Cross Breeds

How to get pictures of birds and bigger animals?

What are some easy ways to get good pictures? I am thinking about using bird calls, I am just embarrassed if the neighbors hear it or something. I am thinking about using raven calls to attract them, what else can I do though? And how can I get shots of bigger animals? I have some pretty good shots of insects or plants though. (Here's my Flickr : http://www.flickr.com/photos/66188877@N03/ )

Public Comments

1. Animal calling is an art form. Recorded calls are the easiest to use. Learning how to properly use a mechanical call can take a lot of practice. Food and water may be more effective in attracting your subjects in some cases. Setting out various types of seed and suet attract many bird species. Dried corn can attract many species of large herbivores, deer, sheep etc. Dry dog food may attract skunks, 'opossums, weasels, raccoons etc. Maybe set up a blind and use recorded wounded rabbit calls to attract ravens, foxes and coyotes, that way your neighbors won't see you either!
2. Hey Dakota, I think that if your bird call sounds good enough to sound like a bird to attract one, the neighbors wouldn't be able to tell the difference. At my grandmothers house, the kitchen has tinted windows, and she has a bird feeder. The birds will come right up to the window, and they wont even know your their, and when they go to the trees to eat the seed, it's a great opportunity to snap a pic. You could try putting up a bird feeder, and in a couple of days, hide your self close to the feeder, but make sure the wind is hitting the feeder before it hits you, and also do this in the morning, any way, hide your self and get some pictures. You could also disuse the feeder if you don't want it in the photos. You can do like wise with a salt block to attract deer, or corn to attract turkey. Maybe a thawed piece of meat for foxes or coons. Great photos. :?)