Cactus Wren

Cactus Wren (Campylorhynchus brunneicapillus)

Place: Anthem, AZ
Date: January 8, 2012 8:37 am
Equipment: Nikon D300, Nikkor AF-S 300/2.8, TC20E (2x), G1325, RRS BH-55, Sidekick
Exposure: ISO 400, Aperture priority matrix metered, 1/400th @ f/11
Raw, PS CS3 on Mac G4, 92% of frame (cropped left edge for balance)
No set up, no bait, no blind, no cloning

We used to have Cactus Wrens in our back yard every day, and also at the Water Ranch. But they’ve declined for an unknown reason. So I’m happy when I encounter one like this bird at a community park where I was waiting for a reported rarity to show.

It was windy and around 40 degrees an hour after sunrise but that didn’t phase this wren who allowed me to walk up and take as many shots as I wanted.

Honest critiques requested; all comments appreciated. 1200px version provided as usual for critical viewing.