Northern Flicker Returning to Nest

[Loi Nguyen]

We had the fortune of stumbling onto a Northern Flicker nest in an aspen tree. So I spent the afternoon watching them coming and going from the nest. The female stayed in the nest most of the time while the male brought her food. But they took turns going out so that the nest is being guarded 24/7. I suspect they are sitting on eggs.

1DX2
500f4 II + 1.4X III
1/5300
f9
ISO-3200
Aperture Priority Gitzo tripod with Wembeley head.

I normally don't use tripod, but it beats trying to hold the lens for an extended period of time. I should learn how to use it more.

Thank you for commenting on my images.

Loi

[Marina Scarr]

Fun behavior captured here. I have been known to try to capture this as well and you've done it well. It's nice and sharp with a good angle. You have a lovely BG but your tree is a bit bright in spots. I think to bring this image up a notch, I would do some burning to it.

[Bill Dix]

The landing pose is terrific: perfect timing and good detail. I agree that something should be done with the brightness in spots -- some burning or s/h?

[William Dickson]

Great pose captured, with very nice detail throughout.

Will