The Wood Duck marks the arrival of early spring with the male’s vibrant plumage, displaying iridescent purple-green hues. This welcome sight stands out against the otherwise drab landscape, making it a favorite among birdwatchers.
As I make my way around the frozen Kettle Pond at Faville Grove Sanctuary, flocks of American Tree Sparrows flutter from weed patch to weed patch, foraging along the snow-dusted ground and knocking seeds loose from the tops of dried plants.
The Dark-eyed Junco returns to Southern Wisconsin as the first dustings of frost glint in the morning light, and the prairies’ colors settle into the tawny hues of late fall.