The Long Journey

Gallery: AvianPosted October 7, 2012125 views9 comments

The last hold out of the season here in Central Texas..
A few Ruby-throated & Black-chinned hummers remain along the Gulf coast each winter instead of continuing to Central America, perhaps because they are too old or sick to make another trans-Gulf flight or too young (from very late nests) to have had time to grow fat and strong enough to migrate; their survival chances depend on the severity of each particular winter, and many perish in unusually cold years. This female will either make it or fall into the sea trying..
F/11, 1/500th, ISO 500, 1D M3, 300mm f/2.8 + Kenko 2x ext and natural light @ 9:16am and clear.

Comments

9 comments

Comment posted by Jim Nall on October 7, 2012 at 8:59 AM

That description is wonderful Howard. The Ruby Throated's left here a couple of weeks ago, I'm going to miss them as they were so enjoyable to watch.

This photo of the little female is great! It shows nice detail on the bird, a super background and I like the habitat. I would have done nothing different. Well done sir!

Registered on October 5, 2012, 45 Posts, 168 Comments

Comment posted by Nate Chappell on October 7, 2012 at 9:26 AM

A nice, natural looking image Howard, I like the green on green color scheme. I wouldn't mind a bit of a head turn from the hummber but as is it gives the image a peaceful, reflective mood.

Registered on February 1, 2006, 1158 Posts, 19528 Comments

Comment posted by Rick Turner on October 7, 2012 at 9:45 AM

Great story Howard and spectacular capture as usual. :

Registered on February 18, 2012, 534 Posts, 2755 Comments

Comment posted by Sharon Hallowell on October 7, 2012 at 10:46 AM

Looks like it's plump enough...hope it makes it! Sharon

Registered on November 1, 2003, 392 Posts, 4810 Comments

Comment posted by Ron Dudley on October 7, 2012 at 6:22 PM

I enjoyed both your narrative and image Howard. I like the natural feel of the shot.

Registered on March 30, 2007, 437 Posts, 10915 Comments

Comment posted by Ray Whitt on October 7, 2012 at 7:39 PM

Beautiful as usual Howard, love the colors and the composition. The green is wonderful.

Ray

Registered on May 27, 2011, 92 Posts, 2619 Comments

Comment posted by Jim Hackley on October 7, 2012 at 9:13 PM

Very nice detail on the larger version Howard, I always like seeing that iridescent shine and interesting comments to go along, well done.

Registered on September 17, 2009, 302 Posts, 5535 Comments

Comment posted by Roger Leekam on October 8, 2012 at 7:42 AM

A very good & atmospheric shot, Howard. That OOF leaf above the bird draws my attention more than I'd like, but don't know what could have been done about it. Thanks for the info.

Registered on May 28, 2009, 83 Posts, 646 Comments

Comment posted by Angela McCain on October 11, 2012 at 2:51 AM

This little hummer dressed to match your background. Good light and very sharp. Wish the head had come on around a bit.

Registered on April 19, 2009, 367 Posts, 3589 Comments