Flowers, bugs and a bird.

[MN Shutterbug]

I've been in a bit of a photo rut lately. I just can't seem to find much to shoot these days. Other than birds, there isn't much for wildlife in these parts, and most birds have cleared out. I know, I have tunnel vision. I guess I need to expand my photographic horizons.

I took a very short walk yesterday at the park, and took my good old time and looked for anything interesting, other than stationary subjects. After shooting these bugs, I stopped by some trees near a bluebird box and played my screech owl call. A bluebird flew out of the box immediately and hid in a nearby tree, to keep an eye on me. I then heard a bird sound unfamiliar to me. I looked for the source of the sound, and the woodpecker showed himself. My first thought was that I had never heard a woodpecker make that sound. I then realized it wasn't a downy or hairy, partly due to the red throat. I just wished I had decent lighting. But then, it was 2:30 in the afternoon with high sun behind the bird. Some times, crappy lighting or not, you take what you get. As soon as I got home, I referenced my bird book and found it was a Yellow - bellied Sapsucker, another first.

[DeeDee]

Looks like you had a good day. I really like #3

[Steve Foss]

Neat stuff, Mike. I especially like the second dragonfly image. It's a striking male 12-spotted skimmer. Very nice perch and cool BG bokeh. The first is an immature widow skimmer.

And I think the light on the sapsucker works just fine because he's shaded.

Thanks for getting out of your rut and making some fine images. We miss them in here.

[MN Shutterbug]

Thanks Deedee and Steve.

I assumed I would get some ID on the bugs, from Steve. I do OK with birds, but I've never taken the time to really learn too many insects. It's nice to know what they actually are.

Steve, you really are a nature boy. The sharing of your knowledge is appreciated.

[LPCrowRiverFisherman]

The second dragonfly has a familiar pose to me.

Your second dragonfly stands out to me.

[mmeyer]

Those are really great X. Glad to see you back. The 2nd dragonfly and the Sapsucker are my favorites.

[finnbay]

Nice shots X! Really like the dragonflies!

[Catmendo]

Good work! I like dragonflies, mossey's hate 'em! Numero #3 for me as well...

[DMN]

Love the dragon flies, good work.

[Dbl]

I am with the rest on the second dragonfly image!

[WCS]

Good to see you here again X. I completely understand about the photo rut. Been having one myself lately. For me it is mostly the busy summer slowing me down. I do like that 2nd dragonfly. That is a very nice capture.