I have a spot each year that always holds Lark Sparrows. This is a bird rarely seen in the Chicagoland area and is a very desirable find. Well, today I decided to see if any birds had arrived yet and started listening for their song. I was disappointed at first when nothing was audible. So as I walked I started hearing very weak chirps that did not sound like Lark Sparrows at all. Then I saw a bird in a small tree that looked like my target bird and sure enough it was in the open peeping very softly. As I watched, another Lark Sparrow was on the ground performing a courting dance and display. At first I thought that the bird was injured but soon realized what was really going on, The bird was crouched and hopping with his tall feathers spread and with his wings drooping near the ground. I did not see copulation but they were completely oblivious to my presence. At one point the male popped up on a low branch giving me a dream shot in good light. Lark Sparrow magic indeed.
- Created Timestamp05/22/2023 17:35:13
- CameraILCE-9M2
- Aperture9
- Focal Length840
- Iso800
- Shutter Speed1/640
Great photo and commentary Emil
Thanks Mike.
Lovely shot
Thank you Lin.
I loved your story about the Lark Sparrow! The picture is stunning, making it all that more special. Indeed, Lark Sparrows are rarely seen in Chicagoland so let’s hope they keep returning to your “Secret location.”
Thanks Mike, It’s rare to go after a specific bird and then get a shot you really like, right?
Nice shot Emil. Usually found on the ground. I like this one perched in a tree.
Thanks Jamie.