Pic of the Day

Kirtland's Warbler, Setophaga Kirtlandii:  Jack Pine forest near Grayling, Michigan

     The Kirtland’s Warbler is one of the most endangered birds in North America.   I photographed this Male Kirtland's on it breeding grounds near Grayling, Michigan.  Males vigorously defend their breeding territory throughout the breeding season with a bold, distinctive song that is sung from the highest perches in its territory.  Its vociferous song makes the male an easy bird to find.
(Hear the Kirtland’s song here: http://birds.audubon.org/birds/kirtlands-warbler)

     One of the best ways to get up close and personal with the Kirtland’s is to join one of the many tours out of Mio, and Grayling, Michigan.  I was on a tour out of Grayling when I took this shot.  The Michigan Audubon employs a seasonal guide to lead Kirtland's Warbler tours.  Michigan Audubon works in conjunction with the Michigan Department of Natural Resources and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.  All the guides that I have met, or been on tours with are very experienced birders and very knowledgeable about the Kirtland’s and its conservation.
(Learn more about the tours here: http://www.michiganaudubon.org/kirtlandswarbler.html

or http://www.fws.gov/midwest/EastLansing/te/kiwa/tour.html)

Nikon D7000, Nikkor 500mm f4, 1/1000 second @ f5.6