I hit the Lakefront in Milwaukee early this morning to see it the Piping Plovers were still present at Bradford Beach. While photographing them I received a text from Mark K that he had just found a Le Conte’s Sparrow at the Magic Hedge. I was only a couple blocks away and away I went. I found the beautiful Le Conte’s Sparrow after about 10 minutes on the ground sifting through low ground cover getting gnats. The bird remained in about a 50′ section of the hedge while I was there. The bird briefly perched twice giving pretty nice views. The rest of the time it worked the ground cover and leaves for gnats and was hard to see at times. At times the bird would be still and not move for up to 5 minutes. This bird I have struggled with to get on my life list for the last 8 years. Crazy enough, Mark and I were just talking about this bird yesterday as one I needed for my life list! What a stunning bird. It was another overcast day, chilly, and winds from the SE but a very exciting one at that. About all I can say is the images show pretty much of what took place at the Magic Hedge today. Images were taken on May 2, 2017.
Le Conte’s Sparrow
Binomial name: Ammodramus leconteii
Category: Emberizids
Size: 5” long, 6.5” wing span
Weight: .46 oz
Going for a gnat…
With a gnat in the beak…
Always looking for gnats…
With a gnat in the beak…
With a gnat in the beak…
Fantastic photos as usual!
Wow, what a colorful little bird this is! Too bad it is so challenging to see. Great captures Jim!
You certainly get the details of these birds, Jim. Not too many get to see this evasive species that well. Thanks again for posting!
Stunning photos and congrats on your lifer!
All I can say is, “Wow!” Anne M. and I were there around noon and could not find him. Wonderful looks at the Piping Plovers, but short on time, we had to call it a day.
Thank you for your great work, again!
I have seen a total of one of these guys. Excellent shots.
Awesome.with nice close ups . Always enjoy your find and thanks for sharing .