Last fall, we sent out a call for entries to our first ever Backyard and City Birds Photo Contest, here on our website. Bird photographers entered more than 600 images taken in yards, parks, and other urban and suburban spots. Thanks to everyone who entered the contest!
Below is a slideshow of our 12 honorable mention images. The images include shots of courting cardinals, hummingbirds, wrens, a nest-building gnatcatcher, and more. Each caption tells the story behind the photo, from the photographers themselves. Enjoy!
We’ll announce the winners on Friday, April 29.
Photo by Conrad Peloquin
Sometimes your own backyard makes for some fun photography and great education. I was headed toward our fountain one day when I was nearly dive-bombed by a pair of hummingbirds. I literally had to jump out of the way of this fast-moving bullet with wings. I set up a chair in the corner of my yard and in the days to come, I watched the behavior of these birds as they would fly close to the fountain, land, give it a perceived safety check, then fly in and dance around in the droplets.
Once they are sufficiently watered and bathed, they go in search of food by way of the myriad flowers in our garden. They definitely seem to have some favorites, and memorializing these fabulous creatures has been a fun pastime. I have spent countless hours just sitting quietly with my camera and watching their fabulous, fun antics.
Walnut Creek, California, August 2020
Want to see more? Here are our 12 finalists.
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