Wednesday, February 9, 2011

Amazing Winter Wren video!

Check out this incredible HD video of a singing Winter Wren by Lang Elliott and Bob McGuire:



Though they're fairly common at Pheasant Branch Conservancy during spring and fall migration, I can count the number of Winter Wren digiscoping encounters I've had on one hand – they're a very challenging bird to follow when they're not on breeding territory.

My best Winter Wren shot (below) was captured at the Ridges Sanctuary in Door County, WI a few years ago in late May. This particular bird was defending his territory by returning to the same perch to sing his amazing song. Unfortunately, the images of him singing were blurry from his quivering body and beak – it's just too fast to freeze in poor lighting. I was lucky to catch a few frames when he paused between phrases.



© 2011 Michael McDowell