A snapshot from the verandah yesterday. I've added a little fake film grain to sharpen it a bit; otherwise it's pretty much as is apart from a small crop and a contrast tweak. It seems to reflect the character of these mites.All content © 2009 Pete McGregor
I fell in love with these birds during our time in country, and this is so beautiful. I'm amazed you managed to catch it in one place, whenever we saw them they were flitting all over.
ReplyDeleteBrother or sister to the Chickadee?
ReplyDeletePerfect name for such an adorable species.
ReplyDeleteWant to keep looking, that pudgy body and elegant wings, the unconcerned look in her eyes, the translucence. I'm utterly charmed.
ReplyDeleteCiara, the bright sunlight and a touch of fill flash were keys to this photo. That and a willingness to snap away. It might be a nice way to end the career of the camera — the next time I used it, it died. I'm now camera-less :^(
ReplyDeleteMichael, they're a different family: chickadees are Paridae, fantails are Rhipiduridae. However, in personality they're probably closely similar ;^)
Patricia, Maori names often have a more expressive feel than the often boringly descriptive English names. Another example is "whio", a strongly onomatopoeic and evocative name for the bird otherwise known as the "blue duck".
Zhoen, it'd be a hard heart that could resist being charmed by these wee birds.
whoa this is a great shot! haven't seen it till now! very nice plumage, and good moment :) can't wait to see more
ReplyDeleteThanks D.V.A. I'm sure it won't be the last photo I post of these little birds. They're common around here. Should have my camera back in a couple of weeks, too.
ReplyDeleteImagine being made of sunlit feathers... to stand tiptoe and not feel your weight under you... and balance ever so slightly against the slightest breeze...
ReplyDeleteMiguel, I'm so envious of birds' ability to fly.
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