Tree SwallowMay 2005

 



Swallows are the turbocharged flyers of the bird world. They fly, charge, dart, hover, swoop, and twirl while having fun, eating insects, and frustrating photographers.

I have had the most luck with tree swallows, such as the following speedster. Note that for high-velocity maneuvering, wings are shortened for flight control.
 

Turbocharged tree swallow
 
  However, when a tree swallow is landing, wings are spread wide for breaking.
 
Tree swallow landing
 
  After the first tree swallow landed next to a second tree swallow, they had an intense conversation.  
 
Tree swallows in conversation
 
  Having exchanged the day's news in a couple of seconds, the first swallow flew away. In takeoff, wings are spread wide for maximum lift.
 
Tree swallow exit
 
  Photo note: I used a Pentax *ist D, with the SMC 400-600mm reflex lens.



My Pennsylvania bird list

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