Notes | Brutkey

Swede’s Photographs
@Swede1952@universeodon.com

No Room for Sharing

My new bird feeder isn’t quite as pigeon-friendly as the old one. At most, it comfortably accommodates four pigeons—two on each side. But when a fifth tries to squeeze into the middle, someone always gets bumped. That’s exactly what happened here: the pigeon on the right ousted its predecessor in a swift territorial shuffle. Even then, peace was short-lived. Instead of settling down to enjoy the cuisine, the two pigeons on that side chose to duke it out, turning mealtime into a feathery feud.

If you're a fan of stunning dove imagery, be sure to explore my photo gallery for a collection of beautiful snapshots that capture their elegance and charm.

https://swede1952-photographs.pixels.com

#photo #photography #photographer #photographylovers #wildlife #nature #bird #birds #birding #birdwatching #birdphotography #pigeons #doves #RockPigeons #RockDoves

"Two pigeons face off at a wooden bird feeder, their bodies angled toward each other with more intensity than harmony. Though the feeder offers a generous scattering of seeds, the birds seem more interested in asserting dominance than sharing a meal. One pigeon leans in aggressively, beak pointed toward its rival, while the other flares its neck feathers in a defensive posture, mid-peck.

The feeder itself is rustic and functional—mounted on a weathered wooden post with a slanted roof that casts a soft shadow over the scene. Its barn-like simplicity contrasts with the charged energy of the birds. Their feathers shimmer with iridescent blues and purples, catching the light as they jostle for position, each trying to claim the best spot at the table.

The background blurs into a soft wash of greens and browns, isolating the moment and drawing focus to the feathery squabble. It’s a snapshot of nature’s pecking order—literally—captured in a flash of motion and instinct. In the bottom left corner, the watermark “© Swede’s Photographs” quietly marks the image’s origin." - Copilot

Swede’s Photographs
@Swede1952@universeodon.com

Good morning. 🌊🌊🌊

10 August 2025

Do you ever hesitate to throw something away because you might—just maybe—need it someday? I’ve got a bag of old cables tucked in the closet of my office. I haven’t rummaged through it in years. Mostly coax cables, I think. I still use a few of those for satellite TV, so they’re not entirely obsolete. There might be some CAT 5 cables in there too, though I should probably check. Then again, I hardly use CAT 5 anymore—except for the computer I’m typing on now, which is hardwired to the modem/router. Everything else in the house runs on Wi-Fi. So really, the bag just sits there, taking up space. Maybe it’s time to let it go. It’s not like I’m curating a museum of rare, vintage cables… or am I?

“My idea of cleaning is throwing everything into a drawer and hoping it never comes up again.” — Phyllis Diller

#morning #ocean #platform #cables #hoarding #birds #seabirds #photo #photography #photographer #photographylovers #wildlife #nature

Birds on the Beacon

"A solitary metal platform rises from the ocean like a skeletal tower, its frame a lattice of rust-streaked beams and crossbars. It stands tall and narrow, anchored deep in the water, with its legs disappearing into the churning sea below. At the top, a small deck holds an array of equipment—antennas, sensors, and perhaps a solar panel—each jutting skyward like the quills of a mechanical porcupine. The structure is utilitarian, built for function rather than beauty, yet it possesses a quiet dignity in its isolation.

Perched along the railings and beams are several seabirds, their silhouettes sharp against the pale blue sky. They seem at ease, as if this manmade perch were just another outcrop in their coastal domain. The ocean around the platform is restless but not violent—waves roll and break in rhythmic swells, their white crests catching the sunlight. The water is a deep, moody blue, textured with ripples and shadows that hint at unseen currents below.

Above it all, the sky is clear and expansive, a soft gradient from powder blue near the horizon to a brighter hue overhead. There are no clouds, only the clean light of day casting crisp shadows on the metalwork and glinting off the sea. The entire scene feels remote and self-contained, as if this platform were a sentinel watching over the tides, quietly gathering data or guiding ships, while birds rest and the ocean breathes." - Copilot

Swede’s Photographs
@Swede1952@universeodon.com

Crimson in the Canopy

This might just be my favorite cardinal photo yet. I shared an earlier version months ago, but this is a fresh take. It’s always astonishing how these little birds weave so effortlessly through dense tangles of branches.

"A Northern Cardinal (Cardinalis cardinalis) bursts through a tangle of tree limbs, its wings flared in mid-flight like a crimson flame leaping through the forest. The bird’s vivid red plumage glows against the muted browns and grays of the blurred background, drawing the eye instantly to its form. Its beak is open—perhaps mid-call, mid-song, or mid-breath—adding a sense of urgency and life to the moment. The wings are caught in motion, each feather splayed with precision, revealing the delicate architecture of flight. The surrounding branches frame the cardinal without confining it, suggesting both the complexity of its environment and the freedom of its movement. The image feels like a heartbeat—brief, bold, and beautiful. In the lower left corner, the watermark “© Swede's Photographs” quietly acknowledges the artist’s hand behind the lens." - Copilot

Swede’s Photographs
@Swede1952@universeodon.com

Photography is Like a Box of Chocolates

I saw this pileated woodpecker (Dryocopus pileatus) pass overhead one morning. At the time, I didn’t know what it was—just a bird cutting across the sky. That’s often how it goes when I photograph birds in flight: I capture the moment first, identify the species later. I’m fairly certain there were two of them. I missed the shot when the first one flew by, but I know there’s a mated pair living somewhere in the woods behind my house. This one looks like a female.

