Bird Photography at Etherow Country Park: The Great Tit

A little walkies in Etherow Country Park led me to a perhaps little-known (or maybe everyone knows about it) garden at the far end. Tucked away in the corner is a bird feeder which is the perfect "spy post" for local wildlife.

There is plenty of cover for the birds to sit and make their move, which is exactly what they do. If you sit still on a bench with a zoom lens on a sunny day, you’ll catch all manner of birds. This specific shot is a Great Tit. You have to be quick; they don’t hang around. It’s a matter of get in, check for danger, get some scran, and leave. It’s a great show and never boring, though if you blink, you’ll end up with a picture of a bird’s back. I’ve noticed animals have a sixth sense for turning around the moment I think about changing my lens.

It’s a great spot for other nature photography too. I managed to snap an Orange Tip Butterfly here as well. My only regret is being a bit lazy—I stayed on the bench and used the full extension of my zoom instead of moving closer to get the butterfly larger in the frame. Knowing my luck, I’d have stood up, cast a shadow, and scared it off, but it wouldn't be the first time I've tracked down a butterfly for the ideal shot.

Photography Notes:
Location: Etherow Country Park, Stockport.
Subject: Great Tit (Parus major) and Orange Tip Butterfly.
Gear Tip: Long zoom lens recommended for the bird feeder garden.