Ruby-crowned Kinglet

Canon 7D Mark II, ISO 6400, f/8, 1/1000 sec.

Finally got a shot of the male and his gorgeous colored crown! A tiny bird seemingly overflowing with energy, the Ruby-crowned Kinglet forages almost frantically through lower branches of shrubs and trees. Its habit of constantly flicking its wings is a key identification clue.

Smaller than a warbler or chickadee, this plain green-gray bird has a white eyering and a white bar on the wing. Alas, the male’s brilliant ruby crown patch usually stays hidden—your best chance to see it is to find an excited male singing in spring or summer, or if you’re really lucky like I was, you can see it in winter.

A Guest on Rick Sammon’s Blog

I’ve been asked by award-winning photographer Rick Sammon to be a guest on his blog! I will be writing about Bird Photography and sharing my experiences, tips and photography with his readers. Once it is published, I will post a link and would appreciate it if you would check it out, too!

Rick Sammon, a tireless, prolific and inspirational image-maker, called by some “The Godfather of Photography,” is one of the most active photographers on the planet – dividing his time between creating images, leading photo workshops, and making personal appearances. Rick’s enthusiasm for digital imaging is contagious. He is a man on a mission – a mission to make digital photography fun, creative, exciting and rewarding for others.

Scissor-tailed Flycatcher (female) in a territorial, mating display.

If you like photography, I highly recommend checking out Rick Sammon Photography on Facebook, G+ and Twitter. If you are interested in learning about bird photography, consider taking his on-line seminar/course or reading his blog where I talk about the “Ethical Use of Bird Vocalization Apps”.  

Here’s a link:  “Master the Art of Bird Photography” – http://ricksammon.com//blog2/2014/12/25/soon-come-master-the-art-and-craft-of-bird-photography-on-line-seminar

It’s a real honor to appear as a guest on his blog. A big “thanks” to Rick for giving me the opportunity to share my photography and I hope you enjoy his work as much as I do!