Most animals don't have a natural fear of vehicles. This is evident when you drive down almost any road or highway and see the carnage. The bright side is photographers can use their vehicle as a blind. There are a few advantages over a static outdoor blind.
First, you have a climate-controlled location to shoot from. This means a lot when it's extremely cold or hot outside. It also keeps precipitation, dust and direct sun off your gear, and you. This is gear you haven't had to carry anywhere to get the shot. It's right there at your finger tips.
Secondly, you're much more mobile. If your quarry gets spooked and runs or flies away its easy to relocate without major disruptions.
When you find a suitable subject try to make a gradual stop. Turn off the engine. You don't want any vibration. Turn off your radio, too. White Snake or Led Zeppelin blaring from your "blind" might blow your cover!
Use a beanbag or folded towel to set your lens or camera on. I found a U-shaped neck pillow at a second hand store that is perfect for bracing a lens on the door frame. Cost a whole buck. Monopods or even a tripod is a stable platform. With the tripod keep two legs together between the side of the seat and the door. Extend the third leg to brace against the other door or passenger side of the seat.
Of course, the price of fuel is a factor to consider. But the slow speeds and stopping the engine when you shoot should help keep you out of the poorhouse. Another disadvantage is that you are limited to places with roads. Although nothing says you can't get out and wander, on foot, into the woods for a closer shot. Just remember to lock your vehicle and don't trespass.
I've done this kind of shooting in parks, refuges, rural roads and in suburbs. Be extremely cautious if you choose to do this on a highway, though. I'd advise against it. It could be very dangerous. It may also be illegal, depending on the roadway.
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