Thursday, January 5, 2012

Lapland Longspur

We did the Knox County Christmas Bird Count January 2. It was the worst winter day we have had yet. The wind was howling, it was COLD, it blew snow around most of the day. Needless to say we didn't have the best count ever. We did find the largest number of Lapland Longspurs I have ever seen in Knox County. A conservative estimate was 450. These little sparrow-like birds breed in the high Arctic. They are only around here during winter. To them this weather was probably about like their spring. They glean the corn fields for seed and put up quite the chatter as they busy about. This drawing is ink and watercolor.

11 comments:

Cris, Artist in Oregon said...

Very nicely done. I could spot one from this. What did you use for the black. Is that watercolor or ink pen.

Robin said...

He is beautiful - and as Cris said, I could spot him if we *met*!

Hugs,

♥ Robin ♥

Cheryl said...

Hi Lisa,

That is a large flock.

An easy to identify bird with his lovely colouring.

I saw several reed buntings in the copse today. They are taking the feed from the ground trays that I fill each day.

Another lovely painting Lisa.

Laure Ferlita said...

What beautiful markings this guy has! Lovely done, Lisa.

Lynn Cohen said...

Your detail and color is beautiful here. Such as sweet little bird too.

Katiejane said...

Well, they could have bred on Jan. 2nd! It was the high Arctic here on that day! I love your sketch. Now I'll have to keep my eyes open for them here.

Teri said...

Wow Lisa, what a beauty! I'm so happy you are doing more art and posts.

Rose said...

We had a similar day on Monday, and now we've gone back to spring-like weather. I never think to visit this blog, Lisa, but so enjoyed seeing your drawings. Beckie sent me the article and photo of the calliope hummingbird--how exciting!

marianne said...

Lovely painting and I loved the information. You see! Here I learn a lot about birds I have never seen in my life!
Stay warm♥

studio lolo said...

so sweet! Do you know we've had no snow yet?? It's spooky! I think our spring will be snow filled and frozen.

I'm glad your winter is like spring to these little guys :)

verobirdie said...

Beautiful bird. It has lovely colors