Least Chipmunk with a fly on it head – Nikon D500, f7.1, 1/800, ISO 800, Nikkor 500mm VR with 1.4x TC, natural light
There are times I see funny things while I am out photographing that tickle me so much that I have to laugh out loud and yesterday that was this Least Chipmunk with a fly on its head.
I was out in the West Desert checking out the same spot where I photographed the Warbling Vireo I shared yesterday when I noticed the Least Chipmunk. Even though the light angle wasn’t the best I locked focus on the chipmunk and started taking images of it.
A few frames later I started laughing because through my viewfinder I saw a fly land on top of the chipmunk’s head. The fly stayed on the chipmunk’s head for thirty-two images and I think I giggled for thirty-one of those photos.
Those small black flies have been annoying me for the past several weeks because they buzz my face, land on my hands and I have even seen them mating on the sleeves of my shirts. The chipmunk didn’t seem to even notice the fly because it kept right on eating the berry that it had in its tiny paws. With a fly for a hat or a crown.
I’m glad that I went back out to the same spot yesterday to look for birds because if I hadn’t I would never have seen the fly land on this chipmunk’s head. I also saw more Warbling Vireos, Western Tanagers, White-crowned Sparrows, Red-breasted Nuthatches and a immature Sharp-shinned Hawk in that small area.
From one day to the next I never know what wonderful things I will see and photograph when I am out in nature. I am always grateful for the occasions when what I see makes me laugh especially during these turbulent and unprecedented times.
Life is good.
Mia
Click here to see more of my Least Chipmunk photos plus facts and information about this species.
Man, I thought flies bugged me! That is huge in comparison to the chipmunk.
That is a good-sized fly. Seems the tolerant chipmunk was more interested in eating.
And your images have given me a giggle too.
Always welcome.
Thank you.
I like Marty’s comment about the fly chapeau too.
A fly chapeau. 😂 Thank you for a much-appreciated giggle this morning. There is definitely a message in the rapt attention the chippie is giving that berry.
That is cute and funny. You have a good eye!
Cute!!