Geek out

I admit it: I'm a total geek when it comes to wildlife. My own backyard is allowing me to unabashedly get my geek on. 

For most of these shots I used the manual setting on my Canon 50d. Gasp! I know!! It was the only way I could achieve the exposure I desired, and quite frankly, I was tired of all the editing I was having to do in PS. It's an enormous pain to change settings so often, but it's either do it out in the field, or correct nearly every photo in post. I must say I do enjoy having so much control over my photos, and will probably stick with it! Never thought I'd go there. Go me!

I cannot get enough of these little Chickadees. I've given up trying to tell if they're black-capped or Carolinas--even THEY can't distinguish their own kind, so if they don't care, then neither do I! Apparently the only way to really identify them is by their chirps. They're acrobatic, cute, and not afraid when I approach with my camera. They're little hams, actually. :)

Female house finch

More woody! A downy woodpecker, I believe.  

This blue jay posed right nicely for me.

A new addition! Brown thrasher. First time today to spot one in the yard.

Another female house finch--look at her chest/belly area. Is she getting plucked or is she molting?

I am always amazed at the colors in the starling. Yes, they can be pests at the feeders and a little bossy, but they are colorful. Did you know that fans of Shakespeare are to blame for bringing them to the U.S.? A group called The American Acclimatization Society endeavored to bring every bird that was mentioned in Shakespeare's literature across the pond. Boo to that! But they probably would have found their way here eventually, anyway.

Great blue heron at Tickfaw River

A green anole which hangs out frequently on our patio. One day we found him reclining in our lawn chair.

Lots and lots of dragonflies buzzing about. This one seemed to smile for me. :)

I believe this is a snout nose butterfly. Don't quote me though!

I think I'll end with this sea of pink petunias which flourishes along our fence line.

On Monday we're returning to Cypress Island. Hoping to spot more gators and that elusive roseate spoonbill!