Picture Of The Week 09-14-09

Black and White Warbler
(Mniotilta varia)

Where: Kiptopeke, VA • Kiptopeke State Park Notes: The excitement of fall migration was in the air that late summer day. This Black and White was part of a flock of migrants out on Virginia's Eastern Shore. The nuthatch-like foraging style of this beauty caught my eye as it explored a leafless tree close to the boardwalk trail. It was jumping around, probing between the crevices of the tree bark looking for insects. After studying this photo, I was amazed at this species' short, stout legs and unusually large feet. They use these attributes for clinging to trees, often climbing head first down the trunk. Its bill is also unusually long for a warbler and is well adapted for probing dormant insects hidden deep inbetween cracks in the bark. This foraging adaptation allows this warbler to be among the first to return in the spring, while others delay their arrival until insects become more active as trees bloom and leaves unfurl.

Equipment: Canon EOS 40D • Canon 100-400mm Zoom L Series Lens • Hand Held

Exposure: Shutter Speed = 1/4000 second • Aperture = f 5.6 • Exposure Mode = Aperture Priority • Focus Mode: One Shot • Lens (Focal) Length = 400 mm • ISO = 400 • Aprox. Camera Distance = ~20 Feet • Date Shot: 09-04-09

©2009 Robert W. Schamerhorn. All rights reserved. Unauthorized duplication prohibited.

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This photograph is available on archival premium luster photopaper. Quality prints come signed by the artist, matted (white) with backing board and clear protective polypak. Satisfaction Guaranteed or Full Refund. A portion of the proceeds goes to support avian habitat conservation efforts.

PRINT: Black and Whie Warbler (No. 7029)
Size: 8" x 10" • Signed Print with 11" x 14" White Matte • S&H Included
Item: BWWA(IMG_7029)8X10 . . . $39.95

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