Photographing Backyard Birds After an Arkansas Snowfall (Part 2)

White-throated Sparrow perched on a log during winter in Arkansas
I photographed this White-throated Sparrow perched on a log in my backyard during a cold winter day here in Arkansas.

This is part two of “Photographing Birds in My Yard After Arkansas Snowfall.”

White-throated Sparrow at the Feeder

The first image I am sharing is of a White-throated Sparrow that visited my bird feeder. These sparrows usually feed on the ground beneath feeders, but this individual paused on a nearby log that the feeder was hanging from, giving me a clear view.

White-throated Sparrows are common winter birds in Arkansas. They are often found in woodlots and areas with dense low cover, including forest undergrowth, edges, and well-vegetated neighborhoods and parks. They regularly visit feeders and are known to feed on millet and sunflower seeds.

House Finch on a Snowy Perch

House Finch perched on a log during a snow day in Arkansas
I photographed this House Finch perched on a log in my backyard during a snow day here in Arkansas.

The second image shows a House Finch perched on the same log. House Finches are widespread across Arkansas and are one of the most commonly observed finches in the state. Some individuals move to lower elevations during winter, while others remain year-round depending on location. In Arkansas, their winter presence can vary by region.

Northern Cardinal Waiting in the Oak Tree

Northern Cardinal perched in an oak tree with snow in Arkansas
I photographed this Northern Cardinal perched in an oak tree during a snow day in my backyard here in Arkansas.

The third image is of a male Northern Cardinal that I photographed in a nearby oak tree while it waited its turn at the feeder. Northern Cardinals are one of the most recognizable birds in Arkansas, known for their bright red plumage and raised crest. They are non-migratory and remain active throughout the winter, especially during the morning and evening hours.

Dark-eyed Junco Beneath the Feeder

Dark-eyed Junco perched on a rock in the snow in Arkansas
I photographed this Dark-eyed Junco perched on a rock in my backyard during a snow day here in Arkansas.

The fourth and final image is of a Dark-eyed Junco perched on a rock beneath the bird feeder. Dark-eyed Juncos are common winter visitors in Arkansas and are frequently seen foraging on the ground in small groups. Their contrasting markings make them a familiar and rewarding subject for winter wildlife photography.

Image Information (Forth Image):

  • Date: 01/15/24
  • Time: 1:12 PM
  • Camera: Canon EOS R5
  • Lens: Canon RF 100-500mm F4.5-7.1 L IS USM
  • ISO: 1600
  • Aperture: 8
  • Shutter: 1/2000
  • Exp. Comp.:+2.0
  • Lens (mm): 500
  • Program Mode: Manual