Date: 11/3/25 12:06 pm From: Patty McLean <000008e6fff5e5c8-dmarc-request...> Subject: 'A Sparrowing' We Went
We went to the Bald Knob NWR this morning, specifically to see sparrows in the early morning light. Our targets were LeConte's and any other uncommon Ammodramus sparrow we could find. On the latter -- zip, but we found just under a dozen LeConte's sitting openly in the scrubby weeds, their lovely orange-yellow faces glowing in the warm early morning sun. They are such a treat! And Michael was able to snap quite a few pictures. We've found that this species seems to enjoy the first and last rays of sunlight when the weather is right -- and this morning was perfect. Clear skies and almost no wind...and lots of LeConte's as well as 100+ Savannah and a solid number of Swamp and Song Sparrows.To look for them, the best time is before 9a. Try the scrub grass across the road and north of Cell 5., about here: https://maps.app.goo.gl/qnqBnzGxGATSpjhy9We had even better looks (and photos) along the levee heading West from Coal Chute from here: https://maps.app.goo.gl/6vEpr7aVeSf8YEnX7. There's also a Loggerhead Shrike that hangs out in this area, on the east side of the road, so keep an eye out for him.Note: There is a Permit Hunt this weekend and certain sections of the refuge may be closed. With the govt shutdown, it may be difficult to determine which sections in advance. Patty McLean and Michael Linz The Roadrunners
