― 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