, ISO 500, +0.3 EV, Nikkor 500mm VR with 1.4x TC, natural light
I truly wish I could share exactly what it sounded like in this area but imagine the sound of a mountain breeze rustling in the leaves of the aspens, the songs and calls of the House Wrens, Tree Swallows, Yellow Warblers, Red-naped Sapsuckers and Uinta Ground Squirrels plus the sound of a nearby river flowing high and fast over rocks and boulders nearby.
I’m extremely grateful that my keen powers of sight and observation noticed the nesting birds in this location.
If this area is busy with nesting birds this spring I plan to drive up there, set up my tripod and video the birds there this year instead of doing just still photos so I can see the birds on the wing flying in and out of the trees and record the sounds of spring in the High Uintas.
I’m thinking ahead. On gray days sometimes I feel I need to.
Life is good.
Mia
Click here to see more of my House Wren photos plus facts and information about this species.
Great shots! Not only do I love the detail, but the balance you achieved between the background and the house wren…is perfect. Thanks Mia.
What a beauty. I am so ready for summer to leave us and would swap with you in an instant.
EC, I wish I could send you our clouds, precipitation and cooler temps. I know you need it.
Ooooo your post made the mood for my morning. You are still welcome to try my mic and see how you like it.
April, I may take you up on that offer when spring arrives. I just felt like spring photos would chase away some of the grayness we have had here lately.