Of The Week 06-07-10

Where: Powhatan, VA • Powhatan Wildlife Management Area

Notes: Most often my forays begin by looking for a particular species or target-bird, I ask my self, "Where will I find this bird?" The answer is usually another question: "Is there a specific habitat that the species prefers? If so, where is that?" This ultimately determines where I go. This species is a breeding season resident of the eastern and south-central United States. In the case of the Prairie Warbler, a recently clear-cut scrubby area with new growth, sprinkled with young pines, is usually a good place to start. For this reason, I felt it important to try and capture some images with this species perched on one of these young pines. After all, the best pictures tell a story. Each year the males arrive in their newly molted spring plumage and begin singing from a favorite perch in this preferred territory. The regularity of a specific bird to a specific habitat, reminds me how sensitive most species populations are based on this linkage to a given area. This is why it is so important that the birds who have such location specific needs, have their habitats protected or managed. A few of the other birds found in this type of habitat include Indigo Bunting, Blue Grosbeak, White-eyed Vireo, Yellow-breasted Chat and Common Yellowthroat and Field Sparrow.

Equipment: Canon EOS 40D • Canon 400mm Prime L Series Lens • Hand held

Exposure: Shutter Speed = 1/500 second • Aperture = f 7.1 • Exposure Mode = Aperture Priority • Focus Mode: One Shot • Lens (Focal) Length = 400 mm • ISO = 800 • Aprox. Camera Distance = ~15 Feet • Date Shot: 04-22-10

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