Eastern Meadowlark

The Eastern Meadowlark is a gorgeous bird that lives in farm fields, grasslands, and wet fields, according to bird guide books. Locally, however, I have found them in larger school yards, soccer fields, and vacant lots.  They have been a nemesis of sorts for me the last several years, as I have tried and failed to obtain a closeup photo of one.  That changed recently when I made a trip to Tractor Supply in Virginia Beach to replenish bird seed for my bird feeders.
As I walked through the parking lot, I heard the unmistakable song of an Eastern Meadowlark, a clear, mellow whistle.  I found the source immediately, the gorgeous bird perched on a sign, singing its heart out. With several bags of birdseed in my arms, I hurried to my car to get my camera.
Of course, by the time I got to the car, unloaded the seed, and grabbed my camera, the Meadowlark was nowhere to be seen. But, I knew it was there!
So, I moved the car closer to the vacant lot where I had seen it, and waited. And waited.
And waited. And waited some more.
Finally, I saw some movement. Eastern Meadowlarks walk on the ground, often concealed by grasses or other vegetation.  In winter you may see flocks of meadowlarks hunting insects in fields. They can be quite difficult to see as they use their coloring to their advantage. Although they are mostly brown and black, they have bright-yellow underparts and a bold black V across the chest. Truly stunning!
I was now using my car as a blind. Suddenly, an Eastern Meadowlark’s head popped up, right next to me! I snapped the shutter and held it down for about a dozen quick shots.
That’s all I got as the Meadowlark was now spooked and flew across the road. I was pretty sure there were others. So I waited, once again.
Fifteen minutes later, the hidden flock began to move, but unfortunately, away from my location. I counted just 7 more.
I was indeed fortunate to obtain those first dozen shots and although my time with these birds was very short, it was an experience I will treasure! A nemesis no longer!