Raymond Dake Photography

Today’s animal is the Yellow-throated Warbler (Setophaga dominica). I was so excited to be able to photograph this beautiful yellow-throated warbler this February in Key Largo, Florida. These birds are ones that we have in Missouri during migration, and a few nest, but getting photographs of them is hard because they are so high up in the trees. Luckily, I was on the 4th floor in Key Largo and these beauties were within easy reach on the balcony in the palm trees. I just love how beautiful the bird is and how unique this photo is with the palm frond.

I love love the detail here and the colors! Please let me know what you think!


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🐦 Exploring the charming world of Sedge Wrens! 🌿 These tiny, but mighty birds are masters of the wetlands. 😍

📷 In October, I had the privilege of capturing these juvenile Sedge Wrens at the Blue Springs Wetland in Missouri. As I quietly observed, one curious juvenile hopped closer, showing off its beautifully streaked plumage. It was a magical moment in the heart of nature. 📸✨

🍂 Fun Fact: Sedge Wrens are known for their lively chattering songs that fill the air around the wetlands. Their energy is truly infectious! 🎶

🔍 Did you know that these little birds build their nests among the sedge grasses? Nature’s architects, indeed! 🏠

More Sedge Wren Facts:

🌾 They have a preference for sedge meadows and wetlands, where they forage for insects and invertebrates.

🧡 Despite their small size, their territorial calls can be heard over long distances.

🍃 In winter, they migrate to the southern United States and Central America, making their journey truly remarkable.

Have you ever spotted these delightful birds in the wild? Share your Sedge Wren encounters! 💬

Today’s animal is the Indigo Bunting (Passerina cyanea).  My favorite birds!! Fun fact: Indigo Buntings learn their songs as youngsters, from nearby males but not from their fathers. Buntings a few hundred yards apart generally sing different songs, while those in the same "song neighborhood" share nearly identical songs.  If you follow along with me, you know these are my favorite birds.  I can never get enough of these little jewels of summer.  I love everything from their bright blue color to their excited warbled couplet song.
 
I had the privilege of photographing this male Indigo Bunting late summer last year. I love love the detail here and the colors! Please let me know what you think!

                                                          
 
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“Put one paw over the other,…now chin up a little bit, … big smile….” School picture day for this little one 🦊❤️ No retakes this year. The only question now is whether mom and grandma want 5x7s or wallets.



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