Sunday, January 18, 2009

Snowbirds (Snow Buntings)

A flock of Snowbirds (Snow Buntings) create a beautiful sighting when seen flying over a snowy field in the winter; alighting gracefully. Then suddenly, as if they were a mere whirlwind of snow curving over the snowy fields, they fill the air space with their flurries, before landing again. I found some Snow Buntings yesterday, feeding along the roadside. The problem being though is that they seemed to keep the same distance from me and my car. I moved a little closer, they moved a little further away. Perhaps they are gathering their roadside seeds while they may. (shades of Robert Herrick)

13 comments:

bobbie said...

Isn't it amazing how a flock of birds can move as one, and how they do seem to be pushed by an invisible force between them and you? Birds and animals are so much smarter and more clever than people.

Mary said...

Oh, what a lovely little bird! I've never seen one. Sibley shows it as "rare" in my area, so I guess I can hope! If you keep moving closer and they move away, do it in a south westernly direction until you drive one down here :-) It's coloration is certainly designed for snowy areas...wonderful shots.

Unknown said...

They have very sweet faces, these snow buntings. Wonderful captures. Thank you.

Ruth's Photo Blog said...

Amazing photos.I know how hard these guys are to photograph.
Blessings,Ruth

Tina said...

Isn't it great that a new face on the scene just makes one's day!! A very colorful bird, I would love to see one someday!

Anonymous said...

I just checked my field guide - this is another bird I might see here. Must remember to double check any Horned lark I see hanging around the roadsides! Wonderful shots of these pretty little birds.

Sharon said...

Wow...I bet this was a beautiful sight!

Anonymous said...

What lovely photos, and their faces are so expressive and sweet.

Anonymous said...

I didn't know what snow buntings looked like...You have a good eye Ann. You might want to do the Five Favorite Things I Love About Nature tag that I posted about. It was fun.. Michelle..

Dawn Fine said...

Gee..I guessed I missed a few of your posts!
so time to catch up...
I still would love to see a snow bunting...you sure did see lots!
Love your camera critter shots of redpolls another birdie I have never seen.
And all I can say about that thermometer is Burrrrrrrrrrrrr

Mojo said...

Nice detailing on the last one! I've never understood how creatures so small could withstand such harsh temperatures. Seems like their lack of mass would make the heat just impossible to retain. I guess those down feathers really work huh?

Ruth said...

We have large flocks of Snow Buntings around here, but they are so difficult to approach. They are so pretty in flight. I haven't seen any Horned Larks among them yet this winter.

Becky said...

Another bird I never have seen. They are so cute. I can always count on you to post something new and very interesting.
Have a great week Ann.
B.