I birded some of the lakefront in Milwaukee this morning and one of the highlights was this Lapland Longspur at Lakeshore State Park. This adult nonbreeding male feed on a path eating seeds that have fallen to the ground. Also present at the beach at Lakeshore State Park was a Black-bellied Plover along with 3 Killdeer hanging out with a group of gulls. It was a mostly cloudy day, on a couple occasions the sun shinned for a minute or two, temps were a little on the cool side with low winds. Images were taken on October 15, 2015.
Lapland Longspur, adult nonbreeding male
Lapland Longspur
Binomial name: Calcarius lapponicus
Category: Lapwings and Plovers
Size: 6.25” long, 11.5” wing span
Weight: 0.95 oz
Cool facts: This common bird breeds in the Arctic tundra, and winters in open fields across most of the United States and southern Canada.
Finding and eating seeds off a path
Finding and eating seeds off a path
Finding and eating seeds off a path
Finding and eating seeds off a path
Stretching
With seed
With seed
Back view
Black-bellied Plover, juv.
Black-bellied Plover, juv.
Black-bellied Plover, juv.
Black-bellied Plover, juv.
With food in bill
Calling
Calling
What a beautiful bird. Thanks, Jim!
Stunning bird and great photos. Thank you!
Jim – the Longspur looks more like a painting than photo – so many beautiful shades of brown. The white rocks suggest his Arctic breeding grounds. In contrast is the little Plover with his large eyes and knobby knees – looking comically vulnerable. I would love to walk on that pebbly beach of colored leaves with that little bird beside me.
Very beautiful photos Jim. Thank you!!
Excellent shots of a bird that rarely provides good views. Thanks!
Excellent shots of a bird that rarely provides good views. Thanks !
Love seeing what you catch with your camera! Keep on.
Great finds and beautiful images Jim! Loved seeing them…thanks! Have a wonderful weekend!
Great photos – Thanks