Male Stonechat calling to the female.

Taken in Suffolk.

Tags:   Saxicola rubicola Stonechat

© All Rights Reserved

© All Rights Reserved

© All Rights Reserved

I would say more than 9 times out of 10 the male Blackbird would chase the Starlings (feeding on mealworms) out of the garden without too much fuss.

However on that 10th time, what is probably the flock's dominant male would fight back. Although smaller - he made up for it in attitude.

Won't be repeating the mealworm feeding, didn't think the Blackbird would be so invested in driving the Starlings away - and he needs to spend his time taking care of his growing family.

Unfortunately didn't quite fit the male Blackbird's tail in frame.

Shot from ground level using the Z8 tilt screen for focus. F8 to give a bit more depth of field and 1/6400 to try and freeze the action. At least it was so bright that this combination of settings didn't push the ISO to crazy levels.

Tags:   Starling Sturnus vulgaris Blackbird Turdus merula

© All Rights Reserved

© All Rights Reserved