Explore more chic woodpecker photos by visiting my photo gallery.

https://swede1952-photographs.pixels.com

#photo #photography #photographer #photographylovers #wildlife #nature #bird #birds #birding # #birdwatching #birdphotography #woodpecker #PileatedWoodpecker

"A pileated woodpecker slices through the sky like a living arrow, its wings outstretched in a powerful, mid-flight beat. The backdrop is a flawless canvas of blue, unmarred by cloud or distraction, allowing the bird’s striking features to command full attention. Its crimson crest blazes like a flame atop its head, a bold contrast to the sleek black and white plumage that ripples with motion. The long, chisel-like beak points forward with intent, as if the bird is carving its path through the air. Each feather is crisply defined, catching the light in a way that reveals both strength and grace. The image freezes a moment of wild precision—an airborne sculpture of instinct and elegance. In the upper right corner, the subtle watermark “© Swede’s Photographs” quietly honors the artist behind the lens." Copilot

Swede’s Photographs
@Swede1952@universeodon.com

The Quiet Jewel

This is a female ruby-throated hummingbird that I spotted this morning.

"A female ruby-throated hummingbird (Archilochus colubris) rests delicately on a slender, leafless branch, her tiny body poised with quiet alertness. Her back and wings gleam with iridescent green, like sunlight glancing off fresh spring leaves. Her underside is a clean, soft white, and her throat—unlike the male’s fiery ruby patch—is pale and unadorned, lending her a more understated elegance.

Her long, slender beak points forward, a precise instrument evolved for sipping nectar from deep blossoms. Though she is still, there’s a sense of latent energy in her posture, as if she might lift off at any moment in a blur of wings.

The background is a gentle blur of green and blue, like a watercolor wash behind glass, creating a serene canvas that lets the hummingbird shine in sharp relief. The soft gradient suggests a lush, natural setting—perhaps a garden or forest edge—without pulling focus from the bird herself.

This quiet moment captures the hummingbird in rare repose, a creature more often seen darting and hovering midair. The image is signed “© Swede’s Photographs” in the lower left corner, a subtle signature that respects the tranquility of the scene." - Copilot with edits

Swede’s Photographs
@Swede1952@universeodon.com

The Fluff Awakens

II bet I got two dozen good images of this blue-gray gnatcatcher (Polioptila caerulea). Then came the hard part—choosing just one to post this morning. I settled on this shot, which, interestingly enough, was the very first I took. I chose it because I happened to catch the tiny bird with its plumage in disarray at that exact moment. Normally, its feathers are sleek and smooth.

Step into a world where even the smallest moments—like the glint in a bird's eye—tell their own story.

https://swede1952-photographs.pixels.com

#photo #photography #photographer #photographylovers #wildlife #nature #bird #birds #birding #birdwatching #birdphotography #BlueGrayGnatcatcher

"Perched delicately on a slender branch, a blue-gray gnatcatcher appears mid-shuffle, its plumage tousled in a moment of motion. The bird’s feathers—normally sleek—now puff outward in soft disarray, as if caught in the act of shaking loose the morning dew or stretching after sleep. Its coloring is subtle and elegant: a blend of pale gray and white, with hints of soft blue that shimmer faintly in the light. The texture of its feathers resembles fine down, giving it a fluffy, almost cloudlike silhouette.

Its large, round eyes dominate its small face, wide with curiosity and alertness, suggesting a creature both fragile and fiercely alive. One eye catches the light, adding a glint of personality—like a spark of thought or mischief. The bird’s posture is upright but relaxed, balanced effortlessly on the branch, which bends slightly under its weight.

In the foreground, green leaves frame the scene, adding contrast and depth. Another branch crosses gently, creating a layered composition that feels intimate and organic. The background is softly blurred, a wash of muted tones that isolates the bird in its moment of quiet drama. The lighting is natural and warm, casting gentle highlights across the bird’s ruffled coat and emphasizing the fine detail of each feather.

This is not just a portrait—it’s a glimpse into a fleeting gesture; a breath of life caught between stillness and motion." - Copilot

Swede’s Photographs
@Swede1952@universeodon.com

Good morning. 🤠📺☕

9 August 2025

Did you know that Gunsmoke ran for 20 years? James Arness and Milburn Stone spent their whole careers playing the same roles. The show started in 1955 and was just one of many Westerns airing around the same time. Let's see—there was Bonanza, of course, but also The Rifleman with Chuck Connors, Have Gun – Will Travel with Richard Boone, The Rebel with Nick Adams, Wanted: Dead or Alive with Steve McQueen, and my favorite, Sugarfoot with Will Hutchins. You know, I can't remember why Sugarfoot was my favorite. You can still catch reruns of these shows, some more than others. I think during those years the Western genre was pretty much beaten to death. I still occasionally tune in, though.

