Conditions were difficult for taking pictures along the trail at the Sandia Crest because of the heavy shadows and bright shafts of light through the trees. When we came across this Hermit Thrush not only did those problems exist, it also wasn't very close to us. I didn't have much hope that it would turn out very well, but while not the greatest, it's at least good enough to get a good look at its features. Thank goodness for image processing software.While we didn't see many Hermit Thrushes, we heard several. Especially during one of the stops on the way back. Their song is very distinct and memorable. As a matter of fact, while I've never seen one here in Oregon or anywhere else, I'm sure I heard one tonight at Champoeg State Park during a walk I took there.To hear the Hermit Thrush's song click here.
Today I went on a field trip with some birders from the local Audubon Society in Albuquerque. We made our way up the Sandia Mountains, ultimately reaching the top at Sandia Crest and the Crest House. There we hiked trails in the hope to see a Three-toed Woodpecker. These birds are hard to find, but there had been recent reports of sightings in this area.Unfortunately, we did not get any confirmed sightings, though a couple in our group thought they might have gotten a glimpse. All was not lost, however, as the scenery was beautiful and we did see and hear many birds. Most, however, were at a distance so I did not get many good photos, but I did a reasonable shot of a Hermit Thrush that I will post soon. The Hermit Thrush is a new bird for me and it has a beautiful, almost haunting song!Another new bird, at least from a photography standpoint, was the Raven in the image above. This was taken along the highway on our way back from the field trip. I road back with local Audubon Society president Beth Hurst-Waitz and she was kind enough to stop and let me get out of her car and take a few pictures of the Raven. It had an interesting guttural call.
Another post from the Albuquerque trip. I saw these Broad-tailed Hummingbirds at the Crest House deck feeders atop Sandia Crest in the Sandia Mountains. This is the same deck that you can see all three Rosy Finches during Winter months (click for more information). I wouldn't mind making a special trip to Albuquerque just see them.
Conditions were difficult for taking pictures along the trail at the Sandia Crest because of the heavy shadows and bright shafts of light through the trees. When we came across this Hermit Thrush not only did those problems exist, it also wasn't very close to us. I didn't have much hope that it would turn out very well, but while not the greatest, it's at least good enough to get a good look at its features. Thank goodness for image processing software.
Today I went on a field trip with some birders from the local Audubon Society in Albuquerque. We made our way up the Sandia Mountains, ultimately reaching the top at Sandia Crest and the Crest House. There we hiked trails in the hope to see a Three-toed Woodpecker. These birds are hard to find, but there had been recent reports of sightings in this area.