Iowa Photo: Birding with fresh eyes

Fall is an exciting time for birders because migrations are about to get underway, meaning that shore birds, warblers and many other species we don’t usually find in Iowa will be making their way through the state.

But as the backyard variety of birder knows just as well, the feathered residents of our state that live here year-round can be just as exciting. If you’re a fan of this lower-impact way of birding and want to switch things up, observing variations in bird personalities can be fun.

I was out walking with a friend recently who has found a new love of birding, and it was exciting to see our avian neighbors through her eyes. I’ve seen cardinals and wrens galore but have never photographed one scrutinizing me quite so intently. As is the case whenever I’m making photos, finding new ways to see a common subject can be just what I need to bring some wind back into my sails.