This frame was capture on the recent birding tour which I lead through Kentucky, Ohio, and Michigan. This warbler is incredible specialized; they nest in young Jack Pines
in Michigan (and, to a much lesser degree, in Wisconsin and Ontario) and winter in the Bahamas. Given such narrow ecological constraints, it's not surprising that the species
is listed as Endangered. The current population is estimated at ~2,500 pairs, but the species continues to improve with heavy-handed forest management.
As to the shot - I'm not thrilled with the bands, but I can live with them because they offer an entry point to discuss the species's life history and conservation. As this bird
is entirely reliant on the Jack Pine, I'm totally cool with foliage surrounding the bird. Like the bands, the Jack Pine contributes to the story. The background is more pines
against the sky.
Canon 600mm f/4 IS II + 1.4x III on EOS R5
1/5000 at f/5.6, ISO 1600
Processed in LR CC with a light pass through Topaz. Nothing cloned.
Kirtland's Warbler from Michigan
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