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how can you take great photos of birds?

I have a ten mega- pixel, digital camera , which is really really good.
The thing is is... When ever I try to take photos of birds (i like nature photography)
they know i'm there at once and flee. I have tried sitting camoflaged for ageeess...
but they seem to know that i am there even then!
Anyone have any tips?
it is NOT the equipment that is the problem by the way... i just want good bird photography tips.
thanks!

Wear dark colours. Don't sneak about...they think you're hunting. Whistle so that they know you're there then when you stop they assume you've gone. You laugh but it works.

Food. Works wonders, especially in cold weather and when they've got a nest full of chicks to feed (around now). I put seed out all the time and the birds are happy with that and it keeps them coming but they'll kill for berry flavoured suet pellets. The pellets go where I want the birds to be.
Guess what's in the shell.. http://www.flickr.com/photos/8879785@N07/4547824454/sizes/m/

Remote camera release (pretty cheap off ebay). You have to be very careful setting the camera up...there's nothing worse than getting photos of the birds doing exactly what you want, only to find the focus was slightly off. The click makes them jump, too, but by that time you have your photo.
And it has to be where they can see and get used to it. It doesn't have to be your camera out there, just a box on a sturdy pole...replace it with your camera and they don't really notice.

But it does have it's downside... http://www.flickr.com/photos/8879785@N07/4173602941/sizes/m/in/set-72157605464092025/
Oh, yes, keep a spare camera...(I mean for unexpected photo opportunities, not to replace a damaged one).

Get a long lens. My favourite lens is a 70 - 300mm.

Gets you really close.

Patience. Birds do get used to anything given time.

Nature & Wildlife Photography Tips - Photographer David Smith

Creative Landscapes: Digital Photography Tips & Techniques £10.06 ...

RSPB Guide to Digital Wildlife Photography £15.99 This is the ultimate reference book for all aspiring and established natural history photographers, and will equip its readers with everything they need to know to help them take better digital wildlife photographs....

Digital Outdoor Photography (Lark Photographic Book) £11.69 ...

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