A Harris’s Sparrow and a Snowy Throwback for Christmas Morning

Good morning, and Merry Christmas! This Christmas may not be snowy here in Arkansas, but it brings back memories of a moment that captured the beauty of snowy days perfectly.

A Snowy Day to Remember

This photo takes me back to January 31, 2010, when a soft blanket of snow transformed my backyard into a serene winter wonderland. I remember spotting this Harris’s Sparrow standing out against the pristine white snow. Its warm brown tones and striking black bib made it a perfect subject for my camera. Moments like this remind me why winter wildlife photography is so rewarding.

For more examples of birds in snowy settings, check out my blog post on Birds in the Snow Here in Arkansas.

Winter Visitors: Harris’s Sparrows

Harris’s Sparrows are winter visitors to Arkansas, traveling all the way from their breeding grounds in Canada. They are drawn to Arkansas’s mild winters and abundant food sources, which include seeds from native grasses and shrubs, making it an ideal stopover for these hardy travelers. They’re not especially common, which makes seeing one feel even more special. These sparrows prefer foraging on the ground and are often found near feeders. If you’re hoping to attract one, offering a mix of millet and sunflower seeds can help.

Learn more about Harris’s Sparrows and their habits on All About Birds.

Finding Joy in Reflection

Even though there’s no snow this Christmas, reflecting on scenes like this reminds me how much I value the quiet stillness that snow brings and the way it highlights the simple beauty of nature. Whether your Christmas is snowy, sunny, or somewhere in between, I hope it’s filled with moments of peace and joy.

How are you connecting with nature or wildlife this holiday season? Share your experiences in the comments!