11.19.2017

Back to the Prairie!

"Close your eyes and turn your face into the wind. Feel it sweep along your skin in an invisible ocean of exultation ... suddenly, you know you are alive."

― Vera Nazarian


Pheasant Branch Conservancy

Though cold and breezy, it was great to be outside for a hike along Pheasant Branch Conservancy's trails. Much to my consternation, we've had overcast skies the past several weekends, so I wasn't about to let the dip in temperature thwart whatever sunlit photographic subjects I might find. I needed the exercise, too.


American Tree Sparrow

Though I was hopeful for a Northern Shrike, I didn't learn until after I got home one was found further east near Orchid Heights. So I guess the prairie's sparrows got a reprieve. Still, a shrike has to eat something. Undoubtedly, other birds perished―just not the ones I was observing! Without the presence of a predator, though, the tree sparrows were quite cooperative.




Adorable up close, aren't they?



White-throated and White-crowned Sparrows have become scarce. Those that remain have moved to the woods near the Conservancy Condos. Most years a few over winter there, along with a Fox Sparrow or two. There's good cover, easy access to a small springs that doesn't freeze, plus plenty of birdseed put out by the condo residents. They'll still need to be alert for Sharp-shinned and Cooper's Hawks, though!


White-throated Sparrow


White-crowned Sparrow (immature)



It's a short work week coming up on account of the holiday. With a 4-day stretch of time off, I hope to get back to Pheasant Branch and maybe finally track down that Northern Shrike!



Pheasant Branch, Dane, Wisconsin, US
Nov 19, 2017 8:30 AM - 11:30 AM
36 species

Canada Goose
Tundra Swan
Northern Shoveler
Mallard
Bufflehead
Ruddy Duck
Ring-necked Pheasant
Northern Harrier
Red-tailed Hawk
Sandhill Crane
Ring-billed Gull
Herring Gull
Rock Pigeon
Mourning Dove
Red-bellied Woodpecker
Downy Woodpecker
Hairy Woodpecker
Blue Jay
American Crow
Horned Lark
Black-capped Chickadee
Tufted Titmouse
White-breasted Nuthatch
Hermit Thrush
European Starling
Lapland Longspur
American Tree Sparrow
Dark-eyed Junco
White-crowned Sparrow
White-throated Sparrow
Song Sparrow
Swamp Sparrow
Northern Cardinal
House Finch
Pine Siskin
American Goldfinch

All images © 2017 Mike McDowell