Incoming

[Teton Chuck]

This red naped sapsucker was bringing a load of ants to its nestlings. I enjoyed studying its behavior and setting up for the shot.

[Shadowman]

Nicely captured.

[Stagecoach]

Great capture Chuck.

[Rita]

Good one. Love your timing.

[Urbanflyer]

Wonderful!!

[Donald]

I enjoyed studying its behavior and setting up for the shot.

I was reading an article about wildlife photography and the thing that was top of the list for all pro photographers, was knowing your subject: study the behaviour.

I'd guess that if you just turned up and started shooting, you'd never have got this image. The fact that you did study the behaviour and, based on that, set up for the shot gave you the best chance of getting it.

This is a superb image (publishable quality) and demonstrates what can be achieved with skill and enthusiasm.

[Teton Chuck]

Thanks to all for the comments. Donald, I have found that taking time to study the behavior and how it relates to the lighting conditions at different times of the day pays off. The down side is that it takes a lot of time. These two photos, a western meadowlark and a mountain bluebird, took five mornings to finely get to shot. However, I find that spending the time observing and planning is very enjoyable. Thank you for the kind comment.

[sachtjen]

The Mountain Bluebird is Idaho's state bird, by the way.

All are fantastic shots. Thanks for sharing.