“Fast is fine, but accuracy is final.” —Wyatt Earp, allegedly. Probably said while polishing a revolver and squinting into the sunset.

#morning #westerns #genre #sunset #photo #photography #photographer #photographylovers

Where Fire Meets Water

"The scene unfolds like a whispered farewell to the day. A golden sun, low in the sky, nestles behind a fringe of silhouetted trees—dark, delicate shapes etched against a canvas of fire. The sky blazes with molten hues: deep oranges melt into amber, and streaks of yellow shimmer like brushed gold leaf. These colors spill downward, mirrored in the still water below, where the surface glows with a soft, liquid light.

The trees stand like quiet sentinels, their branches reaching upward in reverent silence, framing the sun’s descent. The water, calm and glassy, becomes a second sky—reflecting the drama above with gentle ripples that blur the boundary between earth and heaven. There’s no wind, no movement—just the hush of twilight and the warmth of light lingering before night’s arrival." - Copilot

Swede’s Photographs
@Swede1952@universeodon.com

Butterfly and the Bees

This photograph captures a serene moment in nature, featuring a butterfly and some bees, both drawn to the delicate blue Mistflowers (Conoclinium coelestinum). Set against the picturesque backdrop of Kisatchie Lake within the Kisatchie National Forest in Louisiana, the scene beautifully illustrates the harmonious relationship between pollinators and their environment.

"The image showcases an enchanting moment of nature's harmony. At the center is a delicate butterfly, its wings painted with a palette of earthy browns and soft oranges, speckled with intricate patterns. This butterfly could belong to the genus Vanessa, possibly a Painted Lady (Vanessa cardui), known for its wide range and vibrant designs. It rests gently on the cluster of lavender-hued Mistflowers (Conoclinium coelestinum), sipping nectar with its slender proboscis.

Nearby, a busy honeybee (Apis mellifera) is hard at work, perched on a neighboring bloom. Its body is adorned with golden fuzz that catches the sunlight, contrasting its darker abdomen stripes. The bee's wings, thin as gauze, hum faintly as it gathers pollen, contributing to the cycle of life that sustains the ecosystem. Together, the butterfly and the bee form a beautiful duet—a picture of cooperation and coexistence in nature's grand opera. It's a scene bursting with life, color, and purpose. Nature's wonders never fail to amaze." - Copilot

Swede’s Photographs
@Swede1952@universeodon.com

Fledgling Cardinal on a Swing

Here’s a young male northern cardinal (Cardinalis cardinalis) perched on the swing-shaped feeder in my backyard. He doesn’t seem especially interested in the mealworms it holds—more likely, it’s just a brief stop on his way to the birdbath.

If you’re captivated by northern cardinals and other members of the Cardinalidae family—better known as the cardinal family—step into my photo gallery for a visual feast. Come take a look:

https://swede1952-photographs.pixels.com

#photo #photography #photographer #photographylovers #wildlife #nature #bird #birds #birding #birdwatching #birdphotography #cardinals #NorthernCardinal

"A fledgling northern cardinal perches delicately on a miniature porch swing that doubles as a bird feeder. The swing is crafted from warm-toned wood, shaped like a tiny bench with slatted back and seat, suspended by two slender black cords that dangle from above like the ropes of a child’s swing set. The young cardinal’s plumage is a soft, mottled blend of cinnamon brown and muted red—its chest and tail tinged with a brighter, more confident crimson, hinting at the adult brilliance to come.

Its posture is relaxed yet alert, tiny claws gripping the edge of the swing as if testing its balance. The bird’s crest is slightly tousled, giving it a scrappy charm, and its dark eyes seem to scan the surroundings with quiet curiosity. Behind the swing, the background melts into a dreamy blur of greens and pale hues—suggesting a sunlit garden or wooded yard, alive with summer warmth.

Etched into the wooden backrest of the swing are the words “Homegrown” and “Swede’s Photographs,” adding a personal, handcrafted touch to the scene. The overall mood is whimsical and serene—a moment where nature meets artistry, and a young bird finds a perch that feels like home." - Copilot

Swede’s Photographs
@Swede1952@universeodon.com

Ghost of a Wing

This will be second photo in a row that I post of a tufted titmouse.

"A tufted titmouse (Baeolophus bicolor) is caught mid-flight, its small body suspended in motion like a fleeting thought darting through the trees. The bird’s light-colored feathers—soft grays and pale whites—blur slightly at the edges, especially around the wings, which beat rapidly and leave behind a ghostly trace of movement. This motion blur gives the image a sense of urgency and grace, as if the titmouse is both present and vanishing in the same breath.

Its compact form is angled slightly upward, suggesting a swift ascent or a nimble maneuver between branches. Though the details of its face are softened by motion, the overall impression is one of agility and purpose. The background is a lush wash of green leaves and tangled branches, rendered in soft focus to emphasize the bird’s flight. The foliage frames the scene like a stage curtain drawn back just enough to reveal this moment of wild choreography.

In the bottom right corner, the text “© Swede’s Photographs” is gently inscribed, a quiet signature that doesn’t intrude on the natural drama unfolding above it." - Copilot