Spangled Drongo

[wigz]

I first saw this on a branch above my head at an impossible angle for a photograph, but it later flew off to a nearby tree. It was really too far away for a decent shot but I tried a number of frames anyway and, surprisingly, they look sharp,

They have a beautiful iridescent blue when in direct sunlight, but look plain black in the shade.

1.


2.


3.

[MJ224]

A Wow bird for certain. Great contrast between the red eye, and black feathers...

[wigz]

Thanks Mark, Tha black feathers also make it harder to have it stand out against a dark background.

[MJ224]

You have done well to bring out the feathers, and keep them black...

[wigz]

I do find It difficult to know when to stop turning up the brightness on black subjects; too low and the detail disappears, too much and they turn grey.

[David_MC]

Quite the eye on that one. Stunning shots, really like the "evil" glare in the last one.

[wigz]

Thanks David, yes the eye really stands out; the forked tail is unique and makes for easy identification

[Isac]

Well captured Alan. I've never seen one so thanks for sharing. Beautiful looking bird. #3: The red eyes give it a fabulous look. If the eyes were just a normal black or brown colour it would not have the same look at all.

[wigz]

Thanks Isac. Not found in your area and limited to East coast and far North. I see them every now and then.

[Isac]

Well that explains not seeing them