the meadowlark
morning-song across the fields
my steps seem lighter
Meadowlarks are simply amazing birds – the males have incredible colouration, but what I most adore is their song. In my part of the world, Eastern Meadowlarks are sometimes seen, but much rarer of late, and they are a declining species in general, across their range. Their habitats are open fields, and grasslands and prairies, and these habitats are in decline. They also occur in agricultural fields, but farm practices can damage their populations.
I had a weekend getaway recently and was on a property in the country, with plenty of farm fields nearby. When walking the dog early one morning, to my delight I heard and saw Eastern Meadowlarks. Indeed, I was buoyed by this experience. I quickly pulled out a set of odd-ball art supplies I had at the place we rented, and the image above is a quick rendition of the bird, with a mix of pencil, pencil crayon, ink, and watercolour.
Grab your sketchbook! Keep your eyes and ears open!
Nature awaits.
© Christopher M Buddle 2024
Nature's Reverie 