Welcome back, fellow nature enthusiasts! It’s me again your Bearded Lancashire Wildlife Photographer, ready to share another thrilling tale with you. This time, we find ourselves back at the enchanting Cowley Brook Wood, where the golden morning light sets the stage for a captivating encounter with the quite elusive Lesser Redpoll. So, grab your cameras, and let’s dive into this adventure together!
Picture this: we’re at Cowley Brook Wood, one of my all-time favorite spots. The air is crisp, and the morning light casts a golden and warm glow over the surroundings. As I ventured into this familiar haven, I had one thing on my mind—to catch a glimpse of the elusive Lesser Redpoll, a species I had never seen, heard, or photographed before. Oh, the excitement!
Here’s the thing about Lesser Redpolls—they have this unique habit of singing while in flight. Yes, you read that right! These charming birds serenade us from high up in the sky, perched on exposed branches, sharing their melodies with the world. To capture these enchanting moments, I had to be patient and attentive, always ready to witness their musical displays.
Now, I had a little trick up my sleeve to increase my chances of observing these delightful creatures up close. I positioned myself down low, hidden along the path. You see, birds have remarkable eyesight, and wearing drab clothes helps me blend into the environment, making me less noticeable. It’s like becoming one with nature—a birding ninja, if you will.
Equipped with my trusty Nikon Z50 and the versatile Sigma 150-600c lens, I was ready to freeze time and capture the beauty of the Lesser Redpoll. To ensure sharp images, I opted for a shutter speed of around 1/600s, giving me the ability to capture those brief moments of stillness during their energetic flights. With my aperture set between f5.6 and f7.2, I achieved a pleasing balance between the bird and its surroundings, bringing the entire scene to life.
Handheld and with the lens stabilization engaged, I stealthily moved through the wood, keeping my senses alert for any sign of these captivating birds. It was a dance of patience and anticipation, and when the moment arrived, I felt like I had captured a piece of magic.
Now, let’s dive into some interesting facts about the Lesser Redpoll. Did you know that these birds belong to the finch family? They’re small songbirds with delightful plumage and a unique streaky pattern on their chests. Here are a few more nuggets of information about these fascinating creatures:
- Nomadic Wanderers: Lesser Redpolls are known to be nomadic birds, meaning their presence in a particular area can vary from year to year. Their movements depend on food availability and other factors, making each encounter with them all the more special.
- Seeds and Sweets: These charming birds have a varied diet. They primarily feed on seeds, including those from birch and alder trees. However, they also have a sweet tooth! In the summer, Lesser Redpolls indulge in sugary treats by feeding on the sap of trees.
- Social Singers: As we’ve experienced firsthand, Lesser Redpolls are known for their delightful songs. But here’s an interesting fact—they often sing in groups, creating a symphony of melodies. It’s truly a remarkable experience to listen to their collective voices filling the air.
- Winter Warriors: While Lesser Redpolls are present in the UK throughout the year, their numbers increase during the winter months when migratory individuals from Scandinavia join the resident population. This influx creates a vibrant spectacle, as these birds gather together in search of food.
Conclusion:
And there you have it, my friends—a mesmerizing encounter with the captivating Lesser Redpoll. From the golden morning light to hidden paths and their melodious flights, this experience reminded me once again of the wonders that surround us in the natural world.
Remember, sometimes the most rewarding encounters are with the birds we’ve never seen before. So, grab your cameras, venture into nature, and let yourself be serenaded by the melodies of these charming birds. Until next time, keep your eyes and ears open for the whispers of the wild.
Note: If there are any specific facts or details you would like to add or modify, please let me know, and I’ll be happy to make the necessary adjustments.
