indigo bunting on the railing

It's been such a chore to get a decent shot of this species... they swarm my feeders and back deck until I'm in position at the open window to shoot, then they act as if my house is a cat sanctuary.

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Village I would be pleased to even see a specimen of this species let alone having them swarm my backyard.

What I've found is that it's better to be in position before they arrive as any little movement while they're feeder could frighten them. I've waited 10-20 minutes before the birds normally appear at my feeders. My success rate has gone up when I use that strategy.

Wow-that's a terrific shot! Run them over here like you did the grosbeaks.
Karen

beautiful bird, nice shot!
Send them my way!
Tom

Stephen Stephen wrote in post #3172011
Village I would be pleased to even see a specimen of this species let alone having them swarm my backyard.

What I've found is that it's better to be in position before they arrive as any little movement while they're feeder could frighten them. I've waited 10-20 minutes before the birds normally appear at my feeders. My success rate has gone up when I use that strategy.

Stephen, I've stood in one spot by the window until my legs were cramping, only to have grackles and blue jays make off with all of the seed. Seems like I've barely turned to step away before an indigo lands on the perch I was focusing on... I'm not short of patience, but pain has a way of redirecting your attention.
I'm not giving up, though. Besides, I'm getting a lot of great mockingbird shots while I wait!