Spring female Cassin’s Finch next to a creek – Nikon D500, f7.1, 1/640, ISO 500, Nikkor 500mm VR with 1.4x TC, natural light
When this female Cassin’s Finch landed next to a creek two days ago in the West Desert I was happy to take her photo. I don’t get to photograph this finch species nearly as often as I would like to be able to. A few weeks ago I missed out on photographing a male Cassin’s Finch singing and displaying on top of a Mountain Mahogany tree in the West Desert mountains so taking this female’s photo took a bit of the sting out of that. Okay, just a little bit.
Two days ago I’d seen some movement in a stand of willows near a creek and kept my eyes on the them waiting to see what bird might show up. Then the bird flew down to the creek which is when I could see that it was a female Cassin’s Finch. When she flew back up to perch on a branch I was ready to photograph her. Paying attention paid off. I was only able to take a few images of her before she flew off and if I had been looking anywhere else, well, I would not have been able to take this photo.
I hope to take more photos of Cassin’s Finches soon. I wish I hadn’t missed the males singing and showing off for the females a few weeks ago, maybe I will find a few males that haven’t found mates yet. Who knows? I do know that I will be paying attention and looking for them.
Life is good.
Mia
Click here to see more of my Cassin’s Finch photos plus facts and information about this species.
We had a yard full of Cassin’s this spring. I hope you find more in the canyons.
A perfect composition of color, textures and, of course, detail. In fact, the detail you captured in this pic is incredible. Thanks Mia
Your constant attention, diligence and patience return you (and us) spectacular rewards. Thank you.
She has such attractive markings! Wishing her and her mate a very successful breeding season!
Superb photograph, Mia!
You may have missed getting the male’s image, but at least you SAW one and were able to enjoy his song. And isn’t that what it’s all about?
Have a great weekend.