Are We Walking to Alaska

Are We Walking to Alaska
Are We Walking to Alaska - A True Story

Saturday, June 1, 2013

Weekly Top Shot

This morning I looked up - and there at the suet feed was a Flicker.  I usually keep my big camera on the tripod in the window, trained on the bird feeders on the deck.  I hadn't put it back since we went out last night and so I had to stand up, get a little closer to the window and take these shots with the zoom, with the hand held camera.  Every shot I got was clear - which amazed me.

He uses his tail for balance when getting the suet out of the feeder

I love his spotted vest

Checking to make sure no one is coming 

The tail is loose when  he is not eating

It is a good thing he has a long beak and his tail is tucked under again for balance 


Bits of suet on  his beak

Such a pretty bird.  They say a Flicker in your yard is good luck.


20 comments:

Deb said...

those are awesome photos...

Jeanne said...

Wow you did a great job getting good shots of this flicker. Have never seen one of these before. What a beautiful coat he has... great design and so unique. Thanks for stopping by my blog, and I just wanted to let you know that I have just started your book that you wrote. Know it is going to be so int eresting, and what great memories and what a marvelous experience to remember!

Karen @ Beatrice Euphemie said...

What a gorgeous bird! Great shots! xx

sweetbriardreams said...

Wow! What a photogenic bird. I love the way you have captured the suet on his beak! Have a great weekend. Chel x

greenthumb said...

What a pretty bird, great photos.

Jeanne said...

Ver nice Flicker shots. I don't think I ever saw this bird before. Also love the lilacs.. I can smell them from here.

Karen said...

Hi JoAnn,
I really enjoyed your blog today. I am a bird lover and have had many budgies but as I get older I am appreciating nature so much more. Your photography is great! We are almost neighbours - I live in B.C. and rest up in Birch Bay. You have amazing places for treasure hunting in your area.
Take care,
Karen

The Quintessential Magpie said...

He certainly is adorable! Just adorable. And you got some great shots of him. Loved this.

XO,

Sheila

Mary said...

These are such beautiful shots of a truly wonderful bird. I love his outfit too. Very classic! Thank you for sharing these, JoAnn!

Kay said...

Great shots, JoAnn! Flickers are such beautiful birds. The last close-ups are s-o-o-o-o nice! Did you know that the black spot at the top of the chest is sort of heart shaped? I'm sure he brought good luck to you. How could he do anything else?

Linda W. said...

Wow - these are great shots! You captured some nice detail in this bird. Great job!

Anonymous said...

We don't have many birds to watch around the ranch. It is so fun to see the birds that bloggers post about. Your Flicher friend looks entertaining to watch. The last capture is my favorite.

Robyn
http://theranchwifechronicles.com/

Julie Fukuda said...

One happy birder has just admired your photos. Thanks!

From A Worcestershire Hill said...

Beautiful clear photographs, JoAnn. I have never seen a Flicker before, s/he is beautiful.

Anonymous said...

Great shots! I love seeing Flickers at the feeder.

My Little Home and Garden said...

I wish my camera and I could take photos like that. I can almost feel the feathers.

Powell River Books said...

I saw a Flicker at our condo n Bellingham. It didn't go to the feeder, but landed on the screen in front of the window with quite a thud. I thought it was a bird that flew into the window, but I think he did it on purpose because he hung there on the screen for a few minutes before flying away. The bird we have enjoyed at our feeder lately is a Baltimore Oriole. I think he (and a mate that isn't as bright red, are way out of their normal territory here in the Pacific Northwest. - Margy

Judy said...

What incredible images!!! I love seeing all the details of his feathers!!! Plus, he got a good feed!!!

Debra at HOMESPUN: http://www.thehomespun.com said...

you didn't put a napkin out there for him! ( the suet on beak, ha ha )

Amazing shots!!! He is gorgeous !!

Judy at GoldCountryCottage said...

JoAnn, look at the colors on that gorgeous bird. I have never seen a Flicker. Beautifully marked and a soft little eye, but I'd hate to come in contact with that beak!!..Happy Wednesday..Judy