Crested Shrike-tit

[Dean Ingwersen]

Hi all,

This image captured of a male Crested Shrike-tit (Falcunculus frontatus) in Chiltern National Park, north-east Victoria. One of my favourite Australian woodland birds.

Thanks for looking.

Canon 20D, 500mm L IS, f/4.5, ISO 400, 1/2000, AV -2/3
PS CS - slight crop for comp, sh-h, levels, curves, sat, usm, cloned out distracting element under birds head

[Arthur Morris]

Woonderful bird and very sharp. Great pose. Background is weird with the dark and light areas and the perch is a bit much. Overall, I like it and I like seeing new species.

[Dean Ingwersen]

Thanks Arthur. Agree the perch could have been nicer, but sometimes you're stuck with what you get. And the background was a mix of trees in shadow and distant clear blue sky, hence the different look.

[Ed Cordes]

Cool bird I have not seen before. Kind of looks like a cross between a Black Capped Chickadee and a Gold Finch from up here in Up State NY. I like the sharp focus. Wish the dark shadow under the neck weren't there.

[Axel Hildebrandt]

I don't think I have seen this species before. Thanks for sharing. Nice pose and details. I agree with Artie regarding perch and BG.

[Ákos Lumnitzer]

I am sure that this is not a set-up, so I commend you for a great result of a beautiful Aussie bird.

[Dean Ingwersen]

Thanks for the comments...much appreciated. I agree with the suggestions, but sometimes you're stuck with what there is!

[John Cooper]

Hi Dean - you did well to get the Shrike-tit. I've always found them a real challenge. As for nesting they choose the highest branches in the tallest trees!!
Agree with Art re perch but you don't get a lot of opportunities with these!!