7. Mood on Monday Morning
Monday Morning Mood: The Grumpy Pied Starling
Potential Equipment: Canon EOS 250D
Where to Purchase: Amazon
Average Price: $639*
In this striking image, photographer Andrew Mayes captures the essence of the pied starling, a bird native to South Africa, Eswatini, and Lesotho. The starling’s seemingly gloomy expression inspired Mayes to title the photograph "Monday Morning Mood."
Key Highlights
Gloomy Expression: The pied starling’s face conveys a sense of grumpiness, which many can relate to, especially at the start of a new week.
Cultural Resonance: The title humorously connects the bird's expression to the common feeling of reluctance many experience on Monday mornings.
Conclusion
This amusing portrayal of the pied starling serves as a reminder of the relatable emotions found in nature. Using the Canon EOS 250D, Andrew Mayes effectively captures the personality of this bird, allowing viewers to appreciate the humor in its expression. The image not only highlights the beauty of wildlife but also connects with our shared human experiences.

Monday Morning Attitude: A Starling's Grumpy Expression
Source: Creative Commons / Comedy / Wildlife
At the Rietvlei Nature Reserve, photographer Andrew Mayes captured a delightful image of several starlings perched in a tree. With a humorous touch, he remarked that the starling's unhappy face "summed up [his] mood on most Monday mornings."
Key Highlights
Relatable Humor: The starling's expression resonates with many, reflecting the common sentiment of reluctance that often accompanies the start of a new week.
Nature's Comedy: This image showcases how wildlife can mirror human emotions, adding a layer of humor to our interactions with nature.
Conclusion
Andrew Mayes' photograph not only highlights the beauty of starlings in their natural habitat but also captures a relatable moment that many can identify with. The grumpy demeanor of the starling serves as a lighthearted reminder of the feelings we all experience, especially on those challenging Monday mornings. Through this lens, we find joy in the quirks of wildlife, making nature feel a little more familiar.