I photographed this little Carolina Wren (Thryothorus ludovicianus) and this spherical Song Sparrow (Melospiza melodia) yesterday during a lengthy trek through Occoquan Bay National Wildlife Refuge. The weather yesterday was cold and overcast, which mean that the conditions were less than ideal, but I was feeling a bit of cabin fever and was happy to be outdoors for my first photo trek of the new year.
I could hear a lot of birds singing in the trees and rustling about in the underbrush, but did not get very many clear views of them. Still, I was happy with the results that I achieved. I snapped off the first photo when the wren momentarily hopped up from the leaves in which it had been foraging and looked in my direction.
The sparrow in the second photo was a bit more in the open, but its head was most often turned away from me. I really like the way that the bird’s markings were an almost perfect match for the colors and the patterns in the background.
It felt good to be out with my camera and to experience the tranquility of nature that so often soothes my soul.
© Michael Q. Powell. All rights reserved.
Mike Powell 
Little being… 🙂
Your photos and commentary are beautiful and uplifting…much needed indeed! The Song Sparrow’s photo certainly captures natural camouflage. The last sentence “to experience the tranquility of nature that so often soothes my soul” is exactly what I did this morning. A lone walk in the snow while also distributing dried corn along the way for the birds and other creatures, though cold, was restorative for both them and myself. As Anne Frank wisely wrote : “I firmly believe that nature brings solace in all troubles.” Thank-YOU, Mr. Mike!!
P.S. Benjamin is twelve years old today and is officially a Tween!
Thanks so much for your kind words, Ellen. It is often difficult for me to put into words the physical and psychological benefits that come simple, slow, and solitary walks in nature. I can still hear some sounds of civilization in the distance, but they seem remote as I softly focus on my surroundings. I totally agree with the quote from Anne Frank and have similar thoughts when I encounter people on the trail with their heads buried in their phones, oblivious to the beauty that surrounds. Please pass on birthday greetings to Benjamin–it’s hard to think of him as being that old.
beautiful picture 👌
Thanks.