The Return of the Silvereyes
Each winter, our garden usually fills with flocks of silvereyes, one of New Zealand’s smallest and most entertaining native birds. This year, however, the unusually mild weather meant their numbers were noticeably lower than usual. Then, after a sudden cold snap, they returned almost overnight, bringing plenty of activity back to the garden.
Seeing these tiny birds arrive in numbers is always a welcome sign that winter has truly set in. Their constant movement and cheerful chatter bring life to the garden, even on the coldest days.
A Challenge to Photograph
Silvereyes are delightful little birds that flit from branch to branch at incredible speed, making them one of the most challenging birds to photograph. After years of observing and photographing them, I have learned to anticipate their next move, allowing me to capture some wonderful and often amusing moments.
Patience, careful observation, and plenty of practice have helped me improve my success rate, although these energetic birds still keep me on my toes.
Gentle with Their Partners, Fierce with Everyone Else
One of the most fascinating things about silvereyes is the contrast in their behaviour. They can be incredibly affectionate with their partners, snuggling together and carefully preening each other’s feathers. Yet, when other silvereyes are nearby, they quickly become fiercely competitive.
Arguments over the best perch are common, and the bird feeder often becomes the centre of lively disputes. They chase each other away, squabble over food, and sometimes become so distracted by defending their territory that they forget to feed themselves.
Capturing Mid-Air Battles
This winter, I have set myself a new photographic challenge, to capture silvereyes in the middle of their fast-paced aerial battles. These mid-air encounters happen in the blink of an eye, requiring patience, quick reactions, and a little luck.
The photographs featured in this post were all captured over just two or three days. They showcase not only the beauty of these tiny birds but also the remarkable personalities and behaviours that make silvereyes such rewarding subjects for wildlife photography.
Have You Seen Silvereyes This Winter?
Have you noticed more silvereyes visiting your garden since the colder weather arrived? I’d love to hear about your experiences. All the images in this post were taken using my Lumix G9II. If you have any questions or feedback, feel free to contact me through my website, or follow along on Facebook or Instagram.