I tend to like gnarly old sagebrush perches and I’ve had my eye on this one for a while. It’s close to the road, in good light in the morning and Western Meadowlarks use it often. But unlike when they’re perched on an ugly sign, they always seem to fly off as I approach when they’re on this one.
That changed yesterday morning.
1/2500, f/7.1, ISO 500, 500 f/4, 1.4 tc, natural light
This bird was wary as I approached – you can see it in its posture.
1/2500, f/7.1, ISO 500, 500 f/4, 1.4 tc, natural light
Eventually it relaxed a little and began to look at things going on around it other than me. At this point I knew that soon it wouldn’t be able to resist doing what they’re so heavily programmed to do, especially in the springtime…
1/2500, f/7.1, ISO 500, 500 f/4, 1.4 tc, natural light
and that’s to sing with pronounced enthusiasm. And a glorious sound it was!
These birds don’t innately know how to sing their meadowlark song – it’s something they must learn from more experienced birds when they’re juveniles. If they’re deprived from hearing the song of other meadowlarks during the “critical learning period” they learn the songs of other species and retain those songs throughout life.
Imagine hearing a meadowlark sing like a Red-winged Blackbird, Common Yellowthroat or Eastern Wood-Pewee. Bizarre, but it has been documented to occur (I’ve talked about this before but I figured it was worth mentioning again for those who may have missed it).
When meadowlarks first appeared here this spring they were thick on Antelope Island but they’ve thinned out noticeably now. I’ve heard reports that they’re now in Montana again so I suspect that many of the birds on the island have now moved further north.
But as always I’m sure there’ll be plenty of them left for me to enjoy all summer and fall.
Ron
What a gift to have the Meadowlark trust you in this way. Beautiful, Ron. They are so skittish and the nature of this capture — the singing behavior — is a wonder, in light of their shyness.
Fantastic looking perch! That yellow thing on top ain’t too bad, either! 🙂
Superb image of one of our favorite singers. We were birding yesterday listening to one singing so beautifully that we almost missed the wild turkey gobbler in full courtship display walking in the background!
You know Ron why this gorgeous meadowlark did not fly away ? Because he (along with and all the other birds in this park) recognizes your truck now and he feels also that the big eye which is observing him from this vehicle is not dangerous. That’s what your frequent visits to this place have brought to you. Your photos are just too perfect and my favorite is the last one. Thanks !
How glorious! Apparently is wasn’t spooked enough to take flight. I would love to know how managed that! They are beautiful birds with an amazing song! I have tried often to photograph them unsuccessfully! Your shots are amazing! Thanks so much for haring and for the info. I had no idea that they ha to learn to sing!
Charlotte
Oh, but as a photographer isn’t it worth it! I understand though. I have to drive a fair amount to get to any decent spots for photographing out of my truck. Once we move it should be easier, and then I will complain about it because of all the trips I will be taking. (G) If I get a few good shots than all is right with the world!!
As you know, right now the testosterone is running rampant through these male birds, leaving all caution to the wind. A boon to us who want an image.
Thanks, Dick. Actually, I wish the island were closer. It takes me an hour to get there and I’m really racking up the miles on my pickup.
Ah, the joy of song in the spring, be it Meadowlark, Robin, or Thrush!
Great shots Ron, I envy you having Antelope Island so close. What a mine of opportunity.