Tag: American Robin

The Robin @ Home

by Mike

Yesterday evening while walking around our yard surveying the damage from this past week’s hail storm, we noted all the marks on our fence, and of course the branch which has broken off the best tree in the back yard.  And while checking on the Little Gem Magnolia tree and noting how the leaves were all beat up and broken, I happened to notice something rust colored inside the branches.  Can you see it?

Surprise in the Tree

As I got closer, I realized that the American Robin that I had photographed just the other day, actually lives in my yard.  She (not he) has built her nest right here in our little tree!  I was very careful to back away without disturbing her, and I took these pictures from my porch with my 100-400 lens to give her plenty of room.  I want her to feel safe here.  Here is a shot once I zoomed in.

American Robin Nesting

It looks like we are well on our way to having a “bird friendly” back yard.  As an added benefit, I’m finding it very relaxing sitting in the back yard with a book and my camera.  Who needs television anyway?  This is much more enjoyable!

Another Day; More Birds

by Mike

The last couple of nights we have had pretty severe storms here in North Texas and the birds have been pretty scarce.  The storm two nights ago actually broke a large limb from the tree where I have hung the bird feeder.  So this evening, Karen and I spent some quiet time out on the back porch to see if anyone would show  up, or if the broken tree had scared everyone away.  Thankfully, it looks like they are still willing to stop by, if only for a few moments.

But before that, I’ve been carrying my camera to work with me because there are some pretty birds that like to hang out around my parking garage.  After the storms of the past few days, (and since I’ve been taking my camera with me) they have been hiding.  Today however, as I was leaving, I saw several of them hanging out.  So I carefully put my camera bag in my car, remove the camera, and as stealthily as I can, I make my way to shooting distance of the first bird.  I raise the camera up to my face and as I press the button and… “No CF Card!”  Doh!  I forgot to replace the card when I offloaded my last set of pictures.  Better luck tomorrow.

So back to tonight, my friend Mrs. House Sparrow stopped by for a portrait.  She’s a pretty little thing.

And a new visitor.  Mr. American Robin stopped by.  I’ve seen him a few times, but I could never get my lens on him fast enough for a shot.  Tonight he was kind enough to allow me to take a few pictures of him.  Maybe next time he’ll even look at me.

American Robin

And of course, my old friend Mr. Cardinal.  He still doesn’t like having his picture taken.  I caught him hiding on the neighbors roof, just out of reach of a really good shot, and as soon as I took that one, away he flew.

Hiding Cardinal

You and me, Mr. Cardinal.  We’re going to become very good friends.  You’ll wish you were nicer to me when winter comes and I’m the one that still feeds you and your family!