Watch the birdie... the robin that loves to pose.

Watch the birdie: Meet the robin that just loves to pose for the camera

By DAILY MAIL REPORTER
Last updated at 11:41 PM on 25th April 2011

It can be one of the hardest subjects to capture on film.

As any photographer will tell you, taking pictures of wild animals in their natural habitat requires patience, dedication and the ability to stay hidden for hours until that vital split-second moment when your subject eventually steps into the frame.

Or at least that's normally the case. But for amateur snapper Nicky Hepburn, photographing one particular animal involves nothing more than making sure her camera is primed and ready.

Lights, camera, action: Nicky has been able to take some stunning shots of the bird in flight

For the 34-year-old has struck up a remarkable relationship with a robin that loves to pose for her.   

Whenever Nicky steps out into her garden, the confident bird arrives right on cue and appears more than willing to model for the camera. 

Reliant robin: The bird poses for the camera with a freshly-caught garden grub

Ready for my close-up: The bird enjoys perching on Nicky's camera while she sets up the next shot

'I first noticed him when I was gardening  hopping around my feet while I was digging and soon he seemed to be around all the time,' Nicky, from Havant, Hants. said.

'I thought I might be able to take some pictures of him but couldn't believe it when he started jumping up and down in front of the camera. Now he is so tame he even sits on my lens and wherever I set the camera up he just seems to pose for the pictures.

Hitting the mark: The robin makes a perfect landing in front of Nicky's lens

Flexing for the camera: The robin shows off its wingspan

'I am a keen photographer but never thought I would be able to capture such magnificent pictures. They are easily the best I have ever taken.'

Although regarded as a winter bird, native robins are visible across the UK throughout the year. They are also fiercely territorial and regard suburban gardens as prime real estate. 

They can be extremely tame and have been known to nest in cars, kettles and coat pockets. 

Say cheese: Although robins have a reputation for being tame, this particular specimen appears to relish its interaction with the camera

Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-1380377/Watch-birdie-Meet-robin-just-loves-pose-camera.html#ixzz1KastB8A3