The Pine Grosbeak is an irruptive species: some years it is here in abundance; other years it is absent. This year it is here. It is easy to spot when it is feasting on rowan berries (mountain ash).
It is easy to tell the sexes apart. The male shows almost the same red as the berries,
while the female has an orangish trim.
The Pine Grosbeak is not easily spooked by humans, so can be approached for pictures.
Maybe they are just too busy eating to be concerned with a photographer.
Hi. I’m a close friend of David Hersh. You set a very high bar for photography. These are fantastic.
Arnie, my parents gave me a Brownie Six-20 when I was seven. That was the beginning of a life of clicking.
Thank You for sharing the beautiful pictures of the grosbeak species. As I go on my walks in Cranbrook B.C. there are many mountain ash trees along the rotary trails. I will be watching for the birds.
Norma, you will pass many empty trees, but now and then see one with a dozen birds in it. While Pine Grosbeaks are likely at the moment, you might also see Bohemian Waxwings, Robins, Flickers and even Varied Thrushes. Many birds like these berries.
My Nikon 200 leaves me envious of your wonderful works of art. Not that it’s only the equipment of course. You have developed an artist’s eye. Thanks for sharing via my neighbour, Dave Douglas.
Alastair, ah yes, the D200. I used one of those a few generations back. Certainly equipment isn’t all, but good equipment can broaden opportunities.