American Tree Sparrow - Bruant hudsonien
Especially given the behaviour patterns of this species (ground foraging specialists) good things happen when you lie on the ground. At a conservation area south of Ottawa I had watched a small flock pushing out from some shrubs and reeds, checking out seeds and dried plants in a wooded corner. I didn’t really expect this visitor, but in the very early light and with its head turned to check out this prone log of a person nearby, it worked out pretty well.
This is another winter visitor, like the Dark-eyed Junco, that brightens up the dreary and monochromatic winter habitat. Beautiful subtle plumage is a compelling part of encounters with the species, and this small flock was no different. And, like the Juncos, they will soon be heading north to their breeding territories.
American Tree Sparrows are very vulnerable to food shortages, and flocks can die off quickly if they have to move too far or wait too long for nourishment. On the morning I met this bird, it was about minus 25, and the sun was lighting but not heating its environment.
American Tree Sparrow - Bruant hudsonien
Especially given the behaviour patterns of this species (ground foraging specialists) good things happen when you lie on the ground. At a conservation area south of Ottawa I had watched a small flock pushing out from some shrubs and reeds, checking out seeds and dried plants in a wooded corner. I didn’t really expect this visitor, but in the very early light and with its head turned to check out this prone log of a person nearby, it worked out pretty well.
This is another winter visitor, like the Dark-eyed Junco, that brightens up the dreary and monochromatic winter habitat. Beautiful subtle plumage is a compelling part of encounters with the species, and this small flock was no different. And, like the Juncos, they will soon be heading north to their breeding territories.
American Tree Sparrows are very vulnerable to food shortages, and flocks can die off quickly if they have to move too far or wait too long for nourishment. On the morning I met this bird, it was about minus 25, and the sun was lighting but not heating its environment.