Close Northern Mockingbird at Sequoyah National Wildlife Refuge

Close up Northern Mockingbird at Sequoyah National Wildlife Refuge – Canon R7, handheld, f11, 1/640, ISO 640, Canon RF 800mm, natural light

While I was at Sequoyah National Wildlife Refuge earlier this week, I had a close-up opportunity to photograph an adult Northern Mockingbird from the road.

I wasn’t about to pass up the chance to get portraits of the mockingbird at the refuge. I was parked, the bird was in nice light, and the setting was appealing to me.

I’ve always enjoyed listening to Northern Mockingbirds sing, even in the middle of the night. I’m sure their night songs bother some people, but I’m not one of those people.

I love hearing them sing at night just as much as I enjoy hearing Great Horned and Barred Owls calling in the velvety darkness.

Northern Mockingbird portrait at Sequoyah National Wildlife Refuge – Canon R7, handheld, f11, 1/640, ISO 640, Canon RF 800mm, natural light

This Northern Mockingbird didn’t sing for me; it seemed more interested in preening their feathers and looking for food.

I don’t see many mockingbirds at the refuge, and usually when I do, they aren’t as cooperative as this bird was. The mockingbird was so close my only choice was to take close up portraits of them.

Not that I am complaining, I adore close up, intimate photos like these whenever my subjects allow it. It would be foolish to pass up opportunities like this when they are presented, and I’m not.

Moments like these, when a bird allows me close enough for intimate photos, don’t happen every day. I try to savor each one, appreciate the chance to observe behavior up close, and capture images that show the personality of my subject. It’s part of what makes being out in the field so rewarding.

Life is good.

Mia

Click here to see more of my Northern Mockingbird photos plus facts and information about this species.