Winter bird photography in Parikkala
The school winter break coincides with the best time for photographing winter birds. By the end of February, the days are already longer, and the snow reflects light in all directions. February often brings the coldest days, when wintering birds visit feeding stations frequently. This winter has been unusually mild, which has been clearly reflected at the feeding stations. The birds visit less often than in previous winters.
I am now focusing on photographing birds in flight. Unfortunately, the weather hasn’t been in favor of my project, as thick clouds covered the sun on many days. To perfectly freeze the flight of birds, very short shutter speeds are required. The tips of the wings only become sharp at 1/8000-second exposure times. These very short exposure times require a lot of light, which hasn’t always been available. Additionally, the energy needs of the birds are lower during milder winter days, and they do not visit the feeding stations regularly. On the other hand, mild weather allowed for 8-10 hour long shooting days. In normal February temperatures, it would have been impossible to stay outside for such long periods. The photography tent protects from the wind, and it is a couple of degrees warmer inside than outside. Thick winter clothing is essential, as are properly insulated winter boots. Hand warmers based on oxidation are a good addition during long shooting sessions.
The birds visiting the feeding stations are not afraid of the photography tent, as long as the photographer remains as quiet as possible and the tent is stationary. Fortunately, modern cameras are silent, so the birds only notice the aperture narrowing and perhaps the movement of the shutter. The lens should be aimed at the bird as slowly and calmly as possible to ensure that the bird approaching the feeding station is not startled by erratic movements. Winter is a harsh time for birds, and photographing them should not interfere with their feeding. When the birds do not see the photographer, they can visit the feeding stations relaxed and without additional stress.
This winter, at least nine different White-backed Woodpeckers, eleven Gray-headed Woodpeckers, at least twelve Great-spotted Woodpeckers, and one Lesser-spotted Woodpecker have visited my feeding stations. Some hundreds of tits, small groups of Long-tailed Tits, Blackbirds, Jays and Magpies overwinter using these feeders. The numbers of seed-eating birds have been unusually low. There are only small flocks of Yellowhammers, Bullfinches and Tree Sparrows.
H. A.
