Kip’s Comments - February 15, 2025

Lapland Longspur in Snow - Image 943610

Birds of Winter, Birds of Snow and Wind

Like magic, today the horned larks and lapland longspurs showed up as snow was falling and the wind was blowing. These two species, along with snow buntings, are most easily seen (by me) when winter weather makes conditions ugly, if not unsafe. It seems the worse the conditions, the easier it is for me to photograph these species.

Lapland Longspur in Snow - Image 943583

For the record, the horned larks seem to be the highest in population, followed by lapland longspurs, with snow buntings a distant third. I consider myself very lucky to photograph snow buntings.

Horned Lark in Snow - Image 943499

Horned Lark in Snow - Image 943551

Horned Lark in Snow - Image 943490

If you are wondering, these bird species tend to be the little brown birds feeding on roads, especially gravel roads, during winter months. Seldom are they close to buildings - instead being found out in exposed areas. About the time you approach in a vehicle the flocks of sparrow-sized birds take flight.

Canada Geese on Cedar River in Winter - Image 943428

Another winter/snow bird species photographed today were these Canada geese hunkered down on ice on the Cedar River. As the cold sets in, the amount of open water is quickly decreasing. By the end of the week these birds may not have too much space/ice-free river to enjoy.