lirralirra

During Melbourne’s current lockdown I had some moments when I felt numb with the stress that our world is facing. During one of the lowest moments the sun briefly peeked between the clouds, and thanks to a suggestion from a friend, I took my camera gear outside.

As I went outside this Grey Fantail was taking a bath, chattering to a nearby Eastern Spinebill – it sounded like they didn’t want to share the bathwater! I thought they’d fly away immediately, but they didn’t and I was lucky to capture this quick shot as this beautiful little fantail spread it wings and tail to shake the droplets away.

As soon as the fantail had finished bathing, the spinebill fluttered down through the branches of the Golden Robinia towards the water. When I’m watching birds at water I let them drink and bathe before I take a shot, just in case they’re feeling skittish. Quite often that means I miss the shot completely, which is kind of sad when it something unusual, but I’d hate to feel responsible for scaring a bird from a much-needed drink or bath. This damp little spinebill glanced at me briefly when I took a shot. I use my shutter on the ‘silent’ setting, which isn’t silent but is significantly quieter. It slows the frame rate a little but that’s okay.

Years ago I was encouraged, strongly, to meditate but it’s never been something I can do. I love yoga and hope my classes will be able to start again soon. The person who was encouraging me to meditate read about contemplation one day and said that bird-watching was my form of meditation. I was off the hook. I definitely lose myself in nature, the wonder of it fills me with smiles. I’ve seen some beautiful things this week, including some quite beautiful spiders, and a tiny pinkish centipede. And the birds always catch my attention, especially the little ones as they forage around my garden.

Happy birding, stay safe, Kim

~ Facebook page Kim Wormald – lirralirra
~ Facebook group  Ethical Bird Photography