Rusty Blackbird in Natural Habitat

I was trying to photograph ducks along the Mississippi River last Saturday and ended up in a thick fog the entire morning until I finally gave up. The day wasn't a complete bust as this rusty blackbird, uncommon in Missouri, landed very close along with eight of its buddies. They were all looking for a drink from the wetland. I was so surprised to see them that I didn't think to tighten my aperture to deepen the focus plane. Thanks!

Canon 40D; Canon 500/4; 1/640; f/4; ISO 200; Gitzo GT3530LS/Wimberley II; Trekker T-100 Blind

The blackbird is sharp and shows the rust colour perfectly. The image really gives a sense of habitat. Well done Danny!

Cool bird Danny! Tack sharp and I like the muted light.

Hey Danny, I can where this guy gets his name from. Perfect exposure to bring out the detail in the rusty/black plumage. Tack sharp where it counts, and well done on getting down low for this capture.

One of those rare birds that look better out of breeding season (IMO)! I don't mind the habitat as this is pretty much how I see these guys too. There are, however a few pieces that I wish weren't there, such as the orange piece in LLC and tall one reaching to top of frame, and the extra branch passing behind the bird's body and bill. I know its tough to get uncluttered images in this type of habitat, I still like it alot...great low angle, and the eye is quite striking.

You are a braver man than I photographing birds at ISO 200, especially in overcast conditions:)

Gorgeous bird the colors and detail are outstanding I also like your composition it works nicely as this bird forages for food. Your angle of capture is excellent.

Wonderful looking bird Danny. Love the habitat and the DOF is good enough for my liking. Not that what I think probably matters (only to me). :) Well done mate. :)

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Originally Posted by Daniel Cadieux

One of those rare birds that look better out of breeding season (IMO)! I don't mind the habitat as this is pretty much how I see these guys too. There are, however a few pieces that I wish weren't there, such as the orange piece in LLC and tall one reaching to top of frame, and the extra branch passing behind the bird's body and bill. I know its tough to get uncluttered images in this type of habitat, I still like it alot...great low angle, and the eye is quite striking.

You are a braver man than I photographing birds at ISO 200, especially in overcast conditions:)

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Yes, like my friend Harshad I'm an ISO 200 nut. When I get my 1D4 I might jump up to ISO 400 once in awhile.:)

Thanks everybody for looking at the little blackbird and for the great comments and suggestions.

DB