This is an interesting species and the only representative in North America of the Silky-Flycatchers (Family Ptilogonatidae), it is closely associated with Mistletoe and consumes its berries. It seasonally migrates from the desert lowlands to the wooded highlands in the sky islands. It breeds twice each year in the two different habitats. It has been known to imitate the calls of 13 other avian species when being pursued by predators. The name (Phainopepla) comes from the Greek for shining robe. As you can see it is well named.
40D, TC 1.4XII, 500 f4L IS, f8, 1/250s, ISO 400, Av, Ai Servo, hand held.
Last edited by James Prudente; 01-08-2008 at 10:45 PM.
Interesting species it is, and you got the raised crest to boot.
How much of a crop is this? I see some noise in the plumage and some blue chromatic aberration around the feathers in the head and the little plumes of the wings.
It could be post-processing too.
I had to add some fill light in post processing because I didn't dial in enough exposure comp when shooting against the bright sky. I think that is probably the source of the issues you noted.
I like the fluffed belly feathers. Pretty good for a bird high up and looking away.
later and love, artie
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The belly feathers are so fluffy he looks like he's sitting on a pillow! Nice clean bg and perch, but I wish the bird had had chosen to sit facing you. I enjoyed your species description.