Racoon and Bunting

[Parson]

Just a couple from an outing to the Holla Bend NWR in Arkansas yesterday. As always, comments and critiques are welcome.

Peek-a-boo!

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v430/dahat/_MG_5687-5x7.jpg


Painted Bunting

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v430/dahat/_MG_5739.jpg

Hope you enjoy.

Both shot with the 20D and the 100-400L at ISO 800

Have a great day!

Dave H.

[Scottes]

Very nice shots on both! I love the expressions that raccoons display, and the bunting is beautiful.

[Parson]

Thanks, Scottes! The racoon was actually growling at me when I took this shot, but his expression seemed to say, "Cheese!"

I had never seen the painted bunting before this year. I had always known that they were supposed to be in our area but just hadn't come across them until recently. You're right -- they are gorgeous and almost seem too colorful to be a wild bird.

Thanks!
Dave H.

[tupe]

Beautiful bird! I didn't know Arkansas was tropical! ;)
And a great 'coon shot. Thanks for posting them.

[PhotosGuy]

Nice shots!

[soma]

i got a raccoon for ya:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v206/deityofdecadence/scrunch.jpg

LOL

[Parson]

Soma,

This guy looks like the James Cagney of the racoon world! :) Considering it looks like he's standing on carpet, I assume he's in your house -- I hope as an invited guest rather than an intruder!

Thanks!
Dave H.

[soma]

hahah yeah, he was a pet about a year ago. I got a whole bunch of pictures of him while he was eating, because he seemed to make the most ridiculous faces then. XD

[Michaelmjc]

The bird is beautiful, nice colors.. Maybe a bit tighter of a crop?

[HJMinard]

Nice captures, Dave! What a beautiful little bird ...

[Parson]

Thanks, Jay! These painteds are just incredible. Hard to believe they are in the wild here in Arkansas! I've lived here 17 years and this is only the second time to see them and my first opportunity to get any shots of them. What's even more incredible is how something so vibrant in color can disappear so quickly once in the trees! Once you lose sight of them, forget trying to see them until they come back out into the open. They just blend in completely with their surroundings.

Mike, as to the closer crop -- I tried it with several different crops but for me this one just seemed to be the most appropriate. It gives a good view of the bird, but also leaves him well placed in his environment.

Thanks to all for your comments!
Dave H.