Northern Cardinal, 4

photograph of a male Northern Cardinal

Virginia’s state bird can be difficult to photograph. The Northern Cardinal normally keeps at a safe distance from people so it’s hard to get really close to them.  The male’s brilliant red color can also make exposure and even focus difficult at times.  I captured this one in open shade and that seems to have resolved the color issues.

White Breasted Nuthatch II

photograph of a White Breasted Nuthatch on a tree trunk

White Breasted Nuthatches have the odd habit of creeping down tree trunks.  This one stopped to survey it’s surrounding.  In the process it showed off it’s flexibility by craning it’s neck more than 90 degrees to assess the scene.  This photo was taken on a rainy day and you can see a tiny drop of water clinging to the bird’s belly.